Keeping your bowling ball clean is important for playing your best. Dirt, oil, and grime can build up over time, reducing grip, affecting your hook, and shortening the lifespan of your ball. We’ll walk you through the steps and tools necessary to clean your bowling ball.

Cleaning Your Bowling Ball is Important

Cleaning your bowling ball is key to its performance, durability, and overall effectiveness on the lanes. If not cleaned properly, oil and dirt will build up, and you’ll get reduced grip, inconsistent rolls, and loss of control.

Better Grip and Performance

Over time, oil and debris from the lanes will accumulate on the surface of your bowling ball. This buildup will reduce the ball's ability to grip the lane, resulting in inconsistent rolls and loss of accuracy. When the surface is slick with oil, the ball will slide too much and not engage with the lane texture as intended. Cleaning removes these impurities, keeps the ball tacky, and delivers a more consistent performance every time you bowl.

Extend the Ball’s Life

Bowling balls are a long-term investment, and maintenance is key to their durability. If not cleaned regularly, the coverstock of the ball will absorb oil, which affects performance and can also degrade the ball material over time. Long-term oil absorption will cause cracking, fading, and loss of performance. Cleaning your ball regularly will protect the surface, preserve its quality, and extend its life.

More Hook

For bowlers who hook the ball, friction between the ball and the lane is key. A clean bowling ball makes better contact with the lane and allows it to grip and hook as it approaches the pins. When oil and grime build up on the surface, the ball loses the friction to hook. Cleaning your ball makes sure it delivers the traction to control your hook and improve your game.

Signs Your Bowling Ball Needs Cleaning

• Dull Appearance: The ball starts to look hazy or loses its original shine, indicating surface buildup.
• Reduced Hook: An oily ball may slide excessively, reducing its ability to hook effectively on the lane.
• Unpredictable Rolls: Dirt and oil accumulation can cause inconsistent performance, making the ball's motion less reliable and harder to control.

Tools and Materials to Clean a Bowling Ball

Microfiber Towels or Lint-Free Cloth

These are a must-have to wipe away oil and dirt from the ball’s surface. Microfiber towels are the best because they trap dirt without scratching the coverstock, leaving the ball clean and ready to roll.

Ball Cleaner or Degreaser

There are cleaners specifically designed for bowling balls that break down oil and grime. Using a bowling ball cleaner allows deep cleaning without damaging the ball material, preserving the surface for performance.

Ball Polish (Optional)

Polishing your ball with bowling ball polish can add extra shine and performance. A polished ball creates less friction on dry lanes, rolls smoother, and has better control in certain lane conditions.

Warm Water and Mild Soap (DIY)

If you don’t have a bowling ball cleaner, a solution of warm water and mild soap can be used. This DIY is gentle and effective in removing surface grime and oil buildup, making it a good alternative for everyday cleaning.

How to Clean Your Bowling Ball

1. Wipe Down After Every Game

After every game, wipe your bowling ball down with a microfiber towel to remove the lane oil and dirt. This simple step keeps the surface and grip of the ball clean by preventing oil from getting into the coverstock, which can cause inconsistent rolls and reduced performance.

2. Deep Cleaning at Home

• Step 1: Mix warm water and mild soap, or use a bowling ball cleaner that breaks down oil and dirt.
• Step 2: Submerge the ball in the solution if allowed by the manufacturer or apply the cleaner directly to the ball. Don’t soak the ball if not recommended by the manufacturer.
• Step 3: Gently scrub the ball with a microfiber cloth or sponge, paying extra attention to areas with visible oil buildup.
• Step 4: Dry the ball completely with a clean towel and let it air dry before using it again. This prevents moisture from affecting the ball’s grip and handling.

3. Bowling Ball Resurfacing Kit

Use a bowling ball resurfacing kit, like the master surface mater package, to restore the surface of your ball by removing scratches and damage from lane conditions. This kit will revitalize the ball’s texture, grip, and performance by allowing the coverstock to engage the lane. Do this periodically.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning a Bowling Ball

Cleaning your ball is crucial for performance, but don’t make common mistakes that can do more harm than good. Here are the mistakes to watch out for when cleaning your ball.

Using Harsh Chemicals

Household cleaners are too harsh for your ball’s coverstock. Bleach, ammonia or multi-purpose cleaners can damage the surface and reduce the ball’s performance and life. Use a ball cleaner only.

Not Drying the Ball Completely

Not drying your ball completely after cleaning can cause performance issues. Any moisture left behind can affect the ball’s grip and make it slip more on the lanes. Wipe it dry and let it air dry before the next use.

Over-cleaning or Scrubbing Too Hard

Over-cleaning or scrubbing too hard can wear down the ball’s surface and reduce its overall life and performance. A gentle cleaning approach is best to maintain the ball’s texture without damaging it.

Keep Your Bowling Ball Ready for Peak Performance

Regular cleaning is essential for improving your game and making sure your bowling ball remains in top condition. A well-maintained ball provides better grip, more consistent rolls, and a longer lifespan. Avoiding common cleaning mistakes and using the right tools will keep your ball performing at its best. Whether you’re aiming for precision or trying to master your hook, a clean ball is the key to staying in control and making the most of every throw.

Take care of your ball, and it will reward you with enhanced performance game after game.