Alexei Volkov
Plastic balls, like those used in bowling, can be detoxed to remove dirt, debris, and grease. This process involves cleaning the ball and removing oil from the coverstock, which can affect the ball's performance. However, it is important to note that the detox methods for plastic balls differ from those for other types of balls, and incorrect methods can damage the ball beyond repair. Some sources recommend taking the ball to a pro shop for detoxing, while others suggest doing it at home with careful research and caution. The frequency of detoxing depends on factors such as the number of games played and the condition of the ball, with recommendations ranging from every 30 to 100 games or when the ball's performance declines.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is it? | Detoxing a bowling ball involves removing dirt, debris, and grease from the ball. |
| Why do it? | To improve performance, as a dirty ball may hook less than usual or not react as it did when new. |
| How often? | Every 60-100 games, or when it starts getting lazy off the breakpoint. Some sources suggest every 30 games, while others say it depends on the build-up and can be done as often as needed. |
| Where to do it? | At a pro shop or at home. |
| How to do it? | Methods include using a detox machine, an ultrasonic oven, a big sink with regulated temperature, a ball oven, and a ball spinner. After detoxing, the ball should be allowed to rest for 2-3 hours or longer before use. |
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What You'll Learn
How to detox a plastic bowling ball at home
Detoxing a plastic bowling ball at home is not recommended, as the wrong method or item can damage the ball beyond repair. However, there are some general maintenance tips and cleaning methods you can follow to keep your plastic bowling ball in good condition.
Firstly, it is important to clean your bowling ball regularly. After each use, wipe down the ball with a microfiber towel and a bowling ball cleaner. You can also use a stronger cleaner, such as Clean'N Dull, once a week, especially after sanding. Remember to clean your towels regularly, as dirty towels are less effective at removing dirt and oil.
For a deeper clean, you can use a bucket of hot water and oil detergent. Fill the bucket halfway with the hottest water from your sink (around 128°F or 53°C) and ensure it is deep enough for the ball to be submerged without water entering the finger holes. You can use wine corks or fill the bucket almost to the holes to prevent water from entering. Soak the ball for 15 to 30 minutes, then remove it and wipe it with a towel. Change the water, add a degreaser, and repeat the process.
If your ball is too greasy to handle, you can use a penetrating deep cleaner or a de-oiling method. However, baking the ball in an oven is not recommended, as it can be difficult to control the temperature, and you risk destroying your ball. If you choose to use a home device or oven to de-oil your ball, ensure the temperature does not exceed 135°F (57°C).
Finally, to prepare the surface of your bowling ball, you can use Abralon pads. Place the bowling ball on a hard surface and scrub it 25-30 times in circular motions, then turn it over and repeat on the other side. Start with a 500-grit Abralon and work your way down to a finer grit. After resurfacing, clean the ball again with a bowling ball cleaner.
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How often should a plastic bowling ball be detoxed
The consensus among bowling enthusiasts is that a plastic bowling ball does not need to be detoxed, as it does not absorb oil. However, if you notice a decrease in performance, it may be time to detox your bowling ball.
Some bowlers detox their balls after every six games, while others wait until they notice a decline in performance. The frequency of detoxing also depends on the type of bowling ball and its coverstock. Stronger coverstocks can be detoxed less frequently, usually every 60-100 games, while weaker coverstocks may need to be detoxed more often.
It is important to note that detoxing a bowling ball too often or at too high a temperature can cause the plasticizer to ooze out, making the ball brittle and prone to chipping. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the temperature under 135 degrees Fahrenheit and limit detoxing to every 60-100 games.
If you choose to detox your plastic bowling ball, there are several methods you can use, including using a machine, a big sink, or an ultrasonic oven. You can also resurface the coverstock by sanding it or using a ball spinner. However, it is important to research the proper methods to avoid damaging your bowling ball.
In summary, while plastic bowling balls do not typically need to be detoxed, you may consider doing so if you notice a decrease in performance. The frequency of detoxing depends on the type of ball and its coverstock, and it is important to use the correct methods to avoid damaging your ball.
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Should you detox a plastic bowling ball in an oven
Bowling balls need to be detoxed to remove the dirt, debris, grease, and lane oil that accumulates in their pores, which can negatively impact their performance. While there are several methods to detox a bowling ball, using an oven is not recommended.
