
A player can clean the ball in a manner convenient and appropriate to their own taste. You may use a wet towel (best way), side of your pants/shorts, wipe it on the grass, lick thumb and clean the ball, spit on it (not very polite) or really any way the player deems appropriate. Situation:
How to clean a golf ball?
For the quickest and cheapest option, a soap and water mixture may work. Add cleaning solvent to a bucket of warm water. Buckets allow for multiple balls to be cleaned at the same time (versus professional machines that clean a single golf ball during a cycle). Add dirty golf balls into the bucket. Allow the balls to soak for ten to twenty minutes.
When can you lift and clean a ball in golf?
Elsewhere (not the green), a ball may be cleaned when lifted if you are taking an unplayable lie; taking relief from abnormal ground conditions (e.g. free drop from ground under repair); relief from water hazard; or relief from any position that local rules have stated you are allowed to lift and clean.
When can a player clean a ball on the Green?
A player is allowed at any time to mark, lift and clean the ball on the putting surface without penalty. Elsewhere (not the green), a ball may be cleaned when lifted if you are taking an unplayable lie; taking relief from abnormal ground conditions (e.g. free drop from ground under repair); relief from water hazard;
Is it illegal to wipe a golf ball on the Green?
Cleaning a ball by rubbing it on the green may not be the preferred method but it's not illegal in this case (Decision 16-1d/5). If the line of the putt wasn't touched and it was clear that you were wiping the ball clean, there is no penalty.

When can a golf ball be cleaned?
You can also always clean a ball lifted from anywhere else except in four situations: To see if it's cut or cracked (Don't clean it) To identify it (You are allowed to clean it only as needed to identify it) When the ball interferes with play (Don't clean it)
Can you clean your ball from ground under repair?
If you are still standing in the ground under repair after you dropped, you must drop again. Your ball is in play after you have dropped and there is no interference from the ground under repair.
Can you pick up and clean a golf ball in the fairway?
Are You Allowed To Clean Your Ball On The Fairway? If the lift, clean, and place rule is in effect, you are allowed to clean your ball on the fairway. However, if you are just playing a standard round of golf where this is not the case, then you are not allowed to clean your ball on the fairway.
What is the best way to clean dirty golf balls?
Removing them is easy as rinsing the golf ball under running water and using an acetone-based nail remover.Rinse the golf balls to remove dirt and debris. ... Dab acetone on a piece of cotton and wipe off until the pen marks disappear. ... Use dishwashing soap to clean the golf balls before drying them with a towel.
What is considered ground under repair in golf?
Ground under repair—golfers often spell it or say it as "GUR"—falls under the heading of an abnormal ground condition and is exactly what its name implies: ground that is being repaired by the course superintendent or maintenance crew.
What is the rule in golf for ground under repair?
To take relief, you must find the nearest point of complete relief from the ground under repair and drop your original ball or another ball away from the ground under repair and within one club-length of that point not nearer the hole (see Rule 16.1).
Can you use a tee to mark your ball on the green?
That decision states that a tee, a loose impediment or a golf club may all be used to mark a ball. Scratching a line into the green, while not recommended because the act may damage the surface, is also permitted. An existing mark on the green that happens to line up behind the ball may not be considered a marker.
Can you have two putters in your golf bag?
According to the USGA and R&A rules, you can have two putters in your bag when playing a professional round of golf provided the total number doesn't exceed 14. The same thing applies when you're playing a normal golf round.
How long can you play the same golf ball?
When To Change Your Ball. Without visible damage, a golf ball can last up to seven 18-hole rounds without any loss of performance. In fact, you are more likely to lose a golf ball on the course before it just wears out. But as soon as the ball feels rough, you should replace it.
Is it OK to Soak golf balls in water?
While it's okay to let your golf balls soak in warm water for at least 30 minutes, don't let them sit for too long. You don't want your used golf balls to become waterlogged. This would also affect how they react when you hit them during a round of golf.
Should you wash golf balls?
0:080:49The Best Way to Clean Recovered Golf Balls - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou don't want to take that off by using abrasive or acidic materials to clean the golf ball. SoMoreYou don't want to take that off by using abrasive or acidic materials to clean the golf ball. So just a good dish soap or car wash soap tends to be the best thing to use on.
How do I make my golf ball white again?
For Very Dirty Golf Balls If you go through the above process with hot water, dish soap, and a toothbrush, but still find your golf balls stained or dirty, refill your bucket with hot water and add in a 1/2 cup of bleach. Allow the balls to soak in the bucket for 30 minutes, then rinse and dry each ball.
How to clean a golf ball?
There are other ways to clean, but the best steps to clean a golf ball are: Mix warm water and soap in a container. Let the ball (s) soak in the water for a few minutes. Rub a washcloth gently so that the golf balls gently so that any mud, grass, or sand comes off.
How to get a golf ball that is sticky?
For a mildly dirty golf ball, the best method might actually be to use a brush or a toothbrush to really get those areas that are really sticky to the ball. If a washcloth and a toothbrush can’t get the job done, then you know that it might be time to get a new golf ball if you are a neat freak. It really is a very simple, yet effective way ...
How to keep dimples clean?
