Pool Table Felt Guide: How to Choose the Right Cloth for Your Table

Introduction: Why Pool Table Felt Matters More Than You Think

When most people set up a pool table, they focus on the frame, the slate, and the cushions. But here’s what separates casual players from serious billiards enthusiasts: they understand that pool table felt is where the magic happens. The felt—or cloth, as it’s technically called—is the foundation of every shot you take. It affects ball speed, spin control, accuracy, and the overall playability of your table.

Choosing the right felt isn’t just about aesthetics. The quality, material composition, and condition of your table’s cloth directly impact your game. A premium felt allows for consistent roll and predictable ball behavior, while worn or low-quality cloth introduces variables that make the game unpredictable and frustrating.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about selecting, installing, and maintaining pool table felt. Whether you’re a competitive player, a casual enthusiast, or someone looking to upgrade your game room, this guide will help you make informed decisions that enhance your playing experience.

Felt vs. Cloth: Understanding the Terminology

Before we go further, let’s clarify something that confuses many pool table owners: felt and cloth are not the same thing, though the terms are often used interchangeably in casual conversation.

Cloth is the technically correct term for the woven fabric covering your pool table. It’s made from natural and synthetic fibers and is engineered specifically for billiards.

Felt is actually a different material—a non-woven fabric made by matting fibers together, primarily used in hats and crafts. It’s thicker and less consistent than pool table cloth, which makes it unsuitable for serious play.

However, industry convention and common usage have blurred these lines. Most manufacturers and retailers use “pool table felt” and “pool table cloth” interchangeably when referring to the woven fabric covering your table. For the purposes of this guide, we’ll follow this standard terminology, but rest assured that when discussing billiards, we’re talking about high-quality woven cloth, not actual felt.

Types of Pool Table Cloth: Woolen vs. Worsted

The two primary types of pool table cloth are woolen and worsted, and understanding the differences between them is crucial to making the right choice for your table.

Woolen Cloth

Woolen pool table cloth is made from naturally carded wool fibers that are loosely woven together. The fibers aren’t combed, which leaves the surface slightly fuzzy or napped.

Characteristics of Woolen Cloth:

Speed: Woolen cloth is slower than worsted. The nap causes more friction, which slows down the cue ball and object balls
Feel: It has a softer, slightly rougher feel under your hand
Durability: Wool is resilient and bounces back well, but the nap can show wear patterns over time
Price: Woolen cloth is generally more affordable, making it a good choice for recreational players
Best for: Players who prefer a slower game, home recreational tables, and budget-conscious buyers

Woolen cloth is forgiving for developing players because it naturally slows the game down, giving you more time to process and execute shots. However, many competitive players find it frustrating because the inconsistent nap can cause unpredictable ball behavior.

Worsted Cloth

Worsted pool table cloth is made from wool that’s been combed before weaving, aligning the fibers in the same direction. This creates a smooth, consistent playing surface.

Characteristics of Worsted Cloth:

Speed: Worsted is faster and more responsive. The smooth surface reduces friction and allows the balls to travel farther with the same stroke
Feel: It has a smooth, polished feel that many advanced players prefer
Durability: The aligned fibers make worsted more resistant to visible wear patterns and matting
Price: Worsted cloth commands a premium price, often costing 30-50% more than woolen options
Best for: Competitive play, tournament tables, serious enthusiasts, and professional establishments

Worsted cloth provides more consistent ball response and faster play. Professional tournaments almost universally use worsted cloth because it offers predictability and allows players to develop more refined technique.

Wool Blend Alternatives

Some manufacturers offer cloth made from wool blends (typically wool mixed with nylon or acrylic). These aim to provide a middle ground—better speed and consistency than pure wool at a lower price point than premium worsted.

Top Pool Table Cloth Brands

The quality of your table’s cloth depends largely on the manufacturer you choose. Here are the most respected brands in the industry:

Simonis

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Simonis is widely considered the gold standard in pool table cloth manufacturing. The Belgian company has been producing cloth since 1680 and has earned the trust of professional tournaments and serious players worldwide.

