Cleaning Pool Table Felt

If you're serious about your pool game, you'll want to ensure that your table is as clean as possible. When a pool table gets dirty, the accumulated dirt, dust and chalk can actually affect the movements of the balls on the table and throw off your game. A pool table should be cleaned at least once a month.

  1. Prep the Edges

    • Wipe down the edges of the table before actually cleaning the felt. This will ensure that people won't brush dirt onto the table when the lean over. You can brush the dirt onto the felt, floor or pockets.

    Brush the Felt

    • Use a hand brush to clean the felt, brushing it gently to move the dirt into the pockets. You may want to make a couple passes, but you still don't need to get it absolutely perfect at this stage. When you are done gently brushing the table down, vacuum with the hose attachment any excess dust on the table and in the pockets.

    Cleaning Solution

    • Finally, use a pool-table cleaner to get out the dirt and grime that is ground into the felt. Usually, this involves applying the cleaner to the table, letting it sit for about an hour, and then wiping the felt with a clean cloth. Read the instructions on the bottle to ensure that you clean your table properly. You may want to use the waiting time between application and wiping to polish the legs of your table and get the rest of it looking as beautiful as the felt. You can use any furniture polish or cleaning solution designed for the material out of which your pool table is made. Don't forget to clean the rack where the balls gather, as they may track dust and chalk. Cover the table when you're done, and keep it covered when not in use to protect it from dust.