How to Clean Pool Table Felt (The Right Way)

People call me all the time asking why their table doesn't play like it did when it was new. Half the time, it's not the table. It's the felt. Dirt, dust, and chalk dust build up on that cloth faster than you'd think, and it changes how the balls roll.

I've re-clothed tables for 50 years. Before you think you need a new cloth, let me tell you how to actually take care of what you've got. It's simpler than you think, and it'll keep your table playing great for years.

The Right Way to Brush

You need a proper pool table brush. Not a whisk broom. Not a regular brush. A real pool table brush with soft bristles designed for felt.

Here's the technique: brush in one direction only. Long strokes, always going the same way. The nap of the felt has a grain, kind of like carpet, and you're brushing with that grain, not against it. If you brush every which way, you're just pushing the dirt around.

Start at the rails and brush toward the center of the table. Debris naturally works toward the center anyway, and you're not fighting the nap. Gentle pressure. Smooth strokes.

How often? After every session, or every couple of days if you're playing regularly. Takes two minutes. Do it right and your table will play noticeably better.

What NOT to Use on Your Felt

I've seen everything. People spray their table with Windex. They use vacuum cleaners. They dump water on spills. Please stop.

• No water: Water causes staining and can damage the backing of the cloth. It can also affect the slate underneath if it soaks through.
• No household cleaners: Windex, 409, furniture polish. These will discolor your felt or create a waxy buildup that changes how the balls roll.
• No vacuum cleaners: The suction can catch the nap and damage or pull the fibers. A brush is all you need.
• No lint rollers: They leave adhesive residue on the cloth.

A proper pool table brush is the only tool you need for regular cleaning. That's it.

Handling Spills

Accidents happen. Someone knocks over a beer. Coffee spills. Here's what you do:

Blot immediately with a dry towel. Press down, don't rub. Rubbing pushes the liquid into the fibers and spreads the stain. If the liquid has already dried, you might be able to brush it out once it's completely dry, but if it's soaked in, that stain is probably permanent.

The best spill prevention is the simplest: don't put drinks on or near the table. I know that's not realistic for everyone, but a side table for drinks costs $30 and saves you a $600 re-cloth.

Chalk Dust: The Silent Enemy

Chalk dust is the number one wear factor for pool table felt. Every time you chalk your cue and take a shot, microscopic particles settle onto the cloth. Over time, they grind into the fibers, cause pilling, and make the table play slow.

Regular brushing removes most chalk dust before it can do damage. That's why brushing after every session matters so much. Two minutes of brushing prevents months of gradual degradation.

If you notice a buildup of chalk in certain areas (usually near the head spot where people break), give those spots extra attention with the brush.

Championship vs. Simonis: Any Cleaning Differences?

Both Championship and Simonis are quality cloths, and the care is basically the same. Brush them the same way, treat spills the same way. The one difference you'll notice is that Simonis has a tighter weave, so dirt doesn't work into it quite as easily. But you still brush it the same way.

Keep Pets Off the Table

If you've got dogs or cats, keep them off the felt. Pet hair embeds in the cloth and changes how the balls roll. It also accelerates wear. A dog jumping on the table can cause damage that normally takes months of play to create.

A table cover solves this problem completely.

Use a Table Cover

A good table cover is one of the best investments you can make for your table. It keeps dust off when you're not playing, protects against sunlight fading (especially lighter cloth colors), and prevents accidental damage.

When you buy a table from us, every package includes a cover in the accessory kit. Use it. Every time you're done playing, put the cover on. This single habit will add years to your cloth's life.

When Cleaning Can't Fix It

After years of regular play, the cloth will reach a point where brushing can't restore it. The nap is worn smooth in spots. There are permanent stains. The balls don't roll true anymore. That's when it's time for a re-cloth.

We carry 29 colors in both Championship and Simonis. A professional re-cloth transforms your table. It'll play like new. The cost runs $400 to $800 depending on table size and cloth quality.

If you're not sure whether your felt needs replacing or just better care, bring us a photo or call and describe what you're seeing. We'll tell you honestly whether a good brushing routine will fix it or whether it's time for new cloth.

Stop by the showroom at 1431 Leestown Rd or call us at (859) 255-7639. We're open Monday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm.