Taking care of your Pickleball Paddle is going to make it last longer and perform better. Paddles collect particles and body oils just as your sunglasses do. Grips get slippery and wear with time. Here are a few pickleball paddle care basics.

1. Wipe the paddle face weekly with a mild soap and damp cloth.

It will look like new, and by removing the dirt and oils, you may gain more spin. A damp cloth works perfectly; paddles are not meant to be soaked.

2. Wipe the grip after each use with a damp cloth and let it dry completely.

Chances are you are working up a sweat on the courts and that perspiration is left behind on your grip. Over time it builds up and makes the grip slippery and harder to hold.

3. Grips don’t last forever!

They are inexpensive and easy to change. If your grip has gotten slick, it’s time for a change. Not sure how to do it? Check out this video from Gamma Paddles.

4. Take care when you celebrate

One of the great things about pickleball is the sportsmanship. It’s customary to come to the net, touch paddles and thank everyone for the game. Once in a while, some players get overzealous and paddles touch with a lot of force. A better way to celebrate is to turn the paddle around and touch the end of the grips. You still get to celebrate, and you know your paddle won’t be damaged.

Depending on how you care for your paddle, it should easily last 1-5 years and perhaps longer. Take just a couple of extra minutes before you toss it into your bag and give it a little love!

Bev writes a weekly email blast for our pickleball club. She delivers the rules with clarity and a sense of humor. If you have a rules question post it in the comments below.