Pro shops use specialized ovens, also called sweatboxes or detox machines, to evaporate the oil from bowling balls. These ovens are designed to control the temperature accurately, ensuring the ball does not get damaged. Most home ovens, however, do not control temperature well enough, and there is a high risk of destroying the ball.
If you choose to use an oven for detoxing your plastic bowling ball, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines to minimize the risk of damage. The recommended temperature range for ball heating is typically around 125°-130°F, with 135°F as the maximum temperature to avoid the plasticizers oozing out with the oil. It is also important to ensure that the ball is in the oven for no longer than 1-1.5 hours to prevent the core from heating up, which can be detrimental.
Before placing the ball in the oven, it is essential to protect the finger holes to prevent water from seeping in. Wine corks or filling the bowl almost to the holes can help achieve this. Additionally, it is advisable to let the ball cool down for at least 2-3 hours after removing it from the oven before using it for bowling.
While oven detox can be done at home, it is important to exercise caution and follow the recommended guidelines. Improper methods or items can irreparably damage your bowling ball. Alternative methods for detoxing a bowling ball include using a bucket of hot water with oil detergent or specialized pro shop devices such as the Innovative Revivor, Jayhawk Detox, or Sweat Box.
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What are the signs a plastic bowling ball needs detoxing
A plastic bowling ball may need detoxing if its performance starts to change. For example, if it starts hooking less than usual or if it starts getting lazy off the breakpoint. This can be evidenced by a lot of weak tens or sevens.
Some bowlers detox their plastic balls every 60-100 games or so, but others say that plastic balls don't need to be detoxed at all. One source says that a plastic ball should be detoxed when it becomes too greasy to hold properly.
It's important to be careful when detoxing a plastic ball, as using the wrong method or item can damage the ball beyond repair. For example, if the temperature is too high, the plasticizers will ooze out with the oil and the ball will become brittle and start chipping around the thumbhole.
If you do decide to detox your plastic bowling ball, there are a few methods you can try. One source recommends baking the oil out of the ball, but warns not to keep the ball in for too long, as this can cause the core to heat up and be damaged. Another source recommends using a machine, but again, warns about the temperature being too high. A third source recommends taking the ball to a pro shop for detoxing, to minimize the risk of damage to the ball.
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Where to go to get a plastic bowling ball detoxed
If you're looking to get your plastic bowling ball detoxed, there are a few options available to you. Firstly, you can take it to a specialised pro shop that offers detox services. These shops have the necessary equipment, such as a sweatbox or oven, to effectively remove the absorbed lane oil from the ball's pores. This method is recommended by many bowlers and can be done in about 30 minutes with minimal risk of damage to the ball.
Alternatively, if you'd prefer to detox your bowling ball at home, there are a few different approaches you can take. One method involves filling a bucket with hot water and a bit of oil detergent, ensuring that the water doesn't run into the finger holes. You can use wine corks or fill the water almost to the holes to prevent this. Soak the bowling ball in the water for about 15 minutes, then remove it, wipe it with a towel, change the water, add degreaser, and repeat the process.
Another option for at-home detox is to use a bowling ball cleaner. Simply spray the cleaner onto the surface of the ball, wait for about 10 seconds, and then wipe it clean with a microfibre cloth. This method is effective in removing dirt and oil, prolonging the lifespan of your bowling ball.
Additionally, you can use 'Abralons' to scrub the ball. Place the bowling ball on a hard surface and scrub it in circular motions about 25-30 times. Turn the ball over and repeat the process on the other side. It is recommended to use different grit levels of Abralons, starting with a 500-grit Abralon if the ball has been heavily used.
Remember, it's important to maintain your bowling ball regularly to keep it in optimal condition and prevent damage.
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Frequently asked questions
Detoxing a plastic ball involves cleaning it to remove dirt, debris, and grease.
It is recommended to detox your plastic ball every 60-100 games. However, some people choose to do it every 30 games or after every 2-3 months.
You can detox your plastic ball at home or take it to a pro shop.
The process of detoxing a plastic ball involves using a machine or oven to heat the ball and draw out the oil and toxins. It is important to regulate the temperature to avoid damaging the ball. After detoxing, the ball should be allowed to cool and rest for at least 2-3 hours before use.
