Cricket Bat Care
Our skilled craftsmen meticulously prepare every Redwood cricket bat. However, as you start to use your bat it will be subject to the usual wear and tear so please take note of the following tips to get the best from your bat:
Knocking in
We recommend careful knocking in and anti scuff facing to increase your bat's durability. We offer a professional knocking in service, which you can add to your order prior to check-out.
Extra hand knocking will help to gradually press and harden the fibres of the willow. It is particularly important to be careful when knocking in the bat's edges and toe. NB - Only ever strike the bat directly on the front face or front face edges. Never on the back or side.
Anti-scuff and oiling
This is a clear facing that is applied to the face of a cricket bat. It helps to limit damage as well as preventing damp ingress whilst retaining the bat's natural moisture. All Redwood bat's are pre-oiled so we do not recommend any more than one additional light coat of linseed oil. When this is fully dry, the anti scuff protective facing can be applied.
Checking your bat
Check your bat regularly for any superficial damage. Willow is a soft wood and some small cracks are bound to occur but these should not affect its performance. Often any damage can be repaired easily with a bit of wood glue but our free advice service can help you if you are unsure. Just email the team at info@redwoodcricketcompany.co.uk or contact us via twitter @RedwoodCricket
End of the season
At the season's close your bat should be oiled and any small repairs undertaken. Store it in a cool, dry environment (avoiding centrally-heated rooms which can dry out the natural moisture and can make the willow brittle).
Avoid cheap balls
Cheaper balls are often less resilient than the more expensive, reputable brands and using them can have a detrimental effect on the longevity of your bat.
Look after your bat and your bat will look after you.