A well-maintained pool table can last decades and play beautifully the entire time. Neglect the basics and even a quality table will degrade faster than it should. Here are the maintenance practices we recommend to every customer after we complete a job.

Brushing the Felt

This is the single most important routine maintenance task. Brush the felt after every playing session with a soft pool table brush — always brushing from the foot of the table toward the head end (in the direction of the nap), then from each side toward the center. Never brush in circles or against the nap. This removes chalk dust and prevents it from grinding into the fibers during play.

Use only a brush specifically designed for pool table cloth. Household brushes, lint rollers, and vacuum cleaners can damage the felt.

Covering the Table

A fitted pool table cover is inexpensive and significantly extends felt life. Sunlight, dust, and pet hair are the primary enemies of felt between playing sessions. Cover the table whenever it's not in use. If you have pets that might jump on the table, a heavier cover helps protect both the cloth and the cushion rails.

Leveling Checks

Pool tables can shift slightly over time, especially in homes with wood subfloors or in basements subject to humidity changes. If you notice balls consistently rolling to one side or corner pockets that seem to "pull" the ball, the table may have shifted out of level.

To check rough level, place a marble or ball at the center of the table and see if it rolls immediately in one direction. A properly leveled table will hold the ball in place or roll only with gentle persuasion. If the table needs releveling, call us — it's a quick service call.

Chalk Management

Chalk is necessary but messy. Use high-quality chalk and apply it with a gentle circular motion — not jabbing or twisting. Blue chalk is the most common, but harder chalk (billiard chalk) tends to transfer less to the felt than softer formulations. If you have light-colored felt, consider switching to a matching chalk color to reduce visible chalk accumulation.

What NOT to Do

Don't sit or stand on the table

This seems obvious but it happens. Even sitting on the edge of the table can damage the slate seams or rail joints. The table is not furniture.

Don't set drinks on the rails or felt

Moisture is devastating to pool table felt. Even a small spill can warp the cloth backing, cause staining that affects play, and accelerate felt degradation. Keep drinks off the table entirely.

Don't use household cleaners on the felt

If something spills on the felt, blot it gently with a dry cloth immediately. Do not rub, do not use spray cleaners, and do not use wet cloths. Most household cleaners will set the stain or damage the cloth fibers. For significant spills, call us.

Don't ignore the cushions

Cushion rubber has a finite lifespan. If your table plays well but cushion response is noticeably worse than it used to be, the rubber is dying. Addressing it before it gets bad saves the rails from potential damage and keeps the game enjoyable. See our recushioning service for details.

Humidity and Climate

Pool tables are sensitive to humidity changes, especially tables with wood cabinets and frames. Significant swings in humidity can cause the cabinet to expand and contract, which can shift the slate alignment and affect level. In Georgia's climate, this is a real concern — particularly in unfinished basements or garages. Keeping your game room at a relatively consistent humidity level (40–60%) significantly extends the life of both the table and the felt.

See our care and maintenance page for additional tips, or call 770-601-8795 with any questions.