Avoid Pool Table Spills and Scratches: Tips to Protect Your Pool Dining Table

When choosing a dining table, why not go for something you're sure to be the center of attention? A pool table is a great conversation starter and can instantly transform your space into an area of style and sophistication. Can a pool table be used for dining purposes? This is an intriguing question with many practical considerations. Although using a pool table as a dining table may seem unconventional, it is an excellent idea, given the opportunity to have more with the same space. Given the proper size, surface, and design, you can transform your pool table into an attractive and comfortable dining area. TLDR: No. Pool tables are great as standalone tables, rather than as a dining piece. Just as billiard tables are good for billiard games. Having said that, Pool Dining Tables are perfect for this purpose. Read on as we describe the differences. Some practical considerations and limitations may arise from using a pool table as a dining table, and you might want to consider a completely different game table instead. While we recognize the benefits, it's also crucial to be mindful of the challenges and safety considerations of a pool table as a dining room table. Can I use A Pool Table as A Dining Table? Nothing really's stopping you to be fair, though if its a good idea? That will be a different matter. Having a pool table at home is an ultimate experience that many of our clients dreamt for years, before taking the plunge. Space has always been the consideration and with space becoming more scarce over time, people are now looking at interesting and creative ways to indulge their desire for a billiard table by integrating it with their dining table. Neat idea! With the right combination of quality features, materials and finishing touches, this is theoretically possible and can even be somewhat of a statement piece at home. Your cues, benches, balls and game accessories marrying with plates, forks and spoons. But really, what's does a professional outfitter like ourselves think about this? Let's explore the Pros and Cons of using a pool table as a dining table, weighing the pros and cons of this unique concept. Pros of Using Pool Tables As Dining Tables The ultimate combination of style and practicality, a dining pool table will bring your bar and home to life with its unique design and functionality. Whether throwing an unforgettable dinner party or hosting an exciting game night, this multi-purpose piece of furniture will provide endless hours of enjoyment for all who use it. You can entertain in style and make the most of the space available in your home. Using a pool table as a dining table offers several enticing advantages, making it a practical and versatile choice for homeowners. Here are some of the pros of using a standard pool table as a dining table: a. Space-Saving Solution: A pool table can eliminate the need for a separate dining table and shuffleboards, saving valuable floor space in smaller homes or apartments. In reality, the amount of space required for dining is almost identical to that required of a pool table. If you're interested in learning more about the popular sizes for pool dining tables at home, we made a separate article for that. So, do check it out! On the other hand, a pool dining table, also known as a pool table dining combo table, is a multi-functional piece of furniture that serves both as a pool table and a dining table. It has a dual-purpose design that allows it to seamlessly transform from a billiards playing surface into a practical dining area. We'll explore deeper about Pool Dining Table as you read further. b. Multi-Functional Furniture: It seamlessly transitions from a recreational snooker hall for games to a functional dining space. The felted surface of a pool table is often also used for board games! c. Entertainment and Dining Convenience: With a pool table conversion, you can enjoy both entertainment and dining in a single spot. d. Unique Home Decor: Pool table dining tables come in various designs and finishes, allowing you to choose one that complements your home's interior decor. With the right designs, a Pool table used to dine can look far more interesting than a regular dining table. e. Fantastic Entertainment Piece: A pool table will always wow your guests and offer an enduring source of entertainment for your visitors or family. It’s just way more fun than a regular dining table. Cons of Using Pool Tables As Dining Tables The versatility of a dual-purpose pool table is one of its most attractive features. It offers the perfect solution for large family gatherings, office parties, or intimate dinner parties with friends. This type of pool table can create an inviting atmosphere that instantly adds a sense of sophistication and style to any home. While using a pool table as a dining table offers versatility and space-saving benefits, it's essential to consider the potential drawbacks and disadvantages associated with this dual-purpose usage. Here are some of the cons you should consider with this type of pool table: a. Potential Damage to the Pool Table: Using a pool table as a dining table exposes it to scratches, spills, and stains from food and drinks. Spillages are potentially an issue, but that can be solved by opting for a slated table. A pool table focuses solely on recreational play, while a dual-purpose pool table effortlessly