Cleaning Your Clubs – Do’s & Don’ts
Golf clubs are a significant investment, and maintaining them properly not only enhances their appearance but also optimizes their performance on the course. Cleaning your golf clubs can improve ball control and prolong the lifespan of your equipment. Here’s a guide on how to clean your golf clubs and some tips for keeping them in excellent condition.
What should you clean your golf clubs with?
Cleaning Irons
You can clean your irons with basic household items. You will need:
- A soft-bristle brush
- A towel
- A bucket
- Warm water
- Soap or dishwashing liquid
Fill a bucket with warm water and add about three teaspoons of soap or dishwashing liquid. Place the club heads in the water for approximately five minutes. Remove them one-by-one, using a soft-bristle brush to scrub away any dirt. You can also use a toothbrush or even a golf tee to clean the grooves.
After cleaning, rinse the irons and dry them thoroughly with a towel. Preventing water accumulation is crucial to avoid rust buildup, which can affect the clubs' appearance and resale value.
Cleaning Woods & Putters
Woods and putters require a slightly different approach due to their distinct construction materials. Avoid submerging them in water to prevent damage. Instead, dampen a towel or soft-bristle brush with soapy water and clean the dirt off the club. Make sure to reach the grooves and wipe the crown and sole as well.
Cleaning Grips
Golf grips, often overlooked during club cleaning, are essential for a firm hold. They accumulate dirt and wear down over time, affecting your grip quality.
After every game, wipe down the grips with a damp cloth, avoiding excessive heat. For deeper cleaning, scrub the grip with a soft-bristle brush and warm soapy water, then rinse and pat dry.
How do you clean and make golf clubs shiny again?
Polishing
If you desire a shining set of golf clubs, apply chrome or steel polish. Gently rub in the polish, let it sit for a minute, then remove it completely.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste is a great remedy for removing minor paint scratches, as it has been used for years to clean silver.
Power Washing
While power washing is a fast cleaning method, it should be approached with caution. The water pressure might damage your clubs, and it's not an efficient water use.
Can you clean golf clubs with Clorox wipes?
Clorox wipes are not recommended for cleaning golf clubs. The chemicals may cause damage to the club materials and affect their appearance and performance. Stick to the methods mentioned above for safe and effective cleaning.
How do pros clean golf clubs?
Professional golfers clean their clubs between shots by wiping them down with a golf towel, which is usually clipped to their golf bag. They also use golf tees to remove mud and dirt from the grooves while on the course. Pros typically have a dedicated cleaning regimen, ensuring that their clubs are well-maintained and ready for peak performance.
Additional Tips
Specialty Cleaning Supplies
There are specialized golf cleaning solutions and accessories available, such as bristle brushes specifically designed for cleaning golf clubs. However, you can achieve excellent results using common household items.
Cleaning During the Round
A quick wipe-down of your clubs after each shot on the course can help maintain them between thorough cleanings. Clip a small towel to your golf bag for convenience.
Removing Rust
If your clubs have rust, a homemade remedy is vinegar. Apply it to a cloth, rub it on the rust spot and surrounding area, and carefully remove any residue. WD-40 can also be effective, but avoid using it on drivers or fairway woods, and be cautious if your golf clubs have specialized finishes.
Here are two products to consider for your golfing needs:
- Saxxon Oak Tour Golf Towel Ridgeline - A large, high-quality towel ideal for wiping down your clubs.
- Cabretta Leather Golf Glove Glacier - A premium golf glove for superior grip and comfort.
Conclusion
Cleaning your golf clubs is a simple yet essential task that takes only a few minutes. Establishing a regular cleaning routine will help you keep your golf clubs looking and performing their best. The more you clean them, the better they will serve you on the course.