What can you do with bad golf balls?

Answered by James Kissner

When it comes to handling bad golf balls, there are a few options you can consider. Whether they are damaged and retired or just unwanted, here are some ideas for what you can do with them:

1. Give them to friends: If you have golfing buddies who play with you regularly, ask them if they need any golf balls. Sharing your surplus with friends can be a great way to help them out while decluttering your own collection. Plus, it’s always nice to spread the love of the game.

2. Donate to local driving ranges: Many driving ranges are often in need of golf balls for their customers to use. Instead of letting your unused or damaged balls gather dust, consider donating them to your local driving range. This way, they can continue to serve a purpose and be enjoyed by others.

3. Offer them to beginner golfers: If you know someone who is just starting out with golf or showing an interest in the game, offering them your unwanted golf balls can be a kind gesture. Beginners often go through a lot of balls as they learn, so your donation could be greatly appreciated.

4. Use them for practice: If the balls are still usable, even if they are not in the best condition, you can keep them as practice balls. These can come in handy for hitting shots in your backyard or at a practice facility where losing a few balls won’t be a big deal. Just keep in mind that if they are heavily damaged or cracked, they may not fly as true as a new ball.

5. Recycle or dispose of properly: If the golf balls are beyond use or repair, it’s important to dispose of them properly. Many golf courses have recycling programs specifically for golf balls, so you can check if your local course offers this service. Additionally, some recycling centers accept golf balls as well. If neither option is available, you can dispose of them in your regular trash, but try to remove any non-biodegradable components like the outer cover before doing so.

In my personal experience, I have often given my unwanted golf balls to friends who play golf. It’s always a nice surprise for them, and it helps me clear out my collection. I’ve also donated balls to my local driving range, knowing that they will be put to good use by others.

The key is to find a way to give your bad golf balls a new purpose. Whether it’s through sharing with friends, donating to a driving range, or recycling, you can ensure that they continue to bring joy to others while decluttering your own golfing equipment.