transforms from a gaming surface to a dining area, providing a versatile and space-efficient solution that caters to both entertainment and dining needs. The pool dining table's adaptability makes it an excellent choice for those seeking functionality and fun in a single furniture piece, optimizing the use of their living space. More on that later. b. Limited Dining Height Options: Pool tables are generally lower than standard ones. Depending on the pool table's height, dining comfort may be compromised for some users, especially during extended meal times. c. The Comfort of Dining on a Pool Table: Pool tables are often characterized by a chunky frame designed to house pockets, rails, balls, and ball storage systems. It's typical thick frame may make it less comfortable when used as a dining table. It’s important to have a sufficient playing space surrounding the pool table to get the maximum game play out of your pool table. While Pool tables are not ideal for dining, Pool Dining tables are. Let’s talk about it a little. A pool table is solely used for cue sports, while a the dual-purpose pool table serves as both a gaming surface and a dining area, providing a versatile space-saving solution. What are Pool Dining Tables? Pool dining tables are a perfect blend of practicality and style. Combining the classic game of pool, shuffleboards and football table. with a modern dinner table, these innovative pieces of furniture are the perfect way to entertain guests and spruce up your home. With their sleek design, these pool tables offer your space an elevated look that is both eye-catching and sophisticated. Their generous tabletop is ideal for serving meals to friends and family, while their cushioned seating area provides maximum comfort when playing pools and billiards. Whether you're looking to impress guests or add a unique piece of furniture to your home, investing in a pool table like this will surely be a hit. A proper Pool Dining table built by a specialist manufacturer will consider the user experience from a playing perspective and, importantly, from a dining perspective. It is why proper Pool tables like this are built to a special height and typically have slim designs with durable hardwood tabletop finishes. So to offer the perfect solution to both dining and playing. Practical Considerations for Using a Pool Dining Table as A Dining Table When contemplating using a pool table as a dining table, there are essential practical considerations to bear in mind. Ensuring that the table meets your dining needs while maintaining its recreational appeal is crucial. The perfect pool table transforms your home into a luxurious entertainment venue. With modern features such as fiberboard surfaces and conversion tops, these tables provide a superior playing experience while adding an air of sophistication to any room. Moreover, you’ll be able to instantly switch from one setup to another without sacrificing style or your table from wear and tear. If you are considering using a billiard or pool table as a dining table, we recommend opting for a professional Pool Dining table and we have even prepared a guide to help you determine the right pool dining table for you. This pool table type is best suited for this purpose, here's why. Durability and Quality Materials When it comes to durability and quality materials, proper pool dining tables often utilize durable materials like solid oak, beech or steel. On the playing front, they are typically built with professional Pool components, like a slate surface, cushion rubber rails and regulation pockets. Not only will you have peace of mind knowing that your hardwood table can withstand the wear and tear of regular use, but you will also be able to have a professional playing experience that a pool enthusiast will be delighted with. The materials used in these pieces of furniture not only look great, but they feel great too. Investing in this type of pool table is an investment in your home that will pay off for years. The Right Height with Pool Dining Tables Regarding dining comfort, these pool tables are a cut above the rest. With their generous tabletop and cushioned seating area, these innovative pieces of furniture provide maximum comfort when used for dining and playing. But the most important factor is height - according to the Billiard Congress of America, the average height of a pool table is 32 inches or 81.28 cm, with added height from playing rails, toppers and padding that can bring it up to 35 inches. On the other hand, standard dining tables range in height from 28-30 inches, with taller chairs or bench seats needed for comfortable dining. Dining Pool Tables are designed to bridge this gap between recreational and dining use. Built to specific heights suitable for both activities, they offer the perfect solution for dining and playing. Cabinet Slimness When it comes to style, cabinet slimness is an important factor to keep in mind when selecting a matching pool dining table. With its sleek and modern design, a slimmer cabinet allows for more seamless integration of the pool table into your dining room setting. The result is a sophisticated aesthetic that will add flair and sophistication to any space. Not only does a slim cabinet improve aesthetics, but it also offers greater convenience when it comes to mobility. By moving the furniture around with ease, you can make room for larger crowds or even switch up your decor without