Maintaining your English pool table is essential for preserving both its performance and your investment. Regular care ensures consistent ball roll, extends cloth life, and maintains the precision required for serious play.
Whether you’re a home enthusiast, club manager, or new table owner, proper maintenance will keep your table playing like new for years to come.
Daily & Weekly Pool Table Maintenance Checklist
Consistent daily and weekly care prevents major issues and keeps your English pool table in peak condition. Here’s your essential maintenance routine:
Daily Tasks
- Wipe down rails and pockets with a clean, dry microfibre cloth to remove chalk dust and fingerprints
- Remove any debris from pockets immediately after play
- Keep drinks and food away from the table area to prevent spills and stains
- Store cues properly in a rack when not in use
Weekly Tasks
- Brush the cloth thoroughly following the nap direction (from baulk end toward the top cushion)
- Clean all balls with warm soapy water and dry completely
- Dust the table legs and base with a soft cloth
- Check pocket nets for wear or damage
After Extended Play Sessions
- Brush more frequently if chalk buildup is visible
- Wipe cushion rubbers gently with a damp cloth if needed
- Empty pockets completely and check for trapped items
Cleaning the Cloth and Rails Properly
Proper cloth care is crucial for maintaining consistent ball roll and preserving your table’s playing surface. Here’s how to clean without causing damage:
Step-by-Step Cloth Brushing
- Use a dedicated pool table brush – soft bristles designed for billiard cloth
- Start from the baulk line and brush toward the top cushion in straight, overlapping strokes
- Follow the nap direction – never brush against the grain as this damages fibers
- Apply gentle, even pressure – let the brush do the work
- Brush the rail cloth in the same direction as the bed cloth
- Finish with light strokes to remove any loose particles
Stain Removal Techniques
For fresh spills:
- Blot immediately with a clean, dry cloth – never rub
- Use barely damp microfibre cloth for stubborn spots
- Work from outside of stain inward to prevent spreading
- Allow to air dry completely before play
What to avoid:
- Commercial cleaning products
- Excessive water or moisture
- Scrubbing or rubbing motions
- Hot water or steam cleaning
Rail and Cushion Care
Wood rails:
- Use specialized furniture polish sparingly
- Apply with soft cloth in direction of wood grain
- Buff to remove excess product
Rubber cushions:
- Wipe with slightly damp cloth only
- Never use oil-based cleaners or harsh chemicals
- Check regularly for hardening or cracking
Signs of Cloth Wear
Watch for these indicators that refelting may be needed:
- Visible thin spots or worn areas
- Permanent stains that affect ball roll
- Pilling or fuzzing of the cloth surface
- Slower or inconsistent ball speed in certain areas
Maintaining Level and Table Structure
A level playing surface is fundamental to fair play in English pool. Regular checks and adjustments ensure optimal performance.
Checking Table Level
Using a spirit level:
- Place level lengthwise across the table center
- Check widthwise in multiple positions
- Test diagonally from corner to corner
- Record any deviations for adjustment
Ball roll test:
- Roll a ball slowly across various table areas
- Watch for drift or curved paths
- Note any dead spots where balls stop unexpectedly
Adjusting Table Legs
Most modern English pool tables have adjustable feet:
- Locate adjustment mechanisms (usually threaded feet or leg levelers)
- Make small adjustments – quarter turns maximum
- Retest level after each adjustment
- Ensure all legs remain firmly planted on the floor
Structural Inspection
Monthly checks:
- Inspect leg joints for looseness or wobbling
- Check slate joints (if multi-piece slate construction)
- Examine frame bolts and tighten if necessary
- Look for any warping in rails or playing surface
After moving or transport:
- Allow table to settle for 24-48 hours
- Recheck level completely
- Inspect for any damage from movement
- Consider professional releveling if significant adjustments are needed
When to call a professional:
- Persistent leveling issues despite adjustments
- Visible slate cracks or separation
- Structural damage to frame or legs
- Major relocation or assembly requirements
Ball, Pocket & Accessory Care
Clean equipment enhances play quality and protects your table investment.
