In partnership with

PICKLEBACKCLUB

Your body will thank you.

Join 74,000+ health enthusiasts for fresh, evidence-based guidance on the pillars of longevity, including movement, nutrition, sleep, and coping mechanisms—all translated from new studies. No fads. No hype. Just health strategies rooted in the latest science. Improve your health and live a longer, happier life by accessing information that empowers you.

SIGN UP for FREE

Hey Picklebackers! 🏓✨

Your pickleball paddle is your most trusted weapon on the court — but even the best carbon or graphite face needs a little TLC. Whether you’re cleaning off ball residue, fixing up a peeling edge guard, or just trying to squeeze out a little extra spin, this guide walks you through how to clean, maintain, and even tune your paddle for maximum performance.

🏓 Share with your doubles partner — friends don’t let friends play with dirty paddles.

🧼 1. How to Clean Your Pickleball Paddle

A. Cleaning the Paddle Face (Graphite/Carbon Fiber/Composite)

What you need:

• Microfiber cloth

• Warm water

• Mild dish soap (optional)

Steps:

1. Wipe off loose dirt with a dry microfiber cloth.

2. Lightly dampen part of the cloth with warm water (avoid soaking).

3. Wipe the paddle face gently in circular motions.

4. If there is stubborn dirt or ball residue, use a drop of dish soap on the damp cloth.

5. Finish by wiping with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.

Avoid:
✘ Alcohol
✘ Harsh chemicals
✘ Abrasive sponges
✘ Running water directly over the paddle

These can damage the finish and affect spin texture.

🧽 B. Cleaning the Grip

What you need:

• Damp cloth

• Mild soap

• Towel

Steps:

1. Wipe the grip with a lightly damp cloth to remove sweat and salt buildup.

2. If dirty, add a tiny bit of mild soap and wipe again.

3. Dry thoroughly with a towel.

4. If the grip is slick, torn, or smells, replace it (recommended every 2–6 months depending on use).

🔧 2. How to Maintain Your Paddle (Longevity Tips)

A. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

• Don’t leave your paddle in a hot car. Heat can warp cores (especially polymer).

• Avoid freezing temperatures that can cause micro-cracks.

B. Use Edge Guards Wisely

Most paddles come with edge guards; check them periodically for:

• Lifting

• Cracks

• Gaps

If peeling occurs, use a small amount of rubber cement or edge-guard tape.

C. Store Properly

• Use a padded paddle cover.

• Store in a climate-controlled area.

• Don’t let heavy objects press against the paddle face.

@selkirksport

Want to keep your paddle in top shape? Check out these essential care tips! 🏓✨ What's your go-to paddle care secret? Share it with us in t... See more

D. Replace the Grip Often

Sweaty, slick grips reduce control and cause wrist fatigue.
Options:

• Replacement grips (thick, cushioned)

• Overgrips (thin, tacky; replaced often)

E. Inspect Regularly

Every few weeks, check for:

• Dead spots

• Cracks in the core or face

• Soft areas

• Delamination (face separating from core—common in high-spin paddles)

If delamination occurs → the paddle cannot be repaired and must be replaced.

All the stories worth knowing—all in one place.

Business. Tech. Finance. Culture. If it’s worth knowing, it’s in the Brew.

Morning Brew’s free daily newsletter keeps 4+ million readers in the loop with stories that are smart, quick, and actually fun to read. You’ll learn something new every morning — and maybe even flex your brain with one of our crosswords or quizzes while you’re at it.

Get the news that makes you think, laugh, and maybe even brag about how informed you are.

Try it for free

🚀 3. How to Improve Your Paddle’s Performance

A. Regrip for Better Control

Changing the grip can instantly upgrade performance:

• Tacky overgrips → better control

• Cushioned replacement grips → more comfort, less vibration

• Dry grips → best for sweaty hands

• Tacky grips → max control + spin stability

B. Keep the Paddle Face Clean

Dirt, sweat, and ball residue reduce friction and lower spin.
Cleaning the paddle regularly increases spin, control, and consistency.

C. Use Paddle Face Enhancers (Legal Options)

USAP-legal methods to maintain surface texture include:

• Cleaning with water/microfiber to restore original grit.

• Using a paddle eraser (same as a grip-specific rubber cleaning block).

  • Helps remove ball residue and restore roughness.

Avoid illegal methods like sandpaper, stick-on textures, or grit sprays—they will make the paddle illegal for tournaments.

D. Add Tape to Adjust Balance

Adding grip layers can customize paddle balance:

• More tape = more weight in the handle
  → increases control, reduces head-heaviness

• Lead tape on the paddle head (if you want more power)

  • Add at 12 o’clock for power

  • Add at 3/9 o’clock for stability & larger sweet spot

(Note: Lead tape can change the feel significantly—add small amounts at a time.)

🛠️ 4. Long-Term Best Practices

• Clean the face every 2–5 sessions.

• Replace overgrips every 1–3 weeks (heavy players) or 1–2 months (light players).

• Check edge guards monthly.

• Cover the paddle when traveling.

• Don’t hit your paddle on the ground or fence (common cause of core cracks).

A well-cared-for paddle doesn’t just last longer — it plays better. A quick wipe-down, fresh overgrip, and smart storage routine can be the difference between a dead spot and a perfect dink. Keep this guide handy, and your paddle (and your game) will thank you.

Dill-lighfully yours,
Your PICKLEBACKCLUB Team 🥒🎾

A free newsletter with the marketing ideas you need

The best marketing ideas come from marketers who live it. That’s what The Marketing Millennials delivers: real insights, fresh takes, and no fluff. Written by Daniel Murray, a marketer who knows what works, this newsletter cuts through the noise so you can stop guessing and start winning. Subscribe and level up your marketing game.

Sign Up Free

_{Check out our previous posts…}