How to Clean a Storm Bowling Ball
Storm bowling balls use coverstocks and factory surface finishes engineered to interact with lane oil. Reactive material can absorb oil, while an unapproved solvent, extreme heat or random abrasive work can change performance and legality. Storm's ball-care guidance calls for wiping oil during play and cleaning immediately afterward with an approved bowling-ball cleaner. Periodic extraction or resurfacing belongs to the product's maintenance schedule and a qualified pro shop. This guide protects the coverstock, engraved markings and finger-hole components without treating a dishwasher or hot-water soak as a safe shortcut.
Published · Updated
Primary reference: Storm official bowling-ball care guide. Always check the manual for your exact model.
Quick reference
- During play
- Wipe lane oil with a clean shammy after shots.
- After play
- Use compatible USBC-approved ball cleaner immediately.
- Keep dry
- Finger holes, tape and insert bonds.
- Never
- Dishwasher, oven, hot car, household solvent or random sanding.
- Pro shop
- Deep oil extraction, insert work and full resurfacing.
What you will need
- Storm's care instructions for the exact ball and coverstock
- Clean bowling shammy for use during play
- Several microfiber cloths
- USBC-approved bowling-ball cleaner compatible with the ball
- Soft brush for dry finger-hole debris, if permitted
- Dry towel
- Stable ball cup
- Pro-shop service for extraction or resurfacing when due
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Identify the coverstock and surface
Read the label and Storm specification for the exact ball, including coverstock, factory finish and any polish. Note removable thumb or finger inserts. Do not assume a cleaner or abrasive process used on one Storm model fits another; surface grit and polish are part of the ball's designed reaction.
Step 2: Wipe oil during play
Use a clean bowling shammy or approved towel after each shot to remove visible lane oil before it migrates farther into the coverstock. Rotate the ball in a stable hand position and keep fingers away from the ball return. A microfiber towel and shammy may lift different amounts, so follow Storm's product guidance for the coverstock.
Step 3: Place the ball in a stable cup
After bowling, set the ball in a ball cup on a protected surface. Remove loose tape only as the insert instructions allow and keep cleaner out of open holes. Do not balance the ball on a towel where it can roll, and never clean it while a return mechanism is moving.
Step 4: Apply approved ball cleaner
Use a USBC-approved bowling-ball cleaner identified as compatible with the Storm coverstock. Spray it onto a microfiber cloth or use it according to its label, then wipe one panel at a time. Do not substitute household degreaser, acetone, alcohol blend, glass cleaner or automotive product simply because it removes oil.
Step 5: Rotate and wipe until cloth transfer stops
Turn the ball in the cup and clean the full circumference, including the track area and around engraved markings. Change cloth sections so oil is not spread back over the surface. Keep liquid from pooling at finger holes and inserts. Use moderate pressure; routine cleaning should not change surface texture.
Step 6: Clean finger holes cautiously
Wipe the rims and remove loose dry debris with a soft tool allowed for the inserts. Do not flood holes, pull out glued components or sand an insert as part of cleaning. Odor or tack inside a hole may involve tape adhesive or insert wear, and a pro shop can clean or replace those components without altering span.
Step 7: Dry and inspect
Buff only as the cleaner label directs and dry the entire ball. Inspect for cracks, deep gouges, loose inserts and unusual coverstock color changes. Keep the ball away from extreme hot or cold temperatures; thermal stress can crack it, and heat used to force oil out can damage the cover or core bond.
Step 8: Schedule deep oil removal appropriately
When routine cleaner no longer restores response or oil continues to surface, use Storm's recommended maintenance interval and a qualified pro shop for oil extraction. Do not put the ball in a dishwasher, oven, hot car or uncontrolled hot-water bath. Controlled equipment and temperature protect the coverstock.
Step 9: Resurface only to a known specification
Lane wear eventually changes the surface. Have the ball resurfaced or polished to the Storm specification or an intentional documented adjustment using legal materials. Random sanding can flatten logos, change reaction and create an uneven circumference. Store the clean ball in a stable bag at moderate temperature.
Specific cleaning questions
Open a question for a concise answer about stains, odors, safety, frequency, and troubleshooting.