Why Simonis Stands Out:

Consistency: Their manufacturing process is precise, ensuring minimal variation between rolls
Tournament Use: Simonis is the official cloth of numerous professional tournaments, including the PCA and many WPBA events
Product Range: They offer various styles, including the popular Simonis 860 (worsted) and Simonis 300 (woolen), each engineered for specific performance characteristics
Price: Simonis cloth is premium-priced but widely considered worth the investment for serious players
Durability: Professional-grade durability means your investment lasts longer

Simonis cloth is the go-to choice for anyone serious about their game. The slightly higher cost is offset by superior performance and longevity.

Championship

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Championship is another highly respected manufacturer, known for producing cloth at various price points without sacrificing quality.

Why Championship is Popular:

Quality-to-Price Ratio: Offers excellent performance at a more accessible price point than Simonis
Variety: Extensive range of styles suitable for different skill levels and playing styles
Availability: Widely stocked at pool table retailers and readily available for installation
Tournament Approval: Many tournaments sanction Championship cloth, though not quite at the volume of Simonis

Championship is an excellent choice if you want professional-quality cloth without the premium Simonis price tag. Many players find it difficult to distinguish between Championship and Simonis during play, making it a smart value choice.

Mali

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Mali is a Turkish manufacturer that has gained increasing recognition for producing affordable, solid-quality cloth.

Why Mali is Growing in Popularity:

Affordability: Mali offers better value than some alternatives, appealing to budget-conscious buyers
Decent Performance: While not tournament-grade, Mali cloth provides respectable playability for recreational and intermediate players
Variety: Offers multiple color options and styles
Good Entry Point: A good choice for those upgrading from very low-quality cloth

Mali cloth is suitable for home tables and recreational play, though professional players typically prefer Championship or Simonis.

ProLine

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ProLine offers budget-friendly options for those seeking basic pool table cloth without premium pricing.

Why ProLine Exists in the Market:

Budget Option: The most affordable option for replacing severely worn cloth
Basic Functionality: Adequate for casual, recreational play
Starter Tables: Often found on entry-level commercial and home tables

ProLine is the minimum viable option when cloth replacement is necessary but budget is extremely tight. It’s not recommended for serious players or long-term installations.

Recommendation: For serious home enthusiasts, Championship and Simonis are the best investments. For casual recreational play, Mali offers good value. For professional or tournament settings, Simonis is the standard.

Pool Table Felt Color Selection: Does It Matter?

One of the most visible decisions you’ll make is choosing the color of your pool table cloth. Beyond aesthetics, you might wonder: does color actually affect play?

The Performance Question

Short answer: Color itself doesn’t directly affect ball physics or play performance. A ball rolls the same way on tournament green as it does on blue or red.

However, color does affect visibility and eye strain, which indirectly influences performance:

Tournament Green: The traditional choice for professional and tournament play. The specific shade of green (often called “tournament green” or “club green”) was historically chosen because it complements the white cue ball and provides excellent contrast. Research suggests this color reduces eye strain during extended play sessions
Navy Blue: Becoming increasingly popular in modern installations. The deep blue provides excellent contrast and is preferred by some players for reduced glare
Burgundy/Wine Red: Another tournament-approved option that some players find reduces eye fatigue compared to green
Red/Bright Red: Less common but used in some recreational settings. Some players find bright red fatiguing during long sessions
Black: Dramatic looking but generally not recommended. The color absorbs light and can make it harder to track ball movement

Practical Considerations

When selecting color, consider:

Lighting in Your Space: Bright colors like red may work against poor lighting, while deeper colors like green or navy work better in standard lighting conditions
Decor Integration: Choose a color that complements your game room aesthetic without compromising playability
Tournament Requirements: If you plan to play in sanctioned tournaments, stick with tournament-approved colors (green, navy, or burgundy)
Personal Preference: After accounting for practical concerns, choose the color that makes you happiest—you’ll be staring at it often

Standard Recommendation: Tournament green remains the safest choice, offering proven performance and wide acceptance in competitive settings. Navy blue is an excellent alternative that many modern players prefer.

How to Measure Your Table for Felt

Before purchasing cloth, you need accurate measurements of your table to ensure proper fit and avoid costly mistakes.

