How to Clean Golf Balls? – Proper Cleaning Ways

When you strike a golf ball, you know what a path it flies and meets with mud, sand, rough surfaces, and even trees around the course. So getting specks of dirt on the golf ball surface is not a surprising factor. We all know that dimples implant at the golf ball’s outer shell to get more speed with proper spinning. But when the dirt, mud, and debris covered the body, it severely affects the aerodynamics which ruins your overall score. That’s why every golfer must know how to clean golf balls without damaging the dimples on their surface area.

Besides, the ball lost its color and freshness after getting touched by the clubs repeatedly. But if you want to maintain your performance, you have to use a fresh and clean ball every time to get the right speed, mandatory for the perfect distance. The more exciting thing is that you will get lots of golf balls at the pond near the course every year. These hunting balls are also reusable if you clean them properly and you can easily collect them by using golf ball retrievers. Surprisingly, all golf balls are dishwasher-safe. So it is not so tough to clean it and use it for the second time. Before knowing about all the processes of cleaning the golf ball, you should realize whether it is necessary or not.

Related: How to clean a golf bag?

Is It Necessary to Clean a Golf Ball?

If you do not understand the necessity of cleaning your stained golf balls, you will not get interested in making your range balls spotless. Most of the time, we found that golfers do not take it seriously. Perhaps the golfer who is not interested in wandering the lost ball or occasionally finds out after hitting a perfect shot does not seriously consider the cleaning issue. They wipe the dirty surface just with the golf towel or rub it on their pants and think it is good enough to fly in the fairway. They will never achieve the proper performance even if they use the best golf ball for the session. Generally, the golf ball surface needs to endure all the pressure of iron, wedge, driver, or putter to hit it towards the target. At the time of flying, it absorbs the hazards of the course. All this time of happening, the surface gets spikes of dirt. Besides, dimples are constructed over the range ball to pass the air without blocking the speed. If there have any obstacles over the dimples, it naturally lowers its facilities to spin. On the other hand, those balls undergo water hazards for a long time and get heavy slime and mud. These wet balls require cleaning for re-use. There are lots of benefits to using the cleaned ball to get a perfect trajectory. These are-

• Increase the spin rate and perform as well as a new one.
• Provide better flight and distance.
• Lower the chance of camouflage with the grass of the course.
• Can quickly mark again on the faded ball marks.

Here are a few reasons why some golfers choose to clean their golf balls:

1. Improved Performance: Dirt and debris on a golf ball can affect its aerodynamics, resulting in less accuracy and distance. Cleaning the ball can help maintain its performance and improve the golfer’s game.
2. Appearance: Some golfers simply prefer to play with clean golf balls because they look better and can give them more confidence while playing.
3. Hygiene: Golf balls can come in contact with various surfaces during a game, including grass, sand, and even other golfers’ equipment. Cleaning the balls can help prevent the spread of bacteria and germs.

Overall, while it is not necessary to clean a golf ball, doing so can have some benefits for the golfer’s game, appearance, and hygiene.

9 cleaning products for dirty golf balls

Here are nine cleaning products that can be used to clean dirty golf balls:

1. Water and soap: A simple solution of warm water and mild soap can be used to effectively clean dirt and debris from golf balls.
2. White vinegar: A mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar can be used as a soak solution to remove tough stains and discoloration.
3. Baking soda: A paste made from baking soda and water can be applied to stubborn stains and scrubbed with a soft-bristled brush to remove them.
4. Denture tablets: Dissolving denture tablets in water and soaking golf balls for a few hours can help remove dirt and stains.
5. Hydrogen peroxide: A mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water can be used as a soak solution to remove stains and brighten golf balls.
6. Rubbing alcohol: Soaking golf balls in rubbing alcohol for a few minutes can help remove dirt and stains.
7. Glass cleaner: A spray or foam glass cleaner can be applied to golf balls and wiped clean with a soft cloth.
8. All-purpose cleaner: An all-purpose cleaner can be used to effectively clean golf balls, especially those with stubborn stains or debris.
9. Golf ball cleaner: Specialized golf ball cleaners are designed specifically for cleaning golf balls and can be effective in removing dirt, stains, and debris.

