Golf Clubs: Pro Cleaning Secrets
Ever wondered if keeping your golf clubs clean actually matters?
The short answer is yes. Clean clubs can genuinely improve your game!
Beyond just looking nice, proper club maintenance can improve performance by increasing spin and control on approach shots.
Here’s the simple but effective world of golf club cleaning.
Why Clean Your Clubs?
Clean grooves grab the ball better, creating more spin on your shots.
This means better control and more balls holding the green rather than rolling off. Plus, something is confidence-boosting about looking down at spotless clubs before taking your swing.
As I detailed in my article about four-putt bogey lessons, proper spin control from clean grooves can help prevent those frustrating misses on the green.
On-Course Cleaning Essentials
Keep it clean as you play:
Hang a wet golf towel on your bag and wipe clubs after every shot
Use the wet side to remove dirt, then dry with the other side
Focus on cleaning the club face and grooves where it impacts performance
Handy tools for on-course cleaning:
Frogger BrushPro Golf Club Cleaner - features dual brushes with nylon and copper bristles plus a groove spike
Groovit Brush - includes a water bottle attachment and magnetic quick-release system
"Club Scrub" pouches with soft bristles inside - just add water for a portable cleaning solution
Check out my guide on mastering golf bag essentials for tips on organizing these cleaning tools efficiently.
Deep Cleaning at Home
Whether you clean after every round or less frequently, here's a simple process for thorough cleaning:
Fill a bucket with warm (not hot) water and add a small amount of dish soap
Use a soft brush (an old toothbrush works great) to clean the club heads
Pay special attention to the grooves
Rinse thoroughly with clean water
Dry immediately and completely to prevent any damage
For stubborn dirt:
Dawn Powerwash spray works wonders on tough dirt and grime1
Magic erasers can remove ball marks from drivers' faces and are especially effective on golf balls too
Don't Forget the Grips!
Clean grips are often overlooked but equally important:
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush every few weeks
Hold clubs upside down while cleaning grips to prevent water from seeping into the shaft
Allow to dry completely before using
How Often Should You Clean?
This varies based on personal preference and playing conditions:
After every shot: Wipe with a wet towel (many low-handicap players do this)
After every round: Full cleaning with soap and water
Every few weeks: Deep clean of heads and grips
Beginning/end of season: Complete cleaning and inspection
Pro Tips
Damp the towel before your round starts so it's ready for cleaning
Keep a small spray bottle with water (and optional drop of soap) in your bag
Clean clubs before important rounds to maximize performance
Never use wire brushes on club faces as they can damage the surface
Dry clubs immediately after washing to prevent damage
Having clean clubs isn't just about looking professional—it's about giving yourself every advantage on the course.
The pros clean their clubs after every shot for a reason.
With these simple steps, you'll not only have great-looking equipment, but you might also see improvement in your spin control and approach shots.
What's your club cleaning routine? Consider upgrading it—your scorecard might thank you!
For more insights into essential golf equipment maintenance, explore my complete guide to what's in your golf bag: essentials and secrets.
-Hakan
Instagram: @golfingphoto
Founder, The ParTalk Weekly Newsletter | ParTalk.com