When you remove your ball off the putting green, it is always possible to clean it. Lifting your ball from anywhere else is always clean, unless when you lift it: To examine if it is cut or cracked—no cleaning is permitted. If no damage is found, put it back in play. It is important to understand that once your ball has been removed from play, it is no longer subject to any rules regarding weight, size, or material. Thus, you can use a ball of any size or material for cleansing duties. All that matters is that it is non-functional after removal from play. In case of rain or snow, you should clean your ball as soon as possible after it has been exposed to these conditions. The moisture on the surface of the ball may cause it to rust or otherwise become damaged. Also, make sure to clean any sand or other debris off your ball before putting it back in play. Cleaning balls is an important part of golf. If your ball gets dirty or torn up during play, you need to be able to clean it properly so you can continue the game. Using a towel and water, it is not difficult to clean most balls.