Aug 25, 2025

The Right Way to Clean Golf Clubs and Keep Them in Top Condition

by Daniel Goldfinger

Why Cleaning Your Golf Clubs Actually Matters

Let’s be honest—golf is already hard enough without trying to play it with mud-caked irons and a driver face that hasn’t seen daylight since last season. If you’ve ever hit a wedge shot that came up weirdly short, there’s a good chance your grooves were clogged with yesterday’s turf.

Cleaning your clubs isn’t about vanity—it’s about performance, durability, and feel. The good news? Learning how to clean golf clubs is simple, fast, and doesn’t require any fancy equipment (or an expensive “club spa” at the pro shop).

So whether you’re a range rat, a Sunday foursome regular, or somewhere in between, this guide will walk you through the right way to give your gear some much-needed TLC.

What You’ll Need to Clean Golf Clubs

You don’t need much—just a few household items and maybe an old towel you don’t mind getting dirty.

Basic Cleaning Supplies:

A bucket of warm water
A few drops of dish soap (nothing harsh)
A soft-bristle brush (old toothbrush works great)
A microfiber or terry towel
Toothpicks or tee for tough-to-reach grooves
Optional: Club polish for shine and finish protection

Pro Tip: Keep a compact club brush in your golf bag. It’ll help prevent gunk buildup mid-round and save you from post-round scrubbing marathons.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Golf Clubs Like a Pro

Let’s break it down club-by-club—because your driver doesn’t need the same treatment as your wedges.

How to Clean Irons and Wedges

These clubs take the most abuse—dirt, sand, rough, and the occasional root. Clean grooves = better spin and cleaner contact.

Fill a bucket with warm, soapy water (enough to cover the clubheads).
Soak the clubheads for 5–10 minutes to loosen grime.
Use your brush to scrub the face and grooves—get in there.
Rinse with clean water (don’t dunk the shaft if it's graphite).
Dry with a towel and inspect the grooves with a tee or toothpick if needed.

How to Clean Drivers and Fairway Woods

These don’t need soaking—just a quick wipe.

Dip your towel in soapy water.
Wipe the clubhead, especially the face and crown.
Use a soft brush if there’s debris in the grooves.
Dry immediately to avoid water spots.

Avoid soaking these clubs. The adhesives and finishes on woods are more sensitive, and dunking them isn’t doing your gear any favors.

How to Clean Putters

Your putter is your most-used club—it deserves love, too.

Use a damp cloth to wipe the face and sole.
Avoid scratching alignment lines.
Dry thoroughly and store with the headcover on.

Bonus Tips: Keeping Your Golf Gear in Shape

Clean your clubs after every round. A 60-second wipe-down beats a monthly scrub.
Store them in a dry place. Moisture is the enemy of grips, shafts, and finishes.
Wipe down grips with a damp towel and mild soap once a month. It helps restore tackiness.

Speaking of gear upkeep—don’t forget to check out our must-have golf accessories guide for more tools and tips to enhance your game (and keep your gear happy).

A Clean Club Is a Confident Club

There’s something satisfying about pulling a clean 8-iron from your bag, knowing the grooves are crisp and the face is spotless. It’s not just about appearance—it’s about trusting your tools when it’s time to stick one close from 140 out.

Plus, properly cared-for clubs last longer, look better, and—let’s be real—make you look like you know what you’re doing (even when the swing says otherwise).

Sun, Turf, and Club Love—Keep It All Covered

If you're the kind of golfer who takes the time to clean your clubs, you’re probably the kind who also cares about long-term performance—on and off the course.

That includes your skin. Long rounds in the sun can wear you down just like sandy bunkers and soggy grips. Toss a Sun Caddy Mineral Sunscreen Stick in your bag—it's compact, mess-free, and built for golfers who grind it out under the sun.

Want more tips on gear care, sun safety, and smarter play? Swing by the Sun Caddy Blog for easy reads that help you play longer, better, and healthier.

Need groove-cleaning inspiration? Check out Golf.com’s expert guide on club maintenance.