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PADDLE CARE
Proper care and maintenance are crucial for maintaining the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your wooden spanking paddle. This guide provides useful advice on how to care for and preserve your paddle, ensuring its longevity through proper cleaning, storage, and handling techniques.
Finished Wood:
Maintenance of a wood spanking paddle care is pretty basic. Just use a mild soap and water to wipe down the paddle. If need be you can use a very mild furniture cleaner on the wood. For the most part a damp cloth will suffice.
Oiled Wood (Hand Rubbed):
A spanking paddle that is oiled will need special care at times to preserve the look and feel of the wood. The good thing is that the more an oiled spanking paddle is maintained, the better it will look over time. All you will need to do is oil the paddle with a mineral oil aka breadboard finish.
Unfinished Spanking Paddle Care:
A spanking paddle that has no finish or oil will need little care if any. Any water on the wood could damage the paddle, so all that is recommended is to simply wipe it down with a damp cloth from time to time.

Polycarbonate (Lexan) Spanking Paddle Care:
Lexan paddles are pretty easy to care for. Periodically provide paddle care by wipe them down with a mild soap and water mixture being careful not to scratch the outer layer of the polycarbonate. This type of paddle is pretty hardy and can take a lot of abuse.
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Cleaning Your Wooden Paddle
Steps:
Wipe After Use: Following each use, clean the paddle with a damp cloth to eliminate any bodily fluids or debris. Steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could harm the wood.
Gentle Cleaning: For a more thorough clean, mix mild soap with water. Use a soft cloth or sponge to apply the solution and gently wipe the paddle's surface. Avoid soaking the wood or exposing it to excessive moisture.
Dry Completely: After cleaning, ensure the paddle is thoroughly dried with a soft towel to prevent water damage. Allow it to air dry fully before putting it away.
Maintaining the Finish
Applying Finish: Regularly apply a wood conditioner or finish suitable for the type of wood used in your paddle. This will help preserve the wood's natural shine and protect it from drying or cracking.
Frequency: Depending on usage and environmental factors, consider reapplying the finish every few months to ensure optimal protection and appearance.
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Leather Slapper Paddle Care:
Leather paddles are pretty easy to care for. To clean a leather paddle, first choose a cleaner that will help preserve the natural lubricating oils instead of stripping them. Saddle paste and glycerine soap are commonly used products for saddles and tack. The cleaner of your choice should not leave any greasy residue behind. Residue makes your leather paddle susceptible to bacteria and can break down the stitching of your item. Before applying anything to your leather item, be certain to test it out for effect and possible color distortion on an area that isn’t visible to the eye. Once you’ve determined that the leather paddle care product is acceptable to use, apply it to your item and thoroughly remove the cleaning product with a lightly dampened cloth.
Leather Paddle Care & Conditioning:
Leather conditioners are meant for occasional use. They contain fats and/or oils that help lubricate leather and replenish the suppleness. Look for a product that will penetrate the strong fibers in leather, but beware of any that include petroleum or mineral oils. While petroleum by-products won’t damage your leather paddle immediately, they do over a period of time.

Leather deteriorates largely by four means:
- Oxidation is most readily seen in very old, dry leather. The leather shows surface cracking and flaking, and over-all weakness. Eventually oxidation will turn leather to dust. The only way to stop oxidation is application of an inert dressing to coat the fibers.
- Chemical damage can be caused by the effect of ultraviolet light, ozone, acidic pollutants in the air, or through chemical action following treatment with improper compounds. Both oxidation and chemical damage occur faster at higher temperatures. Leather should be stored away from heat, and not needlessly exposed to sunlight.
- Internal wear or breaking of fibers occurs when dry leather is flexed. A lubricant is essential to allow the fibers to slide one against the other.
- Abrasion can be caused by friction or dirt particles ground into the leather.
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Storage & Handling Recommendations
Ideal Environment:
Keep your wooden paddle in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid damp or humid areas that could lead to warping or cracking.
Avoid Pressure:
Store paddles flat or hanging to prevent warping. Refrain from placing heavy items on top, as this can cause deformation over time.
Proper Handling:
Treat your wooden paddle with care to prevent accidental damage or splintering. Avoid striking hard surfaces or applying excessive force during use, as this could chip the wood.
Use a Protective Case:
Consider utilizing a protective case or pouch for storing your paddle.