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Ever noticed that pool table brushes look a little bit different to other brushes? Want to know why this is? Want to know exactly how to clean a pool table with one of these brushes? Read on, because our experts have all the answers to your questions.
So, why are pool table brushes shaped? Well, the short answer is so that the brushes can reach every part of the table. They will be able to reach into the crevices that your typical brush would be unable to reach. This means that your pool table fabric ends up cleaner.
It isn’t enough to know why the pool table brushes have a shape to them, though. It is also worth knowing exactly how to brush the table in the most efficient manner. Luckily for you, our experts have all the answers to your most burning questions.
Why Are Pool Table Brushes Shaped?
If you look at a pool table brush, you will notice that the sides of the brush are a little bit longer than the middle. There is a very good reason for this.
The long sides ensure that you are able to reach into the corners of the pool table when you are brushing. A typical brush would struggle to do this properly, which means that you will not be able to get all of the dust. This means that each time a ball hits the corner of the table, it will be spreading dust everywhere. It can get quite messy!
The longer sides of the brush also ensure that the brushes are able to clean along the rails of the pool table properly.
How Do You Use a Pool Table Brush?
To be honest, using a pool table brush is not that different from using a regular brush. However, we do have a couple of tricks that should make using the brush a little bit easier.
While there are multiple ways you can approach brushing the pool table, we find that this method works best for us:
- Start brushing from the middle of the table. Brush to one end.
- Once you get to the end, turn around, and brush the entire length of the table.
- Repeat this process, but now focus from heading from the center of the table to the opposite side to before.
It really is quite simple. The only thing that you should really be focusing on is how you stroke the brush. Make sure that you keep it straight, and do not brush too hard. If you brush too hard, then you will ruin the fabric.
Should You Only Use Brushes Designed For Pool Tables?

It is not strictly necessary to use brushes that have been specifically designed for tables. However, the shape of them is going to make your life a whole lot easier.
Remember; the shape is not the only thing important about a pool table brush. These brushes have also been designed to have the minimum amount of impact on the table. If you use brushes not designed for pool tables, then there is a strong chance that you will end up damaging the fabric. This is probably the last thing you want to have happen.
See Also: 5 Best Pool Table Brushes
How Often Should You Brush the Pool Table?
Ideally, you will want to be brushing your pool table after you have finished your play session. This will help to ensure that all chalk and other dust is brushed away.
You may also wish to vacuum out the pool table pockets as there is a strong chance that some chalk will have worked its way into the table.
While it isn’t really a big deal not to clean the pool table after each play session, you do have to bear in mind that the longer you take to clean it, the more dust and chalk will be working its way into the pool table fabric. This will drastically shorten the lifespan. So, it is probably best to get into the habit of cleaning the pool table surface properly.
See Also: How to Clean a Pool Table Brush?
Related Questions
Can you vacuum a pool table felt?
While there are some pool players that will vacuum their pool tables, it is not something that is recommended. Some players have found the strong suction of a vacuum cleaner tugs on the cloth a little bit too hard. This shortens the lifespan. If you must use a vacuum cleaner, then try to ensure that you set it to ‘low’.
What should you do if you spill something on a pool table?
You will need to take swift action. Put some paper on the spillage as soon as you can. Do not rub it, just blot. This should absorb most of the liquid. Next, you will need to use a microfiber cloth, slightly dampened, to blot the spillage away. If you have spilled anything but water, you will need to dampen the microfiber cloth with a water and white vinegar mix.
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