Cleaning your bowling ball with Simple Green is a popular method, but it’s important to understand the proper way to do it to avoid damaging your ball. This guide will walk you through the process, explain the benefits and drawbacks, and answer frequently asked questions.
Why Clean Your Bowling Ball?
A clean bowling ball is essential for consistent performance. Oil, dirt, and lane debris accumulate on the ball’s surface, affecting its grip and reaction to the lane conditions. Regular cleaning restores the ball’s tackiness, allowing it to hook more effectively and maintain its predictable motion. This translates to higher scores and a more enjoyable bowling experience.
Cleaning Supplies for Bowling Ball with Simple Green
Is Simple Green Safe for Bowling Balls?
Simple Green is generally considered safe for most bowling balls, especially reactive resin balls. However, some bowlers and ball manufacturers advise caution. The concern stems from Simple Green’s potential to dry out the coverstock over time, especially with frequent use. While the immediate effects might not be noticeable, prolonged exposure could lead to a duller finish and reduced performance. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first before applying it to the entire ball.
A Word of Caution for Urethane Balls
For urethane bowling balls, using Simple Green is generally not recommended. Urethane is a more porous material than reactive resin, and Simple Green can penetrate deeper, causing more significant damage and affecting the ball’s performance. Stick to specialized urethane cleaners for these types of bowling balls.
How to Clean Your Bowling Ball with Simple Green: A Step-by-Step Guide
-
Gather your supplies: You’ll need Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner (diluted according to the instructions for cleaning), a microfiber towel, a clean bucket filled with warm water, and a soft-bristled brush (optional).
-
Dilute the Simple Green: Mix the Simple Green with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using a stronger concentration is not recommended, as it could damage the ball.
-
Apply the solution: Moisten the microfiber towel with the diluted Simple Green solution. Do not soak the towel, as excessive moisture can seep into the ball.
-
Wipe the ball: Gently wipe the entire surface of the bowling ball, focusing on areas with visible dirt and oil buildup. Use circular motions for even cleaning.
-
Rinse thoroughly: After wiping, rinse the ball thoroughly with clean, warm water to remove any remaining Simple Green residue.
-
Dry the ball: Pat the ball dry with a clean, dry microfiber towel. Ensure the ball is completely dry before storing it.
-
Repeat if necessary: For heavily soiled balls, you might need to repeat steps 3-6.
Alternatives to Simple Green
Several commercial bowling ball cleaners are available that are specifically formulated for reactive resin and urethane balls. These cleaners often contain conditioners that help maintain the ball’s coverstock and enhance its performance.
Conclusion
Cleaning your bowling ball with Simple Green can be an effective way to maintain its cleanliness and performance, particularly for reactive resin balls. However, it’s crucial to use the correct dilution and avoid overexposure to prevent potential damage. For urethane balls, using specialized cleaners is recommended. Regular cleaning and proper care will ensure your bowling ball performs at its best and extends its lifespan.
FAQ
-
How often should I clean my bowling ball with Simple Green? Ideally, clean your ball after every bowling session using a dedicated bowling ball cleaner. Simple Green can be used for a deeper clean every few weeks or as needed for heavily soiled balls.
-
Can I use Simple Green on all types of bowling balls? Simple Green is generally safe for reactive resin balls, but it’s not recommended for urethane or plastic balls.
-
What if I get Simple Green on my bowling ball’s grip? Wipe the grip immediately with a clean, damp cloth. Prolonged exposure to Simple Green could damage the grip material.
-
Is it necessary to dilute Simple Green? Yes, always dilute Simple Green according to the manufacturer’s instructions before using it on your bowling ball.
-
Can I soak my bowling ball in Simple Green? No, never soak your bowling ball in any cleaning solution, including Simple Green. Soaking can damage the coverstock and the core.
-
What are the signs that Simple Green is damaging my bowling ball? A duller finish, reduced hook potential, and a dry or brittle feel to the coverstock could indicate damage from Simple Green.
-
What should I do if my bowling ball feels dry after cleaning with Simple Green? Apply a bowling ball conditioner or revitalizer to restore moisture and tackiness to the coverstock.
Need more support? Contact us: Phone: 0902476650, Email: [email protected] or visit us at 139 Đ. Võ Văn Kiệt, Hoà Long, Bà Rịa, Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu, Việt Nam. We have a 24/7 customer support team.
