Table Care Guide

Pool Table Maintenance and Care

Cabinet and Surface Care

• For synthetic surfaces (such as The Addison’s laminate), clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

• Dust natural wood cabinet tables (Dutchess, Duke, Elayna, etc.) frequently. Restore original luster with a non-residue dusting agent, like mild lemon oil.

• Never use glass cleaners on wood, as ammonia harms the finish.

• Immediately clean spills to prevent stains.

• Regulate humidity—use humidifiers or dehumidifiers as needed—to avoid warping or cracking of wood due to temperature extremes.

• For minor surface scratches, use high-grade wood polish and a soft cloth, testing first on an inconspicuous area.

Cloth Care

• Until it is broken-in, a new cloth can considerably affect ball roll. This is normal. Brush new cloth as often as possible during the first three months for optimal ball roll.

• Alternate breaking and racking ends of table when possible; avoid excessively sliding the rack – try to rack in one motion.

• Prevent excessive ball build-up in pockets to minimize local wear. If not allowed to drop properly, balls can wear out the cloth around pockets more quickly.

• Chalk away from the table to prevent felt deterioration.

• Massé and jump shots can cause scarring or tearing in the cloth; use these sparingly.

• Always brush and vacuum cloth in one direction toward the table’s end, never in circles. Cloth may be vacuumed, in one direction only, using the upholstery attachment.

• Cover the table when not in use to guard against dust, light, and moisture.

• Regulate room temperature (ideally 65–75°F) and humidity (45–55%) for felt and wood protection and to prevent wrinkling.

Pocket and Hardware Care

• Protect pockets from heat (sunlight, fireplaces) and humidity.

• Do not sit or lean on pockets.

• To avoid scuffing when shooting, never slide cue over pocket.

• Examine pockets regularly for loose tacks or staples. Loose tacks can damage pool balls.

• Dust pockets frequently. Clean with a damp cloth and mild soap when needed, then dry thoroughly.

• Never set anything on pockets – pen ink, nail polish remover, etc., can permanently stain pockets.

• For leather pockets, treat with saddle soap or leather cleaner. When finished, wipe and dry pockets thoroughly to prevent ball and cloth blemishes.

• Avoid storing balls in pockets for extended periods of time. If you do, distribute balls evenly in all pockets.

• Clean rail caps, cabinet corners, table feet, and leg levelers using a damp cloth.

• For brushed aluminum, use only Never Dull® to maintain appearance and prevent scratches. Other cleaners can scratch the finish.

Accessory Care

• Clean balls as needed with a mild degreaser (e.g., 409®), and polish with a soft cloth; use non-abrasive cleanser like Soft Scrub® for stains and optionally apply paste wax for added shine.

• Store cues upright in a rack away from heat sources, and never lean cues against a wall or table to avoid warping; clean cues with a damp rag and mild soap and polish after drying.

Pool Table Major Maintenance Schedule

• Replace felt every 2–5 years, more often for high-use tables.

• Level the table professionally every 2–5 years or when moved; improper leveling affects gameplay and stability.

• Inspect rails, pockets, and hardware every season; tighten loose parts and replace worn cushions or liners as needed.

• Professional cleaning and comprehensive inspections are recommended annually, especially for commercial or heavy-use tables.

Pool Table Care “Nevers”

• Never sit or stand on the pool table, as it could break the seal between the rails and cushions, resulting in dead cushions that produce no ball response, and throw it out of level.

• Never attempt to move an assembled table—consult professionals for relocation.

• Never place drinks or food on the table, and never smoke near the table.

• Never use harsh cleaners or chemicals, or allow excess ball buildup in pockets.

• Never place your table in direct sunlight.

Shuffleboard Table Maintenance

Routine Shuffleboard Care

• Clean the playing surface with a damp cloth and mild detergent or shuffleboard cleaner before and after play; always dry completely.

• Wax the board at least once a month (more for frequent play) with shuffleboard wax; buff well to remove excess and achieve a smooth finish.

• For natural wood finishes, a mix of water and vinegar or oil soap helps maintain shine and smoothness.

• Apply shuffleboard silicone spray and speed powder before play to ensure optimal gliding.

• Keep the table out of direct sunlight and away from temperature or humidity extremes—aim for 40–60% room humidity—to avoid warping or cracking.

Major Maintenance Schedule

• Re-level shuffleboard annually or after each move.

• Deep clean and re-wax 2–3 times per month depending on play frequency.

• Refinish or replace the playing surface every 5–10 years for heavily-used tables.

• Replace worn pucks and accessories periodically for quality play.

Shuffleboard Care “Nevers”

• Never use harsh or abrasive cleansers.

• Never store the table in direct sunlight.

• Never allow liquid spills to linger on the surface.