Pool Cue, Table, and Ball Care - How to Clean and Maintain

[@DrDaveBilliards]

*Contents:* 0:00 - Intro 0:24 - Cue Care 2:12 - ---- carbon fiber 3:29 - Cue Tip Care 4:16 - ---- shaping 6:22 - Table Care 7:43 - ---- vacuuming and wiping 10:47 - Ball Care 11:46 - ---- cleaning and buffing 12:54 - Wrap Up 13:30 - ---- montage *Supporting Resources:* - caring for a cue resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue/care/ - cleaning a table resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/table/cleaning/ - ball cleaning and surface treatment resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/ball/cleaning/ - how to chalk properly: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/chalk/how-to/ - cue tip harness effects: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue-tip/hardness/ - how to replace a cue tip: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue-tip/replacing/ - chalk testing and comparison resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/chalk/comparison/ - cling/skid/kick resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/throw/cling/ - miscue resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/foul/miscue/ - pool etiquette: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/advice/etiquette/ - T-shirts, polos, mugs, caps, posters available at: drdavebilliardtshirts.com/

[@KTHKUHNKK]

Hello Dr Dave. I am subscribed and I love your channel. I used to love pool but I got old and don't play anymore. But it's always nice to watch you and Efren Reyes. Keith

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@KTHKUHNKK I'm glad you like my stuff even if you don't play anymore. And I especially like being included with the same sentence as Efren! Thanks!

[@KTHKUHNKK]

@@DrDaveBilliards You must love Efren he is quite the guy. A true gentleman player. He is truly amazing. Keith Kuhn KK Motion Pictures Promo Type it into KZbin Thanks doctor

[@DrDaveBilliards]

​@@KTHKUHNKK I am a fan of Efren. See my "Top 10 Efren Most Famous Shots" video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGLGq4imbtBli80 Is that you in the promo?

[@lishengliu5866]

@@DrDaveBilliards hello Dr Dave how I can cleany felt on my snooker table

[@skmalladi]

You, sir, are a gift to the billiards community!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you. I aim to swerve. :)

[@MichelePearl]

Yes

[@abecoulter8550]

My wife just yelled out what the fuck are you watching when you said wear a playing glove to keep your shaft clean 😂

[@KlowdZzz]

Dr. Dave I can’t thank you enough for all the work you put into these videos. Thanks a ton.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I'm glad you enjoy and benefit from my stuff!

[@RichD746]

Anything I need to learn something, I always end up back on this channel

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it.

[@bbspaulb]

Perfect timing, I cleaned my table and balls yesterday and said to myself someone must have a video out there on how to do this properlt and I open mt pgone 5his morn8ng and there it was. Thank you for this video and all of your others I've enjoyed since I found your series.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I hear everything. :) So did you do it right?

[@stefan3225]

I clean my balls regularly, at least once a week. Without that you won’t get the sheen and finish you’re after. All the friction against the cloth can get your balls dirty quick.

[@Rubster760]

Gangster Dave in the house 😎👍. Enjoying the maintenance tips Dr Dave. 🤩👍.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

"What ... I got ball in hand?" I'm glad you liked it.

[@mrkkitson]

Thanks! You've confirmed all of my theories about cleaning the cloth...balls...and cue!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. I guess great minds think alike. :)

[@larryyochim432]

I enjoy receiving your tips and it is not boring listening to you talk like it is with others. So please keep up the good work.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. Thanks.

[@trailerwookie]

Thanks for telling everyone about using a Magic Eraser for cleaning a cue shaft. I've been doing this for years. Instead of water, I use a little rubbing alcohol. It seems to work better and faster than water for me. I loved seeing you use a damp cloth to wipe the table. I used to do that at my local pool hall. Our pool hall would replace the Simonis Cloth every year! If only they would have practiced our cleaning methods! Now if only I could get everyone to leave their chalk face up!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good point. Alcohol is a better solvent for dissolving grease and grime.

[@Shastavalleyoutdoorsman]

Oh , face down chalk makes me rage...

