How to Clean Golf Balls

Cleaning golf balls is an important part of maintaining their performance and lifespan. It not only helps to keep the ball looking new, but also removes any dirt, debris or other contaminants that can impair its playability. Here are some tips on the best way to clean your golf balls properly: 

• The first step should be to rinse off the ball using warm water and a small amount of mild soap or detergent. This will remove any surface dirt or grime that has built up over time. Ensure that you are gentle with the ball as you don’t want to damage it in the process. Once you have removed all the visible dirt, leave the golf ball to dry naturally for at least 15 minutes before moving onto the next step. 
• Next, use a soft brush such as an old toothbrush to scrub away any stubborn dirt or grime from the surface of the golf ball. Taking care not to press too hard, gently scrub away any remaining debris until all dirt particles have been removed. To get rid of any tough stains, you can dampen the brush with warm water and a tiny drop of mild detergent before brushing again. 
• Once all visible dirt has been removed, it is important to apply a protective coating to restore shine and protect against future discoloration. There are several products available specifically designed for cleaning golf balls; these usually contain beeswax which helps seal any microscopic pores on the surface of the ball while providing anti-corrosive protection against moisture and UV rays. Simply apply a thin layer of wax evenly around your golf ball then buff it lightly with a cloth for best results.

Finally, store your cleaned golf balls in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight when not in use; this will help prevent them from becoming dirty again too quickly. With proper care and maintenance your golf balls will remain in pristine condition for many rounds of play!

What Type of Products do you Need to Clean Golf Balls?

There are a variety of products you can use to clean your golf balls, depending on your preferences and the level of cleaning you need. Here are a few options:

• Soap and water: A simple solution of warm water and dish soap can be an effective way to clean your golf balls. Simply soak the balls in the solution for a few minutes, then scrub them with a soft brush or cloth.
• Ball washer: A ball washer is a specialized tool designed to clean golf balls quickly and efficiently. These devices typically use brushes or sprayers to remove dirt and debris.
• Ball cleaning pouches: Ball cleaning pouches are small bags made of microfiber or other soft materials that you can use to clean your golf balls by rubbing them together. These pouches are easy to carry in your golf bag and can be reused multiple times.
• Ball cleaning solutions: There are also specialized cleaning solutions available that are specifically designed for cleaning golf balls. These solutions can help remove stubborn stains and provide a deep clean.

No matter which method you choose, be sure to rinse your golf balls thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residual soap or cleaning solution.

What are the Benefits of Cleaning Your Golf Balls?

Cleaning your golf balls can provide several benefits:

• Better visibility: Golf balls that are clean are easier to spot in the grass, especially on cloudy or overcast days. This makes it easier to keep track of your shots and avoid losing your balls.
• Improved accuracy: Dirt and debris on your golf ball can affect its flight and spin, which can affect the accuracy of your shots. Cleaning your golf ball can help it maintain its shape and performance, which can improve your accuracy on the course.
• Longer lifespan: Regularly cleaning your golf balls can help prevent damage and wear and tear, which can extend their lifespan. This can save you money in the long run by reducing the need to replace your golf balls as frequently.
• Better feel: A clean golf ball can provide a better feel and grip for your clubface, which can improve your swing and overall performance.

Overall, taking the time to clean your golf balls can help you perform better on the course and make the most of your investment in golf equipment. Many professional golfers have spoken about the importance of cleaning their golf balls. Here are a few examples:

• Tiger Woods: In an interview with Golf Digest, Tiger Woods stated that he always cleans his golf balls before putting them into play. He believes that clean golf balls fly more consistently and accurately, and can help him maintain control over his shots.
• Phil Mickelson: Phil Mickelson is known for his meticulous preparation and attention to detail, and he takes cleaning his golf balls very seriously. In a 2016 interview with Golf Digest, he stated that he uses a specialized ball washer to clean his balls before each round, and also uses a towel to keep them clean during play.
• Rory McIlroy: Rory McIlroy has also spoken about the importance of clean golf balls. In a 2018 interview with Golf.com, he stated that he always cleans his balls before teeing off, and believes that it helps him maintain his focus and concentration on the course.

Overall, professional golfers understand the importance of keeping their golf balls clean and well-maintained, and make it a priority to do so before and during their rounds.

If you would like to find out more about golf including what the numbers on a golf ball mean, how a golf ball is made, and how much does a golf ball weigh then visit our sport performance blog.