How to clean a golf ball?

According to the rules of USGA, you can not clean your ball while the session goes on. You have to continue with the ball with which you started. Conceivably, rubbing or wiping out is also enough to clean the outer surface of the ball. But after completing the day, you should clean every club, including the balls. If it is a rubber ball, you have to clean it with the cleaner used for your other daily chore, not too harsh a cleanser. There are some light cleaners and cleaning equipment to remove all specks of dirt from your golf balls quickly.

Cleaning golf balls is a simple process that can be done at home with a few basic supplies. To clean golf balls, start by filling a large container with warm water and adding a small amount of mild soap or dish detergent. Place the golf balls in the container and let them soak for 5-10 minutes to loosen any dirt or debris. Then, using a soft-bristled brush or sponge, gently scrub each golf ball to remove any remaining dirt or stains. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the ball’s surface. Rinse the golf balls thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue or remaining debris. Finally, dry the golf balls with a clean towel or let them air dry. If the golf balls are still stained or have remaining debris, you can try using specialized golf ball cleaners or a mixture of water and vinegar to soak them. By following these tips, you can keep your golf balls clean and in good condition for optimal performance on the course.

Below, you get the details of the light cleaning processes of dirty golf balls.

Related: How to clean your golf clubs at home?

Materials required for cleansing the dirty golf balls

1. Mild detergent

The mild detergent that you use to clean your utensils can use to cleanse your practice balls. As these balls are soft, any harsh dish soap damages their dimples’ smoothness, the specialized golfing area. You may also use white vinegar to wash the unclean balls. A strong detergent may make the ball bright, but it lowers its quality. The damaged dimples hinder the perfect speed and balance of the shots which ultimately lowers your correct score. And it is much better to play with a fuzzy ball than a sparkling, low-quality ball.

2. Lukewarm water

Another source of washing agents is lukewarm clean water. You can pass lots of balls at a time, and you need a bucket. The size of the bucket may vary for the number of balls. To clean the dirt from the ball’s dimples, you must put them in lukewarm water for 30 minutes. At this time, you may also add some mild detergent to the bucket of water if there have any hardened debris. When it stays for a long in the bucket with water, all waste becomes loosened, and you can easily remove it only by scrubbing it with your hands.

3. A dishwasher or sponge

If you play on a muddy golf course or in rainy weather, your ball will get more mud. This mud will stick hard on the surface and become difficult to wash out. At this moment, you can use a sponge for rubbing that mud after putting in the soapy water for a few minutes.

4. Soft Bristle brush

Except for a sponge, you can use a soft-bristled brush to clean the sticky substances from the dimples of the ball. However, it will be time-consuming but can remove all the dirt smoothly without any damage.

Related: How to clean golf cart seats, batteries, and windshields?

How do you clean dirty golf balls?

Golf balls are an essential part of any golfer’s equipment, and keeping them clean is important for maintaining their performance and longevity. Over time, golf balls can accumulate dirt, grass stains, and debris that can affect their flight and distance. Fortunately, cleaning dirty golf balls is a simple process that can be done at home with a few basic supplies. In this guide, we will explore some effective methods for cleaning dirty golf balls, from using warm water and soap to specialized golf ball cleaners. By following these tips, you can help extend the life of your golf balls and improve your game on the course.

