How to Maintain & Clean Your Pool Balls

Clean pool balls don’t just look better, they play better. Over time, chalk, oil, and dust collect on the surface of your balls, dulling their shine and affecting how smoothly they roll. Regular ball cleaning not only restores appearance but also helps protect your tablecloth, reduce kicks, and maintain professional-level performance. Here’s how to keep your pool and snooker balls in perfect condition using the same cleaning products trusted by clubs and professionals.

Why Cleaning Your Pool Balls Matters

Every time you play, chalk dust, fingerprints, and oils from your hands build up on the balls. This grime creates friction against the cloth, slows ball movement, and can lead to inconsistent reactions and “kicks” during play. Clean balls allow for truer roll, better contact, and a more predictable table response. Regular cleaning also helps protect your cloth and cue tips, extending the lifespan of your equipment.

Best Ways to Clean Pool Balls

The two most effective methods for keeping your balls in top condition are using a dedicated cleaning spray or a purpose-made liquid cleaner. Warm water and mild soap can work for basic maintenance, but specialist products restore the original shine and responsiveness far better.

At The Snooker Shop, our preferred products are the Mark Williams Ball Cleaning Spray and Aramith Billiard Ball Cleaner, both designed for snooker and pool use.

Mark Williams Ball Cleaning Spray – Professional Grade Cleaner and Restorer

The Mark Williams Ball Cleaning Spray is the professional’s choice for maintaining snooker and pool balls in premium condition. Manufactured in the UK and endorsed by three-time World Champion Mark Williams, this spray lifts chalk marks, grease, dirt, and fingerprints with ease. Its alkaline-based formula reduces kicks and restores the natural clarity of the balls, leaving a smooth, factory-like finish that enhances responsiveness and protects the table surface.

To use, spray 5–6 times over a full set of balls and allow a brief soak before cleaning. It can be applied by hand using a microfiber cloth or used inside a Dr Billiards Ball Cleaning Machine for the best results. The fine atomized mist ensures even coverage while preventing product waste. Regular use helps keep your balls playing clean, fast, and true, while extending the life of your table cloth.

Aramith Billiard Ball Cleaner – Maintain Shine and Performance

The Aramith Billiard Ball Cleaner is specially designed for use on Aramith phenolic resin balls. It gently removes chalk residue and marks without scratching or dulling the surface, ensuring your set stays bright and smooth. Manufactured by the world’s leading ball brand, this cleaner is safe for all Aramith products and helps preserve the precision balance of each ball.

Shake well before use and apply directly onto each ball. Rub thoroughly with a cloth, then polish dry. For best results, pair it with an Aramith Micro-Fiber Cloth or a ball cleaning machine. If using in a machine, apply one drop of Aramith Cleaner to each wool ring at the start, then run multiple cleaning cycles before reapplying. Too much liquid can make the cleaner thick and sticky, so less is more.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

1. Gather your cleaner, a soft microfiber cloth, and a towel for drying.

2. Apply the Mark Williams Spray evenly across the full set or place a small amount of Aramith Cleaner on each ball.

3. If using a Dr Billiards Ball Cleaning Machine, secure the balls in the tray and run a full cleaning cycle. For hand cleaning, wipe each ball in small circular motions to lift dirt and residue.

4. Dry thoroughly to prevent streaking and leave a polished finish.

5. Store the balls in a clean case or covered tray to avoid new dust buildup.

Long-Term Pool Ball Maintenance

To keep your set looking new, clean your balls regularly—ideally after every few sessions. Wipe them down with a dry cloth between matches, avoid leaving them on a dusty table, and keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Using a table cover when not in use will reduce airborne dust and fibre transfer from the cloth. Small habits like these make a big difference in keeping your balls and table performing at their best.

Mistakes to Avoid

Never use harsh cleaners, bleach, or put balls in the dishwasher. Abrasive pads or rough cloths can scratch the finish and permanently dull the surface. Stick to purpose-made cleaners like Mark Williams or Aramith, and always use soft materials. Avoid overloading machines with liquid, as excessive residue can make the polish sticky and affect results.

Final Thoughts

Clean, polished balls don’t just improve the look of your table—they transform the way your game feels. Whether you play snooker, English pool, or American pool, regular cleaning ensures smoother play and longer equipment life.

For professional-grade results, use Mark Williams Ball Cleaning Spray or Aramith Billiard Ball Cleaner, available now at The Snooker Shop, along with a full range of Dr Billiards Ball Cleaning Machines and trays for all ball sizes.