The longevity of a pickleball paddle varies from person to person even if they use the same model. With frequent play, your paddle will inevitably experience wear and tear. However, by employing proper and effective cleaning techniques, even avid players can extend the lifespan of their paddle, ensuring optimal performance over time. 

Store your paddle in the right place

Never put your paddle in a damp basement or storage room. The wet air will make the paddle retain moisture as water will easily become trapped in the honeycomb-style construction, resulting in the paddle becoming soft and lacking the rigidity to withstand powerful and intense ball hits during play. Also, it is advisable to utilize a paddle cover. This protective covering serves as a barrier, ensuring your paddle remains dry and free from any potential damage caused by moisture.

Store your paddle at a suitable temperature

Pickleball paddles are easily affected by temperature. Don’t leave your paddle in the car or directly under sunlight, especially in summer, and don’t leave your paddle outdoors for a long time in cold temperatures. Excessive heat can soften the surface of the paddle and affect the adhesion of the glue on the paddles, potentially leading to delamination of the layers. Conversely, extremely cold temperatures will make the paddle more brittle, increasing the risk of breakage.

Use the right materials to clean your paddle

It is important to avoid using hot air from a dryer for quick drying, as the high temperature can potentially damage the paddle. Instead, opt for a dry towel or cloth to gently wipe down the paddle, effectively removing the water without risking any harm.

Additionally, to increase the spin of the ball in the game, many small grooves are made on the paddle surface and those grooves can become clogged with dirt and debris with regular use. When cleaning the dust and dirt on the paddle surface, use paddle erasers or other rubber sticks to clean the grit off your paddle. This can help to prevent the paddle surface from getting smooth, which makes it hard to generate spin. We suggest cleaning once per week, but you can do it after every game if that helps you remember. 

Only use your paddle to hit the pickleball 

The paddle is made for hitting the pickleball, so don’t use your paddle to hit other objects.  l. The PP honeycomb core could be crushed by abnormal hard-hitting which will shorten the longevity of your paddle.

Don’t place heavy objects on the paddle

Placing a heavy load on the paddle surface can exert excessive pressure, resulting in potential damage to the inner honeycomb core and compromising the structural integrity of your paddle. To extend the lifespan and ensure the paddle's performance, it's best to use your paddle solely for its intended purpose.

While it is true that all pickleball paddles experience wear and will deteriorate eventually over time, you can significantly prolong their lifespan and enhance durability through proper care. Protecting and caring for your pickleball paddles costs little. Below are 3 essential and affordable pickleball accessories from A11N that can help you better care for your paddle:

（1）A11N Pickleball Paddle Cover: Protect your paddle from getting wet or scratched by sharp objects.

（2）A11N Pickleball Paddle Eraser: Helps clean dust and dirt from your paddle surface.

（3）A11N Pickleball Paddle Edge Guard Tape: Provide extra protection to the edge of your paddle, maintaining a good outer look and structural integrity for your paddle.