A basketball is our loyal partner in sweating it out, either inside an indoor court or an outdoor court, and recording hundreds of moments of shots and dribbles. Yet, as the frequency of use increases, the surface of the basketball may trap dust, dirt, and sweat stains, reducing grip and even shortening its life span. So how do you clean a basketball properly to maintain its well-being? This article answers all your questions.
Why Should You Clean Your Basketball?
It’s not about the aesthetic; a clean basketball ensures good grip and friction, especially for competition or training balls. Proper cleaning and maintenance directly reflect on the performance. Cleaning can also help extend the life of the basketball to help prevent the aging or cracking of materials on its surface.
Steps for Cleaning A Basketball (Applicable to Rubber, Synthetic Leather, and PU Materials)
1. Prepare tools
- A basin of warm water (approximately 30°C)
- Neutral detergent or mild soap
- A soft-bristle brush or soft cloth
- A dry towel or space for natural drying
2. Remove dust preliminarily
- Gently wipe off surface dust with a clean towel or brush. Pay special attention to crevices, which can be brushed with a dry brush to remove accumulated dirt.
3. Wash with warm water
- Wet the basketball surface, then apply a small amount of detergent to the cloth or brush and gently scrub the surface. Avoid using strong acids or alkalis, as they may corrode the material.
4. Rinse and dry
- Rinse off any remaining foam or dirt with clean water, then dry with a dry towel. Do not use a hairdryer or expose to direct sunlight.
5. Air dry
- Place the basketball in a well-ventilated, shaded area to dry naturally. Avoid exposing it to high temperatures, humid environments, soaking, or high-temperature drying.
Cleaning Tips for Different Types of Basketballs
| Material | Cleaning Recommendation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rubber | Can be cleaned with a brush; more dirt-resistant | Avoid using stiff or abrasive brushes |
| PU/Synthetic Leather | Use a damp cloth with mild soap for surface cleaning | Do not soak in water; wipe gently |
| Genuine Leather | Prefer dry wiping to preserve material quality | Avoid water cleaning; store in a dry environment |
Basketball Maintenance Tips
- Weekly cleaning: After every outdoor use, weekly at minimum.
- Proper storage: Avoid storing basketballs in damp, high-temperature, or direct sunlight environments for extended periods.
- Air pressure control: Avoid overinflating; recommended pressure is 7.5–8.5 psi.
- Avoid standing on: Do not step on or sit on basketballs to avoid air leak or deformation.
Choose a high-quality basketball to extend its lifespan
Together with frequent cleaning and upkeep, choosing a high-quality basketball is the most important factor in prolonging its lifespan. High-quality basketballs are more durable and offer better grip in terms of material, anti-slip performance, and seam construction, capable of withstanding frequent use and various weather conditions.
About Normansport
Normansport is a professional basketball manufacturer with extensive production experience, advanced craftsmanship, and innovative design, offering a variety of basketball products suitable for training, competitions, outdoor activities, and leisure. Our basketballs are widely exported to Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, and other regions, earning the trust and praise of buyers.
Custom basketball services offered: No matter what event, club, or even promotional activity is taking place, we provide an opportunity for our customers to upload their brand logos, patterns, and colors. We provide high-quality custom basketball solutions that prove to be efficient and economical for wholesalers, brand owners, and school sports departments.
Want to learn more about our basketball products? Visit Normansport.com to start your customization journey!