Regular cleaning is essential if you want your pool table to look great. This will help keep your table in top shape, and make it easier to play on. The best way is to use a brush to accomplish this.
The local billiards supply stores will sell brushes made specifically for cleaning felt pools tables. They are gentle on the felt, and will remove dust and other lint. If you don’t have the funds to buy a special brush, you can use your regular household one. Be careful, though, because too many firm strokes can damage the surface.
Another option for cleaning the surface of your pool table is a steam cleaner. While steamers can remove stains from felt, they can also set them. To remove stain, you can use equal amounts of water and vinegar. It is important to let the stain dry thoroughly before using it.
You should not damage your pool table felt. Pool table felt is weaker than regular felt. Typical recreational players should clean their tables at least once a week. More serious players should clean their tables more frequently.
The next step after you have removed any stains is to clean the pockets. It is a good idea that you vacuum the pockets, rails and felt before you get started. For cleaning them, you'll need a damp or soft cloth as well as a vacuum crevice device.
You should also use a soft lint free cloth to blot up the stains. Avoid using paper towels as they can trap fibers and leave them on the felt.
You can also purchase a spray-on product that will better remove stains. You can find these products at your local hardware store, or online. These products can be substituted for those sold at your local billiard supply store.
After the cleaner has dried, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the felt down. Do not rub the stains. Use light strokes so that the felt doesn't stretch out.
It is important to allow the felt to air out on your pool table for a few minutes. It is important to avoid smoking near the table and drinking, as well as ashtrays being placed on the rails. Also, you don't want to leave chalk marks on the surface.
After cleaning the table thoroughly, you can put the cues into the cue rack or cuestand. The cues shouldn't be kept in temperatures too high or near moisture sources that could lead to rot.
Finally, clean the balls. Although this is a common practice you need to be careful. Many home-based cleaning products are designed to remove tough grime, and can damage the felt. The felt can be protected by using a special cleaner.