[@kaydenlagana6976]

1:45 dr dave played a 700 series in bowling. Well done Dr dave

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good eye. I have bowled since I was 4 years old.

[@robstoneyt]

Also clean out the pockets. Great video. Thank you.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good point. My table has mesh pockets, but I should have mentioned this for the benefit of others. I'm glad you liked the video.

[@flojoe9211]

Awesome videos, long time player, but new to owning a table so these videos are perfect!

[@Kawamanimes]

Thank you Dr Dave! Your videos are a blessing. Thank you.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I'm glad you like my stuff.

[@mirandamoffitt9518]

Wow, just wow, for a novice like me whos just bought her first pool table set, I am so glad ive found your channel! Thank you for the informative video!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you want help with learning how to play properly, there are lots of good videos under the various topics here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/ Obviously, start with the "Fundamentals" stuff. I also have lots of other good advice and help for beginners here: billiards.colostate.edu/beginner-help/ Enjoy, and good luck with your game!

[@Shastavalleyoutdoorsman]

I thought the balls were starting to play a little different now that they are getting chalky. The intricacy and complexity of this game is what just keeps drawing me in. Every minute factor changes the game. I don't go to bars, but I would imagine none of them around here clean the table or the balls. Thanks for keeping me on the right track Doc.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Always try to keep your balls clean. :)

[@vincentbeaurivage]

I am going to vaccuum my table right NOW (9 months old... but I never did that!) ... plus a damp cloth after... looking forward to see the difference! Thanks!

[@Grissom_Outdoors]

You’ll be amazed at the difference

[@suyashgadkari]

Great video Doctor! Thanks for giving the cleaning and maintenance tips for the equipment! I love to watch your videos. There is always something new to learn!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it.

[@mohammadalrabie5135]

Brilliant as always!! I'm literally having a table installed tomorrow at home, was looking for a video as to how properly maintain the table, this one sorted me out, MANY THANKS!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I'm glad I had good timing. Have fun with the table!

[@cosmicraysshotsintothelight]

If it doesn't have a high quality cloth like Simonis on it, you should not use a vacuum on it. They can and do raise a nap on the cheaper felt choices.

[@bradstrong5271]

Thanks Dr Dave I always look forward to your videos they really help

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. I’m glad to hear it.

[@bradstrong5271]

I just finished your video and I noticed Doofus Dave 😆

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I was happy to be able to give Doofus Dave a cameo appearance. He hasn't been out in a while.

[@bradstrong5271]

😀

[@omgahandlelol]

thanks for sharing these tips. slowly getting through some of your other shot technique videos. 👍 great content

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You've got a long road ahead. I have over 530 videos on KZbin now! Enjoy!

[@johnforsyth5471]

Thanks for bringing this together in one place. I would like to add to keep the bristle brush vacuum attachment clean and dry. If the vacuum is used elsewhere it is not good to bring foreign material to the cloth. Dish soap and hot water work well on the attachment brush.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good points. Thanks.

[@kerrmoney]

Thanks Dr Dave You're the man!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I'm glad you liked it.

[@MeganOHowe]

Good info thanks. I'm going to try burnish my pool shaft I sanded with 220 down to wood and applied hemp seed oil, sanded w 320 and same it is smooth but not "shiny". That shaft I tried the magic eraser but the oils and grime were too deep it needed the sand, got rid of all the dings and dents but did make the shaft slightly smaller in radius probably not very noticeable. Cost me $10 for the hemp seed oil and got lots left, I don't have the tools to apply an epoxy and that would prob cost more. It works for me I'm happy.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks for the info. BTW, it is "burnish," not "barnish."

[@MeganOHowe]

@@DrDaveBilliards lol thanks

[@MikeyD22]

Another great video, Dr. Dave! Very useful information as always!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you. I'm glad you liked it.

[@jerryhughes4256]

Thanks Dr Dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome! I aim to swerve. :)

[@simmons6014]

Thanks Dr. That's a Beautiful Table👍

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome, and thank you. The table was previously owned by the late, great Robert Byrne. I treasure it because he was a hero of mine.

