Bowling Accessories (Bowling Towels and Shammies) Frequently Asked Questions
updated: June, 2026Have a question about bowling towels and shammies? This is the place where we've gathered all our questions about bowling towels and shammies from our guides and articles, so you can find expert answers quickly and get back to bowling. For the quickest answers, use the search bar below.
Q: What’s the difference between a shammy pad and a microfiber towel for cleaning bowling balls?
A: Shammy pads (especially leather) are great for quick, deep oil removal between shots because they pull oil out effectively. Microfiber towels excel at trapping oil with their fine fibers and are ideal for full wipe-downs after play. Many bowlers carry both.Q: Is it really worth buying a new shammy pad or microfiber towel instead of using a free cotton rag?
A: Yes — most bowlers notice more consistent ball reaction within the first night or two. These tools are inexpensive compared to balls, shoes, and league fees, and they help your equipment last longer while helping you shoot better scores.Q: What should I look for when buying shammy pads or microfiber towels?
A: Look for good absorbency that grabs rather than just wipes, dual-sided or generously sized options, comfortable fit in your hand or bag, and easy care (rinse/wring or machine washable). Round shammy pads and quality microfiber are popular for a reason.Q: Can’t I just keep washing my old cotton towel and keep using it for my bowling ball?
A: Washing helps a bit, but cotton mostly smears oil around on reactive coverstocks instead of lifting it out of the pores. You’ll still deal with buildup that changes your ball’s reaction over time. A shammy pad or microfiber towel works much better at actually removing the oil.Q: How often should I wipe or clean my bowling ball with a shammy pad or microfiber towel?
A: Do a quick wipe with a shammy or microfiber between most shots or whenever the ball feels oily. For best results, give it a more thorough cleaning every few games or after every session on heavier oil conditions to keep the reaction consistent.
Bowling.com Knowledge Hub:
Your One-Stop For Bowling Education
More than just a blog, the Bowling.com Knowledge Hub is your one-stop resource for everything related to bowling learning and education. Whether you’re a beginner trying to pick your first ball or a serious league bowler looking to fine-tune your arsenal, the Bowling.com Pro Staff has created in-depth guides, the latest ball reviews, performance charts, and practical tips.
