A dart board is more than just a centrepiece for your games room—it’s the heart of many friendly competitions, relaxed weekend sessions, and serious practice routines. To get the most out of your investment and enjoy years of reliable use, it’s essential to know how to properly maintain and care for your dart board.
Whether you’re a weekend thrower or a seasoned player aiming for the bullseye, the following tips will help ensure your dart board stays in top condition, maintaining both appearance and performance.
Choose the Right Spot
Location matters more than you think. Your dart board should be mounted indoors, in a dry area away from excessive humidity or direct sunlight. Avoid setting it up in a garage or shed unless the space is insulated and moisture-controlled. Humidity can cause the fibres of the board—especially if it’s a traditional sisal model—to swell, warp, or break down over time.
Equally, steer clear of placing your board near windows where the sun streams in. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can fade colours and dry out the material, shortening its lifespan.
Rotate Regularly
One of the easiest ways to ensure even wear is to rotate the board. Most traditional dart boards come with a detachable number ring, allowing you to spin the board and shift the high-traffic zones, like the 20-point segment, to a less-used area.
Aim to rotate your board every week or two, depending on how often you play. Doing this consistently will help distribute wear evenly, keeping your scoring areas intact and prolonging the life of the board.
Handle Your Darts with Care
It’s tempting to pull your darts straight out of the board after a throw, especially during a fast-paced game. But doing so can damage the tightly-packed fibres that give the board its durability and self-healing properties.
Instead, remove darts using a gentle twisting motion. It might feel like a small thing, but over time it makes a big difference. Additionally, use darts that are appropriate in weight and design for your specific board type—steel-tipped darts for bristle boards and soft-tips for electronic models.
Invest in a Dartboard Surround
A practical and often overlooked accessory is the dartboard surround. This circular foam or rubber ring fits around your dart board and serves two major purposes: it protects your wall from stray darts and helps prevent your darts from becoming damaged when they miss the board.
Besides being functional, surrounds also enhance the look of your setup, giving it a professional finish. Whether you’re setting up a board in your lounge or games room, a dartboard surround is a smart and simple addition that’ll save you repairs and replacements in the long run.
Clean With Caution
It’s important to keep your dart board clean, but you should never use water or harsh cleaning products, especially on sisal boards. These materials can break down the natural fibres and reduce the lifespan of the board. Instead, use a soft brush or dry cloth to remove loose dirt, chalk, or dust from the surface.
If you’re using an electronic dart board, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Typically, a light wipe with a damp cloth will suffice—just make sure to avoid soaking any components.
Keep It Covered or Stored When Not in Use
If you’re not playing regularly, consider protecting your dart board with a cover or placing it inside a cabinet. This prevents dust buildup and protects it from accidental bumps or exposure to light.
If you’re packing up the board for storage or a move, ensure it’s laid flat and kept in a cool, dry place. Avoid stacking anything on top of it to prevent warping.
Watch for Signs of Wear
Even with the best care, every dart board has a lifespan. Keep an eye out for signs that your board might be nearing the end of its usability—worn segments, poor dart grip, or a surface that no longer recovers after a throw.
That said, proper maintenance can significantly delay this point. And when it’s finally time to replace your board, you’ll know it served you well through proper care and attention.
Final Thoughts
Owning a dart board is a joy, whether you’re in it for fun or serious competition. But like any piece of sporting equipment, it needs regular maintenance to perform its best. From rotating the board and using the right darts to cleaning and protecting it with a dartboard surround, small habits make a big impact. By investing just a little effort into upkeep, you’ll enjoy smoother games, better accuracy, and a longer-lasting board—all while keeping your space looking sharp and professional.
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