Some bowlers, complain that after 30 to 40 games, the bowling ball does not hook properly, and they are unable to get the same reaction from the ball as they used to.
The reason for your ball not behaving up to the mark is often not a technical but a maintenance (cleaning, to be precise) issue.
When you bowl, your ball may get oil, dust, or dirt from the lanes which could be absorbed in the coverstock (which is the outer shell of your ball surface). This negatively impacts the performance of your ball, your hook potential, and hence your overall game.
Let’s jump in.
How to Clean a Bowling Ball?
Taking care of your bowling ball and cleaning it regularly will ensure that your bowling ball showcases its full potential, and so do you at bowling leagues. There are many cleaning solutions available in the market, and some people may also recommend home remedies for cleaning your bowling ball.
However, your bowling ball is a precious little (though heavy!) thing and you may not want to experiment with abrasive cleaning agents that could harm your ball during ball maintenance.
Top 5 Bowling Ball Cleaners
Here are our five best bowling ball cleaners that will make sure your ball enjoys a prolong game life and so do you if you want one of the best. For any bowler, a good cleaner can be creating the difference between a winning game and a bad one. Also, you don’t need to give someone else money to clean the balls when you can do so efficiently and effectively by using the best cleaner. Here are the best ball cleaners out there in the bowling industry:
1. That Purple Stuff Bowling Ball Cleaner
As the name says, That Purple Stuff Cleaner is exactly that awesome purple stuff that cleans your balls like a professional cleaner. All you need to do is to apply it to a CTD powder pad and voila! Approved by the USBC to be used on your bowling supplies, That Purple Stuff cleaner comes in different sizes of 4 and 8 oz in flip tops, 6 oz foam, and one-gallon bottle. You can keep its 4 oz flip top bottle handy in your bowling ball bag, so you have it with you whenever your ball needs to be applied a cleaner.
Although That Purple Stuff is guaranteed to remove grime, leaving the balls ready to strike, it is an expensive cleaner and may have too little cleaning solution for the price it has. However, if the cleaner price is not an issue and cleaning your balls is, That Purple Stuff is exactly the stuff you need.
That Purple Stuff Bowling Ball Cleaner | 8 oz Bottle
- Approved for use by USBC
- 8 oz flip top bottle
- Pair with a CtD Power Pad for easy application (not included)
2. Pyramid bowlingball.com Monster Tac Bowling Ball Cleaner
The pyramid is not a new name in the bowling industry. It has countless bowling products in the market that vouch for the company’s credibility, and the Pyramid Bowlingball.com MT is one of them. It comes in different sizes of 4, 8 and 32 oz cleaning bottles, however, the 4 oz cleaner is perfect for carrying in any bowling ball bag. The Pyramid Monster Tac is an “any time use” cleaner that can be used between frames, shots, and games to keep your bowling motion consistent. Just spray the cleaner directly on the ball surface and rub it using a microfiber towel to get the desired results.
This USBC-approved cleaner has a pump spray nozzle that helps to eliminate all kinds of lane debris, dirt and oil from your bowling ball’s coverstock. Some bowlers may find its smell strong which is understandable as it is a cleaning product. If you find the strong scent over-bearing, you can wear a dusk-mask while using the spray bottle. This cleaner gets the work done at, and you can make a difference at a good price considering there are many expensive bowling ball cleaners out there in the market.
Pyramid bowlingball.com Monster Tac Bowling Ball Cleaner (8oz)
- Keep your equipment clean and ready for the lanes
- Easy application, easy removal
- Convenient sizes for bowling bags
- USBC Approved
- Safe for all bowling balls
3. Storm Bowling Products Reacta Shine Bowling Ball Cleaner
The attractive looking bowling-pin-shaped bottle of the Storm Bowling cleaner is intelligently designed and gives your balls the shine they deserve. It is a two-in-one product: a bowling ball cleaning material and polisher in one bottle, leaving your balls squeaky clean to a fantastic 1500 grit.