[@LarryMFjohnson]

Exactly what I was looking for! Thanks man, that was perfect. New sub

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad to hear it. You’re welcome.

[@Waremonger]

Thanks Dave - I really liked the video. I have been using my Dyson cordless vacuum with the bristle brush (like the brush you showed in the video) and it works great. Previous to that I had been using a pool brush as on many pool forums people make a big deal about vacuuming a table but I found the vacuum picks up debris (chalk, dust, etc) way better than a horse hair brush and it's way easier. I guess using a vacuum with a beater brush might be bad for some types of cloth but there is no way using the bristle brush is bad for the cloth because it's no different than the pool brush except it sucks the debris off of the table. I was just practicing earlier and thinking I need to clean my balls and right after playing I see this video so the timing was funny. I really need to go buy some Aramith pool ball cleaner as I was just going to use soap and water.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad the video was timely and useful.

[@live4theleafs11]

Let me start by saying how much I love tour videos! Is it safe to vacuum the felt? Does it not pull/stretch the material? Thx again and keep up the top notch work

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It is not a problem. Most pool hall and home table owners vacuum their tables. I have for many years. Although, I wouldn’t use a powerful Shop Vac or a vacuum with power-scrubbing attachments.

[@ericpoolguy29]

Always well done! 400+ videos so start binge watching haha

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Let the binge begin; although, you don't have that kind of time available with all you RDS Live Stream work. I look forward to seeing how the next tournament goes.

[@ericpoolguy29]

@@DrDaveBilliards you are correct! No more free time! I am awaiting for people to reach out to me before i schedule the next start date for tournament number 2!!

[@bigknocker2264]

Dr. Dave: As a fellow mechanical engineer, I love your attention to detail, and your scientific approach. You're a national treasure as far as I'm concerned!! I'm getting interested in pool again despite not playing much in the past 10 years thanks to you. Any tips on how to level your table? I own a 4-1/2 X 9 Diamond Professional, and have a machinists level. I know I have one edge on the long rail where a slow rolling ball will roll away from the cushion when about 2 feet from the corner pocket. So I'm not sure if additional shimming is needed, or if I should just use the leveling screws in the leg pedestals. Wouldn't want to make things worse. I've thought maybe I should just hire a pool table installer here in Reno to tweak things, but I like knowing how to do things myself.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you like my stuff. I don’t have info or much experience with leveling Diamond tables, but I think there some good YT videos on this topic if you do a search.

[@BekahEmma]

DrDave, yours is the best pool channel on YT. Do you have any recommendations for a good cue for a home recreational player? Thank you!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you and you're welcome. I don't have any specific brand recommendations, but it doesn't really matter. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue/selecting/

[@mosesng6050]

Oh, that also gives me inspiration to write and create books.

[@zyxelk7368]

I've been waiting for this one 👍👍👍

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad the wait is over, and I hope you liked it.

[@giraffeapproved]

This video is AWESOME! Thank you!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you’re welcome!

[@MichelePearl]

so helpful

[@ChristopherBriscoe]

I use my IRobot Vacuum to clean my table too! It’s the best!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I call mine "WALL-E." He is such a good boy.

[@ChristopherBriscoe]

@@DrDaveBilliards I call mine, Ruby!

[@adammoore5391]

I was about to make a Roomba comment then you put your Roomba on there. . . Well with older cloth it may not be good to use a Roomba because it seemed to make mine worse. 🤣

[@mattiagatti1200]

Hello DrDave. Thank you so much for the frequent answers you always give to the community. I've a problem: I was cleaning my ferrule with the mr clean magic eraser but my tip (medium hardness) got wet. Should I change my tip or I can still play with it?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Getting the tip wet isn't a problem. In fact, the tip is often wet on purpose before burnishing. See step 9 in my "HOW TO REPLACE A CUE TIP … No Special Tools Required" video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpKYfmOreLCekLc

[@NickCurran]

Great video, Doc! I've long awaited your tips on how to clean the table. Your advice on using a vacuum and lint roller run counter to what I have seen in many places, including what I was told by the retailer who sold me my table. Their advice to only use a brush seemed ineffective. What do you think about comments I've seen indicating that a vacuum can pull the felt off the table and leave it loose? I've been using my Dyson handheld with the mattress attachment, as that seems to hold the felt down while the vacuum goes over the table. But watching this... maybe it doesn't matter? I'm now very tempted to get a Roomba! :D

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I don't think a vacuum is a problem unless the cloth is very loose and the vacuum is super powerful.

[@stevenagele9373]

i have 6 7ft tables and 1 9ft table. I love the roomba. the suction isn't too powerful and the bristle brush is soft. i have to clean often because the tables get a lot of play. it doen't seem too rough for my simonis felt. i say get it

[@BuNNDoGG]

If using a vacuum like dirt devil or anything with beater brush, remove that spinning brush or it can burn your cloth.

[@odiums_taint]

any tips on re-shaping a tip that has mushroomed? nm: i found the info needed in your video about changing a cue tip. thanks for all the great info!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

See: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue-tip/mushrooming/

[@Lamarvelous08]

thank you Dave!!👏👏🥳

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome! I'm glad you liked it.

[@MrAndymancan22]

Hi Dr.Dave love the videos! I have a question. You seem to not be concerned about using a vacuum on the felt. Yet others say it’s bad. I have Simonis 860 and a cordless Dyson vacuum. Would the rotating bristles be too much for the table? Any input would be great! Thanks

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Some people consider rotating bristles too aggressive for the cloth. I agree a simple non rotating brush is preferred. That’s what I have on the hand-held vacuum in the video.

[@bobdillon7832]

Very cool. ALOT of stuff I never knew! Just received my first pool table from a friend, and wasn't quite sure how to clean the cloth. It's not horrible (no rips/tears) but it is kinda dirty since the kids didn't maintain it like you described. Guess I have some work to do now! Thanks!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. Have fun with the table!

[@Bengir99]

Great video!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks!

[@bpablo4972]

Helpful 👍🏻

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad to hear it.

[@jasonyuen4258]

Thanks!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome!

[@noxdomeisi529]

Can you do a video about the tip shape differences and effectiveness on the spin/force induced

[@DrDaveBilliards]

FYI, I cover this topic in detail here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue-tip/size-and-shape/

[@Stellarffxi]

How did you get so good at the shaft stroking motion!?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Lots of practice. :)

[@kimsoriano9369]

thanks for the video

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome.

[@rre9518]

Thank you. How do you remove stains and dirt marks?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I don't have any direct experience because I keep my table clean, but I've heard of some people using Woolite mixed with water.

[@TomRSmith88]

Me (thinking to myself): I have a question about pool. Dr. Dave: Here's a high quality video with the precise answer. Me: How did he know? Dude reads my mind.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad my mind-reading trick worked.

[@Juventinos]

invaluable

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you think so.

[@hoff1967]

Dave, where did you get the Earl Strickland T shirt at the end of the video? Thanks

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Here: drdavebilliardtshirts.com/ Unfortunately, the version with the face on it is no longer available (although an alternative with the text is). Earl didn't want his image used.

[@oldarpanet]

Great video, Dr.! Good to know I've been doing most of this right. I use a Magic Eraser dampened with 70% (or 91%) rubbing alcohol. (I avoid water as much as possible.) I use a Jacoby Hybrid Elite (skinny) shaft, made up of 140 individual pieces of laminated maple. I'm going to use your table cleaning method whenever I can get back to my usual pool room...damned covid.:-(

[@DrDaveBilliards]

COVID has definitely been a major bummer for pool.