Sure, here are 7-step cleaning processes for dirty golf balls:

1. Pre-rinse the golf balls: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Put the golf balls in the bucket and swirl them around to remove loose dirt and grass.
2. Scrub the golf balls: Using a soft-bristled brush, gently scrub each golf ball to remove any remaining dirt or stains. Focus on the dimples and crevices.
3. Rinse the golf balls: Rinse each golf ball thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue or dirt.
4. Check for damage: While rinsing, inspect each golf ball for cracks or other damage that may affect its performance.
5. Dry the golf balls: Use a clean towel or cloth to dry each golf ball thoroughly. Make sure they are completely dry before using or storing them.
6. Polish the golf balls: Apply a golf ball polish or cleaner to each golf ball, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help restore the ball’s original shine and protect it from future damage.
7. Store the golf balls: Once the golf balls are clean and dry, store them in a clean, dry place until they are ready to be used again.

Cleaning Procedure of Light Dirt on balls

• Put all soft dirty balls into a utensil chamber.
• Add mild dishwashing liquid to the water.
• Remove the dirt softly with a sponge.
• Wash the balls a second time if they have any debris on the surface.
• Keep the wet balls on a dry clean towel and soak the water gently.

Cleaning Procedure of Moderate Dirt on used golf balls

• Take a bucket and fill it with mild-warm water. Fill up to 75% of the bucket with water and put the balls into it.
• Add a few drops of cleaning agents like detergent, and white vinegar. Keep in mind that do not add multiple cleansers at a time.
• Keep the ball for an hour or more into the solution.
• Rinse the ball with clear water.
• Dry the water with a towel.
• Keep the ball in a sunny place for a while to dry it thoroughly.

How to clean golf balls from ponds?

Cleaning golf balls that have been submerged in a pond or lake can be a bit more challenging due to the potential for algae and other debris to accumulate on the surface. Here are some steps to clean golf balls from ponds:

1. Remove the golf balls from the water as soon as possible to prevent any additional buildup of debris.
2. Fill a large container with warm water and add a small amount of mild soap or dish detergent.
3. Add the golf balls to the container and let them soak for 5-10 minutes to loosen any dirt or algae.
4. Using a soft-bristled brush or sponge, gently scrub each golf ball to remove any remaining debris or stains. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the ball’s surface.
5. Rinse the golf balls thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue or remaining debris.
6. Dry the golf balls with a clean towel or let them air dry.

If the golf balls are still stained or have remaining debris, you can try using a specialized golf ball cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar. Soak the golf balls in the solution for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing them with a soft-bristled brush.

It’s important to note that golf balls that have been submerged in water for a long period may be damaged and may not perform as well as new golf balls. If you’re unsure about the condition of your golf balls, it may be best to replace them to ensure optimal performance on the course.

How to clean golf balls in bulk?

If you need to clean a large number of golf balls, there are a few methods you can use to make the process more efficient:

1. Use a mesh laundry bag: Fill a mesh laundry bag with golf balls and tie it closed. Place the bag in a washing machine and run a cold cycle with a small amount of mild detergent. Once the cycle is complete, remove the bag and let the golf balls air dry.
2. Use a large container: Fill a large container, such as a plastic storage bin, with warm water and add some mild soap or detergent. Add the golf balls and use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub them clean. Rinse the golf balls thoroughly with clean water and dry them with a towel or let them air dry.
3. Use a golf ball cleaner: If you have access to a specialized golf ball cleaner, this can be an efficient way to clean a large number of golf balls. Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s label for the best results.

Regardless of the method you use, it’s important to rinse the golf balls thoroughly and dry them completely before storing them. This will help prevent any damage or deterioration to the golf balls over time.

How to clean golf balls at home?

Cleaning golf balls at home is a straightforward process. Here are the steps you can follow:

1. Fill a large container, such as a bucket or sink, with warm water. Add a small amount of mild soap or dish detergent to the water.
2. Place the golf balls in the water and let them soak for 5-10 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt or debris on the surface of the golf balls.
3. Using a soft-bristled brush or sponge, gently scrub the golf balls to remove any dirt or stains. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the ball’s surface.
4. Rinse the golf balls thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
5. Dry the golf balls with a clean towel or let them air dry.

If the golf balls are still dirty or have grass stains, you can try using a mixture of water and vinegar. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a container and let the golf balls soak for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing them with a soft-bristled brush.

