Discs get dirty. Sure, a little sweat and grime won't kill anybody, but sometimes my discs are so caked in mud that they won't fly.
Figuring out the best way to clean them can be tricky. Do you just rinse them off? Should you use soap? What about removing sticky grime?
The good news? Cleaning your discs properly is simple. This guide walks you through simple cleaning techniques, common mistakes to avoid, and tips to keep your discs in great shape.
Time to start washing up.
Table of Contents
Why Cleaning Your Discs Matters
You might not think a little dirt makes a difference. But having clean discs improves grip, giving you better control and accuracy. When your grip feels solid, you’ll throw with more confidence. For example, fewer of those embarrassing shanks.
Dirt also wears down plastic faster. Over time, grime embeds itself on the surface, creating tiny abrasions.
These small scratches act like sandpaper, gradually wearing down the disc and shortening its life. Keeping discs clean means they will hold their flight characteristics for longer, making them more reliable.
A dirty disc can also mess with its flight. A thin layer of dirt adds weight, making your throws unpredictable. Plus, bacteria buildup makes them smell bad, something no one wants in their bag.
Best Ways to Clean Disc Golf Discs
Cleaning your disc golf discs is simple. Use these methods based on how dirty they are:
Basic Wash
For everyday dirt, a basic wash works well. Fill a bowl with warm water, add a few drops of mild dish soap, and scrub gently with a soft cloth.
Pay close attention to the rim, where dirt builds up. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry.
Avoid using harsh detergents or scented soaps. They can leave a residue that affects the grip.
Powerful cleaners and strippers could also remove the disc's stamp, so keep an eye out for that!
Deep Clean
After a muddy round, deeper cleaning is often needed. Use a toothbrush or soft brush to scrub the grooves and crevices. Preferably not the toothbrush you use for your teeth. Poor disc.
For sticky grime, apply a little isopropyl alcohol to a cloth and gently rub it off. Don’t scrub too hard, as this can damage the plastic. This could potentially remove the stamp from your disc, so watch out for that!
Meanwhile, for stubborn stains, soak the disc in warm soapy water for 10–15 minutes before scrubbing. This loosens dirt, making it easier to remove.
Quick Wipe
During a round, a quick wipe helps maintain grip. Keep a microfiber cloth or damp towel in your bag. A few swipes remove surface dirt and restore control before your next throw.
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Restoring Older Discs
Older discs lose their shine but can still be revived. Clean with warm water, soap, and a soft brush.
It won’t make an old disc feel brand new, but it improves the grip and extends its life.
Removing Sticky Residue
Sticky residue from tape, labels, or sap can be tough to clean. Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to a cloth and gently rub the affected area. Rinse the disc thoroughly afterward to remove any residue.
What to Avoid When Cleaning
Not all cleaning methods are safe for your discs. Avoid these mistakes to keep them in top shape:
Harsh Chemicals
Bleach, acetone, and strong cleaners break down the plastic and cause discoloration. Even a small amount can mess up the surface over time. Instead, stick with mild soap and warm water to keep your discs safe.
Worse yet, powerful cleaners can remove your disc's stamp. Maybe you should just give that Sexton Firebird a quick wipe.
Abrasive Scrubbers
Steel wool and rough brushes scratch the surface, which changes how your disc flies. Those tiny scratches add drag and mess with accuracy. A soft cloth or sponge works just as well without risking damage.
Extreme Temperatures
Boiling water can warp your disc, while freezing temperatures make it brittle. Sudden temperature changes can lead to cracking or warping, which affects how it flies.
Warm (but not hot) water is best, and it's a good idea to keep your discs away from extreme weather.
Skipping Rinse and Drying
Not rinsing off soap or cleaner leaves a residue that affects your grip and flight. Make sure to rinse well and let your disc dry completely before tossing it back in your bag. Otherwise, a damp disc just ends up attracting more dirt.
How to Store and Maintain Clean Discs
Once your discs are clean, proper storage helps keep them that way. A little extra care goes a long way in maintaining their condition.
Keep Your Bag Clean
Dirt from the course tends to build up inside your bag. Wipe down your discs before putting them away, and clean your bag regularly to stop dirt from transferring back.
A clean bag means cleaner discs and a better round.
Be Mindful of Weather Conditions
Wet or muddy courses leave discs dirty fast. Dry them thoroughly after rounds to prevent mold and bad odors.
Taking just a few minutes to clean and dry them from time to time keeps them in better shape for longer.
Key Takeaways
Clean discs perform better, last longer, and feel better in your hand.
Use the right cleaning methods to avoid damaging the plastic or your disc's stamp. Also, proper storage keeps your discs free from dirt and ready for action. A little effort now goes a long way in keeping your discs in top condition.
Now that you know how to care for your discs, give your bag a once-over and show them some love. Your future rounds will thank you for it!
