Whether you’re a weekend golfer or someone who hits the course every chance you get, the condition of your golf club grips can seriously impact your performance. Dirty or worn grips lead to slipping hands, erratic shots, and frustration on the course. If you’ve been wondering how to clean golf grips the right way, you’ve come to the perfect place.

Keeping grips clean is essential for maintaining a proper golf grip and ensuring consistency in your swing. This guide breaks down every detail—from basic cleaning techniques to deep cleaning methods and even signs that might mean it’s time for changing a golf club grip entirely.

Why Clean Golf Grips Matter More Than You Think

Before we dive into how to clean golf grips, let’s talk about why it’s so important. Grips are your only point of contact with your clubs. Oils from your hands, dirt from the course, and even sunscreen residue all build up over time. This grime reduces tackiness, meaning your hands might slip during your swing.

Clean grips mean:

• Better control and confidence in your swing
• More consistent contact with the ball
• A longer lifespan for your grips
• A more comfortable feel every time you play

Neglecting this simple task could lead to expensive replacements or, worse, developing bad habits in your grip technique.

Basic Supplies Needed to Clean Golf Grips

Before we walk you through how to clean a golf grip, gather these supplies:

• Mild dish soap
• Warm water
• Soft-bristle brush or old toothbrush
• Clean towel
• Bucket or sink
• Optional: Grip cleaner spray (designed specifically for golf grips)
• Optional: Microfiber cloth for drying

You likely already have everything you need at home to refresh your grips today.

How to Clean Golf Grips Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution

Fill a bucket or sink with warm water—just enough to submerge a towel or brush, not the entire club. Add a few drops of mild dish soap and swirl it around until the water is lightly sudsy.

Step 2: Wipe Down the Grips

Dip a clean towel into the soapy water, wring it out slightly, and thoroughly wipe down each grip. Focus on areas where your hands most frequently hold the club.

Step 3: Scrub Gently

For grips with deep grooves or noticeable dirt buildup, use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the surface. This helps remove embedded grime while preserving the grip’s texture.

Step 4: Rinse with Clean Water

Use a separate towel dampened with plain water to wipe away any soap residue. Avoid running grips directly under water, especially if your clubs have steel shafts, as excess water can lead to rust.

Step 5: Dry Completely

Using a dry towel, pat the grips dry. Let the clubs air dry for 30 minutes before using them again to ensure all moisture has evaporated.

Deep Cleaning: When Basic Cleaning Isn’t Enough

Sometimes, a quick wipe-down won’t cut it—especially if it’s been months since your last cleaning. If your grips feel slippery even after cleaning, it’s time for a deeper clean.

What You’ll Need:

• Isopropyl alcohol
• Clean microfiber cloth
• Rubber gloves (optional)

How to Deep Clean:

• Dampen the microfiber cloth with alcohol.
• Thoroughly wipe down each grip to dissolve built-up oils and grime.
• Allow grips to air dry completely before use.

Pro Tip: This method works best for rubber grips. For synthetic or cord grips, check manufacturer recommendations to avoid damaging the material.

Signs You Need More Than Cleaning—Time to Replace Your Grips

Even with the best cleaning routine, grips wear down over time. Knowing when to clean vs. when to replace is crucial for maintaining a proper golf grip.

Replace your grips if:

• The texture feels smooth or slippery after cleaning
• Cracks or splits appear along the grip surface
• Grips feel hard instead of slightly tacky
• Your hands slip during your swing, even in dry conditions

Preventive Care For Golf Grips

If you’re tired of scrubbing your grips too often, a few smart habits can reduce the need for deep cleans.

Pro Tips for Grip Longevity:

• Wash hands before you play: This minimizes oil and dirt transfer.
• Avoid excessive sunscreen on your hands: Apply it well before touching your clubs.
• Store clubs properly: Keep them in a cool, dry place—not in a hot car trunk.
• Use a damp towel on the course: A quick wipe during your round keeps grips from accumulating grime.

Understanding Grip Types: Does Material Affect Cleaning?

All grips aren’t created equal. Different materials require slightly different care techniques, so knowing what type of golf club grips you have matters.

Rubber Grips

• Most common, easiest to clean.
• Soap and water works well.

Cord Grips

• Textured for added traction.
• May need firmer scrubbing to remove embedded dirt.
• Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can fray fibers.

Synthetic Grips

• Water-resistant and durable.
• Can tolerate occasional alcohol cleaning for stubborn grime.

Leather Grips

• Less common but still used in premium clubs.
• Requires special leather cleaner and conditioner to prevent drying out.

DIY vs. Professional Grip Cleaning Services

While learning how to clean golf grips at home is easy, some golfers prefer handing the job off to pros. Many golf pro shops offer club cleaning services that include grip maintenance.

Advantages of Professional Cleaning

• Expert assessment of grip condition.
• Proper cleaning products matched to your grip type.
• Recommendations for changing a golf club grip if needed.