How Do I Maintain My Bowling Ball?

The Basics of Bowling Ball Maintenance

Maintenance for your bowling ball can be divided into three key areas: cleaning, storage, and surface management. Here’s what you need to know for each.

1. How to Clean Your Bowling Ball Properly

Cleaning your bowling ball after each game or practice is the foundation of proper care. Over time, the surface (coverstock) collects oil, dirt, and grime that can hinder your performance. Follow these steps for an effective cleaning routine:

Wipe After Every Shot: Use a shammy to wipe your ball after each throw. This removes fresh oil and dirt, preventing buildup.

Use a Bowling Ball Cleaner: Clean your ball with a specially formulated bowling ball cleaner after each session.

Deep Clean Monthly: For avid bowlers, a monthly deep clean is essential. Submerge your ball in warm, soapy water (not scalding hot!) for about 20 minutes. Use a soft sponge to gently scrub away embedded oils. Ensure the finger holes remain dry by using tape or sealing them before immersion.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use household cleaners like bleach or abrasive products, as these can damage the coverstock. Stick to products specifically designed for bowling balls.

2. Proper Storage for Bowling Balls

Beyond cleaning, how you store your bowling ball plays a crucial role in its durability. Improper storage can lead to warping, cracking, or even loss of structural integrity. Use these storage tips to protect your ball between games:

Keep It at Room Temperature: Exposure to extreme heat or cold can cause your ball to expand or contract, leading to fractures. Store your ball in a temperature-regulated environment.

Use a Bowling Ball Bag: Always keep your ball in a padded bowling ball bag. This prevents it from rolling around or being scratched during transport and storage.

Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays can weaken the coverstock, making it brittle over time. Store the ball in a shaded or enclosed area.

Rotate Regularly: If you keep your ball stored for long periods, rotate its position every few weeks to prevent flat spots from forming.

3. Surface Management with Resurfacing and Sanding

The surface texture of your bowling ball directly impacts its performance, including how it reacts to lane conditions. Over time, regular use can wear down the surface, requiring occasional resurfacing. Here’s how you can manage your ball’s surface:

Sanding for Texture: Use sanding pads of varying grits (180 to 4000) to adjust the texture of the ball. Lower grits create more friction for oily lanes, while higher grits produce smoother finishes for dry lanes.

Polishing for Shine: A polished ball is great for speed and control on less oily surfaces. Use a quality polishing compound, but be cautious not to over-polish, as it can reduce the ball’s grip.

Resurfacing Every 60 – 80 Games: After about 60 – 80 games, it’s a good idea to have your ball professionally resurfaced. Pro shops use sanding machines to evenly restore its surface to factory settings.