How to Care for a Pearlized Bowling Ball

Pearlized bowling balls are balls made of urethane that have a swirl pattern lightly grooved into its outer surface. This factory-added finish allows the ball to grip the bowling lane better, especially in drier conditions, and to slide more in oily conditions. Bowling balls are pearlized so that certain bowlers can get more action from their throws as the ball moves from the oilier middle sections of the lane to the drier sections near the pins. Caring for your pearlized bowling ball will help it retain these desirable features.

Things You'll Need

  • Ball polisher
  • Scrubbing pad
  • Polish or finishing compound
  • Hand towel
  • 500-grit sanding pad
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the pearlized bowling ball in a ball polisher. Work the ball back and forth several times for about one minute to remove any debris that has built up in the grooves.

    • 2

      Use a common kitchen scrubbing pad and wipe the ball completely, using light pressure in a swirling motion for about four minutes. Focus on one section of the ball at a time.

    • 3

      Place the ball on a level surface and rest it on the thumbhole. Apply a light coating of ball polish or finishing compound to the ball and allow it to air dry. Place the ball in the ball polisher and buff the ball for about 30 seconds.

    • 4

      Use a 500-grit sanding pad designed for bowling balls every other time you polish your ball to help maintain the pearlized surface. Soak the sandpaper in water and apply using medium pressure all around the ball, focusing on one area at a time. Do this for about 20 to 30 seconds in each spot. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 after completing the sanding process.