How to Treat a Bowling Ball

Purchasing your own ball marks the end of bowling as a casual activity and the beginning of of the sport as a serious hobby. A ball proves one of the most expensive investments you make when starting your amateur bowling career. Learn how to treat this important element of your game so you can both protect your investment and perform to your maximum. Bowling ball maintenance, though simple, remains an important task for every serious bowler.

Things You'll Need

  • Ball cleaner
  • Clean cloth
  • Bowling ball bag
  • 400 grit sandpaper
  • Dish soap
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Apply a small amount of ball cleaner to a clean cloth. You can use a USBC-approved cleaner or make your own with a mixture of Isopropyl alcohol and a gentle all-purpose cleaner.

    • 2

      Rub the cloth over the surface of the ball to remove any excess oil or debris that may have built up during your last bowling session.

    • 3

      Lightly sand the ball down and soak it in a bath of dish soap and extremely hot water. This removes oil that may have seeped into the ball over time. You only need to do this every 50 games.

    • 4

      Leave the ball in for 15 minutes, then remove it and wipe it clean with a towel. Submerge the ball again and repeat this process until the ball is clear of oil.

    • 5

      Let the ball dry for 24 to 48 hours and take it to a pro shop to have it resurfaced and polished.