Alternatively, you can also use a specialized golf ball cleaner. Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s label for the best results.

Once the golf balls are clean and dry, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help maintain their performance and longevity.

Some special tricks that Gear up the 7-step cleaning process

Sure, here are some special tricks to gear up the entire golf ball cleaning process:

1. Use warm, soapy water: Warm water helps to soften any dirt or grime on the golf ball, making it easier to clean. Adding a little bit of soap will also help to break down any oils or grease on the ball.
2. Use a golf ball washer: A golf ball washer is a small device that can be attached to your golf bag or cart. It typically has brushes or sponges inside that can quickly and easily clean your golf balls.
3. Use a towel: If you don’t have a golf ball washer, you can use a towel to clean your golf balls. Wet the towel with warm, soapy water and then rub the ball vigorously to remove any dirt or grime.
4. Use a bucket: Fill a bucket with warm, soapy water and then drop your golf balls in. Let them soak for a few minutes and then use a brush or sponge to clean them.
5. Use a brush: A brush specifically designed for cleaning golf balls can be very effective at removing dirt and grime. You can also use an old toothbrush or any other small brush.
6. Dry the balls: After cleaning the balls, make sure to dry them thoroughly with a towel or let them air dry. Wet golf balls can affect their performance on the course.

By using these tips, you can gear up the entire golf ball cleaning process and ensure that your golf balls are always clean and ready to perform their best on the course.

Precautions that you should follow while cleaning dirty golf balls

Here are some precautions that you should follow while cleaning dirty golf balls:

1. Avoid using harsh chemicals: While it may be tempting to use harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia to clean your golf balls, these can damage the outer layer of the ball and affect its performance. Stick to mild soaps and warm water.
2. Use a gentle touch: When cleaning your golf balls, use a gentle touch to avoid scratching or damaging the outer layer. Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool or rough sponges.
3. Check for cracks or damage: Before cleaning your golf balls, inspect them for cracks or other damage. If you notice any cracks or deformities, discard the ball as it may not perform as well on the course.
4. Don’t mix old and new balls: If you are cleaning a mix of old and new golf balls, be sure to keep them separate. Old balls may have scratches or other damage that can transfer to new balls and affect their performance.
5. Don’t clean too frequently: Cleaning your golf balls too frequently can wear down the outer layer and affect their performance. Only clean your balls when necessary.
6. Dry them thoroughly: After cleaning your golf balls, make sure to dry them thoroughly with a towel or let them air dry. Wet golf balls can affect their performance on the course.

By following these precautions, you can ensure that you clean your golf balls effectively and safely without damaging them or affecting their performance on the course.

FAQs

How do you make homemade golf ball cleaner?

There are a few different ways you can make homemade golf ball cleaner:

• Dish soap and water: Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water in a bowl or bucket. Place your golf balls in the solution and use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the dirt and grime off the balls. Rinse the balls with clean water and dry them with a towel.
• Baking soda and water: Mix equal parts baking soda and warm water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the golf balls and use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away dirt and stains. Rinse the balls with clean water and dry them with a towel.
• Vinegar and water: Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a bowl or bucket. Soak your golf balls in the solution for 30 minutes, then use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away any remaining dirt or stains. Rinse the balls with clean water and dry them with a towel.
• Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda: Mix 2 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide with 1 tablespoon of baking soda to create a paste. Apply the paste to the golf balls and let them sit for 5-10 minutes. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away dirt and stains, then rinse the balls with clean water and dry them with a towel.

Note: Be careful not to use any abrasive materials or harsh chemicals on your golf balls, as this could damage the surface and affect their performance on the course.

How do refurbish golf balls?