[@jessehartman6087]

Roomba!..... love that idea!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You must be one of those "lazy" people I was talking about. :)

[@jessehartman6087]

@@DrDaveBilliards actually no, I unfortunately don't have room in my home for a table, but as an Officer , I care for the Diamond we have at our American Legion. Vacuuming and microfiber cloth wiping with a woolite/water mixture (as told to do so by Diamond) . I did laugh my butt of when you put the roomba on the table tho!! Good content as always, love your videos.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you like it, especially the Roomba part. :)

[@CorwynGC]

Never would have occurred to me. I laughed too.

[@Bengir99]

@@DrDaveBilliards How many pool tables do you have Dr Dave? ;)

[@RushNCrush]

Great tips

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@Maxtheduck]

Greate vidio. Didnt help me tho as the pool table i have to clean is at a bar and full of alcohol and other stuff

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. You can offer to clean the table at the bar. Or you can ask the bar owner watch the video. :)

[@JMGomez-mi2km]

How I wish to have my own table to play and to maintain on

[@BenjaminMillam]

Thanks Dr Dave! Are you worried about using vacuum attachments or brush rotors with bristles that are too stiff? I worry about abrading my cloth. I see you going pretty hard at the cloth when wiping it down, though, maybe modern cloths (Simonis) are pretty tough?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I wouldn’t use stiff or rotating bristles, but damp wiping seems harmless to me. High quality cloths are tough.

[@yoduff1]

@DrDaveBilliards - for wood shafts, do you recommend not using wax?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m not a good person to ask because I’ve never tried it, and I’ve been using carbon fiber exclusively for many years now.

[@stronbium]

Great video, DrDave. One question: Do balls react to spin better off cushions after cleaning the cushions, or does it make no difference?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

By "better," do you mean "more?" Regardless, I don't think cleaning the cushions make much difference in how they react to spin. Although, older and dirtier cushion cloth will tend to react to spin more, especially in humid conditions.

[@auntiekriss]

Hahaha lol.., nice vid and humor😁🎃😂 doctor tip 👍🏻👍🏻, you got my subscribed

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you liked it. Welcome aboard.

[@derickbergouser2439]

Hi Dr. Dave, I have a question. Recently, I haven't been able to do a good top spin when I play, but draw shots are fine. I thought I was not hitting the cue ball high enough, but then I tried using my friend's cue and it worked just fine. I haven't changed my tip for 3 years, but there's still around 0.3cm left of it and it's also dime shaped. Do you have a possible explanation for this? Is it possibly caused by my tip? Thanks.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you are miscuing with the same stroke and hit as with your friend's cue, then the tip might need a scuffing. But first use a marked CB or a stripe to make sure the chalk mark on the ball is at the same height with each stroke.

[@derickbergouser2439]

@@DrDaveBilliards Thank you for answering Dr. Actually, I don't miscue during the shot, the topspin simply doesn't activate for my cue. I'm really bedazzled by this phenomena and hope that there isn't a more severe underlying problem with my cue as a whole.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@derickbergouser2439 If you are not getting good follow action, the tip is not contacting the CB high enough. It is that simple. For more info, see the info, videos, and links here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/sidespin/maximum/

[@TheMasterarm]

hi dr dave. sometimes my cue ball jumps after hitting the target ball when i take followshot,according to your video , the cue ball dirty? 11:11 , i don't know much english. thankyou sir from vietnam.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Firm follow shots also cause the CB to hop naturally. See: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/follow/ball-hop/

[@martinandredill]

DrDave, thanks for this awesome vídeo! A question... Whats the height of the cushions in a pool table? Here on Brazil se dont have this pool tables, i what to adapt my table to this pool table model with larger pockets and 57mm balls...

[@DrDaveBilliards]

All pool table specs can be found here: wpapool.com/equipment-specifications/

[@martinandredill]

@@DrDaveBilliards thanks!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@martinandredill You're welcome!

[@SpecRec]

I just bought the Predator arcos 2 balls, and they appear a little yellow. Is that how it is supposed to be? If not, is there a way I can whiten them without harm?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I have a set too. They do seem to have a slight ivory tint. I can't imagine anyway to whiten them, nor do I see a reason to do so.