lifting heavy objects. For added comfort when seated, having the slimness of a Pool Dining table is essential. Without compromising on style or quality, you can enjoy the best of both worlds with a Pool Dining table. Use Conversion Top On Your Convertible Pool Table These tables are perfect for any game room, featuring classic and modern designs that come with quality construction and premium materials. And with the help of a convertible pool top, you can easily transform them into a dining pool table to fit any occasion. Whether you want to host a dinner party or enjoy family time over dinner, your pool dining table has you covered! Its sturdy steel construction and luxurious bench seats will guarantee comfort for all your guests while providing a timeless look at the same time. For added convenience, pocket covers are included to hide the pockets while dining and protect them during storage. The pool and dining top is the perfect accessory for a convertible pool table. Available in various sizes and materials, they easily cover your convertible pool table's cloth, pockets and structure, allowing it to function as a regular table. They come with handles to make handling and storing easier while the table is in use. Its lightweight design lets you quickly set up your dining area without hassle. Precise Billiards Surfaces Slate is critical when taking your dining pool experience to the next level. Unlike other materials, such as fiberboard or particle board, which can become warped over time from moisture, slate remains solid and true no matter the environment. With its flat surface and superior strength, you can be assured of a professional playing experience that will last for years. Moreover, with its beautiful appearance, it is sure to enhance any home decor. For discerning homeowners looking for an elegant piece of furniture that is both stylish and practical, a dual-purpose Pool table with a slate pool table surface is the perfect solution. Not only will you have peace of mind knowing that your hardwood table can withstand the wear and tear of regular use, but you will also be able to have a professional playing experience that a pool enthusiast will be delighted with. A crucial aspect of a convertible pool table is its precision playing surface. The surface must provide a level and stable foundation for dining comfort when converted into a dining table. Ensuring the dining pool top fits snugly and securely over the billiard's surface is essential for an enjoyable dining experience. Use Benches for Maximum Utility Benches offer the perfect solution to maximize indoor and outdoor utility. By stowing them under the table, you can immediately start a game of billiard or move directly into a dining setup. With the right benches, you can easily switch from one setup to another without sacrificing style or your table from wear and tear while keeping it free from dust and dirt. These easy-to-use products can also be used to quickly convert the table into a dining setup in no time at all. Crafted from solid steel construction and featuring luxurious bench seats, these tables perfectly combine strength and luxury. Not only will they elevate your home’s look with their sleek design, but they’ll also provide endless hours of entertainment in recreational settings. Some pool tables feature steel construction and come with bench seats instead of chairs. This design choice adds a modern touch and maximizes seating capacity. Evaluate whether this style aligns with your preferences and complements your home decor. Care and Maintenance of a Pool and Dining Tables Regarding the care and maintenance of billiard and dining tables, here are some tips for taking care and maintenance. Regular upkeep is essential in keeping your furniture looking great for years. 1. Cleaning Tips for the Playing Surface Use a pool table felt brush with robust nylon bristles to remove debris from the table bed and underneath the rails. Vacuum the playing surface with a soft brush attachment to remove dust particles. Spot clean spills immediately and use a mild detergent if necessary. When cleaning around pockets, ensure not to drag the cloth over them as this can cause damage. Use billiard chalk to extend the life of your cloth by preventing pilling and wear. We recommend dusting the table regularly and using a soft cloth to wipe down the surface after each use for maximum performance. This will help prevent scratches and keep your pool table looking new! 2. Protective Measures During Dining Use For added protection, dining pool table covers are recommended, particularly when unused. Also, avoid using abrasive cleaning products and harsh chemicals, as they can damage the top surface and finish of your table. Consider a conversion or convertible top for your Pool Dining table for safety and convenience. These tops are designed to fit snugly over the playing surface and come in any table size and material, including felt leather and other fabrics. They can protect the playing surface when not in use or as an additional layer during play. 3. Maintenance for Table Rails and Pockets To keep your table rails and pockets in top condition, it’s important to use high-quality materials, such as hardwood. This will prevent compression and cracking of the rails over time. Additionally, it’s important to regularly clean not just the top, but also the rails of your billiard table with a cloth or soft brush attachment to a vacuum cleaner. Also, check for any loose or damaged parts and occasionally treat the rails with appropriate protection. Lastly, store your pool dining table in an area with ideal climate control (i.e., away from direct sunlight), as this will help prevent warping or damage. 