A billiard table is an expensive investment. You’ll want to take care of it so you can get the longest possible life from the cloth and be able to pass the table down through the generations. We have assembled the definitive knowledge base of pool table care tips and tricks. A few easy steps can keep your table looking and playing as good as new for years and years to come.

  • Wood surfaces can be cleaned with a soft cloth dampened with water or a non-corrosive wood polish.
  • Clean leather pockets with a soft cloth dampened with water or a clear leather cleaner. Do not drag your cue over the leather pocket.
  • Brush your table with the table brush provided after play. Using light strokes, brush the cloth from the head of the table (where you break from) to the foot of the table (where you rack the balls). You should vacuum the cloth on occasion to remove dust & chalk residue buildup under the cloth. Ensure that you only use an upholstery attachment with soft bristles to prevent any damage to the cloth from over-powerful vacuum suction or scraping.
  • Use a pool table cover to protect the pool table when not in use. Covers protect the table from spills, scrapes, light and dust.
  • Do not use a cue that is missing a cue tip. The edge of the exposed cue ferrule is likely sharp and can cut the cloth.
  • Do not attempt to move the pool table. It is precision leveled for its exact position.
  • Do not sit on, climb onto, or try to lift the pool table. This could cause the slate to misalign or put the table out of level.
  • Discourage players from trying high-risk shots like “jump balls”. These shots often result in direct cue contact with the cloth, which can cause marks, holes and rips to occur.
  • Store cues in a cue rack or stand that holds them in a vertical position to prevent warping.
  • Balls can be cleaned with a ball cleaner as required.
  • Cloth can be cleaned with a billiard cloth cleaner as required.

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How should I keep my table clean?

Dust the rails and the cabinetry of your table frequently.

  • For wooden surfaces we recommend using either lemon oil or a good quality furniture polish or wax. Always follow the product manufacturer’s directions.
  • For synthetic surfaces, such as Formica® or laminate surfaces, we suggest using a damp cloth and a mild cleaner.
  • Never use glass cleaner on wooden surfaces! The ammonia could cause a chemical reaction with the wood’s finish.

How do I care for my cloth?

  • Brush your cloth as often as possible. New cloth takes time to “break-in” and can take a few months to do so. During this time, and afterwards, brush the cloth as often as possible. You can never brush the cloth too often.
  • If you vacuum your cloth, make sure to use the upholstery end and go over your cloth lightly. Do not use a vacuum with rotating brushes, this is too hard on your cloth.
  • Periodically we also recommend using a “damp” (not wet) lint free towel to wipe down the cloth. Hot water only, no cleaners.

Can I move my table myself?

We highly recommend that you do “not” move it on your own. When the table is installed, it is leveled in that particular spot. Improper moving can not only result in the table becoming un-level or shifting of the slate seams, but it may also cause damage to the rails, rail panels or even the frame of your table. If the table must be moved give us a call and we will arrange to have one of our highly qualified technicians move it for you.

Is it harmful to sit on a pool table?

We suggest that you never sit on your table or any other pool table. Not only do you run the risk of throwing the table out of level but you could also scratch the finish of your rails or even cause the rubber to separate from the rails. If you are looking for a place to sit, there must be other seats available in your room. If not, come in and visit our retail store and we can help you with seating too.

Can I use my pool table as workspace?

It is ill advised to use your pool table for anything else besides playing pool. We suggest that when your table is not in use, you cover it with a pool table cover. This will keep dust off your table and if there is any direct sunlight in the room it will also keep the pockets and felt from possibly fading. And you should be able to find another place to fold your laundry.

What should a well maintained pool cue tip look like?

A billiard cue’s leather tip should have a rough texture, not smooth. This is to allow the billiard chalk to stick to the leather. A tip should also be convex or “domed”. Pool cues should have the same curvature as a nickel, while snooker cues should be like that of a dime.