More than just a matter of cleanliness
There’s something deeply satisfying about the sound of a well-struck shot—that crisp, clean click from the centre of the clubface that seems to stop time for a brief moment. But for that moment to happen, more than just talent or technique is required. It takes respect. For the game, for oneself, and for the equipment in your hands. Because in golf—perhaps more than in any other sport—looking after your gear is not a quirk, but a sign of commitment.
Why it matters to keep your clubs in good condition
Golf clubs are extensions of our intentions on the course. They speak for us. And while you don’t need the latest technology to enjoy this game, it is essential to keep your equipment in optimal condition. Not out of obsession with cleanliness or perfection, but because a dirty or neglected club—especially with grooves packed with mud—can affect both performance and the quality of your experience. At the Club de Golf Costa Brava, we value this just as much as a smooth swing or a putt that drops on the final roll.
Simple care with simple tools
Let’s start with the basics—why it’s so important to keep your clubs clean and well maintained. The most obvious answer is that they simply perform better. Clean grooves offer better spin and cleaner contact with the ball, especially on approach shots where accuracy is everything. But there’s more to it. How we care for our clubs says a lot about how we relate to the game itself. And at a club like ours, where attention to detail and personal service are in our DNA, these small actions truly matter.
The good news? Taking care of your clubs doesn’t require expensive tools or high-tech gadgets. All you need is a few minutes, some warm water, a soft brush, and a towel. And, most importantly, the intention to make it part of your regular routine. Just like checking your scorecard or visualising the next hole, taking a moment to check your clubs can be a simple but powerful habit.
Cleaning your irons and wedges
Cleaning your irons and wedges is arguably the most important task. These clubs make the most contact with the ground and take the brunt of play in damp conditions, thick roughs, and bunker sessions.
The best approach is to soak the clubheads in a container of warm water with a touch of mild soap. Let them sit for a few minutes—just enough to soften any stuck-on dirt. Then, using a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush, gently scrub the grooves and edges. No need to polish them like jewellery, but restoring the metal to its natural feel makes a real difference.
Once clean, dry them thoroughly with a soft towel, paying particular attention to the joint where the head meets the shaft—any lingering moisture here could lead to rust. Want to take it one step further? A light application of chrome or stainless steel polish will bring back the shine without damaging the surface.
Special care for woods and drivers
Woods and drivers require a more delicate touch. Avoid soaking them in water or scrubbing with brushes. Their finish—often painted or made from composite materials—can be easily damaged. Instead, wipe the head gently with a slightly damp cloth. If any marks remain, use small, circular motions with light pressure. The goal here is to preserve the original finish and maintain the club’s balance and integrity.
Don’t forget your putter
The putter may not see as much dirt as other clubs, but it still deserves attention. Greens might look clean, but they’re full of sand, fertiliser and fine particles that can stick to the face. A quick clean with a dry or slightly damp cloth, followed by immediate drying, will keep your putter in good shape. And of course, putting the headcover back on after each round will help extend its life considerably.
Keeping your grips in top condition
Grips are often overlooked, yet they are the only point of direct contact between you and your club. A dirty, slippery, or sun-dried grip can drastically affect your control and feel. Ideally, clean them every few rounds using warm soapy water and a soft brush. Don’t soak them or leave them in the sun to dry, as this can lead to premature wear. Once cleaned, let them air-dry or towel-dry them thoroughly, and keep them out of your bag until completely dry.
Shafts: clean and rust-free
Shafts might not appear as vulnerable to dirt, but they collect dust, grass stains and moisture all the same. A gentle wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth is usually enough—just make sure no moisture is left behind, especially around joints or ferrules. If you spot any rust, apply a small amount of white vinegar with a cloth and rub gently until the stain disappears.
Smart storage matters too
Storage plays a big role in long-term club care. Rule number one: never store your clubs wet. It sounds obvious, but it’s one of the most common causes of damage—especially if they’re left in the boot of a car or zipped up in a bag for days. Rule number two: prevent the heads from knocking together. Headcovers for woods, irons and putters aren’t just for show—they protect your clubs from dings and scratches that compromise both function and aesthetics.
A philosophy of care that defines your game
At Club de Golf Costa Brava, we believe that every detail counts. That respecting your equipment is a form of respect for the game itself. That a well-maintained golf bag speaks volumes about the player—just as much as a perfect swing or a good attitude on the course. And that our environment—where scenery, history and hospitality come together in an unforgettable golfing experience—deserves golfers who embrace that same philosophy of care and excellence.
A daily gesture that improves your game
aking care of your clubs doesn’t have to feel like a chore. It can become part of your golf ritual, a quiet moment to connect with the game even off the course. A form of preparation, of refinement, of remembering that every shot begins long before the ball is teed up. After all, cleaning a club isn’t just maintenance—it’s tuning a tool. It’s getting ready for that perfect click we all seek.
And if you pair that with a 27-hole course in the heart of the Empordà—surrounded by holm oaks, cypress trees and unforgettable views—the result is a golfing experience like no other. Want to see it for yourself?Book your tee time today at Club de Golf Costa Brava and come enjoy an immaculate round—from your first shot to your final putt. Because here, every detail matters. Even the way you care for your clubs.