Best Ways to Clean Golf Balls: A Complete Guide

Keeping your clean golf balls in top condition is crucial for optimal performance on the course. Many golfers overlook the importance of clean equipment, but maintaining clean golf balls, shoes, gloves, and other gear can boost your game, extend your equipment’s lifespan, and save you money in the long run.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best methods for cleaning golf balls, Golf Shoes, and gloves, and provide valuable tips to keep your equipment in excellent shape.

Why Cleaning Golf Balls Matters

Before diving into the cleaning methods, it’s important to understand why keeping your Golf Balls clean is crucial.

Dirty golf balls can negatively impact your game in several ways:

1. Reduced Aerodynamics: Dirt, mud, and debris can affect the aerodynamics of a golf ball, causing it to deviate from its intended flight path.
2. Inconsistent Spin: A dirty ball may not spin as expected, leading to less control over your shots.
3. Lower Accuracy: A clean golf ball allows for more accurate shots by ensuring a consistent strike off the clubface.
4. Prolonged Lifespan: Regular cleaning helps maintain the integrity of the ball’s surface, preventing damage and extending its useful life.

How to Clean Golf Balls: Proven Methods

There are several methods to clean your Golf Balls effectively. Each technique varies in its approach, depending on the level of dirt and the materials available.

Let’s dive into some of the best ways to clean your golf balls.

1. The Classic Soap and Water Method

The most tried-and-tested method for cleaning golf balls is to use a simple mixture of warm water and soap.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Stir the mixture to create a soapy solution.
• Step 2: Soak the Golf Balls: Submerge the golf balls in the bucket and let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt or debris clinging to the surface.
• Step 3: Scrub the Golf Balls: Use a damp cloth or a soft-bristled brush, like an old toothbrush, to gently scrub each ball. Focus on the dimples and any areas with visible dirt.
• Step 4: Rinse and Dry: Rinse the golf balls under clean water to remove any soap residue, then dry them thoroughly with a clean towel.

This method is ideal for regular maintenance and works well for mildly dirty golf balls.

2. The White Vinegar or Hydrogen Peroxide Solution

If your golf balls are heavily soiled or have stubborn stains, consider using a solution of white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, bleach, or OxiClean (a mix of hydrogen peroxide and washing soda). Follow these steps:

• Step 1: Create the Cleaning Solution: In a bucket, mix warm water with a cup of white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or a small amount of bleach or OxiClean.
• Step 2: Soak the Golf Balls: Place the golf balls in the solution and let them soak for up to 30 minutes. Avoid soaking them for longer periods to prevent waterlogging.
• Step 3: Scrub the Balls: After soaking, use a soft-bristled brush to remove any remaining dirt or stains.
• Step 4: Rinse and Dry: Rinse the golf balls with clean water and dry them with a towel.

This method is more effective than just soap and water and is ideal for cleaning older golf balls with stubborn dirt.

3. The Dishwasher Method

Believe it or not, you can clean your golf balls in the dishwasher!

This unconventional method has been tested and proven effective by many golfers.

Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Load the Golf Balls: Place the golf balls in the dishwasher’s utensil basket or on the top rack. Ensure they are securely positioned to prevent them from moving around.
• Step 2: Select the Right Cycle: Choose a normal wash cycle, but make sure to turn off the ‘Heated Dry’ option. Prolonged exposure to heat can damage the golf balls’ material.
• Step 3: Start the Dishwasher: Run the dishwasher cycle as you normally would. The warm water and detergent will clean the golf balls thoroughly.
• Step 4: Remove and Dry: After the cycle is complete, remove the golf balls and dry them with a clean towel.

While unconventional, the dishwasher method is a convenient way to clean a large number of golf balls at once.

4. Removing Permanent Marker Lines

If you use permanent markers to draw alignment lines or add personal markings on your golf balls, these can be tricky to remove.

However, you can use rubbing alcohol, acetone, or nail polish remover to get the job done:

• Step 1: Apply the Solvent: Dab a small amount of rubbing alcohol, acetone, or nail polish remover onto a cloth or cotton ball.
• Step 2: Gently Rub the Markings: Rub the affected area gently to remove the marker lines. Rubbing alcohol is the gentlest option, while acetone is more potent—use gloves and caution when handling it.
• Step 3: Rinse and Dry: After removing the markings, rinse the ball with water and dry it with a towel.