A great way to keep them clean without the need to clean them with soap is to carry a towel on the course and wipe them down after every hole once you pull the ball out of the hole. That way, the dimples on your golf balls will not have a big buildup ...
Do golf clubs have a speck of dirt?
Every golfer loves it when they look down at their club and see a golf ball that is fresh looking and does not have a speck of dirt, grass, or sand. I have met a few people that prefer a golf ball with a bit of character and wear on it, but those people are certainly outliers. For all of you that are normal and prefer the look of a clean golf ball, ...
Can you clean golf balls with soap?
It really is a very simple, yet effective way to clean your golf balls that are dirty. Just be sure to do your own due diligence before using a brush and soap that could be harmful to your golf balls.
Do golf balls clean the same?
Most golf balls are relatively the same and really do clean the same. Although there are different types of balls, you really can’t go wrong in this department. What works for you with one golf ball will most likely work with another brand or type of golf ball.
What is the meaning of cleaning a golf ball?
Definition to Know: Cleaning golf ball: A player is allowed to mark, lift, clean and replace the ball on the putting green and anywhere else on the course that is within the rules of golf. A player can clean the ball in a manner convenient and appropriate to their own taste.
Can a golf ball pick up anything?
Not only from Mother Nature, but your golf ball can pick up anything while it’s making its way to the green. So the question comes to mind: Can I pick and clean my golf ball anywhere on ...
What is the best way to clean golf balls?
Choose a golf ball cleaning agent. Many home solutions are convenient solvents. Cleaning options include undiluted beach or ammonia. However, do not mix these chemicals together for safety purposes. For the quickest and cheapest option, a soap and water mixture may work.
Why should golf balls be white?
Additionally, a golf ball should shine brilliantly white to assist with visibility during play.
What happens if you connect a golf ball to a golf club?
A club connecting with a dirty ball can result in poor impact or backspin, negatively affecting distance, speed and shot accuracy.
Can golf balls dry in the sun?
Balls can dry in the sun or be shined off with a towel. The result will be clean, white golf balls that are aesthetically pleasing and fully-functional for the next round. Sorry, the video player failed to load. (Error Code: 100013)
What is the worst way to clean a golf ball?
And the worst part is the combination of strong detergent and a stiff brush to scrub the ball. This mistake will accidentally create large scratches on the ball, causing unsightly and even damage to the golf ball surface. A suitable option for golfers is hydrogen peroxide.
What do you need to clean golf balls?
In addition, clean balls give a more precise path. To clean golf balls, I need to prepare some items such as dishwashing liquid, a small brush, a dishwasher, and a clean towel. You May Like: Top 13 Best Golf Balls for Beginners. 1.
How to get scratches out of golf balls?
First, use a soft brush (you can use an old toothbrush) to clean the glossy surface. Next, take a sponge and gently rub the golf ball surface to become smoother.
How to clean light stains on golf balls?
The process of cleaning light stains on golf balls: First, put the ball in a large basin or dishwasher drawer. Add a sufficient amount of dishwashing liquid to clean.
What is the best way to clean yellowed golf balls?
A suitable option for golfers is hydrogen peroxide. It will help you completely remove the yellow stains on the ball without having to rub or scrub hard. If you are still wondering about this, follow the expert advice in the video below: Watch Video: The Best Way to Clean Recovered Golf Balls.
How to clean a tennis ball?
For moderate stains, the cleaning process is as follows: Place the ball in a small bowl and add just enough warm water. At this point, you need to use some stronger detergent to clean the ball. It could be a ball cleaning solution, ammonia, or vinegar. Soak for a few hours before moving on to the next step.
What to do after a golf ball is cleaned?
Clean Towel. After the ball has been cleaned, it is essential to dry it. Now, you will need a soft and clean towel that will help you dry off any remaining water on the outside of the golf ball. You May Like: Top 12 Best Glow in the Dark Golf Balls.
loki16
Me again. On a green, I marked my ball, lifted it, and wiped the dirt off on the green beside my marker. Was then called a penalty for testing the rub of the green ( which I wasn't trying to do). I thought legitimate ball cleaning was ok?
rogolf
Maybe he forgot to refer to the Rule book and Decisions? I agree that he was wrong, but maybe he learned something about the Rules and the process of answering questions.
edwjmcgrath
Just like brushing loose impediments off the green with your hand, it's intent based. If you're obviously rubbing to test the grain of the green, it's a penalty. If you're obviously just removing the junk on the green or the ball, no penalty.
mcanadiens
Pardon this if it's too obvious. If the ball is on the green and you mark it, you can clean it with a proper towel. Right?
mcanadiens
I suppose if you know your playing partner real well, you could wipe the ball across the back of the guy's neck.
How far does the ball land short of the green?
The ball lands lands 20 yards short of the green, but has a clump of mud on it. Can the ball be lifted and cleaned without penalty, because it's in fairway... or is this a "rub of the green" thing and he has to play approach with muddy ball. Expand.
Can you clean a ball when it is lifted?
A.You may clean your ball any time it is lifted except when you are lifting it to see if it is cut or cracked, to identify it, because it interferes with play, or to see if it lies in a condition where relief is allowed (see Rule 14.1c).
