Cleaning and maintaining your bowling wrist support doesn't have to be a hassle. In fact, if you keep up with regular maintenance, it should extend the life of your gear significantly. I find that starting with a good schedule helps. For instance, if you bowl three times a week, consider a light cleaning after each session and a thorough cleaning every two weeks. Keeping a routine like this makes the process less overwhelming and more manageable.
The first step after any session is to wipe the wrist support down with a damp cloth. This removes sweat and grime immediately. You don't want dirt and oils to set into the material because it will deteriorate faster that way. Sweat, especially, can break down the material over time. Bowling wrist supports like the one I use often have specific care instructions on the packaging that are ideal to follow for longevity.
I remember reading an article about a professional bowler who mentioned he always uses a mild detergent mixed with water for a deeper clean. Aim for a ratio of one teaspoon of detergent to one cup of water. The less soapy the better, as too much soap can leave a residue. You’ll want to scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush, focusing more on the areas that directly contact your skin. Always rinse thoroughly and make sure no soap is left behind.
Drying your wrist support is another step that you shouldn’t ignore. Avoid using a dryer or exposing it to direct sunlight as this can warp the product. Instead, pat it dry with a towel and let it air dry completely before your next use. Patience here is key; rushing the drying process can compromise the structure of the support.
Storing the wrist support correctly also ensures its durability. A cool, dry place away from direct sunlight is best. If like me, you also have other bowling gear, consider a dedicated section for the wrist support. This avoids any accidental damage from heavier items. Storing it flat rather than rolled up helps maintain its shape better over time.
I remember one time I left my wrist support in my car's glove compartment in the height of summer. Bad idea! The extreme heat caused some of the stitching to come loose, and I had to buy a replacement sooner than expected. Bowling wrist supports are built to endure a lot, but they're not invincible. Treating them with care saves money in the long run.
Another useful tip is to perform a quick check before each use. Make sure the Velcro is still strong, and the fabric is free from tears or weak spots. If you spot any damage early, addressing it can prevent it from getting worse. Just last month, I noticed a small tear on my wrist support. I sewed it up quickly, and it's still holding up fine. Ignoring such small repairs could lead to bigger issues later—expensive ones at that.
For those who like to be extra thorough, you can even employ the use of sports gear cleaning sprays. These are specifically designed to kill bacteria and remove odors. Such products are a bit of an investment, but the return is worth it if you bowl often. Personally, I haven't needed to use them yet, as my routine keeps things in check, but they're worth considering.
Finally, try to avoid sharing your wrist support with others. It might seem trivial, but different body oils and sweat can mix, leading to quicker wear and tear. A professional bowler once said that his wrist support around thirty dollars, lasted him a full season by using proper cleaning and checking techniques. Compare that to someone not maintaining their gear, who might have to replace theirs every couple of months.
Maintaining your bowling wrist support doesn't have to be an ordeal. Stick to a schedule, use mild cleaning products, dry and store it properly, and keep an eye out for any damage. This way, your wrist support will serve you well for a long time, helping you bowl at your best. Sometimes, it's the little, consistent efforts that yield the best results.