Caring for Your Bowling Ball

One of the simplest and best things you can do for your bowling ball is to keep it in a room temperature environment. Temperatures that are too hot (over 80’F) can warp your ball so badly it no longer is useable. Even leaving it out in the sun for too long can cause warping. Likewise, temperatures that are too cold can freeze your ball and cause its core to crack.  Keep in mind that lightweight balls freeze easier than heavier weight bowling balls. 

Another easy way to care for your ball is to rub it with a soft hand towel to polish and smooth it.  Or, you can utilize a few drops of rubbing alcohol, which will take off dirt, alley wax and other undesirable specimens on the surface of your bowling ball. 

Your local ball shop will have the ability to resurface your ball in the event that your ball’s surface is pitted or otherwise damaged.  Keep in mind that even a small seemingly insignificant scratch can affect your ball’s performance in the lanes. 

Other Bowling Equipment Care 

Your bowling shoes can benefit from treating the leather with shoe cleaner, leather softener or typical shoe polish. You may also occasionally have to re-sole them to counteract the wear and tear on your bowling shoe. Your pro shop or any shoe repair store will be able to help you. 

As for your bowling shirt and slacks, make sure that you wash them in the correct cycle, with the appropriate set of clothes (for instance, wash whites separately from colored items), and with the right detergent.  If your team’s uniform is black, for example, use a detergent specifically designed to keep colors from fading. 

Bowling accessories, such as bags (which can keep your towels, polish, shoes, gloves, and towels all in a safe, organized package), can be cleaned with mild detergent and water. 

With care, your bowling equipment and accessories can last a very long time and perform as well as they did the first time you took them to the lanes.