How to Oil Your Cricket Bat: A Simple Guide
Welcome to The Cricket Warehouse! If you want your cricket bat to perform at its best and last longer, regular maintenance is key. One important step is oiling your bat. Here’s a quick and easy guide to get it right.
Why Oil Your Bat?
Oiling your cricket bat helps to keep it in top shape by maintaining the wood’s natural oils. This prevents the bat from drying out and cracking, ensuring it stays strong and performs well.
Step-by-Step Oiling Process
1. Check to see if you bat needs oil
To do this, using a reasonable amount of pressure, run your thumbnail up the blade of the bat, from the toe to just below where the front sticker is. If there is a tiny speck of oil where your thumbnail is, there is enough oil. However, if there is no oil the blade will need to be oiled again.
2. Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need:
- A clean, soft cloth
- Raw linseed oil - Cricket bat oil
- Some fine sandpaper - 180-220grit
3. Clean the Bat
Before applying oil, make sure your bat is clean and dry. Wipe it with a dry cloth to remove any dust or dirt. Lightly sandpaper the front surface of the bat (only the playing surface) with 180 - 200 grit sandpaper - this helps the oil penetrate the surface, rather than accumulating on the surface. The back of the bat and the toe do not need to be sanded - in these areas it helps protect the bat if the oil is to remain mainly on the outer surface.
4. Apply the Oil
Pour enough oil onto the blade of the bat to cover approx. a 50 cent coin.
Using either your finger or a piece of cloth, rub the oil into the front, sides and toe of the bat, ensuring none of the oil comes into contact with any of the stickers. DO NOT PUT ANY OIL ON THE SPLICE.
5. Let It Absorb
Leave the bat to absorb the oil for at least a few hours. Place it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This allows the oil to penetrate the wood and protect it effectively.
6. Wipe Off Excess Oil
After the oil has absorbed, wipe off any excess with a clean cloth. This helps to avoid any sticky surface residue.
7. Repeat as Needed
For best results, oil your bat every month during the season or whenever you notice it starting to dry out.
Oiling your cricket bat is a simple but essential task that keeps your equipment in excellent condition. Follow these steps to ensure your bat remains durable and performs at its best. At The Cricket Warehouse, we’re here to help you get the most out of your cricket gear. Happy batting!