This method is effective for removing even the most stubborn permanent marker lines.

What Not to Do When Cleaning Golf Balls

While cleaning golf balls is straightforward, there are some important things to avoid:

1. Don’t Soak Them Too Long: Prolonged soaking can cause the golf balls to become waterlogged, affecting their performance.
2. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Leaving golf balls in direct sunlight for too long can change their internal compression, impacting their reaction off the clubface.
3. Do Not Use Undiluted Bleach: Undiluted bleach can damage the outer layer of the golf ball, affecting its performance.
4. Don’t Use Harsh Brushes: Avoid using sharp metal brushes or very stiff bristles, as they can scratch or damage the golf ball’s surface.

How to Clean Golf Shoes

Just like your golf balls, your golf shoes also need regular cleaning to maintain their performance and extend their lifespan.

Related Article: Best Golf Shoes for Men

Here are some expert tips on how to clean and care for your golf shoes:

1. The Importance of Clean Golf Shoes

Golf shoes are a significant investment, and with proper care, you can extend their lifespan, comfort, and performance. FootJoy, the No. 1 golf shoe brand, offers some practical advice:

• Rotate Your Shoes: Using two pairs of shoes will extend their life by more than twice the duration of a single pair.
• Use a Shoe Horn: Always use a shoe horn when putting on your shoes to protect the heel and avoid poor fit and blistering.
• Insert Shoe Trees: Leaving a shoe tree in your shoes when not in use helps them maintain their shape.
• Check Cleats Regularly: Avoid over-tightening the cleats and check them after each round to prevent damage.
• Store Properly: Don’t store your shoes in the trunk of your car, as high temperatures can break down the materials over time.

2. Cleaning Golf Shoes After a Round

Cleaning your golf shoes after each round is essential to prevent dirt buildup and preserve their quality:

• Remove Dirt Immediately: Use an air dryer or wet wipes to remove any dirt immediately after a round. A soft brush and warm water with soap can help get into tricky spots.
• Take Out Laces and Insoles: Remove the laces and insoles when cleaning to ensure a thorough clean.
• Dry Indoors: Dry your shoes indoors, away from direct sunlight. Avoid using a hairdryer, as excessive heat can damage the shoes.
• Use Newspaper: Place newspaper inside the shoes for 8-10 hours to soak up excess moisture before inserting a shoe tree.

FootJoy also offers a Wax Shoe Polish that is perfect for maintaining high-quality leather shoes.

However, remember that polish is not a cleaning product—always clean your shoes thoroughly before applying it.

How to Clean Golf Gloves

Golf gloves are another essential piece of equipment that needs proper care.

Here’s how to keep them in great shape:

1. Rotate Your Gloves

Having multiple pairs of golf gloves in rotation will extend the lifespan of each glove. 

Use a synthetic glove for practice, as they are more resistant to wear and tear.

2. Air Out Your Gloves

Air out your gloves as often as possible to prevent them from becoming stiff or crusty. 

Some golf bags have a Velcro tab that allows you to attach your glove to dry out.

3. Proper Storage

Store your gloves properly after each round. Avoid stuffing them in the bottom of your bag where they can get punctured or lose shape. 

Instead, stretch them back to their original shape and place them flat or in their original packaging.

4. Cleaning Your Gloves

Most leather gloves are not machine washable, so gently hand wash them with a mild detergent and let them air dry naturally. 

Avoid using hairdryers or placing them on radiators, as this can damage the material.

Specialist Golf Insurance: Protecting Your Equipment

In addition to regular cleaning, consider protecting your golf equipment with specialist golf insurance.

Golf Care offers policies that include Equipment Cover up to £7,500 and Public Liability up to £10 million, ensuring you can play with peace of mind.

My Opinion

Cleaning your golf balls, shoes, and gloves is essential for maintaining their quality, performance, and longevity.

By following the tips and methods outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your equipment stays in excellent condition, helping you play your best game every time you step onto the course.

Regular maintenance, combined with specialist golf insurance, can save you money and provide peace of mind, knowing your gear is always protected. 

Now, grab your cleaning supplies and get to work—your golf equipment deserves it!