Darts Cleaning

I feature this section on another one of my Dart websites. However, it is something that many players can overlook.

Cleaning darts isn’t something most consider. However, if you use a chalkboard to mark, you will quickly find your darts will become coated in chalk, which is not necessarily a bad thing as some players, such as Kieth Dellar and others, use chalk and dart finger wax to help grip the dart.

But playing in pub environments, in particular, darts can become greasy and slip from your fingers unintentionally when you begin to throw. Keeping your darts clean can help prevent the wild dart slip many of us have experienced.

 

How to Clean Your Darts

Why clean darts?

You may see some darters using chalk or forms of gripping wax on their fingers. They use this to help their grip on the dart, but one of the best ways to maintain a good grip is to ensure they are clean and your hands are free from grease. So put down your crisp packets and wash your hands! But seriously, giving your darts a good clean is worthwhile every so often.

John Lowe, three times world champion, says that immersing your dart barrels in a household beach overnight works wonders for removing the grime off your darts. Other methods include toothpaste, vinegar and shaving gel. I use a very similar way of cleaning darts.

All you need is a strong soap such as washing up liquid. Shaving gel is also good when used neat. I have tried the bleach method, but be aware this can pit your darts, and anything too strong can remove any painted rings you may have on your darts very quickly. This method is tried and tested, so see below.

 

Cleaning Darts

First, find a small container that will hold your barrels and liquid. An ideal container is a washing powder scoop, as shown here. Add to the container 25ml washing up liquid. Then, place the barrels into the liquid.

Fill the container up with 100ml warm water and leave for 2-3 hours or overnight. Use a toothbrush on the barrels after the period if needed. You will see the dirt come away like magic.

 

 

First, find a small container that will hold your barrels and liquid. An ideal container is a washing powder scoop, as shown here. Add to the container 25ml washing up liquid. Then, place the barrels into the liquid.

Fill the container up with 100ml warm water and leave for 2-3 hours or overnight. Use a toothbrush on the barrels after the period if needed. You will see the dirt come away like magic.

Remove the darts, rinse them with clean water and wipe them dry. Please note this process is not suitable for painted darts as the paint may lift. Golden darts will also dull. If you are young of age reading this, please ask an adult to do this for you. I don't want angry emails from any disgruntled parents about this advice.

The finished result is a clean dart; you may even find this process slightly pits the barrels, but this is not necessarily bad as it helps the grip.

To restore total shine to your dart, use the side of a non-painted steel tip dart point to buff or similar objects. However, this isn't really necessary.

Please note Darts-Oche.com nor its owner accept any responsibility for losses or injury should you choose to follow the above method.

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