Taking the Right Measurements

Step 1: Measure the Playing Surface

The playing surface is the area within the rails (the actual slate bed where balls roll). Measure both length and width:

Place a measuring tape across the playing surface from the inner edge of one rail to the inner edge of the opposite rail
Record measurements to the nearest 1/8 inch
Take multiple measurements to ensure accuracy
Record both length and width

Step 2: Note Your Table Dimensions

Pool tables come in standard sizes:

7-foot table: 39” × 78” playing surface (common for home use)
8-foot table: 44” × 88” playing surface (standard for leagues and tournaments)
9-foot table: 50” × 100” playing surface (professional tournament standard)
Snooker tables: 6’ × 12’ (much larger, specialized cloth)

Step 3: Account for Rail Height

The cloth must cover the playing surface and wrap around the rails. Measure the height of your rails from the playing surface to the top edge:

Measure at least 3-4 points around the table (rails can vary slightly)
Record the average height
Standard rail height is typically 1.5” to 2”

Pro Tips for Accurate Measurement

Get a Helper: It’s easier with two people—one to hold the measuring tape while the other records measurements
Use the Same Measuring Tool: Stick with one measuring tape throughout to avoid inconsistencies
Photograph Your Table: Take clear photos of your table from multiple angles for the installer to reference
Note Any Damage: Mark any areas where the current cloth is damaged, worn, or installed incorrectly—this information helps the installer

When to Call a Professional Measurer

If your table is an unusual size, antique, or custom-built, consider hiring a professional pool table technician to measure it. They can identify potential installation challenges that affect cloth choice and ensure you order the correct amount of material.

DIY vs. Professional Installation: Making the Right Choice

Once you’ve selected your cloth, you face another decision: should you install it yourself or hire a professional?

Professional Installation: The Smart Choice

Advantages:

Expertise: Professionals have years of experience ensuring proper fit, tension, and alignment
Proper Tools: They have specialized tools (stretching equipment, stapling guns, corner form tools) that aren’t worth buying for a one-time project
Warranty: Most professionals guarantee their work, so if something goes wrong, it’s their responsibility
Speed: A professional installs felt in 2-4 hours; DIY can take 2-3 days
Quality Results: Professional installation ensures consistent tension and eliminates wrinkles, ensuring optimal play

Disadvantages:

Cost: Professional installation typically costs $300-$800, depending on table size and your location
Scheduling: You need to arrange a service visit and time when someone is available

DIY Installation: A Challenging Option

Advantages:

Cost Savings: You save the labor fee, potentially saving $300-$800
Control: You control the schedule and can take your time
Learning Experience: You’ll understand your table’s construction better

Disadvantages:

Very Difficult: Installing cloth properly requires skill and experience. Mistakes are common
Tool Requirement: You’ll need to rent or purchase stretching equipment, industrial stapling guns, and other specialized tools ($200-$400+)
Time-Intensive: Expect 2-3 full days of work, and that’s if you don’t make mistakes
Frustration: The wrinkles, uneven tension, and alignment issues that plague DIY installations are extremely difficult to fix
Permanent Mistakes: Poor installation can damage your slate or make future professional installation more expensive
Playing Surface Affected: Even slightly poor installation noticeably affects ball roll and play consistency

Honest Assessment: Who Should DIY?

DIY installation makes sense only if:

You’re experienced with similar technical projects
You have access to proper tools
You have 2-3 full days available
You’re willing to accept the risk of a less-than-perfect result
The cost savings justify the effort and potential problems

For Most Players: Professional installation is the clear winner. The difference between professional and DIY installation is immediately obvious when you play on the table. Professional installation ensures your new cloth performs as intended and lasts as long as possible.

Industry Recommendation: Even if you’re a skilled DIYer, professional installation is worth the investment to guarantee optimal playability and cloth performance.