The cleaner safely restores your bowling ball’s original shine and enhances its performance. The 4 oz portable bottle can be easily carried in one of the pockets of your bowling bag. The best thing about the Storm Bowling Cleaner is that after using it, the ball gets less oily and can be easily wiped using only a microfiber towel.
Unlike many other cleaning solutions, it has a pleasant smell that gives a feel-good touch after its use. It is well-priced and easy to use. A small amount goes a long way, especially that the cleaner works as polish as well, keep your ball shining and giving it the perfect slide.
The only downside is that the Storm Reacta only comes in a 4 oz bottle, so if you are in love with the functionality and practicality of this ball cleaner, you will have to buy its small bottles over and over again, instead of buying a bigger bottle (considering many competitors offer their ball cleaners in a gallon-sized container).
Storm Bowling Products Reacta Shine Bowling Ball Cleaner
- Package length: 5.842 cm
- Package width: 5.334 cm
- Package height: 13.462 cm
- Product Type: SPORTING GOODS
4. Hammer Tough N Tacky Bowling Ball Cleaner
Just like its name, this ball cleaning material is tough on dirt, oil, grime, and belt marks and wipes them away from the surface of the ball. The Hammer Tough N Tacky Bowling Cleaner polishes your balls nicely leaving their surface extra-tacky for a more backend hook. It can be used on plastic as well as on your high-end bowling balls to retain their shine and performance.
The Hammer Tough N Tacky Cleaner is available in 8 and 32 oz bottles, which can be carried in your bowling ball bag. Use a towel to gently wipe off the oil and dirt using a small amount of the Hammer Ball Cleaner and ta-da! Your bowling ball is as clean as new! It works perfectly well on plastic, urethane, and reactive balls.
Hammer Tough N Tacky Cleaner is a USBC-approved ball cleaning material. If you are a serious bowler who plans to compete in bowling tournaments, you can only use a good bowling ball cleaner approved by the USBC. Some bowlers believe it is too tacky for their needs and may use additional different cleaners to remove the tackiness after cleaning the ball. Also, the ball cleaning liquid is slightly more expensive than many other cleaning solutions out there. Overall, the Tough N Tacky cleans your equipment well and keep them rolling – which is exactly what we want from any good cleaner.
Hammer Tough N Tacky Bowling Ball Cleaner by Strikeforce LLC
- Removes oil, dirt and belt marks from the bowling ball’s surface
5. Ebonite Power Wash Ball Cleaner
Not all ball cleaner liquids can be used on every type of bowling ball. Some cleaners are strong enough to give your ball a squeaky clean but then their abrasive chemicals may end up causing more harm than good to your expensive balls. This cleaner gives you the comfort to be used on almost any ball, making a permanent place in your best bowling bag.
Use a microfiber towel to clean with the Power Wash and see the difference. Your bowling ball will react and move more consistently than many other cleaners that are available. It can be your go-to cleaner for stubborn oil residue and getting the belt gunk off your precious ball. For deep cleaning, let the ball cleaner stay on the bowling ball for a couple of minutes and then rub it off. The Power Wash is available in 5 oz bottle and its cleaner spray nozzle is of good quality. Due to its convenient portable size, it can be easily carried in your bag.
The Power Wash contains a performance-enhancing formula that increases the backend motion. The effective emulsifiers used in this product quickly removes oil and dust residue from your balls.
One of the highlights of this product, besides its fantastic ball cleaning performance, is the apple-scented fragrance. With dozens of bowling cleaners in the market that have a strong and over-powering smell, the Ebonite Cleaner is literally a breath of fresh air.
Ebonite Power Wash Ball Cleaner, 5 Oz.
- Performance enhancing formula that increases backend motion during competition
- Emulsifiers accelerate oil removal
- Bio-degradable apple scented formula
What is the Best Cleaner for Bowling Balls?
While going for the most perfect ball cleaning material, you need to keep in mind the following factors:
Being USBC Approved
All the bowling balls and accessories are regulated by the United States Bowling Congress – the USBC. If you are a novice player, the USBC approval may not matter to you much, but if you are considering taking this sport seriously, you should always check if a ball cleaner is USBC-approved cleaner or not.
