How to Clean Pickleball Courts the Right Way
- Tucker Bartels
- May 6
- 3 min read
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, and with its popularity comes the need for regular court maintenance. Whether you're managing a private club, public park, or residential facility, keeping your pickleball courts clean not only enhances appearance but also preserves safety and performance.
At Uinta, we specialize in cleaning outdoor surfaces — including pickleball courts — using industry-leading techniques that protect your investment and keep your courts looking sharp. Here’s what you need to know about cleaning pickleball courts the right way.
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
Player Safety: Dirt, algae, mildew, and debris can create slippery surfaces that increase the risk of injury.
Performance: A clean court ensures consistent bounce and playability.
Longevity: Regular maintenance prevents surface degradation and costly repairs.
Curb Appeal: A well-maintained court reflects positively on your facility or community.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Pickleball Court
1. Sweep and Clear the Surface
Start by removing loose debris like leaves, dirt, and branches using a soft-bristle broom or blower. Be gentle — abrasive tools can damage acrylic surfaces.
2. Pre-Wet the Court and Plants
Before applying any cleaning solution, it's crucial to pre-wet both the pickleball court and the nearby landscaping. This step protects sensitive surfaces and plants from absorbing harmful amounts of cleaning solution, especially when using sodium hypochlorite or other active agents.
3. Soft Wash Court
Apply your cleaning solution using a soft wash system at low pressure (under 500 PSI). Unlike traditional pressure washing, this method prevents surface damage and preserves coatings. Let the solution dwell 5–10 minutes (but never dry out). Depending on the type of staining on your court you'll need to use one of the following solutions:
Algae and Mildew: Use a sodium hypochlorite-based solution (like a 3–4% SH mix diluted with water) combined with a surfactant. This safely kills growth without harming the acrylic.
Rust Stains: Apply an oxalic acid cleaner. It gently lifts rust without etching or discoloring the surface. Always test a small area first.
Shoe Marks, Grease and Oil Stains: Use a degreasing agent, preferably citrus-based or a biodegradable detergent designed for porous concrete or sport coatings.
Dirt, Grime, and General Buildup: A neutral pH cleaner is ideal for general cleaning. It won’t strip the court’s finish or affect the coating.
Pro Tip: Always do a test spot first at a 10:1 water-to-solution ratio! Multiple lighter treatments is better than one strong treatment.
4. Rinse and Recover
After the detergent has had time to dwell and do its job, we use a controlled rinse to wash it all away, leaving a clean, even surface. We also take care not to let runoff affect landscaping or enter storm drains.
5. Post-Clean Inspection
We inspect for any remaining spots, discoloration, or damage. If needed, we’ll follow up with touch-up treatments or recommend repairs if the surface is compromised.
How Often Should Pickleball Courts Be Cleaned?
Keeping your pickleball court clean isn’t just about looks — it’s about performance, safety, and surface longevity. While the best schedule depends on your court’s location, traffic, and exposure to the elements, a good rule of thumb is:
Daily: Blow off debris such as leaves, dust, and trash.
Weekly: Inspect for damage, surface wear, or standing water issues.
Monthly: Deep clean the surface to remove buildup, algae, or mildew.
According to Sporter Master, a leading manufacturer of court coatings:
"Basic cleaning will go a long way in preventing premature wear and staining.... Once a month is suggested. Watch for evidence of mold or mildew in shaded areas and corners where organic debris tends to accumulate."
Following this guidance not only keeps your court looking great, it also helps maintain your warranty and ensures peak playability year-round.
Choose Uinta for Safe, Professional Court Cleaning
We’re passionate about preserving the beauty and function of your outdoor spaces. Our hot water soft washing system, eco-conscious cleaning solutions, and experienced technicians make Uinta the top choice for maintaining pickleball courts across Utah.
Schedule your service with us today and keep your courts game-ready year-round.
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