Baizewick guide
Pool and snooker table care: cloth, cushions and balls
Brush the cloth, wipe the balls and put the cover on after every session. A few minutes of care keeps the cloth fast and the balls rolling true, and puts off the cost of re-covering.
After every session
- Brush loose chalk and dust off the cloth with a table brush.
- Put the cover on to keep dust, drinks and sunlight off the cloth.
- Wipe chalk marks off the balls and put them back in their set.
- Store cues upright in a rack, away from radiators and damp walls.
Brushing the cloth
Traditional napped cloth includes most snooker cloth. Brush it in straight strokes from the baulk end towards the top cushion, with the nap. Brushing against the nap or in circles roughs up the surface.
You can brush napless worsted cloth in either direction. Always follow the cloth maker’s instructions.
Keep the cloth clean and dry
- Keep food and drink off the table and away from its edges.
- Chalk your cue away from the table, not over the cloth.
- Blot spills straight away, and don’t rub. Check the cloth maker’s cleaning advice before you use any product.
- Keep the room dry and heated. Damp air slows the cloth and can affect wooden parts.
- Keep the table out of strong sunlight, which fades the cloth.
Cleaning the balls
Chalk and grime on the balls rub off onto the cloth. Dirty balls also roll and react less predictably.
Wipe them with a clean, soft cloth after play. Every so often, give them a proper clean with a ball cleaner made for the job.
Cushions and pockets
To find dead spots, roll a ball into each cushion at the same speed at points along its length. Loose cushion bolts can sometimes be tightened. Hardened or perished rubber needs re-rubbering by a fitter.
Check pocket leathers and nets for wear and tears.
When to re-cover
Re-cover the table when the cloth is worn through, badly marked or has lost its tension. Do the same when balls no longer roll consistently.
A fitter normally does the re-covering, and can check the bed is still level at the same time.
Cue care
Shape and scuff the tip so it holds chalk. Replace it when it is worn down or hard. Wipe the shaft clean after play.
Store cues upright or in a case. Never leave them leaning against a wall or in a cold car.