Also called table tennis, ping pong has been a popular casual sport ever since the 1800s. Though the game has multiple variations, the current format came into being during the 1920s. Several enthusiasts have their best ping pong tables stored in garages, basements, or external living spaces. It is crucial to keep the table clean and maintained properly to make the best use of it.
Cleaning the Table
Start cleaning by wiping the table with a dry, soft cloth after every use. This routine maintenance helps keep the table debris-free and clean under most scenarios.
Create a non-toxic, nonabrasive cleaner for a more intense cleaning session, once every quarter. Mix some water (two or three cups) with white vinegar (1/3 cup) in a bowl. Dip a fiber cloth in the solution and wring the cloth till it’s damp.
Unscrew the table net before cleaning. After having placed the net aside, use the wet cloth for wiping the table top. Use another dry cloth for wiping the table dry.
Have the table net soaked in the water-vinegar solution for close to 15 minutes. Take the net out of the solution and put it flat on a surface to let it dry. Once completely dry, re-install the net. You may also use a lubricant for oiling the table’s movable metal parts to complete the regular maintenance.
A word of caution: The best ping pong tables are usually made from wood. For ideal results, do not let the cleaning cloth over-saturate in water prior to wiping the table surface down. Refrain from using bleach-based or abrasive cleaners.
Tip: Rather than preparing a water-vinegar cleanser, a cleanser specially meant for cleaning ping pong tables could be bought in stores. These cleansers can be easily found online or at offline specialty retailers.
Painting the Table
Generally, alkyd paint is used for finishing ping pong tables. Used on chalkboard surfaces as well, the paint is durable – not to forget its resistance to abrasion and scratching. The paint could be used for coating a wooden table tennis table, and also properly prepared plaster, metal, wallboard and slate surfaces. There are different brands of alkyd paint available that could be found at several home improvement outlets.
Besides the paint type, there are a few other things that need to be considered.