How to Maintain and Clean Pool Table Felt

Proper maintenance extends the life of your cloth and keeps it playing optimally. Here’s how to care for your investment:

Regular Cleaning Routine

Weekly Maintenance:

Brush the Cloth: Use a soft, fine-bristled pool table brush (available at any billiards retailer)
- Brush in straight lines perpendicular to the long axis of the table
- Brush from the center outward toward the rails
- Do this before and after play sessions
- This removes dust and chalk particles that accumulate during play
Use a Vacuum: A portable handheld vacuum (not a full-sized household vacuum) can remove debris
- Gently vacuum the playing surface and under the rails
- Use the upholstery brush attachment to avoid damaging the cloth
- Never use aggressive suction

Monthly Deep Clean:

Spot Clean Stains: If you spill a drink or get a stain
- Blot (don’t rub) the spot with a clean, slightly damp cloth
- Use only water or specialized pool table cloth cleaner
- Never use harsh chemicals or bleach
- Allow to air dry completely

What NOT to Do

Never:

Pour liquids directly on the cloth (accidents happen—minimize damage by blotting immediately)
Use household cleaners, alcohol, or bleach
Eat or drink heavily near the table (this isn’t just about the cloth—it’s about respect for the equipment)
Sit or lean heavily on the table
Drag items across the cloth
Use abrasive brushes or steel wool
Apply fabric softeners or conditioners designed for clothing

Professional Cleaning

Consider professional deep cleaning every 1-2 years:

Professional cleaners use specialized equipment and solutions that home equipment can’t match
They can restore some vibrancy to faded cloth
They can address stubborn stains without damaging the cloth
Cost is typically $150-$300, well worth the investment for premium cloth

Preventive Measures

The best maintenance is prevention:

No Food or Drinks: Enforce a strict no-food/no-drink policy during play (water in a sealed container is okay)
Cue Control: Teach proper cue technique to avoid tears from violent breaks or missed hits
Table Cover: Use a heavy-duty fitted table cover when the table isn’t in use to protect from dust and accidental damage
Controlled Environment: Keep the room temperature and humidity relatively stable—extreme fluctuations can cause cloth to expand or contract, affecting play

When to Replace Your Pool Table Felt: Signs of Wear

Even with excellent maintenance, pool table cloth eventually wears out and needs replacement. Here are the signs it’s time for new cloth:

Visible Wear Patterns

Worn Paths: If you notice distinct paths worn into the cloth where balls frequently travel, it’s time to replace:

These paths develop on the spots where players frequently practice (especially along the center line and near the pockets)
The worn areas become slick and change ball behavior
Once these paths are visible, they’re impossible to repair

Matting and Napping:

The surface becomes dull or flat instead of maintaining its original nap
The cloth feels slick in some areas and rough in others
This indicates the fibers are breaking down

Ball Performance Changes

Inconsistent Roll:

The cue ball and object balls behave unpredictably
Identical shots produce different results
The cloth no longer provides consistent friction

Increased Speed Variation:

Balls roll significantly faster or slower than they used to
This is often caused by uneven wear or cloth compression

Pilling or Pilling Spots:

Small balls of fiber form on the surface (more common with lower-quality cloth)
These affect ball behavior and are impossible to repair

Physical Damage

Tears or Holes:

Any tear means replacement is necessary—repairs are visible and affect play
Tears often occur near the break spot or from aggressive play

Water Damage:

Spills that soak through require cloth replacement
Wet cloth leads to mildew, mold, and structural damage
Never attempt to dry a wet cloth with heat—this damages the fibers

Cigarette Burns or Stains:

Permanent discoloration that can’t be cleaned
These are particularly relevant in establishments that allowed smoking

Timeline Expectations

How Long Does Pool Table Cloth Last?

Professional/Tournament Use: Cloth in heavy-use professional settings is typically replaced annually or every 18 months
League Play: Cloth used in league matches lasts 2-3 years
Home Recreational Use: Cloth on a home table used 2-3 times per week typically lasts 5-10 years
Casual Use: Tables used occasionally may have cloth that lasts 10-15+ years

Factors Affecting Lifespan:

Quality of cloth (premium Simonis lasts longer than budget options)
Frequency of use (more play means faster wear)
Maintenance quality (well-maintained cloth lasts significantly longer)
Environmental conditions (extreme humidity or temperature fluctuations accelerate wear)

Making the Replacement Decision

Replace Immediately If:

There are visible tears
Ball behavior has become unpredictable
The cloth shows water damage or mold
Worn paths are clearly visible

Consider Replacement If:

The cloth is 5+ years old and shows moderate wear
Cleaning no longer restores appearance
You’re preparing for league play or competitive participation
You notice consistent play issues that professional techs attribute to cloth condition

Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Table Cloth

Q: Can I paint my pool table cloth?