Cleaner Bottle Size and Portability
Size does matter! While smaller bowling ball cleaning bottles are easier to carry in your bag, buying big bottles will be a more cost-effective step.
bowlingball.com Bowling Basics Kit
Storm Xtra Clean Bowling Ball Cleaner- 8 Ounce Spray Bottle
Brunswick Big B Cleaner- 8 oz Bottle
Cleaning Use
Some bowling cleaners are great for removing oil and dirt from your ball, while others give your bowling ball a more polished look. Also, not every ball cleaner works well on different materials.
Smell
Although some people may find it to be of secondary importance, a harsh smell coming off your bowling ball can be a definite put off. Some people are also allergic to some chemicals used in strong scents of the ball cleaners. A good ball cleaning liquid should not have an over-powering smell.
Cost
A value-for-money ball cleaner will go a long way in your bowling career (or hobby). While determining the cost, you need to check how much of the ball cleaning material you need to use to remove oil from your ball, and does the cost do justice with the quantity the company offers.
Why You Need a Bowling Ball Cleaner
Cleaning your bowling ball after each game helps to maintain its performance and prolong its lifespan. When you bowl, the ball absorbs oil from the lanes, which can build up on the surface of the ball, affecting its performance. Regular cleaning removes the oil, dirt, and grime that accumulate on the surface of the ball, restoring its tackiness and enhancing its performance.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bowling Ball Cleaner
- Type of Cleaner There are two main types of bowling ball cleaners: reactive and non-reactive. Reactive cleaners contain chemicals that break down the oil buildup on the surface of the ball, while non-reactive cleaners do not. Reactive cleaners are generally more effective at removing oil buildup and restoring the ball’s tackiness. However, they can be harsher on the ball and may damage the coverstock over time.
- Ingredients When choosing a bowling ball cleaner, look for one that contains high-quality ingredients that are safe for your ball. Avoid cleaners that contain harsh chemicals or abrasive ingredients that can damage the ball’s surface.
- Compatibility Make sure that the cleaner you choose is compatible with your ball’s coverstock material. Some cleaners are designed specifically for certain types of coverstocks, such as reactive resin or urethane. Using the wrong type of cleaner can damage your ball and void its warranty.
- Ease of Use Choose a cleaner that is easy to use and doesn’t require a lot of time or effort to apply. Look for cleaners that come with an applicator or spray bottle for easy application.
- Price The cost of bowling ball cleaners can vary widely, from a few dollars to over $20 per bottle. Consider your budget and how often you plan to use the cleaner when choosing the best option for you.
The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Bowling Ball Cleaner
If you’re an avid bowler, you know that taking care of your bowling ball is essential to maintaining its performance. The oil buildup on the surface of the ball can affect the ball’s reaction, leading to inconsistent shots and decreased accuracy. That’s where a bowling ball cleaner comes in handy. In this article, we’ll discuss the factors to consider when choosing the best bowling ball cleaner and review some of the top options available.
Why You Need a Bowling Ball Cleaner
Cleaning your bowling ball after each game helps to maintain its performance and prolong its lifespan. When you bowl, the ball absorbs oil from the lanes, which can build up on the surface of the ball, affecting its performance. Regular cleaning removes the oil, dirt, and grime that accumulate on the surface of the ball, restoring its tackiness and enhancing its performance.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bowling Ball Cleaner
- Type of Cleaner There are two main types of bowling ball cleaners: reactive and non-reactive. Reactive cleaners contain chemicals that break down the oil buildup on the surface of the ball, while non-reactive cleaners do not. Reactive cleaners are generally more effective at removing oil buildup and restoring the ball’s tackiness. However, they can be harsher on the ball and may damage the coverstock over time.
- Ingredients When choosing a bowling ball cleaner, look for one that contains high-quality ingredients that are safe for your ball. Avoid cleaners that contain harsh chemicals or abrasive ingredients that can damage the ball’s surface.
