You must clean your pool table regularly if you want it to look like new. This will keep your pool table in great shape and make it much more fun to play on. Brushing is the best way to do it.
The local billiards supply stores will sell brushes made specifically for cleaning felt pools tables. They are gentle on the felt, and will remove dust and other lint. A regular household brush can be used instead if you don’t wish to spend too much. Be careful, though, because too many firm strokes can damage the surface.
Another option for cleaning the surface of your pool table is a steam cleaner. The steamer can be useful for removing stains, but it can also set them if they aren't removed completely. Natural stain removers can be applied to the felt using equal parts of water, white vinegar, or a mixture of both. However, you should allow the stain time to dry before applying any other products.
The felt used for pool tables is less strong than regular felt so it's important to take care not to scratch it. Most recreational players should clean their tables once per week. A more frequent cleaning schedule is recommended for more serious players.
Clean the pockets once you have removed the stains. It's a good idea to vacuum the pockets and rails before you start to work on the felt. A damp cloth, a soft fabric, and a vacuum tool are all you need to clean them.
To remove stains, you should use a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using paper towels. They trap fibers which can be left on the felt.
You can also get a spray-on option that will remove stains better. You can find these products at your local hardware store, or online. These products can be substituted for those sold at your local billiard supply store.
After applying the cleaning solution to your felt, you can wipe it off with a damp, clean cloth. Do not rub the stains. Be gentle so the felt doesn't get stretched.
It is important to allow the felt to air out on your pool table for a few minutes. Avoid drinking or smoking near the pool table. You don't want chalk marks to be left on the surface.
After cleaning the table thoroughly, you can put the cues into the cue rack or cuestand. They shouldn't be stored in extreme temperatures or places where moisture could cause them to rot.
Last but not least, you will need to clean them. While this is a very common practice, you should be cautious. Many home-based cleaning products are designed to remove tough grime, and can damage the felt. A specialized cleaner can also be used to protect the felt.