I was recently asked about what is best method to clean the butt of a cue stick. Please note that as much as I like MR Clean Magic Eraser, it may cause damage the butt.
Let me explain.
First of all cleaners are regulated into one of two categories; they are either chemically based that break down dirt or they are abrasive. Mr Clean Magic erase is classified as abrasive for the only reason that it must fit into one of these two categories. It is completely non-abrasive even though it is categorized as such.
Knowing how it works will help in determining the best applications for it.
As you use the pad, its microscopic fibers break down into the shape of a 'C". These particles are so tiny they fall behind particles, yes even permanent markers. These particles interconnect with each other forming a chain. This chain then "pulls" the dirt away. The rubbing action (no need to rub hard, only takes patience) will keep pulling particles away until surface is clean.
The down side is if you have a small imperfection in the lacquer on the cue's butt, you may cause damage. What happens is that even the tiniest scratch may cause the fibers to begin forming under the lacquer. The end result is that you pull off the lacquer.
Magic erase is great stuff, but my recommendation is for the cues shaft and ferrule only. (note: if you have lacquer on the cue shaft, great, let it pull it all away because you do not want this stuff on the shaft. This is only to protect the shaft during shipment from getting dirty.)
Let me explain.
First of all cleaners are regulated into one of two categories; they are either chemically based that break down dirt or they are abrasive. Mr Clean Magic erase is classified as abrasive for the only reason that it must fit into one of these two categories. It is completely non-abrasive even though it is categorized as such.
Knowing how it works will help in determining the best applications for it.
As you use the pad, its microscopic fibers break down into the shape of a 'C". These particles are so tiny they fall behind particles, yes even permanent markers. These particles interconnect with each other forming a chain. This chain then "pulls" the dirt away. The rubbing action (no need to rub hard, only takes patience) will keep pulling particles away until surface is clean.
The down side is if you have a small imperfection in the lacquer on the cue's butt, you may cause damage. What happens is that even the tiniest scratch may cause the fibers to begin forming under the lacquer. The end result is that you pull off the lacquer.
Magic erase is great stuff, but my recommendation is for the cues shaft and ferrule only. (note: if you have lacquer on the cue shaft, great, let it pull it all away because you do not want this stuff on the shaft. This is only to protect the shaft during shipment from getting dirty.)
