Our poker chips get passed hand to hand, are tossed from one side of the table to the other, and get handled and raked by everyone at the poker table. That’s when they tend to pick up body oils from players hands and also food particles and beverages that are always present at a poker game. After constant exposure to these conditions, poker chips will begin to take on a whole new appearance. All these food particles and body oils will turn your poker chips into a token that no player would want to pick up.

It’s time for a cleaning when your poker chips begin to look a little offensive. It’s your preference on how you clean your poker chips, but, here are a few tips to follow to keep them looking great and not cause any damage to them. These guidelines do not apply to vintage chips. When cleaning vintage chips you need to seek out a qualified professional.

Even though the cleaning supplies you can use might seem limitless, when it comes to poker chips we can considerably narrow it down. When choosing your cleanser, there are three important properties it must have before it is even considered. Make you choice wisely as you don’t want to damage your poker chips.

Be sure the cleanser passes the following three important test.

Built Up Grime: Removal of body oils and food and beverage particles is a must with your chosen cleanser.

Does Not Dissolve The Ink: The last thing you want is too remove the ink on your poker chips. Choose a cleanser that’s not too harsh.

Leaves Chips Hydrated: This may sound a little strange, but poker chips require a little moisture or they will become dry and brittle. If you use rubbing alcohol or similar agents you can dry out and remove the ink from you chips so stay away from these.

Some of the cleaners veteran poker players use to clean their poker chips are Sterling Magic, Armor All Multi-Purpose Cleaner and dishwashing detergent. If you use Armor-All, be sure it’s the multi-purpose type an not the tire cleaner or any other Armor All products as these will damage your chips. Also, a cleaner called Quick ‘n’ Brite is popular for cleaning chips.

When using any of the above mentioned cleaners properly, your poker chips will come clean without any harmful side effects.

A very soft cotton towel and/or a baby’s soft bristled toothbrush are always best to use when cleaning your poker chips.. Be sure you take special precautions to protect the design that’s on the center of the chip. Use the toothbrush for the outer edges while keeping your thumb over the center of the chip. Rinse your chips in a bowl of water and use the soft cotton towel to dry them.

Dip your poker chips in baby oil after you’re done cleaning them to restore their luster and add that extra shine.