How to Safely Clean a Ping Pong Paddle
Maintenance of the ping pong paddle is extremely important if it is to be used for a pretty long time. A new paddle works much better than an old one and to make it work well; it is to be properly kept. Paddle’s rubber surface deteriorates fast if dust sticks to it. After each use, a ping pang paddle is to be nicely cleaned. Here are some tips to help you make cleaning easier and faster.
With Sponge
Make your paddle clean by using a standard kitchen sponge and warm water. Soak the sponge and use it on the rubber in a circular, gentle fashion, until you see it clean. Avoid hard scrubbing. Repeat this procedure until the rubbery surface begins to feel clean and smooth again. Leave the paddle to dry.
Best Sponge
Rubber cleaning solutions
Rubber cleaning solution can also be used for easier cleaning of the paddle. Such products are easily available in the market at a quite reasonable price. They can certainly help to remove the grime or dirt lying on the surface of the paddle.
Solutions offering gentle cleaning can opt as this can help to protect the rubber from oxidation and aging.
Best Rubber cleaning solution
Toothbrush method
A toothbrush can also be used to clean the paddle. Dampen the brush either with warm water or soak it. The brushes can remove the hard particles in otherwise hard to reach areas, and give you a tacky surface.
Best Toothbrush
What to avoid when cleaning your paddle
Detergents can too be used for cleaning the paddles, but it is not recommended by experts. The ingredients in most of the detergents are harsh and can be abrasive making you replace the rubber sooner than otherwise required.
A few tips
Keep your paddle properly covered is also a good idea when it’s not in use. This will keep it clean and secure. Keeping it out in the open is also to be avoided as it may lead to a faster breakdown of the rubber.
Best Paddle cover
Remember to wash the handles as well. Sweat, and body oils not only make the handle dirty but also damage the quality of the material.
Cleaning the ping pong paddle by means of any of the abovementioned methods is going to add to the life of the paddle. Its maintenance is going to make it last for a long time.