A player always cares for their equipment, because its condition can make the difference between win and a loss in game.
Same way a pickleball player should keep their paddle in pristine condition because it can make or break your game at crucial points.
I’ll share with you my ten simple yet effective paddle care tips that I have used for a long time and it has worked fine for me.
1. Clean After Every Use
I know it is too much to ask when I say clean your paddle after every use but it’s crucial to clean your pickleball paddle thoroughly to maintain it’s performance and prolong it’s lifespan.
Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the surface of the paddle, pay close attention to edges, remove any dirt, sweat or debris accumulated during play. For a deeper cleaning you can use a specifically designed paddle cleaner or spray that you can get online. Make sure you wipe down your paddle dry after each cleaning session.
If you have a carbon fiber paddle then you can use a paddle cleaning eraser to clean the surface. You can look for one online, my advice is to go for a good quality eraser because a cheap one can harm your paddle surface.
Periodically clean the grip of your paddle with a mild soap solution to remove dirt, sweat, and oils. This prevents the grip from becoming slippery and enhances your control and performance on the court.
2. Avoid Excessive Moisture
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of your paddle, potentially leading to warping, delamination, or other forms of damage.
Although paddles can take some moisture like sweat or light rain, exposing your paddle to excessive moisture will lead to damage.
Investing in a good quality durable paddle cover or case is a good idea to protect your paddle from moisture. Look for covers which are waterproof and fit snugly around your paddle.
Additionally you can use absorbent grip tape or overgrip to help manage moisture during gameplay.
3. Store Properly
Secure your paddle when you are not using it, proper storage is the key to preserving the integrity of your pickleball paddle. Shield it from direct sunlight and protect it from moisture and dust when you are not on the court.
As I mentioned earlier, having a good quality paddle cover which fits snuggly to your paddle is a must have for every pickleball player. A paddle cover with zipper closer or velcro closer will do the job.
Next step is to make a paddle rack or hook in your garage or home to avoid accidental damage to your paddle.
Never store your paddles in the areas of high humidity, as moisture can lead to mold or mildew growth over time.
If you frequently travel with your paddle, look for a kit bag with padded compartments to protect your paddle during transport. These bags often feature additional pockets for storing accessories like balls, water bottles, or grips.
4. Use Edge Guard Tape
Using your paddle without an edge guard is an open invitation to damage. Edge is the part which is most prone to the nicks and chipping. Get a good quality correct size edge guard tape for your paddle.
This tape comes in various widths to accommodate different paddle sizes and shapes. A good will provide adequate protection without adding the bulk or weight to your paddle.
Clean the edges of your paddle with damp cloth to remove any dirt and debris, you can use solvent to remove adhesive residue from previous tape, apply the tape along the perimeter, ensuring its proper fitting.
5. Check Grip Regularly
Grip is an essential part of your paddle as it determines the control and confront during your game play. As the time passes grips become slippery, which may result in a flying paddle across the court.
Make it a habit to inspect the grip of your paddle on a regular basis and periodically replace your grip which shows the signs of tear or fraying along the edges.
To replace, carefully peel off the old tape from the handle and clean the remaining adhesive with mild solvent. Then. align the replacement grip tape evenly along the handle, starting at the base and wrapping it tightly towards the top.
6. Monitor for Structural Damage
Neglect is the biggest factor which results in the reduction of life span of a pickleball paddle. Regular inspection is one key factor that can enhance the performance and longevity of the paddle.
Cracks, delamination, or loose components are some common problems that occur as the paddle becomes old. By promptly addressing the issue you can prevent further deterioration.
When inspecting, check the surface for any visible crack, chips or dents. Inspect the edges for delamination or separation. (Delamination occurs when layers of material separate, compromising the paddle’s structural integrity.). Check handle for maintaining control and stability during gameplay.
7. Seek Professional Repair
If your paddle sustains a significant damage or structural issue, it’s time to look for a good repair professional.
Look for a professional technician who specializes in paddle repair and has a track record of quality service.
Most of the time these technicians deal well with cracks, delamination and core issues. Make sure they have specialized equipment needed for repair.
8. Warranty and Guarantee:
It is advisable to buy your paddles from reputable sources because they follow their terms which provide peace of mind that your paddle will be repaired or replaced if damaged. Be sure to inquire about the terms and condition of warranty before purchasing your paddle.
I know few of you will argue that all the above things are a lot to do and just buying a new paddle is an easier option. But remember the older your paddle gets the more comfortable you become with it. Your playing style will develop around it. So it’s a good idea to keep your beloved paddle in good condition for as long as possible.
Make a comment or share your thoughts, I like to read comments and answer your queries personally.