how to wash a tennis ball

How to Wash a Tennis Ball

If your tennis balls have seen better days and have collected a fair bit of dirt and grime, don’t fret—it’s possible to get them looking close to new with a few simple steps. Whether your tennis ball is just slightly dusty or it’s come to be your dog’s favorite toy, these step-by-step instructions will help you clean your tennis balls effectively.

Gathering Your Materials

To begin, make sure you have the following items:

• A bucket or sink
• Mild detergent or dish soap
• A soft brush or cloth
• Clean water
• A towel for drying
• Optional: laundry bag or old pillowcase

Step-by-Step Washing Procedure

Manual Washing

Follow these simple steps to hand wash your tennis ball:

1. Fill your bucket or sink with warm water. Make sure it’s not too hot, as high temperatures could affect the ball’s bounce and durability.
2. Add a small squirt of mild detergent or dish soap to the water.
3. Submerge the tennis ball in the soapy water and let it soak for a few minutes. This will help loosen any dirt or grime.
4. Using the soft brush or cloth, gently scrub the surface of the tennis ball to remove dirt. Pay extra attention to any heavily soiled areas, but be careful not to be too rough as this might damage the ball’s fuzz.
5. Rinse the tennis ball thoroughly under clean, running water to remove any soap residue.
6. Dry the tennis ball by patting it down with a towel. Avoid using high heat or a hair dryer as this can also affect the ball’s quality.
7. Let the tennis ball air-dry completely before using it again. This is important to avoid mildew or internal damage.

Machine Washing (Optional)

If you prefer to use a washing machine, here’s what to do:

1. Place the tennis ball inside a laundry bag or an old pillowcase to prevent it from banging around in the machine and causing damage.
2. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a small amount of detergent.
3. Once the cycle is finished, remove the ball and dry it thoroughly with a towel.
4. Let it air-dry completely before use. Again, avoid using heat to dry.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

• Do not use bleach or strong chemicals, as these can degrade the materials of the tennis ball and affect its performance.
• Make sure the tennis balls are completely dry before storing them to prevent mold and mildew.
• If you’re washing dog-used tennis balls, check for heavy slobber or chewing damage before washing, as they may need to be replaced instead.

Cleaning your tennis balls doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these simple steps, you can extend their life and performance. Just remember to be gentle and thorough, and your tennis balls will be ready for the court or playtime with your pet in no time.