It is important to regularly clean your pool table in order to keep it looking new. This will keep your table in tip-top shape and make it more enjoyable to play on. The best way is to use a brush to accomplish this.
There are brushes available at your local billiards supplies store that can be used to clean felt pool tables. These brushes are gentle for the felt and remove dust as well as lint. You can also use a regular household toothbrush if you don’t want to spend too much. You should be careful not to use too many hard strokes as it can cause damage to the surface.
Another option for cleaning the surface of your pool table is a steam cleaner. Steamers are useful in removing stains from the felt, but they can set them if you don't get them out completely. A natural stain remover can be used, such as equal parts of white vinegar and water. You should let the stain dry completely before you start to work with it.
Pool table felt is not as strong as regular felt, so you should be careful not to damage it. Most players will clean their tables at most once a week. A more frequent cleaning schedule is recommended for more serious players.
Clean the pockets once you have removed the stains. Before you begin to work with the felt, it's a good idea for the pockets and rails to be vacuumed. A damp cloth, a soft fabric, and a vacuum tool are all you need to clean them.
A soft, lintless cloth should be used to clean up any spillages. Avoid using paper towels. They trap fibers which can be left on the felt.
You can also purchase a spray-on product that will better remove stains. These products are either available in your local department store, or online. These products can be replaced by the products in your billiards supply company.
Once you've applied the cleaning solution to the felt, wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth. You should not rub the stain. Be gentle so the felt doesn't get stretched.
The felt should be allowed to air dry on the pool table. During this time, you should avoid drinking near the table, smoking, or placing ash trays on the rails. Chalk marks are also not a good idea.
Once the table has been cleaned, the cues may be stored on the cue rack. They shouldn't be stored in extreme temperatures or places where moisture could cause them to rot.
Last but not least, you will need to clean them. Although this is a common practice you need to be careful. Many home-based cleaning products are designed to remove tough grime, and can damage the felt. It is also possible to protect your felt with a specialized cleaner.