Expert: Chip Aki - 1/6/2009

Question
Mr. Aki,

When cleaning and maintaining a synthetic lane approach, would the use of rubbing alcohol and/or Windex for spot cleaning have any effect on a bowler's footing while making an approach? Is it common for bowling alleys to use such products to maintain/clean approach surfaces? Any guidance on this issue would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

George

Answer
I know the centers here use a mixture of alcohol and water.  I have not seen Windex used.
There are cleaners and conditioners that manufacturers have available as well.  The centers here have used the Brunswick approach spotter for small areas.  To much of that makes them pretty slick though, at least that has been the exerience here.

Odd thing about synthetics.........too clean can make the olders panels tacky.  They need a little dust to make them playable.  The newer synthetics have a bit more texture and do not seem to have that problem.

If you have other questions that I did not answer, contact a bowling distibutor in your area.  They will be able to offer help as well.

Good luck,
Chip