[@SpecRec]

@@DrDaveBilliards I concluded that the yellow is totally normal, and since the color does not appeal to me, I decided to return them. I will settle for the aramith blacks now

[@jamesroboyle]

Hey Dr. Dave , will car wax work just as well to clean object balls with ? Thank you for the great video by the way .

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Car wax is not a good choice. It reduces throw too much, and then the throw amount changes a lot during play. For more info, see the 2nd video and related info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/ball/cleaning/

[@jamesroboyle]

@@DrDaveBilliards Okay . Thank you for the reply Dr. Dave .

[@nirnooar4117]

The set of balls i have always look clean and shine.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... then don't clean them until they stop looking clean and shining.

[@martinparker9249]

@3:22 thats me at the moment 😵‍💫

[@RamboUnchained]

Could you pleeeease tell me where yoi get those white tsble spots? Id love to have those for practice as opposed to the bulky black ones i use for the rack spot.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Amazone.com. See: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/training/teaching/

[@Achlys384]

4:27 , whats that shaper tool called?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Ulti-mate.

[@Achlys384]

@@DrDaveBilliards thank you

[@hobysmith9825]

Great video, thanks! Curious... what brand/model of vacuum are you using in this video? I can’t quite make it out. It looks ideal for my needs, but I am not finding it online. :)

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I bought that vacuum about 35 years ago, so I doubt it still exist. Just search for "small canister vacuum." That should turn up some options.

[@hobysmith9825]

@@DrDaveBilliards lol. I figured that was the case. Thanks. :)

[@mosesng6050]

You know, you can also use Predator Revo Wipes to clean the Predator carbon fiber pool shaft. I also heard there’s a brand called “Chalk-Out” which wipes off chalk debris on the pool table. If possible, I can use a homemade DIY pool ball cleaner machine that’s made from large paint can, a woolly polisher device, and an old woolly rug to clean and polish pool balls. And yeah, if the pool balls are dirty and very dull, they’re not able to roll on the table effectively, isn’t it?

[@georgemathiellis5486]

Hi, I have a Brunswick GC4 table at home and I also play at a pool hall on GC3 tables. On my table the balls (Aramith TV pro) seem to roll less then on the hall's tables and my table feels slow. Lately I selected a 860HR cloth against the 860 that I had been using and that made the table play like the pool hall's that have the 860. I was wondering what can make similar tables play differently. Could it be the type of the slate ? Mine is light colored and the surface is not smooth to the touch (like "corduroid") and the GC3s have a very smooth black slate... I have even installed heating elements to make sure the problem is not moisture ....

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The cloth and cushions (and rail support) are the only things that affect how fast the table plays, but the cloth and cushions can also be affected by cleanliness, wear, cloth tightness, and humidity.

[@georgemathiellis5486]

@@DrDaveBilliards Thanks for the reply! I make the comparison when the cloth is brand new and installed by the same pro technician. I have the table for 10 years. The bounce of the rails is similar . The way balls run and stop on the cloth is different when both tables have the same 860 cloth....860HR on my GC4 (that is supposed to be faster) plays as the 860 on the GC3s....

[@RobertSpiller]

Got a question...I recently bought your book the illustrated principles of pool...what do you think of those cue lasers? Can they really help improve my aim and markmanship?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

They might help some people, but I honestly don't like them. There are much better ways to improve your fundamentals and shot making. Many can be found here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/fundamentals/ and here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/advice/improving/ Enjoy!

[@louisheight2713]

Can you spray color back into an old pooltable cloth??

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Dye would be better than paint.

[@rafraba]

Does anyone know where I can find the tool used at 4:27?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It is called an "APT Ulti-Mate Cue Tip Tool." Search for it online.

[@xikonicv8978]

hey Dr Dave, quick question, i currently use a 8 foot table and i’m thinking about buying a new table should i get a 6ft or stay with 8?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Only you can answer that. I prefer practicing on a 9’ table. That way, when I play in league on bar boxes, every shot seems short.

