by jayj

Created on: August 22, 2007

Caring for your billiard or pool table, will ensure it has the finest performance and appearance for your lifetime. This basically involves, taking care of the cloth, the leather and the wood.

TO CARE FOR YOUR CLOTH.

Use a table brush to brush the cloth in the direction of the 'nap'. This is a slightly raised area on the table, which is covered by the cloth. This goes from the balk end (or D end) to the black spot. If you were to brush it the other way around, it would be going against the grain and may course damage.

The cloth should be brushed as often as possible in the first few months of use. This is because it takes time to break the cloth in.

You may also vacuum the bed cloth on low suction (and without attachments) in the direction of the nap. However, this should only be done when needed and it is preferable to use a table brush.

The bed cloth needs to be ironed in the direction of the nap, for the first seven times that it has been brushed. Then once every six months. Your iron should be set on a medium heat and low steam. Alternatively, you could use a damp lint free towel to wipe over the cloth. You should only use hot water and do not use any form of detergent.

TO CARE FOR THE WOOD.

The rails and carpentry of your table need to be dusted frequently. Your table is possibly made of the best wood, so you should use lemon oil, high quality furniture polish or wax to polish the wooden surfaces. When cleaning the synthetic surfaces, it is recommended that a damp cloth and mild detergent are used.

TO CARE FOR THE LEATHER.

A leather conditioning oil should be used to protect the leather parts of your billiard table. This will make the leather more supple and extend it's life by several years. You should wipe the conditioner into the external parts of the pockets. (This should only be in the place which the ball does not touch!) Then allow it to rest for several minutes, until the leather absorbs the conditioner. This should be done in six monthly intervals.

In conclusion, it should go without saying, but try not to smoke over the table or place any cups, glasses, etc on top of it. The table could get burnt or damaged by alcolol, coffee or juice. All of this care will have magnificent results. You should always have a brand new looking table if you take care of it properly.

Learn more about this author, jayj.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.