If you’ve been on the pickleball court long enough, you’ve probably heard about paddle erasers. These nifty tools promise to keep your paddle clean and maintain its performance, but do they really work? And more importantly, can they damage your paddle?
Let’s break it down.
Do Paddle Erasers Work?
Absolutely! Paddle erasers are effective tools for keeping your pickleball paddle clean and maintaining its performance. When you play, tiny pieces of plastic from the ball can collect on your paddle’s surface, clogging the grooves and reducing your ability to generate spin. Using a paddle eraser helps remove this residue, restoring your paddle’s grip and spin capabilities.
Clean paddles have been shown to provide better grip and responsiveness, allowing for more effective and consistent shots. This enhancement in performance can be particularly noticeable when the paddle face is free from dirt and debris.
Plus, by regularly cleaning your paddle with an eraser, you can extend its life. Keeping dirt and debris off your paddle prevents residue buildup that can wear down the surface over time.
Can They Damage Your Paddle?
This is a common concern, but the consensus is that rubber paddle erasers are generally safe for raw carbon fiber paddles. And we agree. The gentle rubber material used in paddle erasers effectively removes dirt and residue without harming the paddle surface. Just make sure to use light to moderate pressure while cleaning to avoid scratching the surface.
However, caution is necessary when dealing with paddles that have painted grit surfaces, such as those from Franklin (with their signature paddle) and Diadem (specifically on the Warrior and Vice models). Using a rubber eraser on these can potentially cause damage by rubbing off the grit or paint.
Even though a kevlar paddle engineer has confirmed that it’s safe to use rubber erasers on kevlar paddles, we recommend using a paddle spray eraser, such as Paddle Reset, and a damp cloth for cleaning kevlar, fiberglass, and graphite paddles. This method ensures you avoid any potential damage, as these materials can be more sensitive.
Plus, it works well on carbon fiber paddles too, offering a versatile cleaning solution.
Will It Affect Spin?
Actually, a clean paddle can significantly improve spin. When a paddle’s surface is clogged with dirt and ball residue, its ability to grip and impart spin on the ball diminishes. Cleaning your paddle with a paddle eraser can restore this crucial texture.
This improvement happens because the eraser removes the buildup that smooths out the paddle’s surface. By clearing away this residue, the paddle can grip the ball more effectively, resulting in enhanced spin.
Choosing the Best Paddle Eraser
When it comes to maintaining your paddle, using the right eraser can make a significant difference. Here’s our 2 top choices for cleaning your paddle:
1. CRBN Paddle Eraser
- Easy, fast, & effective
- Portable convenience
- Helps regain spin
This is one of the most popular options on the market, and for good reason. It works wonders on carbon fiber paddles, effectively cleaning ball residue, dirt, and minor scrapes without causing damage.
Its soft rubber blend ensures thorough cleaning while maintaining the paddle’s grip and spin capabilities.
2. Spray Reset
- Strips impacted residue
- Resets paddle surface
- Quick & easy to use
- Increases spin & control
For kevlar, graphite, and fiberglass paddles, we recommend using a paddle spray cleaner like Paddle Reset. This residue-free, fast-drying solution gently removes ball plastic, dust, dirt, and grime, revealing the paddle’s natural surface.
It’s a gentle yet effective way to clean these more sensitive materials without causing any damage.
How to Use a Paddle Eraser
Using a paddle eraser correctly can make all the difference. Here are some friendly tips to help you get the most out of your eraser:
- Test First: Not sure if the eraser will work for your paddle? Try it out on a small, hidden area first to make sure it won’t cause any damage.
- Gentle Pressure: When cleaning your paddle with a rubber eraser, use light to moderate pressure. This will prevent any potential damage to the paddle’s surface.
- Use at an Angle: Here’s a pro tip from a carbon fiber paddle engineer—use the rubber eraser at an angle. This technique helps you effectively remove buildup without applying too much force.
- How to Use a Spray Eraser: Simply spray on the cleaner, wait for a few minutes, and wipe with a damp cloth for best results.
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Stick to paddle erasers and steer clear of abrasive or chemical cleaners. They can do more harm than good.
How Often to Use Paddle Erasers
After Every Few Games: Use the eraser every few games to prevent dirt buildup. This keeps your paddle’s grip and spin sharp.
When You Notice Buildup: If you see dirt or ball residue, it’s time to clean. Regular use maintains the paddle’s texture and performance.
Weekly Cleaning: If you play a lot, clean your paddle weekly. This ensures it stays in peak condition and extends its lifespan.
Before Tournaments: Give your paddle a thorough clean before big matches for optimal performance.
By keeping your paddle clean regularly, you’ll ensure it performs well and lasts longer.
Happy playing!
