A foosball table can last for decades and be handed down through the family if it is looked after. The rods matter most: they decide how quickly and accurately the players strike the ball.
A full service takes about twenty minutes: clean the rods, lubricate them, check the screws and the level of the table, and clean the playing field. Here is how to do it properly.
What you will need
- WD-40 Specialist Silicone for the rods
- WD-40 Multi-Use to lift old greasy residue
- Soapy water and a sponge
- Microfibre cloths, old newspapers
- A screwdriver and a spanner
- A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
Important: Keep lubricant off the felt playing surface: stains are hard to remove from fabric. Always put newspaper or a rag under the rod before spraying.
Step 1
Clean the rods
Wipe the rods with a sponge and soapy water to remove dust, fingerprints and spilt drinks. Pay particular attention to the sections near the side walls, where the rods enter the bushings.
If there is old sticky residue from previous lubricants, put a little WD-40 Multi-Use on a microfibre cloth and work it into the problem areas. It softens old grease so you can wipe it away without the force that could damage the rod. Dry the rods thoroughly.
Step 2
Lubricate the rods
Place newspaper or a rag under the rod, pull the rod out and apply WD-40 Specialist Silicone first to the section by one wall, then by the other.
Slide and spin the rod several times so the lubricant spreads and works into the bushings. Wipe off any excess with a dry cloth. Silicone leaves a thin slippery film that does not attract dust or mark your hands, so the rods move freely without sticking.
Step 3
Tighten screws and check the rods
Vigorous play gradually loosens the fixings. Check for bent rods and cracked figures, then tighten all the screws on the cabinet, legs and players with a spanner and screwdriver.
Replace cracked figures straight away, as they can split during a hard shot.
Step 4
Level the table
Place a ball in the centre of the field. If it rolls off to one side on its own, the table is not level and the game is no longer fair. Adjust the levelling feet or put shims under the legs until the ball stays put.
Step 5
Clean the playing field
Go over the whole field with a vacuum cleaner and a soft brush attachment to pick up dust, crumbs and small debris. Deal with stains as quickly as possible using a suitable fabric cleaner and a microfibre cloth.
Always test any cleaner on a hidden area of the field first, as the surface material may react to chemicals. Finish by wiping the cabinet with a dry cloth.
Tip: Keep drinks off the table edges and do not store the table in a damp garage or unheated porch: moisture and temperature swings ruin both the field and the metal rods.
What next
Lubricate the rods about once a month with regular play, or as soon as they start to feel stiff. For squeaky hinges and locks on other furniture in the games room, keep WD-40 Multi-Use handy.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».