It is important to regularly clean your pool table in order to keep it looking new. This will help keep your table in top shape, and make it easier to play on. The best way to do this is to use a brush.
You can find brushes designed specifically for cleaning felt pool tables at your local billiards supply store. These brushes are gentle and won't leave any lint or dust on the felt. You can also use a regular household toothbrush if you don’t want to spend too much. However, be cautious as too many strong strokes could cause damage to the surface.
A steamer is an alternative option for cleaning the pool table surface. While steamers can remove stains from felt, they can also set them. A natural stain remover can be used, such as equal parts of white vinegar and water. However, you should allow the stain time to dry before applying any other products.
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. For more serious players, a more frequent cleaning schedule may be recommended.
Clean the pockets once you have removed the stains. Before you start working with felt, it is a good idea vacuum the rails and pockets. You will need a damp cloth, soft cloth and a vacuum crevice tool to clean them.
Use a soft, lint-free towel to clean up any stains. Avoid using paper towels, as they can trap fibers that will be left on the felt.
You can also buy a spray-on solution, which will do a much better job of removing stains. Some of these products are available at your local department store or online. They can be used as a substitute for the products sold in your billiards supply store.
After you've applied cleaning solution to the felt wipe it down using a damp cloth. Don't rub the stains, however. Be gentle so the felt doesn't get stretched.
Give your felt time to dry. Avoid drinking or smoking near the pool table. You don't want chalk marks to be left on the surface.
Once you've cleaned the table, you can store the cues in the cue rack or cue stand. You shouldn't store them in extreme temperatures or in places where the moisture can cause them to rot.
Last but not least, you will need to clean them. This is a common practice, but you should be very careful. Some home-based cleaning products can damage the felt because they are designed to remove stubborn grime. It is also possible to protect your felt with a specialized cleaner.