[@bogie1971]

@@DrDaveBilliards Steve Miserak said he practiced on a 10' table at his home he felt it gave him a advantage.

[@hernaniloureiro9998]

Aramith has a cleaner and a restorer. Which one do you advise? I have Also seen other videos where people apply a final wax and polish the balls, is that necessary?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I've only used Aramith Cleaner. Concerning using waxes and polishes, that is usually not a good thing. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/ball/cleaning/

[@hernaniloureiro9998]

@@DrDaveBilliards thankyou so much for the quick response. I was contemplating getting both products but in that case i will just get the cleaner 👍

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@hernaniloureiro9998]

@@DrDaveBilliards haha i see what you did there

[@DonaldTaylor-cm9yr]

As someone who has covered tables for many years, I would caution the use of a vacuum cleaner to clean on table that has 3 slates (as most 4-1/2 by 9 tables do) or you might suck up the plaster that seams the slates (there would be 2 seams and yes some repairman use wax for the seam-same result possible) and then have to recover the table.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good point. You wouldn't want to use a powerful vacuum, especially on a loose cloth over a slate with cracked seams.

[@miket8497]

I've heard different opinions on using the hose attachment for a Dyson vacuum. Do you think it's safe to vacuum the cloth this way or is the Dyson too powerful?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sorry, but I don't know how powerful a Dyson is. Although, as long as the cloth isn't too loose, I wouldn't think it would be a problem.

[@bigjerm210ify]

I’ve used that aramith ball cleaner and although it does a great job at making the balls shiny I swear it makes the balls play different especially down the rail idk it could just be me but I noticed it the first time I used the product.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

My experience and testing show that the balls play normal after cleaning with Aramith. See the video and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/ball/cleaning/

[@mosesng6050]

I heard that there are 2 kinds of pool ball cleaner Aramith Ball Cleaner and Aramith Restorer.

[@SpecRec]

Since I don't have aramith ball cleaner, is it okay to clean my aramith blacks with rubbing alcohol? Asking in terms of whether it will damage the ball/ball coating or not.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It won’t damage the balls, but it will result in a more throw than normal with some shots. See the videos and info under ”What effects do different ball cleaners and polishers have on the reaction of the balls?” here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/ball/cleaning/

[@SpecRec]

@@DrDaveBilliards Thank you, I watched it. If aramith cleaner has less throw, does that mean it didn't clean the balls all the way, or it left some of its residue? Also what do you mean by buffing the balls?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@SpecRec Aramith does leave residue on the surface. Buffing is the same as "polishing."

[@SpecRec]

@@DrDaveBilliards Thank you, what would you recommend I polish my aramiths with? Is there an easy way I can contact you, since I have so many questions?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@SpecRec … Aramith ball cleaner or any other cleaner specifically for billiard balls. You can reach me any of the ways here: billiards.colostate.edu/dr-dave/ But please always look here first where I have almost every conceivable question already answered in detail: billiards.colostate.edu/faq

[@bubsterjohnson7438]

Hey Dave I was wondering how to be able to tell the size difference between ferrules I ordered some and they were way too big

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm not sure what you mean. The length and diameter weren't specified when you ordered them? Honestly, I've never ordered or installed ferrules, so I'm probably not the best person to ask. I would talk to a good cue mechanic or the company selling the ferrules.

[@bubsterjohnson7438]

@@DrDaveBilliards I don't know how to measure them or what to measure on them to get the size

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@bubsterjohnson7438 Again, I recommend talking to a good cue mechanic or companies that sell ferrules.

[@rickselby8068]

How to know when my simoni’s 860 is worn enough to warrant replacement? Mine seems to be a little threadbare. It’s about 8 yrs old and I try to play around an hour a day. At 77 yrs old they’re light sessions, and I don’t jump and rarely mass’e.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If it has any tears or divots, it should be replaced. Otherwise, if you don’t mind how it plays or looks, there is no need to replace it.

