
It’s no secret that dartboards get dirty. In fact, they can often become downright nasty, especially if they’re not cleaned on a regular basis. Not only is it unsightly to have a dirty dartboard, but it can also be dangerous. This is because dirt and dust can get caught in the darts’ tips, which can then cause injuries when people are throwing them. So if you want to keep your dartboard looking clean and safe, follow these simple steps for how to clean a dartboard.
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Why Do Dartboards Need to Be Cleaned
One of the main reasons why it’s important to keep your dartboard clean is that dust can get trapped in the tips of the darts, and this can lead to injuries. Not only does a dirty dartboard look unsightly and unhygienic, but it can also cause problems for those who are playing.
Another reason why you should clean your dartboard is that it can help to prolong its lifespan. A dirty dartboard is more likely to suffer from wear and tear, and this can shorten its overall life. By taking the time to clean it on a regular basis, you’ll be able to keep it in good condition for longer.
How to Clean a Dartboard
There are a few different methods for cleaning a dartboard, depending on the material it is made from and how dirty it is. For example, if your dartboard is made from wood or fiberglass, you can simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt.
How to Clean an Electronic Dartboard

If your dartboard is electronic, cleaning it will be a bit more involved. This is because dirt and dust can get stuck in the nooks and crannies of these boards, making them harder to clean than traditional dartboards.
To clean an electronic dartboard, start by unplugging it from any power sources. Then, use a dry cloth to wipe down the surface of the board, being careful to get into all the nooks and crannies. If there is any dirt or dust that is difficult to reach, you can use a cotton swab or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove it.
Once you’ve removed all the dirt and dust from the board, you can then use a wet cloth to wipe it down. Be sure to wring out the cloth well before using it, as you don’t want to get any water on the board. Once you’ve wiped it down with a wet cloth, use a dry cloth to remove any excess moisture.
Finally, plug your dartboard back into the power source and enjoy your clean and safe playing surface!
How to Clean a Bristle Dartboard

Bristle boards are the most common type of dartboard, but they can also be the most difficult to clean. This is because people often assume that they can soak these boards or wipe them down with hot soapy water, but this will actually ruin your board almost instantly.
Instead, the process for cleaning a bristle dartboard should be done in a step-by-step process.
Step 1 – Remove the outer ring
The first step is to remove the outer ring from the board. This will make it easier to access the surface of the board so that you can clean it more effectively.
Step 2 – Wipe down the surface
Once you’ve vacuumed the surface of the dartboard, you can then wipe it down with a damp cloth. Be sure to wring out the cloth well before using it, as you don’t want to get any water on the board.
Step 3 – Vacuum the surface
Once the ring has been removed, you can then vacuum the surface of the dartboard. This will help to remove any dirt or dust that has accumulated on the board.
Step 4 – Let the board air dry
After you’ve wiped down the surface of the board, you can then let it air dry. Once it’s dry, you can then put the outer ring back on and enjoy your clean playing surface!
Step 5 – Wipe the board with a soft, mildly damp cloth
Fifth step is to wipe the board over with a very mildly damp soft cloth to remove any stains and final pieces of dirt that vacuuming didn’t quite catch. The cloth has to be so mildly damp that no water will remain on the board after wiping it down.
Step 6 – Wipe the board again with a dry cloth to remove moisture and water
Finally, to make sure that your dartboard is completely clean and free of moisture, wipe it down with a dry cloth once again. This will help to remove any lingering water streaks and ensure that your board is looking its best for the next time you play!
How to Clean a Wooden Dartboard

Wooden dartboards require a bit more care than other types of boards, as they can easily become dried out and cracked. To clean a wooden dartboard, start by soaking it in water for 30-60 minutes. This will help to soften the board and make it easier to clean.
Once the board has soaked, remove it from the water and allow it to hang and dry for another 30-60 minutes.
Then, use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface of the board, being sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. If there is any dirt or dust that is difficult to reach, you can use a cotton swab or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove it.
Once the board is completely clean, you can then re-soak it for another 30-60 minutes, and repeat these steps as necessary until your board looks like new again!
How Often Should You Clean a Dartboard
The frequency with which you should clean your dartboard will depend on several factors, including the type of board and how often you play. For most bristle boards, it is recommended that they be cleaned at least once a month to keep them looking their best. Wooden boards may require more frequent cleaning, especially if they are frequently used or exposed to the elements.
In general, it is a good idea to clean your dartboard after each use, as this will help to keep it in good condition and prevent the build-up of dirt and dust. If you notice that your board is starting to look dull or worn, then you may need to clean it more frequently.
Cleaning your dartboard is an important part of maintaining and extending its lifespan, so be sure to give it the care and attention that it deserves!
How Do You Clean a Moldy Dartboard