- Compatibility Make sure that the cleaner you choose is compatible with your ball’s coverstock material. Some cleaners are designed specifically for certain types of coverstocks, such as reactive resin or urethane. Using the wrong type of cleaner can damage your ball and void its warranty.
- Ease of Use Choose a cleaner that is easy to use and doesn’t require a lot of time or effort to apply. Look for cleaners that come with an applicator or spray bottle for easy application.
- Price The cost of bowling ball cleaners can vary widely, from a few dollars to over $20 per bottle. Consider your budget and how often you plan to use the cleaner when choosing the best option for you.
Top Bowling Ball Cleaners on the Market
- Storm Reacta Foam Bowling Ball Cleaner This reactive cleaner is designed to break down oil buildup on the surface of the ball, restoring its tackiness and enhancing its performance. It’s safe for use on all types of coverstocks and comes with an applicator for easy use. It’s also affordable, with a price of around $10 per bottle.
- Brunswick Big B Bowling Ball Cleaner This non-reactive cleaner is designed to remove dirt and grime from the surface of the ball, leaving it clean and shiny. It’s safe for use on all types of coverstocks and comes with an applicator for easy use. It’s also affordable, with a price of around $8 per bottle.
- Motiv Power Gel Scuff This reactive cleaner is designed to remove scuff marks and restore the ball’s surface to its original condition. It’s safe for use on all types of coverstocks and comes with an applicator for easy use. It’s also affordable, with a price of around $10 per bottle.
- Tac Up Bowling Ball Cleaner This non-reactive cleaner is designed to remove oil, dirt, and grime from the surface of the ball, leaving it clean and shiny. It’s safe for use on all types of coverstocks and comes with an applicator for easy use. It’s also affordable, with a price of around $8 per bottle.
How to Clean Your Bowling Ball
- Wipe the ball with a microfiber towel to remove any loose debris or dirt.
- Apply a small amount of bowling ball cleaner to the surface of the ball.
- Use a clean microfiber towel to rub the cleaner into the surface of the ball in a circular motion.
- Let the cleaner sit on the surface of the ball for a few minutes.
- Wipe the ball again with a clean, dry microfiber towel to remove any remaining cleaner.
- Repeat the process if necessary until the ball is clean and shiny.
It’s important to note that you should never use household cleaners or solvents on your bowling ball, as they can damage the surface and void its warranty. Stick to using a high-quality bowling ball cleaner that is specifically designed for use on bowling balls.
Closing Thoughts About Bowling Ball Cleaners
A good ball cleaner is as important as the bowling ball itself. Without it, your bowling ball will not give its optimum performance. Your go-to cleaners should be USBC-approved and should come in a portable bottle size that you can carry with you in the bowling bag.
When choosing a bowling ball cleaner, consider factors such as the type of cleaner, ingredients, compatibility, ease of use, and price. Follow the proper cleaning process using a microfiber towel and a high-quality cleaner to keep your bowling ball in top condition.
FAQs About Bowling Ball Cleaners
- How often should I clean my bowling ball? It’s recommended to clean your bowling ball after every use to maintain its performance and prolong its lifespan.
- Can I use water to clean my bowling ball? While water can be used to clean a bowling ball, it’s not recommended as it can leave behind residue that can affect the ball’s performance. Stick to using a high-quality bowling ball cleaner.
- Can I use a towel or cloth to clean my bowling ball? Yes, a microfiber towel or cloth is ideal for cleaning your bowling ball as it is gentle on the surface and won’t scratch or damage it.
- Is it okay to use multiple cleaners on my bowling ball? No, it’s not recommended to use multiple cleaners on your bowling ball as it can damage the surface and affect its performance.
- How do I know if a cleaner is safe for my ball’s coverstock material? Check the label of the cleaner to ensure that it is safe for use on your ball’s coverstock material. If you’re unsure, consult with the manufacturer or a bowling pro shop for guidance.