4. Storage and Climate Considerations Storing your billiard dining table is essential for keeping it in optimal condition for long periods of non-use. Keeping the table in a dry, climate-controlled environment with low humidity is important. Also, cover the surface to protect against dust and other outdoor debris when not in use. If you plan on storing your table outdoors, consider investing in a weatherproof cover to protect it from the elements. It’s also important to maintain a stable outdoor climate within the table's storage room to prevent warping or damage due to temperature fluctuations. This means avoiding extreme temperatures and humidity levels affecting wood and metal components. By taking these simple steps, you can ensure the long-term quality of your table and enjoy a lifetime of fun arcades and billiards. 5. Maintenance of Cues and Accessories In order to maintain your top, billiard cues, balls and other accessories, keeping your billiard tables in an organized cue rack or storage case is important. This will help protect them from damage and ensure they remain in good condition. Additionally, avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the finish of your cues. If you plan on not using your accessories for long periods of time, consider storing them in a climate-controlled environment with low outdoor humidity levels to prevent warping or cracking. If you plan on playing billiards frequently on your pool table, invest in a quality slated playing table surface – this will provide a more accurate playing experience and extend the life of your table. With proper care and maintenance, your pool dining table will look great for years. Final Thoughts Dining pool tables are the way to go to add a unique and luxurious touch to your home. Combining the best of both worlds – gaming and dining – this arcade dining top is sure to be the envy of your guests. Whether you’re looking for hours of balls and pool cues entertainment or a stylish focal point in your home, you can be sure that a pool dining table will make every moment memorable. No matter your style, budget or preferences, a pool dining table is out there to fit your needs perfectly. You can choose from timeless designs crafted with solid steel construction and featuring premium bench seats that will make any game room look elegant. Sleek modern options with slimmed-down designs and top-notch materials add a contemporary feel to any room, not just the dining room. And if you’re looking for a more affordable solution, budget-friendly game tables can easily be converted into dining tables with the help of conversion tops. With the right playing surface and quality materials, these pieces of furniture provide an unbeatable combination of strength, luxury, and style to your dining room space. Your investment in a pool table will be paid off with years of entertainment and wonderful memories. Go to your most trusted local tables shop or see our online catalogue to see our available dining pool table products.

Dining pool tables offer the best of both worlds - dining at meal times and enjoying billiards right after. With this dual purpose highlight, it's only common that maintaining its cleanliness comes with double the responsibility. While maintenance of a pool dining table may seem complicated, do not despair. Pool table maintenance is easier than you think.  In this article, we'll highlight the best tips to keep your pool dining table spick and span - Ready for a round of meal conversation and a few pool games with the whole family. A Guide on Properly Cleaning a Pool Dining Table A pool dining table is quite the investment, but with proper care and maintenance, they can last you for years. To fully break down the proper ways to ensure your tables remain functional and clean for many years to come, let's discover the best cleaning and storing practices for every part of the pool dining table. Afterall, your pool table's longevity will depend on how well you take care of it. Play Field Felt (Napped or Napless Cloth) Keeping the playfield felt of your tables clean is essential to getting the full game experience from it. To keep it clean, you should regularly brush your cloth to loosen chalk dust, or debris that may accumulate within your cloth. After which,  use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any chalk dust or dirt particles that you have loosened from brushing it down. If your cloth is napped, i.e. has a certain directional grain, then look to brush your cloth in a singular direction.  Whether your play field is felted with napped or napless speed cloth, use the tips above to routinely upkeep your cloth. Depending on the frequency of play, we recommend brushing your cloth fortnightly, or monthly if you play less often.  Pool Dining Table Top As a Pool Dining table, your table will come typically with 2 pieces or 3 pieces dining top. If you're using it as a dining table, the top will require frequent wipe downs just as you will do with a regular dining table. This is to prevent food stains from seeping into the wood top. For this, we recommend using wood cleaner. Follow the instruction on the label and use a microfiber cloth to protect the surface of your table, particularly for lacquered finishes.  