Ball Cleaning Methods
Standard cleaning (weekly):
- Fill basin with warm water and mild dish soap
- Soak balls briefly to loosen chalk and dirt
- Wipe each ball individually with soft cloth
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Dry completely before returning to table
Professional ball cleaners:
- Use sparingly for tournament-level cleanliness
- Follow manufacturer instructions carefully
- Rinse thoroughly after chemical cleaning
- Test on spare ball first if using new products
What to avoid:
- Abrasive cleaners or pads
- Very hot water (can damage ball composition)
- Dishwashers or harsh detergents
- Leaving balls soaking for extended periods
Pocket Maintenance
Regular cleaning:
- Empty pockets after each play session
- Vacuum pockets monthly using brush attachment on low power
- Check pocket nets for wear or tears
- Wipe leather pockets with appropriate conditioner if applicable
Accessory Storage and Care
Cues:
- Store horizontally in proper racks or vertically in stands
- Keep away from temperature extremes
- Clean shafts regularly with damp cloth
- Maintain tip condition with proper shaping tools
Chalk:
- Store in closed containers to prevent dust dispersal
- Replace when worn smooth or cracked
- Keep multiple pieces available for consistent play
Table covers:
- Use when table not in regular use
- Ensure cover is clean and dry before application
- Choose breathable materials to prevent moisture buildup
Media Suggestion: Before-and-after photos showing the difference between well-maintained and neglected balls and accessories.
When & How to Refelt (Recover) an English Pool Table
Refelting is a significant maintenance decision that affects both cost and playing quality. Here’s everything you need to know.
Signs Your Table Needs New Felt
Visual indicators:
- Worn patches where balls frequently travel
- Tears or snags in the cloth surface
- Permanent stains that affect ball movement
- Faded or discolored areas from sunlight or age
- Loose or wrinkled cloth that cannot be restretched
Performance issues:
- Inconsistent ball speed across the table surface
- Balls picking up excess fibers during play
- Difficulty achieving smooth breaks or long shots
- Visible chalk buildup that cleaning cannot remove
Choosing Replacement Cloth
Nap vs. No-nap options:
| Nap Cloth | No-nap Cloth |
| Traditional choice for English pool | Less common for English tables |
| Provides directional effects | More consistent in all directions |
| Requires careful brushing | Easier maintenance |
| Authentic tournament feel | Faster ball speed |
Popular cloth weights:
- 16-19 oz weight – Standard for home tables
- 20-22 oz weight – Professional competition standard
- Color options – Green (traditional), blue, red, burgundy
Professional Refelting Process
- Remove cushions and rails carefully
- Strip old cloth and clean slate surface
- Inspect slate for chips, cracks, or irregularities
- Install new cloth with proper tension and grain alignment
- Refit cushions ensuring proper bounce characteristics
- Final adjustments and quality testing
UK Refelting Costs (2024)
| Table Size | DIY Kit Cost | Professional Installation |
| 6ft English Pool | £80-£120 | £200-£350 |
| 7ft English Pool | £100-£150 | £250-£400 |
| 8ft English Pool | £120-£180 | £300-£450 |
Costs include standard quality cloth; premium options add £50-£100
DIY vs. Professional Installation
DIY advantages:
- Lower immediate cost
- Learning experience
- Complete control over timeline
DIY risks:
- Improper tension leading to wrinkles or loose spots
- Damage to cloth during installation
- Voiding table warranty
- Need for specialized tools
Professional advantages:
- Guaranteed quality installation
- Warranty on workmanship
- Slate conditioning and leveling included
- Proper disposal of old materials
Getting quotes:
- Contact 3-4 local installers for comparison
- Ask about slate releveling and cushion inspection
- Inquire about cloth options and warranties
- Verify insurance and credentials
Seasonal and Long-Term Maintenance Tips
Environmental factors significantly impact your English pool table’s condition and longevity.
