Can You Clean A Bowling Ball With Rubbing Alcohol?

Whether you’re a casual bowler or a seasoned pro, keeping your bowling ball in pristine condition is essential for maintaining peak performance.

One of the most effective and affordable cleaning options is rubbing alcohol.

In this blog post, we will explore how to effectively clean your bowling ball using this common household item while also discussing other practical techniques worth considering.

Let’s take a look.

Can You Clean A Bowling Ball With Rubbing Alcohol?

Yes, you can clean your bowling ball with rubbing alcohol. It’s good for removing contaminants, preserving the ball’s performance, and improving your grip and accuracy on the lanes.

Removing Contaminants

One of the primary reasons to clean your bowling ball with rubbing alcohol is its effectiveness in removing contaminants. As a bowler, you may not realize just how much dirt, grease, and grime can accumulate on your ball over time.

Using rubbing alcohol helps break down these impurities on both the surface and within the outer pores of the ball.

For example, if stubborn oil stains are making your bowling performance suffer or causing inconsistency in hooking patterns, simply apply some isopropyl alcohol onto a clean cloth or CtD Power Pad to tackle those pesky spots head-on.

Not only will this help improve grip accuracy but also make your equipment more hygienic by disinfecting any harmful bacteria present on it.

Preserving Ball Performance

Cleaning the ball with rubbing alcohol regularly helps preserve its surface and maintains its overall performance.

Neglecting your bowling ball maintenance can lead to reduced hook potential or other issues that impact your game negatively. Hence, it’s vital to use disinfectant alcohol spray like CtD Isopropyl Alcohol on a clean Power Pad before each shot during competition.

This helps protect against germs while preserving your reactive bowling ball’s quality for extended periods of time.

Improving Grip And Accuracy

A clean surface allows for better friction between the ball and the lane, resulting in more hook potential and increased control over where the ball goes.

Additionally, keeping the finger holes of your bowling ball free from dirt and grime ensures a comfortable fit that won’t cause any slippage or mishandling during play.

How To Clean Your Bowling Ball With Rubbing Alcohol

Gather Necessary Supplies

To clean your bowling ball with rubbing alcohol, you’ll need several supplies. The first item on the list is a microfiber towel or CtD Power Pad to wipe down and dry your ball after applying rubbing alcohol.

You’ll also want to have 70% isopropyl alcohol on hand, as well as a spray bottle if you plan to use a mixture of Easy Green and rubbing alcohol for an extra deep clean.

Additionally, it may be helpful to have some household items like dish soap and Windex available in case the rubbing alcohol doesn’t fully remove stubborn contaminants.

Apply The Rubbing Alcohol

Next, it’s time to apply the rubbing alcohol to your bowling ball. Take a clean microfiber towel and dampen it with some rubbing alcohol, making sure not to saturate the cloth.

Gently rub the surface of the ball in circular motions, paying extra attention to any areas where dirt or oil buildup is visible.

If you come across persistent stains or marks on your ball that won’t budge with just rubbing alcohol, try mixing equal parts Easy Green solution, water, and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle for an even more effective cleaning product.

Once you’ve cleaned all sides of your bowling ball thoroughly with rubbing alcohol, wipe down and dry the surface completely before getting back on the lanes.

Wipe The Ball Dry

After applying the rubbing alcohol to your bowling ball and letting it sit for a few minutes, it’s important to wipe it dry. This will prevent any excess alcohol or moisture from being left on the ball, which could potentially damage its surface or alter its performance.

It’s also important to note that you should avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials when wiping your bowling ball dry. Stick to soft and gentle cloths specifically designed for cleaning sports equipment.

Repeat As Needed

Still notice some dirt or grime on the surface?

Don’t worry – simply repeat the process as needed until your ball is completely clean.

It’s essential to be patient when cleaning your bowling ball and take care not to rush through the process. If you’re unsure whether or not your ball is completely clean, try running your fingers over its surface to feel for any rough spots or residue that might affect its performance.

Other Effective Cleaning Techniques For Your Bowling Ball

Using A Bowling Ball Cleaner

I have found that using a bowling ball cleaner can be an effective way to deep clean your ball and maintain its performance. These specialized cleaners are designed to penetrate the pores of your bowling ball, removing dirt, oil, and other contaminants that may impact its reaction on the lanes.

Some popular brands include Storm Reacta Clean, Track Tac Hook It, and Motiv Power Gel Clean.

It’s important to note that while these cleaners can be effective when used properly, they should not be relied upon as the sole method of cleaning your bowling ball. Regular maintenance with rubbing alcohol or other household items is still necessary for keeping your ball in top shape.

Cleaning With Dish Soap And Warm Water

Another effective way to clean your bowling ball is by using dish soap and warm water. Simply mix a small amount of dish soap in a bowl of warm water and dip a microfiber towel into the solution.

Make sure the towel is damp but not soaking wet, as excess water can seep inside the ball’s pores and impact its performance.

Dish soap is especially useful for breaking down oil stains on your bowling ball’s surface, which can accumulate over time with regular use. Cleaning your ball regularly with this method will help remove any contaminants that may impair its performance or deteriorate its appearance over time.

Utilizing A Ball Cleaning Machine

Ball cleaning machines, also known as ball polishers or ball rejuvenators, are a great option for those who want a deep clean for their bowling balls. These machines use various methods to remove dirt and grime from the surface of the ball.

One popular machine is the Storm Reacta Shine Ball Cleaner. It uses dual spinning pads with different textures to scrub away contaminants and restore the ball’s performance.

Many professional bowlers use these machines regularly to maintain their equipment and achieve optimal results on the lanes.

Dos And Don’ts Of Cleaning Your Bowling Ball With Rubbing Alcohol

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

It is essential to avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning your bowling ball with rubbing alcohol. Harsh chemicals can potentially damage the reactive coverstock of a bowling ball, affecting its performance and lifespan.

Using household items like bleach or ammonia can break down the outer surface of the ball, while acetone-based cleaners may cause discoloration or cracking.

It’s also not recommended to use abrasive materials or rough brushes that can scratch the surface of the ball.

Store Your Ball Properly

It’s crucial to store your bowling ball properly in order to maintain its performance and prolong its lifespan. After cleaning, it’s important to keep your ball in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight exposure.

Avoid storing the ball on an uneven surface or near extreme temperatures as this can negatively impact its reaction time and structure. A good storage option is a breathable bag that will protect the ball while also allowing air circulation.

Inspect Your Ball Regularly

Regular inspection of your bowling ball is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. It’s important to look out for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or dents that could affect the ball’s weight and balance.

By inspecting your bowling ball frequently, you can catch potential problems early on and take appropriate action before they become major issues. This will not only help preserve the quality of your equipment but also improve your overall game performance.

Do Not Use Too Much Alcohol

It’s important to note that when cleaning your bowling ball with rubbing alcohol, you should not use too much of it. While rubbing alcohol can effectively remove dirt and contaminants from the surface of your ball, applying too much can potentially damage it.

To avoid damaging your ball, only apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth or CtD Power Pad before wiping the surface. Additionally, make sure to never soak your bowling ball in any cleaning solution as this can also lead to damage.

Conclusion

Cleaning your bowling ball with rubbing alcohol is an effective way to remove contaminants and preserve its performance. By using the right techniques and avoiding harsh chemicals, you can keep your ball in top condition for years to come.

Remember to inspect it regularly, keep finger holes clean, and store it properly. Whether you use store-bought products or DIY solutions, taking care of your bowling equipment will improve your grip and accuracy on the lanes.

Last updated on June 9, 2023