A pool table is an investment on many levels. It's supposed to set a certain tone and bring a particular look to a room, and it's supposed to provide entertainment throughout its lifetime, which ideally will be many years. But in order to last that long, your pool table needs proper care, and perhaps none is more important than how you care for your felt. Here are some tips from your friends at So Cal Pool Tables to make sure you get the most out of your felt.

Chalk and Felt: Frenemies
Chalk and pool go hand in hand. There are few things as iconic as the image of the cool-headed pool ace chalking up before a shot. But that chalk is abrasive, and with each shot, it falls on your felt and begins to filter its way down into it, destroying the fibers. Take special care to prevent damage from chalk.

• Brush the table regularly, always moving towards the pockets, or from end to end, to help prevent dust from clumping underneath the felt and throwing off shots
• Alternatively, use a low-power vacuum to prevent chalk dust buildup. Too high a power will loosen the felt, making it vulnerable to stretching and tearing. If vacuuming, don't use a brush attachment.

The Right Light
Some decent lighting is important for a good game of pool, but you don't want too much lighting. One of the most common mistakes among new pool table owners is to put their table right next to a window, or in a sunroom. Never mind years, within months, the felt exposed to all that sunlight will have faded and discolored. It can even bleach the finish of the table. Your pool table is best placed under artificial light, but if you really want it by a window or in a sunroom, get yourself a good table cover.

Maintain The Pieces
While it's essential to give the felt it's direct care and attention, that won't do any good if your felt is being dirtied by everything placed on it. Keep the pool balls and rack clean, and don't let chalk-tipped pool cues rest on it. Similarly, keep non-pool items off the felt as much as possible.

Caring for the felt on your table is one of the simplest things you can do to ensure it has long and fulfilling place in your home. For more information on table care, or getting your own table, visit So Cal Pool Tables online, or contact us today at (323) 573-3449!