How to Clean Golf Clubs: A Beginner’s Guide to Care & Maintenance

Why Cleaning Your Clubs Impacts Performance

Even small amounts of dirt can affect your shots, especially if you’re building skills. Clean grooves give you better contact and spin, while fresh grips help your hands stay secure and relaxed on every swing.

The Role of Grooves

Grooves on the club face help channel away grass and debris so the club grips the ball and creates backspin. If they’re clogged, the ball can slide up the face, making your shot fly too high and unpredictable. Keeping grooves clear ensures reliable distance and control.

Grip Confidence

Dirty grips get slick over time. This forces you to grip harder, creating tension and taking away from a natural, smooth swing. Clean, tacky grips help you hold the club lightly and make confident swings.

Essential Tools for Cleaning Golf Clubs

You don’t need special equipment to clean your clubs—just gather these supplies:

• Plastic bucket (large enough for clubheads)

• Warm water (never boiling)

• Mild dish soap

• Soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush or vegetable brush)

• Microfiber towel (for drying)

• Groove tool or tee (optional)

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Irons and Wedges

Irons and wedges pick up the most dirt, but cleaning them is straightforward.

1. Prepare the Bath

Fill a bucket with warm water and mild dish soap. Stir until sudsy. The water should be warm, not hot.

2. Soak the Heads

Submerge only the clubheads, keeping water below the hosel (the neck at the top of the clubhead). Let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes to loosen dirt.

3. Scrub the Grooves

Take out one club at a time. Use a soft brush to clean the clubface, grooves, sole, and back. For stubborn grime in the grooves, use a tee or toothpick. Avoid metal tools to protect the finish.

4. Rinse and Dry

Rinse with clean water and dry well with a towel. Avoid putting wet clubs back in your bag to prevent rust.

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Special Care: How to Clean Woods and Hybrids

Woods and hybrids should never be soaked. These clubs often use composite and metal parts that can be damaged by excess water.

The Dip-and-Wipe Method:

1. Dip your brush or towel into soapy water.

2. Gently scrub the face and sole.

3. Lightly wipe the crown (top) with a damp cloth.

4. Quickly rinse with a clean, damp cloth and dry right away.

Don't Forget the Grips

Clean grips help you maintain control and swing comfortably.

1. Dampen the grip with a wet cloth (do not soak).

2. Add a drop of dish soap to your brush or a gentle scrub pad.

3. Scrub all sides of the grip.

4. Rinse under a gentle stream of water while holding the club upside down. Keep water away from the shaft to avoid water seeping inside or under components.

5. Pat dry and let the grip air dry before storing.

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Dealing with Rust and Scuff Marks

• Rust spots: Use a cloth lightly dampened with white vinegar. Rub gently, then rinse and dry.

• Sky marks or scuffs: Use a non-abrasive car wax or scratch remover for marks on drivers or woods.

• Stubborn grime: A melamine sponge can remove residue—use gently.

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t use steel wool—it damages finishes and invites more rust.

• Don’t put clean clubs back into a dirty bag. Empty your bag and wipe out dividers occasionally.

• Don’t delay cleaning—mud and grime are easiest to remove right after a round.

How to Store Golf Clubs

Store your clubs indoors to protect the epoxy, grips, and metal from damage.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Avoid leaving clubs in the trunk or garage. High heat breaks down epoxy and dries out grips; dampness encourages rust and mold.

Ideal Storage Locations

Keep clubs in a climate-controlled spot, like a closet or finished basement. Whether upright or lying flat, ensure nothing presses on the shafts. Use a rain cover to keep dust off between rounds.

Taking care of your clubs is part of building your essential skills as a golfer. With a quick cleaning routine and proper storage, your clubs will be ready every time you hit the course. For more golf advice or help upgrading your gear, our Golf Experts at your local SCHEELS are always here to support your journey.