Climate Control
Optimal conditions:
- Temperature: 18-21°C (64-70°F) consistently
- Humidity: 40-60% relative humidity
- Ventilation: Good air circulation without drafts
- Lighting: Adequate without direct sunlight
Seasonal adjustments:
- Winter heating – Use humidifiers if air becomes too dry
- Summer humidity – Ensure good ventilation and dehumidification
- Temperature fluctuations – Avoid rapid changes that cause expansion/contraction
Equipment Protection
Sunlight protection:
- Position table away from windows with direct exposure
- Use UV-filtering window treatments if necessary
- Rotate table cover usage to prevent uneven fading
Pest prevention:
- Regular inspection for moths, carpet beetles, or mice
- Proper storage of cloth covers and accessories
- Clean surrounding area to remove attractants
Deep Cleaning Schedule
Every 6 months:
- Complete table disassembly for thorough cleaning
- Professional inspection of slate and frame
- Deep clean of all accessories and storage areas
- Reassembly with minor adjustments as needed
Annual maintenance:
- Professional leveling check
- Comprehensive structural inspection
- Replace worn accessories (nets, brushes, etc.)
- Consider cloth condition assessment
Environmental monitoring:
- Install humidity gauge in table room
- Document any seasonal performance changes
- Adjust maintenance frequency based on usage intensity
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I brush my pool table?
For regular home use: Brush after every extended play session and at least once weekly. For commercial or club use: Brush daily or after every few games. Heavy tournament use: Brush between sessions and sometimes between matches to maintain optimal conditions.
What’s the best way to remove a stain from pool cloth?
Act immediately: Blot (don’t rub) with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much as possible. For persistent stains: Use a barely damp microfibre cloth with distilled water only. Avoid: Any cleaning chemicals, hot water, or scrubbing motions. When to call professionals: If the stain affects ball roll or covers a large area.
How much does it cost to refelt a pool table in the UK?
Professional installation: £200-£450 depending on table size and cloth quality. DIY options: £80-£180 for cloth kits, but installation requires skill and proper tools. Additional costs: May include slate releveling (£50-£100) and new cushion rubber if needed (£100-£200).
Can I use a vacuum on my pool table?
Yes, but carefully: Use only a brush attachment on the lowest suction setting. Never: Use the vacuum head directly on cloth or drag against the nap direction. Better option: A dedicated pool table brush for regular maintenance, reserving vacuum for deep cleaning only.
How do I keep the table perfectly level?
Regular checks: Test with spirit level monthly and after any table moving. Small adjustments: Use adjustable feet in quarter-turn increments. Ball roll test: Roll balls slowly across the surface to detect any drift. Professional help: If persistent issues occur or major adjustments are needed, consult a qualified technician.
Conclusion / Next Steps
Proper English pool table maintenance is an ongoing investment in your playing experience and equipment value. By following this comprehensive care routine—from daily brushing to professional refelting when needed—you’ll ensure optimal performance and extend your table’s lifespan significantly.
Key takeaways:
- Daily care prevents major problems and costly repairs
- Regular leveling checks maintain fair playing conditions
- Professional services for refelting and structural issues protect your investment
- Environmental control is crucial for long-term preservation
Recommended next steps:
- Implement the daily/weekly maintenance checklist immediately
- Schedule your first professional inspection if you haven’t had one recently
- Consider upgrading your maintenance tools (proper brush, spirit level, cleaning supplies)
- Plan ahead for eventual refelting based on current cloth condition
Further reading:
- How to Set Up an English Pool Table (spacing, ball layout, etc.)
- English Pool Ball Size Explained
- Must-Have Pool Table Accessories (racks, brushes, chalk, covers)
For additional guidance and official equipment standards, consult the World Eightball Pool Federation Equipment Guidelines and English Pool Association Equipment Care resources.
Sources and Additional Resources:
- World Eightball Pool Federation – Equipment Standards
- English Pool Association – Official Equipment Guidelines
- Professional Table Fitters Association (UK)
- Billiard Congress of America – Maintenance Standards
Have specific maintenance questions or need local professional recommendations? Share your questions in the comments below, and we’ll help you find the right solution for your English pool table care needs.