Last Updated on May 23, 2023
There are times you need to make your paddle sticky and it is necessary you know how to make them this way, making you paddle sticky is easily accessible to you.
Sticky rubber is known to be a good rubber, but what if your sticky rubber is actually full of dust or even glue that isn’t as sticky as it could and should be?
It’s the cleaning time!
Cleaning a rubber can be done very quickly, but you should know what you’re doing so you don’t damage your rubber.
So, How Does It Work?
With the plenty of inexpensive cleaning products that are specifically made for ping pong rubbers – you can’t go wrong, but we’re here to tell you the most efficient way to do things!
Clean The Paddle Rubber and Keep it Sticky
Cleaning a ping pong rubber should be done only once or twice per month and it should be done with the proper cleaning solution created for paddle rubber.
Using any other product such as dish detergent can actually do more damage than good.
Now when you know that, we’re ready for the first step.
Step #1 – Cleaning Solution
The first thing you should do is find yourself a suitable cleaning solution, possibly one that’s coming from a trusted ping pong brand.
If you live in a small town and don’t have any ping pong store near you that might be selling the right cleaning solution – don’t go to the general stores.
There are some methods where players use a toothbrush for cleaning ping pong rubber, but I personally wouldn’t recommend you that.
Toothbrush causes scratches and damage to the paddle rubber which might shorten its lifespan.
However, there are also cleaning kits from brands such as Butterfly, which is also safe to use, and they are precisely made for cleaning ping-pong rubber.
There are also a number of products coming from a brand such as STIGA, Donic, Joola,Killerspin and many others that will do the trick.
Here are some Tennis Rubber Cleaner Kits
- JOOLA Turbo Rubber Cleaner Spray
- JOOLA Clipper Foam Rubber Cleaner
- Killerspin Rubber Cleaning Spray Kit
- Yasaka Fukuda Rubber Wiper
- Donic Leather Wipe
Step #2 – Apply the Solution
Now when you have the right solution, it’s all about applying it in a proper way. The good thing is that most of these cleaning solutions are used in a very similar way.
Some of the solutions will come with a little sponge, while others will come with a fiber cloth that is very soft and also removes dust at the same time.
Following the instructions, you’ll either apply the spray directly to the rubber or the sponge/fiber cloth.
With a few gentle swipes up and down the rubber, you’ll be using the gentle yet effective substances to collect and remove dirt, while cleaning it and unleashing the sticky layer of your rubbers.
Step #3 – Dry it Out
The last and final step is to let the rubber dry out. However, you shouldn’t try to use the air by moving the racket rapidly to dry it out.
This could lead to more dust attaching to the rubbers. Instead, let it dry without covering the paddle or using air to blow it dry.
Simply let it dry out and once it does, you’ll have a very sticky, yet positive rubber that will definitely stick the ball a lot better, resulting in a lot more spin, power, and control.
However, don’t forget to take care of your rubber by using a paddle case that will keep it away from dust, debris, and other things that might affect it.
When was the last time you cleaned your paddle rubber?
There is absolutely no reason to not do it. In fact, the benefits and advantages it offers are really worth it.
Knowing that it only takes a few minutes, and won’t take you a lot of time throughout the year – yet you will benefit in a much greater way is even better.
Now when you know exactly what you should do, it’s up to you to take action and do it! Don’t let your rubber go to waste sooner than they need to.
Some Other Methods
Here are some ways to make your ping pong paddle sticky. You can use any of this method –
Rubber Replacing Method
Most people do not recommend this method but I will. Let me explain why I recommend thus replacing methods.
Every paddle loses the stickiness over time but the thing is, people always get used to paddle. One already knows how to play with that paddle.
This gives the person some bond and these kinds of the paddle are not easy to let go of so this method is very useful for these set of people who don’t want to get rid of their paddle just like that because getting a new one might take some time to adjust to.
So, I would recommend this method.
Oiling Method
This is one of the most popular methods among other methods of making a paddle sticky. In the methods, you will be needing a brush and some sunflower oil.
You then apply the oil fairly with your brush on the paddle and then let the paddle sock the oil for minutes. After this, your paddle is sure to become sticky.
Glue Method
This method has some offsides because it can damage your pad if done wrongly.
Though this method is good for emergencies like when you have to play in a short period of time and you notice your paddle lost its stickiness and you have no other option at the time but be careful not to damage your paddle because doing that will also affect your game.
Using a Cover
Using a cover keeps you paddle safe from dust and other elements.
So, whenever you aren’t using your paddle, make sure to cover it up.
The thing about paddle is it needs to be clean to remain sticky. This way, you don’t have to worry about getting the dirt off before playing.
Conclusion
My ultimate advice for getting a sticky pad is buying a quality paddle in the first place so you don’t have to go through all these stresses.
If you own a good and quality paddle then you will not have to go through this tension at all.
Though quality paddle is pricey but worth it if you want to be a professional player.
Always make sure to look out for good brands and read the review from experts so you can get a paddle that will last for a long time and is great using.
