AboutAbe Mantell Expertise Hello, I have been playing table tennis (NOT ping-pong! ;->) for
over 20 years. Began in college and trained by a USTTA (US Table
Tennis Association) certified coach. Played in tournaments at the
collegiate, local, and regional levels. Achieved a high rating of
1580 a few years...have not been that active as of late.
Experience Rules, equipment, techniques, and jargon.
Organizations Was a USTTA (now USATT) member for many years!
Question I just started playing again, and the rubber on my blade has gotten a little abused over the years of neglect (i.e. oily, dirty) and has essentially lost most of its grip. I am wondering if you have any at home remedies for restoring the rubber without buying new ones or having to get a new bat?
Answer Hello Anthony,
What I do is use warm water and mild soap (like hand soap
or dish washing detergent). That will clean it pretty well.
If the majority of the problem is dirt, then that should
do the trick. If the rubber is old and dry - lost its
playing characteristics due to age, light/heat exposure,
then I'm pretty sure you are out of luck...as I have no
cures for that...that's when I buy new rubber!!!
Lately I have been getting some good, but inexpensive
rubber via eBay...a guy in Hong Kong I think. Let me
know if you want me to try and find his auctions for you.
