Cleaning Cork Handles

[BigBassin144]

I used to use fine sandpaper to clean my cork handles, but I didn't like to do this because it can scratch the reel seat and any metal trim rings between the cork and reel seat. I've read about using multiple cleaners like Simple Green and even rubbing alcohol. Of the many suggestions I've heard, I decided on one that I thought was pretty simple: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser.

So today I grabbed a magic eraser and a cup of water and my G Loomis MBR844C, which hasn't had the cork cleaned in over two seasons of use, so it showed a lot of use.

Before going after the whole thing, I tried a small section to see how it worked. Let's just say my cork handles will never see sand paper again.

Here's the first swatch I did compared to how dirty the rest of the handle was.



And comparing my MBR844C, cleaned with the Magic Eraser, next to my dad's MBR843C, yet to be cleaned.



So if anyone is looking to clean their cork handles this winter, give the regular Magic Erasers a try. I simply got it wet, and rubbed it lengthwise on the handle until it looked clean. Then I wiped the water and residue from the Magic Eraser off with a paper towel. Once the cork was dry, they looked almost new.

BB

[Rebbasser]

You know, BB, I have yet to clean my cork handles. I like the weathering they get on them. Shows they are used

Strictly personal preference. If you want to clean them, go for it!

[Imgoodatwhatido]

i love them magic erasers....they got soooo may uses the possibilities are endless

[WaffleJaw]

Thats actually really cool....I wonder if it will clean white eva foam?? haha

[Rebbasser]

WJ, only one way to find out

[pro reel]

yep, magic eraser works. Now if you want to keep them that way, seal them with U 40 cork sealer. I filled all the pits in my cork handles with a golden oak wood filler, sanded them smooth and sealed then with U 40, that was 3 years ago now and they still look brand new. Now, when I get new rods with cork, I seal them before I even use them.

[Rebbasser]

And that just goes to show you: If it maters to you, it matters. If it doesn't, it doesn't. As I said, it all come down to personal preference.

[BigBassin144]

Originally Posted by WaffleJaw

Thats actually really cool....I wonder if it will clean white eva foam?? haha

Probably would. It's amazing what those things will clean.

pro reel, I was thinking of trying some cork sealer this year. I'll post results if I end up doing it.

BB

[dave]

Soap and water.

[islandbass]

I also heard about using magic erasers from either here or another forum and you have confirmed their effectiveness. I have used in the past dishwashing soap and it has worked as well. I think I'll give the M E a try. They do work great on removing grease and stuck on things on pots and pans too.

[Ebbetsguy]

For the last 40 years; every winter
Dawn Dish Soap
Scrubbie
good to go,no big deal

2 of my rods have been through this for over 15 seasons cork looks and feels great

[MallenManson]

Dish soap and warm water is all I've ever used