What is the Best Way to Clean Golf Balls

Clean golf balls are important for good performance on the course.

Dirt, grass stains, and scuff marks can affect their flight and accuracy. Luckily, cleaning them is easy!

This blog post will show you simple ways to get your golf balls looking new again. We’ll cover basic soap and water as well as specialized products.

So, grab your bucket of soapy water and let’s dive into the world of pristine golf balls!

The Materials You’ll Need to Clean Golf Balls

To clean golf balls effectively, you’ll need just a few basic materials. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you get started:

  • Cleaning Vessel: A large bucket, basin, or dishwasher can serve as your washer –– ensure it’s big enough to hold several golf balls at once.
  • Soap: Choose a mild dish soap or golf ball-specific cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that could potentially damage the ball’s surface.
  • Brush: A soft-bristle brush, such as an old toothbrush or a specialized golf ball cleaning brush, will help remove stubborn dirt and stains.
  • Towel: To dry off the golf balls after cleaning, you’ll need a soft towel. This will help prevent any water spots or streaks from forming on the surface of the balls.

Now that you have gathered all the necessary materials, it’s time to start cleaning those golf balls!

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Golf Balls

Soak the Balls in Warm Water and Mild Soap

Start by filling a bucket or sink with warm water. Add a small amount of mild soap, like dishwashing liquid, to create some suds.

Place your golf balls in the soapy water and let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt, grass stains, or scuff marks on the surface of the balls.

Scrub the Balls with a Toothbrush

After the soak, use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub each ball to remove any remaining dirt.

Be sure to pay attention to the dimples on the ball, as these are key to its aerodynamic properties.

Gently scrubbing in a circular motion will help dislodge any stubborn stains or debris.

Dry the Balls Before Playing

Once you’ve finished scrubbing the golf balls, it’s important to dry them thoroughly before taking them back onto the course. Use a clean towel or cloth to pat each ball dry, making sure to remove any excess moisture.

Leaving your golf balls damp can lead to dirt and debris sticking to them during your game, affecting their performance.

Store Your Clean Golf Balls Properly

After cleaning and drying your golf balls, it’s crucial to store them properly to maintain their cleanliness.

Moreover, storing them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight will further prolong their lifespan and keep them in optimal condition.

Extra Pointers and Effective Strategies

To ensure that your golf balls remain in top shape and continue to deliver optimal performance, here are some additional tips and best practices to keep in mind:

Regular Cleaning Maintenance

Cleaning your golf balls should not be a one-time affair. To keep them performing their best, it’s recommended to clean them after every few rounds or whenever they start to accumulate noticeable dirt or stains.

This regular maintenance will ensure that your golf balls maintain their aerodynamic properties and continue to provide consistent performance on the course.

Discover what the numbers on golf balls mean and if they can affect your performance

Consider Investing in a Golf Ball Cleaning Kit

If you’re serious about keeping your golf balls clean, consider investing in a golf ball cleaning kit. These kits often include specialized cleaning solutions and tools designed specifically for golf balls.

With the right cleaning kit, you can ensure that your golf balls are always in pristine condition and ready to enhance your performance on the course.


Final Thoughts

Cleaning golf balls requires some elbow grease and a few common household items. Soaking the golf balls in a cleaning solution can help loosen dirt and grime, or you can use a cleaning brush to scrub them clean.

If there are any ink markings on the ball, nail polish remover can be used to remove them with a bit of elbow grease. With the right techniques and a little effort, your golf balls will be sparkling clean and ready for your next game.

Remember, clean golf balls lead to consistent performance and better overall play. Happy golfing!

FAQs

Does hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, or bleach clean golf balls?

To clean golf balls, you can use hydrogen peroxide or even white vinegar, as long as it’s a mild bleach that removes dirt and stains. Mix it with water (1:3 ratio), place the balls in the mixture and soak for 15-20 mins.

Use a soft brush to scrub gently. Rinse the balls with water and dry them before using or storing them.

Although hydrogen peroxide can help clean golf balls, it may not restore their original condition if they’re severely damaged or scuffed.


Does rubbing alcohol clean golf balls?

Yes, rubbing alcohol can be used to clean golf balls. Rubbing alcohol is an effective cleaner that can remove dirt, grass stains, and other debris from the surface of golf balls.

To clean golf balls with rubbing alcohol, simply pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto a cloth or paper towel and wipe the surface of the golf ball.

Make sure to thoroughly rinse the golf ball with water afterwards to remove any residue from the rubbing alcohol.


How do you get permanent marker off golf balls?

One option is to use rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover. Simply soak a cotton ball or cloth in the alcohol or remover and gently rub the marker off the surface of the golf ball.

Another method is to use a white eraser, similar to what you would use for pencil marks on paper. Rub the eraser over the marker until it begins to fade or disappear.

You can also try using toothpaste or baking soda as a gentle abrasive. Apply a small amount of toothpaste or make a paste with baking soda and water, then rub it onto the marker stain using a cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all pen marks have been removed.

Note that these methods may not completely remove all traces of permanent marker, but they should help lighten or eliminate the marks on your golf balls.


What if I don’t have any ball washer or large basin?

If you don’t have a ball washer, there are still many ways to clean your golf balls. One method is to use a bucket of soapy hot water and a brush to scrub the dirt and grime off the ball. Another option is to use a cleaning agent that can be found in most golf stores.

Golf ball cleaning machines are also available at many golf courses and driving ranges where you can place the ball in the washer and let the brushes or bristles do their job. If all else fails, try finding a local driving range that will let you borrow their ball washer or use their facilities to clean your golf balls.

About the Author

Jared Tangir