5 Essential Tools Every Bowler Needs in Their Accessory Bag
updated: January, 2026
Close your eyes and imagine yourself on the lanes. It's the final game of your tournament, and you're neck-and-neck for the win. Your ball starts picking up too much oil midlane, hooking early and leaving splits you can't convert. Why? You left your oil-free towel at home. No way to wipe down quick between shots. Your scores tank, and you walk away empty-handed. Lesson learned the hard way! Your accessory pouch isn't just extra weight. It's your lifeline on the lanes. Having the right tools keeps your game sharp, fixes issues on the fly, and lets you focus on striking. As someone who's been there, trust me, you've gotta pack these essentials every time. But what are the most essential tools you should always keep stocked?
1. Towels & See-Saws
A simple bowling towel is your first line of defense against oil buildup and sweat. A good towel wipes your ball clean between throws, keeping the surface consistent so it reacts right on the lane. See-saws help scrub deeper without scratching, restoring that factory-like grip. Without them, your ball can go from hooking strong to sliding unpredictably, turning a solid game into a mess of constant adjustments. I've seen bowlers borrow from others mid-league just to survive. Don't be that guy. Keep one dry for hands and one dedicated to the ball. It'll save your average and make your long sessions way more fun.
Top Towels & See-Saws
SEE ALL
2. Tape & Bandages
Thumb and finger holes can swell or shrink with heat, humidity, or even a bad throw, messing up your release. Bowler's tape lets you tweak the fit instantly (add it for snugness or remove for extra room) while bandages protect against blisters and cuts from repeated shots. They are truly essential for consistency, especially in tournaments where every frame counts. Imagine drilling your ball perfect but fighting slippage all night. Tape fixes that fast. It's like having a mini pro shop in your bag, helping you stay comfortable and confident, so you won't have to head home early.
Top Bowlers Tape & Bandages
SEE ALL
3. Wrist Supports
For that repeatable swing and release, wrist supports lock in your form. They prevent over-flexing or collapsing, which leads to hooks going wild or weak rolls. If you're like me and bowl multiple games, fatigue sets in quick. But supports keep your wrist steady, boosting power and accuracy. Newer bowlers especially benefit, learning proper technique without bad habits creeping in. It's not about looking like a pro (although that's an added benefit). It's more about throwing strikes when it matters. Skip this, and you risk injury or inconsistent scores that frustrate the fun out of the sport.
Top Wrist Supports
SEE ALL
4. Cleaners & Polishes
Lane oil breaks down your ball's cover over time, dulling the reaction you need for big hooks or straight spares. Cleaners strip away the gunk after sessions, while polishes restore shine or matte for the right friction. They're key to longevity. They extend your ball's life and keep it performing like when you first bought it. Without regular use of cleaners and polish, balls lose pop, forcing constant switches or buys. It's not any different than maintenance for your car. Skip it, and things break down. A quick clean mid-game can even revive a fading ball, turning a tough pattern into winnable frames. That's what we want, right?
Top Cleaners & Polishes
SEE ALL
5. Grip Sacks
Sweaty hands are a bowler's nightmare, causing slips that send balls into the gutter or weak through the pins. Grip sacks absorb moisture and add tack, keeping your hold secure for clean releases. They're simple but game-changing, especially in humid alleys or high-pressure moments. No more wiping on pants or shaking hands dry. Just a quick squeeze, and you're back to striking. It keeps the rhythm going, making bowling feel effortless and enjoyable instead of a battle against the elements.
Top Grip Sacks
SEE ALL
Your accessory pouch should always carry these five must-haves to keep your game on track, towels and see-saws to fight oil and keep your ball reacting right, tape and bandages to dial in that perfect fit and protect your hands, wrist supports for steady power and cleaner releases, cleaners and polishes to maintain your ball’s performance shot after shot, and grip sacks to beat sweaty palms and lock in confidence. Pack these basics every time you head to the lanes, and you’ll spend less time fighting your gear and more time striking. They’re simple, affordable, and they make a real difference in your scores and your enjoyment. Grab what you need from Bowling.com, toss them in your bag, and go have fun knocking down pins. See you on the lanes. And don't ask to borrow my towel!