When your dartboard develops mold, it is important to take action right away in order to clean and preserve the board. Mold can damage the surface of the board and cause it to become discolored or warped, so it is essential that you act quickly to remove it.
To clean a moldy dartboard, start by removing the outer ring and setting it aside. Then, use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface of the board, being sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. If there is any dirt or dust that is difficult to reach, you can use a cotton swab or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove it.
Once the board is clean, you can then treat it with a mold-killing solution. There are a variety of products on the market that are designed for this purpose, so be sure to read the directions carefully before using. After treating the board, allow it to air dry completely before putting the outer ring back on.
With proper care and cleaning, your dartboard should last for many years. However, if the mold damage is severe, it may be necessary to replace the board entirely. To prevent mold from developing in the future, it is important to keep the board dry and clean at all times. You may also want to consider using a protective cover when the board is not in use.
Step By Step Video Guide
Should You Soak a Dartboard
Cleaning a dartboard is an important part of maintaining and extending its lifespan, so be sure to give it the care and attention that it deserves! With proper care and cleaning, your dartboard should last for many years. However, if the damage is severe, it may be necessary to replace the board entirely. To prevent damage from occurring in the future, it is important to keep the board dry and clean at all times. You may also want to consider using a protective cover when the board is not in use. With these simple tips, you can keep your dartboard looking good.
The short answer is no, you should not soak a dartboard. Soaking is always a good method to break up dirt and make something easier to clean but this is the exact opposite when it comes to cleaning a dartboard. Soaking a dartboard will actually do more harm than good and in the case of a bristle dartboard, it could immediately ruin the board.
Bristle dartboards are made of natural materials like sisal or cork and are designed to absorb moisture. So, when you soak a bristle dartboard, the water will be absorbed into the board and can cause the fibers to swell and loosen. This can damage the surface of the board, and may even cause it to crack or warp.
In comparison, wooden dartboards do not have the same level of absorbency, and so are typically easier to clean. Still, it is best to avoid soaking a dartboard in order to prevent damage and extend its lifespan.
If your board does become dirty or moldy, there are a number of cleaning methods that you can use to clean it without soaking. For example, you can wipe down the surface of the board with a damp cloth or brush, or treat it with a mold-killing solution. With proper care, your dartboard should last for many years!
Can a Dartboard Get Wet
It is important to keep your dartboard clean and dry at all times in order to prevent damage and extend its lifespan. While wooden dartboards are less likely to be damaged by water than bristle boards, it is still best to avoid getting the board wet if possible. If your board does become dirty or moldy, there are a number of cleaning methods that can be used without soaking the board. These may include wiping down the surface with a damp cloth, using a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and dust, or treating the board with a mold-killing solution.
Also check out the following in my maintenance series:
How to Clean Your Darts properly
Conclusion:
In the end, we hope that this guide has helped you understand the importance of proper dartboard care and cleaning. While it is important to keep your board clean and dry, soaking is not recommended as it can cause damage to the board. If your board does become dirty or moldy, there are a number of cleaning methods that can be used without soaking. These may include wiping down the surface with a damp cloth, using a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and dust, or treating the board with a mold-killing solution. With proper care and maintenance, your dartboard should last for years to come!
FAQs:
Q: Why Do Dartboards Wear Out?
A: Dartboards can wear out over time due to use and general wear and tear. Factors such as the frequency of play, where you aim on the board, and how well you maintain and clean your dartboard will affect how quickly it wears out.
Q: How Can I Clean a Dartboard?
A: There are a number of cleaning methods that can be used to clean your dartboard without soaking it, including wiping down the surface with a damp cloth, using a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner, or treating the board with a mold-killing solution.
Q: Why Do Dartboards Bulge?
A: Water can cause a dartboard to bulge as it makes the fibers swell and reduces their ability to rebound. If your board is starting to bulge, it is best to get a new one as this indicates that the board has reached the end of its lifespan.
Q: How Can I Prevent My Dartboard From Getting Wet?
A: There are a few different ways to prevent your dartboard from getting wet, including keeping it in an area that is well ventilated and away from any direct sources of water. You can also use a cover or mat to protect the board when not in use, and avoid playing with darts that have sharp tips.
Q: Can you wash a dart board?
A: While you should avoid soaking your dartboard, there are a number of cleaning methods that can be used to clean it without getting the board wet. These may include wiping down the surface with a damp cloth, using a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner, or treating the board with a mold-killing solution.
Q: How do you rejuvenate a dart board?
A: There are a number of ways to rejuvenate your dartboard, including soaking it in a solution of hot water and vinegar, or treating it with a mold-killing solution.
Q: Can you repaint a dartboard?
A: Yes, Acrylic Latex Paint or Oil based paint can be used to repaint your dartboard, as long as the surface is dry and free from dirt or dust. You may also want to apply a sealant or primer first in order to help ensure that the new paint stays on the board effectively.