Pool Table Pockets The pockets of billiard tables are one of the most important parts of the table and should be properly maintained to ensure a good experience. One of the best ways to ensure they are free from dust is by wiping a dry cloth over their curvatures. For a thorough cleaning process - recommended for pockets made of leather, it's best to use a soft pool table brush or a mini vacuum cleaner to wipe away dust and debris in hard-to-reach areas. Using a leather conditioner is also recommended as leather pockets may age out if not conditioned enough.  When cleaning around the pockets of the table, it's also vital to check for loose stitching and tears from years of use. If it is bolted, you may also want to routinely tighten the bolts, as the constant potting of balls is known to loosen the pockets over time. Basic maintenance will save you money in the long run.  Cushions and Rails The rail cushions of pool tables are vital to making game play more fun and exciting with a tight ball rebound. To clean them, you should first vacuum up any dust or dirt particles with a vacuum cleaner. You can then use a damp cloth or a soft brush to further remove any stubborn stains. These side bumpers should also be checked regularly for tears, tightness, and even looseness. Replace cushion rubber with care as per needed.  Side Frame and Legs The pool table side frame and legs will generally be less dusty than the flat surfaces, as it's harder for it to trap dust. Nevertheless, the same cleaning tips that we recommended above will apply.   It's also important to check for any signs of wear and tear in your tables so that you can address the issue promptly. Your table should not be shaky, and it can be potentially dangerous - given the weight of the slate - if that is the case. Be sure to seek professional assistance the moment you find your table to be shaky. This could be a simple issue like a loose bolt, or point to more worrying structural issues in your table. This is more common in lower quality tables built by non-reputed makers.  Cues and Cue Accessories While this does not necessarily pertain to the table itself, cleaning the pool accessories and snooker cues that come with it can reduce the accumulation of chalk, dust, debris, and other harmful substances. Cue Ball To ensure the cleanliness of cue balls, you should regularly wipe down the surface with a damp cloth dipped in soap solution. Additionally, if there are any stains on the balls that won’t come off with regular cleaning, you can use a bit of rubbing alcohol on your cloth for proper cleaning maintenance. Replace if: The pool or snooker balls have noticeable dents and chipped surfaces that will not just affect game play, but will start to chip off other parts of your table like the pockets, cushions or slate.  Cue Sticks Cue sticks, or cues, should be wiped down with a clean cloth after every use. Use light strokes with your cloth. If any stubborn stains won’t come off, you can use a specialized cue cleaning solution for easier removal. Additionally, if your cues have metal joints, you can use a bit of oil or WD-40 to lubricate it and prevent rusting.  Replace if: Cues have warped or bent. It's also time to buy a new one if its leather tip has minimally vanished to a size of a coin. Be sure to read our in-depth guide on buying pool dining tables and its accessories for more details on this matter. Other Accessories Neglecting proper maintenance and care for billiards table accessories is just as harmful as not cleaning the table as much as it should be. This is the same for any type of table there is used for sport, like tennis tables and tables snooker and for shuffleboard. Accessories like chalk, tip scuffers and shapers, bridge sticks, cue cases, and cue racks are best kept clean, organized, and properly stored. This ensures that when you use the pool dining table for playing anytime, you have them ready to be used. At the same time, it minimizes the accumulation of dirt and the possible deterioration of the pool tables after years of use. If your pool tables come with chairs for its dining purpose, be sure they are kept clean at all times, too. Common Maintenance Mistakes to Correct 1. Using harsh chemicals. Harsh chemicals can be too abrasive for certain table materials, so avoid using them when cleaning the billiard table or its accessories. For example, using a wood cleaner on felt fabric can stain its surface, so ensure the solution is only used within the wood material of the table. 2. Using wet rags. Although wet rags can help with removing tough dirt and debris, they should not be used on the surface of the table or its accessories. The moisture can damage the fabric or cause rusting in metal components. Additionally, use lukewarm water for wiping down the table, instead of warm water to prevent any temperature-related issues. 3. Forgetting to lubricate metal parts of the pool table. Metal parts of the table should be lubricated regularly with light oil or WD-40 to prevent rust and corrosion from developing over time. 4. Forgetting to clean the pockets. When cleaning the entire pool dining table, one might forget to clean the pockets, or even forego it altogether. This should not be. Make sure to clean your pockets along with the table's playing surface, legs, and rails. 