How to put on a tennis dampener
Put a tennis dampener between the two centre main strings, just below the last cross string at the throat end of your racket. Press it onto the strings until it sits flat and snug. It takes about ten seconds, and you can move or remove it at any time.
Step by step
- Find the last cross string. Cross strings run side to side. Find the one nearest the handle, at the bottom of the string bed.
- Pick the two centre main strings. Main strings run from the handle to the tip. Choose the two in the middle, below that last cross string.
- Press the dampener on. Line it up with the two strings and push it on until both strings sit in its grooves.
- Check the position. It should sit flat, between the two strings, below the last cross string and not touching it.
How to take it off
Pinch the dampener and slide it down and off the strings. Silicone dampeners don't damage strings, so you can swap designs or move one between rackets as often as you like.
If it keeps moving
Re-seat it on the two centre main strings so both strings are fully in its grooves. The centre strings are usually the best fit. If you've just had your racket restrung, check it again after your first hit.
Can it go anywhere else?
For matches, it has to stay outside the pattern of crossed strings, so below the last cross string. Anywhere in that bottom strip is fine, but the centre is standard and looks neatest. See are dampeners allowed in tennis matches? for the rule.
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Questions people ask
Which strings does a tennis dampener go on?
The two centre main strings (the ones running from handle to tip), just below the last cross string at the throat end of the racket.
Does it matter exactly where the dampener sits?
For matches it must sit outside the crossed strings, so below the last cross string. Within that strip, the centre is standard and gives the neatest fit.
Can I move a dampener between rackets?
Yes. Slide it off and press it onto the other racket the same way. Silicone dampeners don't damage strings.