Refurbishing golf balls is a process that involves cleaning and restoring used golf balls to make them look and perform like new ones. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to refurbish golf balls:

• Collect used golf balls: Gather as many used golf balls as you can. You can collect them from your local golf course, or driving range, or buy them online.
• Clean the golf balls: Fill a large container with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Place the golf balls in the container and scrub them with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse the balls thoroughly with clean water and let them dry completely.
• Inspect the golf balls: Check each ball for cracks, cuts, or any other signs of damage. Discard any balls that are too damaged to be refurbished.
• Remove the old paint: If the golf balls have any old paint or logos on them, you can remove them using a solvent such as acetone or paint stripper. Apply the solvent to the ball and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a clean cloth.
• Sand the golf balls: Use a sanding machine to remove any remaining paint or logos on the golf balls. Sanding will also help to smooth out any scratches or blemishes on the surface of the balls.
• Polish the golf balls: Use a polishing machine to restore the shine and luster of the golf balls. You can also apply a coat of clear lacquer to give them a glossy finish.
• Package the golf balls: Once the golf balls are refurbished, you can package them in sets of three or six and sell them online or at your local golf course.

It’s important to note that refurbishing golf balls is not a foolproof process, and some balls may not be suitable for refurbishing. Always inspect each ball carefully before attempting to refurbish it, and discard any balls that are too damaged or worn to be restored.

Can you boil golf balls?

It is not recommended to boil golf balls as they are not designed to withstand high temperatures. Boiling golf balls may cause them to deform, lose their elasticity, and affect their performance. In addition, boiling golf balls can also damage the surface and coating, which can further impact their performance on the golf course. If you need to clean your golf balls, it is best to use warm soapy water and a soft cloth or brush to gently clean the surface. Alternatively, you can also use a golf ball cleaner or golf ball washer to clean your golf balls without risking damage to them.

How long can golf balls soak in water?

Golf balls can generally soak in water for an extended period without any damage, as long as the water is not too hot or too cold. However, it is not recommended to leave golf balls soaking in water for too long as this can cause damage to the ball’s outer cover and affect its performance on the golf course. If you want to soak your golf balls to clean them, it is recommended to soak them in warm soapy water for no more than 10-15 minutes. After soaking, rinse the golf balls thoroughly with clean water and dry them using a soft cloth or towel. It is important to note that soaking golf balls in water will not remove deep stains or scuff marks, and it may not improve their performance. If you notice significant damage or wear to your golf balls, it may be time to replace them with new ones.

Can you wash golf balls with soap?

Yes, you can wash golf balls with soap. Using soap can be an effective way to clean dirt, grass stains, and other marks from the surface of the golf ball. However, it is essential to use mild soap and not any harsh or abrasive chemicals that can damage the surface of the ball. To wash golf balls with soap, fill a bucket or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap. Place the golf balls in soapy water and gently scrub the surface with a soft cloth or brush. Be sure to rinse the golf balls thoroughly with clean water after washing them and dry them using a soft towel or cloth. It is important to note that washing golf balls with soap will not remove deep scuff marks or significant damage to the ball’s surface. In addition, cleaning golf balls may not necessarily improve their performance, especially if they are damaged or have lost their elasticity.

Can you clean your ball by rubbing it on the green?

No, it is not recommended to clean your golf ball by rubbing it on the green. The green is a delicate and finely tuned playing surface, and any unnecessary damage or disturbance to the green can affect the quality of play for all golfers. Furthermore, rubbing your golf ball on the green can damage the ball’s surface, causing scratches or scuff marks that can affect its performance. These scratches and scuff marks can also trap dirt and debris, making the ball even harder to clean. If you need to clean your golf ball during play, it is recommended to use a damp towel or a golf ball cleaning device to gently wipe the surface of the ball. Be sure to avoid any unnecessary damage to the green or any other part of the course.

What is the easiest way to clean golf balls?