5. Neglecting proper storage care guidelines. If pool dining tables are not used daily, it's best to store them properly, preferably with a cloth over them. This is doubly important if you're planning to leave your pool dining table in stock for longer periods of time, as it may be prone to dust, chemicals, and weathering depending on its storage spot. Dealer Tips: Other Things You Should Know Leveling Some may fail to notice the importance of leveling in tables, but it's one of the most vital aspect in the game of billiards, so keep it in your notes. A word of advice? Use leveling tools to ensure that your pool dining table is at its leveled state. Also, check the adjustable legs or leg levelers that some pool dining tables may have and have them replaced as necessary. Storage Just like other gaming equipment and table like arcade machines, football tables, and hockey tables, storage is an important aspect of maintaining table durability and functionality. When storing a pool table, it's important to make it a habit to check if it is properly protected from dust and sunlight--if kept in outdoor spot. The best way to do so is by using a pool table cover or blanket to drive away any dust and dirt particles that may accumulate over time within the table parts. You should also ensure that the table is in an area, indoor or outdoor, with consistent temperature and humidity levels to maintain its key features. Maintenance Frequency For best results, it's recommended to clean the table weekly. This should include a light vacuuming to its playing surface, pockets, rails, frame, and legs. Additionally, accessories that come with the table, such as cue balls or sticks should be cleaned after every game. Seek the Help of a Professional As with all things, if you aren't sure with your table maintenance procedures, it's best to consult a professional about it. This is one of the best dealer tips to remember. Final Thoughts Your pool dining table's maintenance is important if you want to enjoy a good game of billiards or just dining in general. With the above tips, you can rest assured that your table will be in top condition for many years to come. Happy cleaning! Feeling inspired by this article? You might want to check out our assortment of pool tables for sale. We also have a selection of arcade and shuffleboard tables which are very complementary to a pool table for your games room. 

A dining pool table is more than just a piece of furniture; it's a centrepiece for social gatherings, friendly competitions, and shared meals. However, its dual-purpose nature also exposes it to potential hazards, namely spills and scratches. These issues can compromise the aesthetics and functionality of your table over time. In this article, we'll guide you over the effective pool table strategies to help you protect your pool table from the pitfalls of table spills and scratches. The Best Protection Tips for Your Pool Dining Table to Avoid Spills and Scratches Table spills and scratches are common issues that can affect the surface of pool dining tables. These can happen from both hard use of dining utensils and pool table accessories, like cue balls, pool cues, and more. Both spills and scratches can detract from the appearance and functionality of the table. Aside from decreasing the appearance and functionality, these damages can discourage pool game sessions and leave a sour taste on the pool table player's mouth. And we don't want that to happen, not only on our pool table but our pool playing motivation too. Let's take a closer look at how you can help your dining pool table avoid scratches and spills from pool table frequent use: 1. Use a Quality Clean Cover Investing in quality pool table transparent covers while dining is one of the best table protection tips you can follow. Good pool table covers will keep dust, dirt, and other debris away while providing an extra layer of protection from possible spills from food and liquids on to the table surface. Moreover, ideal covers provides a smooth and even surface on tables, minimising the risk of scratches caused by sliding or dropping objects on the table's surface. This is particularly useful when dining, as utensils, plates, and glasses are more likely to create accidental scratches on the table. Moreover, this table cover makes cleaning up spills while sharing a meal with loved ones much easier, so the transition from dinner to a few games of pool is as seamless and quick. Whether you've got a 7-foot or 8-foot pool dining table to take care of at home, a simple transparent table cover really makes all the difference on your table's functionality and appearance over time. When not in use, these pool table covers can keep the pool table looking new 2. Utilise Pool Table Runners Adding a bit of style to your pool dining table while ensuring prolonged functionality are table runners. Table runners seal the gap between your pool dining table tops, so liquid is less likely to seep into the table playfield. Not only that, but they come in a variety of table colours, textures, and patterns, so they offer an overall visual appeal to your pool dining area. At the same time, table runners require minimal effort to install. You can place them on the table dining tops before meals and remove them afterward, ensuring a hassle-free protection solution to your convertible pool furniture. When selecting a runner for your tables, be sure to choose a table that is made of durable material, such as vinyl or polyester. 