[@stevenm6200]

I just had to laugh when you showed all the things you said not to do😂 too funny

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I thought that would be a more-effective presentation rather than just saying "don't do it." My favorite part was the peanut butter ball-in-hand demo. :)

[@stevenm6200]

@@DrDaveBilliards I’ve actually seen that irl but with bbq! Guy licked his fingers and with the chicken still in his mouth ready to shoot! His fingers were sticky😂 the peanut butter part was my fav too. Hilarious🤦‍♂️😂

[@xbocax16]

I want a table for my house. Is it important to save up for an expensive table, or what would be a good price range and table type for a decent home table?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Any table is better than no table, and a better table is better than a cheap pool table; but as long as it has a slate bed (the thicker the better) and is installed carefully, you are fine.

[@xbocax16]

@@DrDaveBilliards awesome, thank you. The other thing I was wondering about is the felt. My buddy had a table a while back, and the felt was really thick and slow. Is that because of the type of felt, or was it not broken in? I would prefer a faster table.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@xbocax16 Yep. Older and cheaper cloths are thicker and fuzzier than new and high-quality cloth like Simonis.

[@xbocax16]

@@DrDaveBilliards Gotcha. What are your thoughts on those dining /pool tables?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If that is the best (or only) option for somebody to have a pool table, I don't see anything wrong with it.

[@nirnooar4117]

I hope you can answer my question . I am playing snooker 3 hours every day with aramith tournament champion snooker balls, should i clean the balls with the aramith Ball cleaner every week or after every day of use?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I only clean my balls when they seem dirty or when they seem to be playing differently. Once a week is probably good.

[@nirnooar4117]

@@DrDaveBilliardsthank you you dr. Dave

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@JCBeAtS1000]

"I got ball in hand?" lol that's comedy man

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... umm ... peanut butter. :)

[@brandongrablachoff]

Love the part where you are showing the quote on quote opponent which is you with the hat on showing him eating, drinking, using talcum powder and putting the chalk face down on the table. What a rookie lol. Funny stuff.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you want to see more like that, check out my "POOL ETIQUETTE ... Everything You Need to Know" video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bobHopSMZZp-q80 Enjoy!

[@fahadtalat2434]

any other cheap product i can use instead of the aramith cleaner ? maybe something from kitchen ?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I don't know of anything. Cleaning products with solvents like alcohol can be problematic per the video and articles in the 3rd section here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/ball/cleaning/

[@IndianHeathen1982]

I have a predator P3. The weight is loose and I want to remove the butt cap. I am not able to! FYI, it is a butt that came with an extension. I cannot figure out how to remove it. The cap doesn't unscrew and there's no grip. Any suggestions? It's a radial joint and the predator weight kit does not seem to have a tool to remove the bumper (didn't buy it yet!).

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The butt cap threads into the P3. Use something like a rubber band to get grip and just twist it off counterclockwise.

[@IndianHeathen1982]

@@DrDaveBilliards thank you!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@IndianHeathen1982 You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@lilamdan]

I just wanted to know if there's any use of water in a pool that isn't for swimming

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Frogs probably like it.

[@BuNNDoGG]

Magic eraser, nice.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That stuff truly is magic.

[@der.kleine.pyromane]

to clean my pool table, i like to use the simonis cleaning system... dont now the name, something with an x :D however, it does an amazing job getting the chalk out of the cloth

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Some people mix some Woolite into the water when wiping the table, especially if the table is really dirty.

[@ImBaja]

you said to use a damp towel to clean ur cue but cant that lead to warping?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Changing in humidity can lead to warping also. If the towel is not too wet, and as long as you wipe it dry, the moisture won't have time to penetrate the wood, especially if the shaft is burnished. Or, if you are really concerned about slight warping (I am not), carbon fiber is a good option: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue/carbon/

[@ImBaja]

@@DrDaveBilliards that makes sense thank you!

[@jgmatp]

roomba for the pool table. who'da thunk it. LOL. cool stuff.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I love the sound he makes when he is done. My wife and I call our Roomba "Wall-E."