A: No. Painting or dyeing pool table cloth is not recommended. Paint or dye will affect the cloth’s friction properties, ruining the playing surface. If you want to change colors, replacement is the only option.

Q: How much does it cost to replace pool table felt?

A: The total cost typically ranges from $500-$1,500:

Cloth material: $200-$700 (depending on brand and table size)
Professional installation: $300-$800
Budget options start around $400-$600; premium installations can exceed $2,000

Q: Can I use a pool table if the felt is torn?

A: Not recommended for any serious play. Even small tears affect ball behavior and ball control. Professional repair is possible but expensive—replacement is usually more economical.

Q: What’s the difference between 7-foot and 9-foot table cloth?

A: The cloth is the same material; the size is simply different. 9-foot cloth requires more material and more installation time, so it costs more (typically $100-$200 more than 7-foot cloth).

Q: Can I use a pool table with wet cloth?

A: Absolutely not. A wet cloth is unpredictable and can cause mold and mildew growth. Never play on wet cloth, and if cloth gets wet, allow it to dry completely (48+ hours) before use. If it doesn’t dry properly, professional replacement may be necessary to prevent mold.

Q: Is there a way to stretch out wrinkles without replacing the cloth?

A: Minor wrinkles near the edges can sometimes be reduced by a professional technician, but major wrinkles or creases require re-stretching the entire cloth. This typically costs $200-$500 and almost always makes economic sense to just replace the cloth.

Q: Should I cover my pool table when not in use?

A: Yes. A heavy-duty fitted table cover protects the cloth from dust, accidental damage, and fading. Covers typically cost $50-$150 and significantly extend cloth life.

Q: Does humidity affect pool table cloth?

A: Yes. High humidity can cause cloth to expand slightly, while low humidity causes contraction. Extreme fluctuations can affect how the cloth sits and how balls roll. Maintain relatively stable room conditions (40-50% humidity is ideal) to minimize these effects.

Q: Can pool table cloth be patched?

A: Visible patches look obviously patched and affect play. While professional patching is possible, most players prefer replacement. Patches are only typically used for temporary repairs until replacement is possible.

Q: What’s the best way to break in new cloth?

A: New cloth is slightly stiff and needs to be played on to properly “settle in.” Plan for the first 50-100 games to feel slightly different than typical play. By 200 games, the cloth will have settled and be performing optimally. Don’t worry about light wear during this break-in period—it’s normal.

Conclusion: Invest in Quality Cloth for Better Billiards

Your pool table cloth is more than just a covering—it’s the playing surface that determines how every shot feels, how balls behave, and ultimately, how much you enjoy your game. Choosing quality cloth from reputable manufacturers like Simonis or Championship, maintaining it properly, and replacing it when necessary isn’t an expense—it’s an investment in your enjoyment of the game.

Whether you’re building a new game room, upgrading an existing table, or reviving an older table, remember these key principles:

Choose Quality: Don’t skimp on cloth. The difference between premium and budget cloth is immediately noticeable and affects your game
Get Professional Installation: Unless you’re experienced with specialized installation work, professional installation is worth every penny
Maintain Regularly: A simple weekly brush and occasional professional cleaning extends your cloth’s life dramatically
Replace When Needed: Don’t wait until your cloth is destroyed. Proactive replacement maintains optimal play conditions

The best pool table in the world plays poorly on worn cloth. Conversely, a modest table with premium cloth and professional installation plays wonderfully. Your cloth choice directly impacts your game, and investing wisely in this component pays dividends in enjoyment and performance for years to come.

Visit your local billiards retailer or consult with a professional pool table technician to discuss your specific needs. They can help you select the perfect cloth for your table, playing style, and budget. Your game will thank you.

For more expert billiards guidance, visit Billiard Beast—your comprehensive resource for pool table knowledge and equipment insights.

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