3. Opt for Slated Tables If you're still debating on the type of pool dining table to purchase to add to your home furniture, you may want to consider a slated pool table. These tables come with an integrated slate surface on the pool table playfield side, which is designed in tables to protect from spills and scratches. The surface material of these tables is non-porous and impermeable, so liquid won't seep into the playing area. Plus, it doesn't require any additional protection or covers for the protection of your table. Even if liquid were to inevitably drip into the table playfield from regular use, it will not damage the playfield, as compared to tables with wooden surfaces. To keep the table surface clean, you only need to simply dry it off with a soft cloth. Keep your strokes on the pool table surface swift and light. Our Highlighted Pick: Billards Montfort Billards Montfort is one of the leading furniture manufacturers of durable and stylish pool dining tables. Their tables come with integrated 1 or 3-piece slate pool table surfaces that you need for that right amount of elegance when playing and functionality when sharing a few meals with loved ones in the dining area. Most importantly, these French-style pool tables are entirely customisable, so you are sure to find a pool table design that suits your home and lifestyle perfectly. We also have a wide range of other options for pool dining tables that you can look into if you're ready to add these billiards tables to your home or if you need a pool table that's less susceptible to damages. We also have hockey tables, football tables, snooker tables, game tables outdoor use, and table tennis products you might be interested too. 4. Choose Non-Glossy Finishes for Your Pool Table When selecting the pool table for your home, opt for gaming tables with a non-glossy finish. The lack of sheen of lights reflected on the pool table surface will be less likely to show scratches and other imperfections on the surface and sides of the table. Other than that, non-glossy finishes on pool tables are easier to maintain since most table dirt and dust can be wiped away without leaving residue or streaks on the table. This can help your pool dining table maintain a well-kept and clean appearance in the game room or in the dining area, even after extended use. 5. Avoid Using Hard Materials on the Surface Area Pool tables are not meant to withstand hard materials. The use of these materials leads to cracks and dents on the pool table surface, especially with frequent use. Hence, when dining on your table, it is important to avoid using hard materials atop the table. Harder objects, such as dinnerware made of metal and sharp ceramic, can cause scratches on the surface of the table if placed directly onto the game platform. Additionally, these materials can easily slip and slide off the table surface due to their slickness. To give you an idea of what ceramics to use to avoid damaging your table during mealtimes, here is a guide of some of the less-abrasive ceramics you can try out on your table: Porcelain Porcelain ceramics are known for their smooth and glossy finish. They are less likely to scratch pool table surfaces due to their non-abrasive nature. Porcelain plates, bowls, and serving dishes are widely available and come in various elegant designs to pair with your table. Bone China Bone china is another excellent option to use for table dining on your pool table. It's lightweight and has a delicate appearance. At the same time, it maintains a smooth surface that is less likely to cause scratches on the surface of your table. Smooth Ceramic Utensils If you're using ceramic utensils on your pool tables, make sure they have a smooth and well-finished surface. Avoid using utensils with rough edges or unglazed portions, as these could potentially scratch the table. When in Doubt, Seek Professional Advice That being said, the right table protection techniques you can use for your pool dining table may vary depending on the material of the table. Moreover, how frequently you use your pool dining table either for leisure billiard play or for mealtimes can affect the potential scratches and spills you may encounter. If you're ever in doubt about any table protection tips, it's always best to seek professional help from your local pool table dealer or a game room specialist. They can advise you on the right materials and techniques that can help protect the pool table from spills and scratches for years to come. Wrapping Up While pool table spills and scratches are inevitable, there are a few methods you can use to protect your pool dining table from long-term damage. From investing in table runners and opting for slate pool tables to selecting non-glossy finishes and avoiding hard materials, you can always do something to prevent the short- and long-term damage that comes with scratches and spills from your dining use and playing pool. This is applicable to both modern and antique pool dining tables, too! And just like a dining table, with the right practices in place for your pool tables, you don’t just minimise the presence of these damages; you also maintain the appearance and ensure the prolonged functionality of your pool dining table several games -- and years into the future. Are you ready to start following the proper tips to protect your ideal pool tables with our guide above? We hope the best for you and your pool table!