how to clean golf balls

Golf ball in water

Golf balls may seem like a minor component of your game but in truth, they play a big part. A dirty golf ball will not only affect how it flies but also how it rolls on the green. Keeping them clean is vital to getting the ball where you want it to go.

Remember, top brands like Titleist have spent tons of time and money for customized dimple designs that will strategically reduce drag and slicing, take advantage of all their breakthrough efforts.

Below is a guide answering common questions regarding golf ball cleaning starting with a method I've seen mentioned but really shouldn't be followed.

Hand cleaning golf balls at home

Here's a guide to what to use for hand cleaning your balls. These are simple methods but can be time-consuming if you need to wash a lot of balls. This a great way to clean and care for your more expensive golf balls.

How to use dish soap to clean golf balls

Using dish soap and water is the most economical and convenient way to wash golf balls. A couple of good squeezes into a 5-gallon bucket with warm water is all that's needed. Allow golf balls to soak for 10 to 20 minutes then lightly scrub balls, an old toothbrush is perfect for this. Rinse off in clean water and hand dry with a small towel.

How to use hydrogen peroxide to clean golf balls

Using hydrogen peroxide is a very effective way to clean golf balls. Mix 1 cup of peroxide for every 2 cups of distilled water and allow balls to soak for 10 to 15 minutes. While wearing gloves lightly scrub balls with a nonabusive brush, rinse with clean water then hand dry with a small towel.

Will bleach damage my golf balls?

No beach will not cause any damage to your golf balls. Make sure to dilute the beach first with water, diluting ½ cup of bleach per gallon of water is common. Allow soaking for 10-15 minutes and then some light scrubbing with a brush or rag and rinse thoroughly. It's very important to make sure not to mix bleach with any other chemicals as this can create toxic gases in some cases and also take care in wearing proper safety attire while handling bleach.

How to remove logos from a golf ball

It's very difficult to remove the manufacturer's logo or side stamps without damaging the ball or removing the paint. Those logos are designed to not come off from normal cleaning conditions. Chemically stripping the ball will remove it, but it's not really a "do-it-yourself" kind of project and I would not advise it.

Can you clean golf balls in a washer?

Noise aside, it depends. Using a side-loading machine will have a high risk of damage to your machine from balls falling repeatedly on the tub while spinning. Also, damage to the side window can occur.

Top loading machines will fare better but care is needed when putting golf balls inside to not damage the tub from a high drop. Overloading with too much weight could be an issue causing malfunctions down the line from the added stress.

Overall I wouldn't recommend this method because of possible damage to your washing machine and a very unhappy spouse.

Can you clean golf balls in a dishwasher?

Yes, you can clean golf balls in the dishwasher. If you're looking to save on time and elbow grease then loading the golf balls on the top rack of your dishwasher is a viable option. Most importantly the golf balls will not harm the machine.

This is also a great option if you want to clean a lot of balls at one time. Results will vary with this cleaning method if your golf balls are especially grimy.

Portable Golf Ball Washers

This is a fantastic option as you will be able to clean your golf balls between holes and be assured that your balls will be in perfect condition every time. No more blaming bad gear though for poor shots 😉

Clean Flight Premium Golf Ball Washer/Cleaner

Highlights Include:

Simple to use – Just add cleaning solution(included), place the golf ball in and move up and down for thorough cleaning. Brushes placed throughout the container clean the ball from all angles removing any dirt or grime.
Attach seamlessly to your golf bag with strap and carabiner.
Fits nicely in the cup holder of a golf cart.
Does not include a towel

Check Price

Club Cleans Kraft with Bracket Kit

Highlights Include:

Clean not only your golf balls but your clubs too!
Can be mounted to a golf cart and removed when done golfing.
Drain plug makes it easy to remove dirty water.
Does not come with a cleaning solution.

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When should I just replace my golf balls?

This will come down to personal preference and how serious of a game you play.

Frederick Waddell of golf ball product management has gone on record saying "Play it until you lose it". Remember he makes a living selling golf balls, great advice to listen to in my opinion. Waddell continues, as long as the ball looks good to your eye with no visible imperfections, it's ready for the next tee.

That statement seems fitting as today's golf balls are very durable and can handle almost anything you throw at them. If you are in the market for new golf balls or are just looking to see what else is out there then check out my article detailing The Best Golf Balls for Beginners.

Hand cleaning golf balls at home
- How to use dish soap to clean golf balls
- How to use hydrogen peroxide to clean golf balls
- Will bleach damage my golf balls?
- How to remove logos from a golf ball
Can you clean golf balls in a washer?
Can you clean golf balls in a dishwasher?
Portable Golf Ball Washers
- Clean Flight Premium Golf Ball Washer/Cleaner
- Club Cleans Kraft with Bracket Kit
When should I just replace my golf balls?