The easiest way to clean golf balls is by using a golf ball cleaning device or a bucket of warm water and mild soap. Here are some steps to follow:

• Golf ball cleaning device: You can purchase a golf ball cleaning device, such as a golf ball washer or ball scrubber, which are available in various sizes and styles. Simply place your golf ball inside the device, add some water and soap, and rub the surface of the ball against the brushes or pads until it is clean. Rinse the ball with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.
• Bucket of warm water and mild soap: If you don’t have a golf ball cleaning device, you can use a bucket of warm water and a small amount of mild soap. Place the golf balls in the bucket and use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the surface of the balls. Rinse the balls with clean water and dry them with a soft towel.
• Golf ball cleaning solution: There are also special golf ball cleaning solutions available in the market that can effectively clean golf balls. Simply follow the instructions on the package to use the solution.

Can you clean your golf ball during play?

Yes, you can clean your golf ball during play, but there are certain rules and etiquette to follow.

According to the Rules of Golf, a player may clean their golf ball at any time, except when they are in play on the putting green. On the putting green, a player may only clean their ball if it is lifted for a legitimate reason, such as to identify it or to avoid interfering with another player’s putt. When cleaning your golf ball during play, it is important to avoid damaging the ball or the playing surface. You can use a towel, a golf ball cleaning device, or a damp cloth to clean the ball. Be sure to clean the ball quickly and efficiently to avoid holding up play. Additionally, it is important to respect your fellow players and avoid any unnecessary distractions. Try to clean your ball when it is your turn to play, and be mindful of other players’ positions and shots. If you need to clean your ball on the green, do so quickly and quietly, so as not to interfere with other players’ concentration. Overall, it is acceptable to clean your golf ball during play, but be sure to follow the Rules of Golf and observe proper etiquette on the course.

Does bleach damage golf balls?

Yes, bleach can damage golf balls. Bleach is a strong chemical that can break down the outer layer of a golf ball, which is typically made of a type of rubber called balata or a synthetic material called Surlyn. This can lead to a loss of compression in the ball, affecting its distance and accuracy. Additionally, the dimples on the surface of a golf ball are designed to provide lift and control, and bleach can erode these dimples, further affecting the ball’s performance. It’s important to note that while bleach can damage golf balls, other household cleaning products such as dish soap and warm water can be used to clean golf balls without causing damage. If you need to clean your golf balls, it’s recommended to use mild soap and warm water and to avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach.

Do golf balls get ruined in water?

Golf balls can become ruined in water depending on how long they are submerged and the conditions of the water. If a golf ball is only briefly submerged in water, it will likely not be ruined. However, if a golf ball is left in water for an extended period, the water can seep into the small pores on the ball’s surface, causing it to become waterlogged. When a golf ball is waterlogged, it will not fly as far or as accurately as a normal ball, and it may also feel heavier. Additionally, if the water in which the golf ball is submerged is contaminated or contains chemicals, it could cause damage to the outer layer of the ball, which can affect the ball’s performance. Overall, it’s best to retrieve your golf ball from the water as quickly as possible to avoid it becoming waterlogged or damaged. If your ball has been in the water for an extended period, it’s best to discard it and use a new one.

How to wash golf balls quickly and easily

Final Words

In the Coronavirus pandemic situation of 2021, you should try to reuse and recycle the materials you can. So cleaning dirty golf balls properly for the next session will also help us regulate our daily lives effectively in this adverse period. Not only this but using the effective method at the proper time also improves its life span. Besides, starting the golf game with a clean and fresh ball is also a prerequisite for a successful session. And the cleaning process step that we discussed above is enough to continue the round efficiently.

Cleaning golf balls is a simple process that can have a positive impact on a golfer’s performance, appearance, and hygiene. By following the 7-step cleaning process of pre-rinsing, scrubbing, rinsing, checking for damage, drying, polishing, and storing the golf balls, golfers can ensure that their equipment is in optimal condition for playing the game. While it is not necessary to clean golf balls, taking the time to do so can help improve the golfer’s game, boost their confidence, and maintain good hygiene on the course. Overall, cleaning golf balls is a small but important aspect of the game that can make a big difference in a golfer’s experience.