Clean your Spalding basketball using a three step cleaning/drying process that I explain in detail in this article. You will need about three cloths, two buckets, cleaning solution and water. This is essentially how you clean a Spalding basketball.
Spalding basketballs are a favorite among basketball players for their superior grip and excellent performance on the court. However, after prolonged use, it’s common for this or any basketball to accumulate dirt, sweat, and grime, which can affect its performance.
Regularly cleaning your Spalding basketball can help maintain its quality and prolong its lifespan. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of cleaning your Spalding basketball.
Spalding Basketballs:
Before I being explaining how to clean your Spalding basketball I want to take a minute to explain the different types of materials used to make Spalding basketballs. Although the cleaning process is pretty much the same, the material used on the exterior can make a difference. If you want to know a little more about cleaning a variety of basketballs please check out this article.
Spalding makes basketballs out of rubber, synthetic leather and real leather. Some of their basketballs are indoor only basketballs while others can be used in both the outdoors and indoors.
Cleaning Materials:
The materials needed to clean your Spalding basketball are listed below:
- Water
- Bucket
- Sponge or cloth
- Dish soap
- Soft bristle brush (optional)
- Leather conditioner (optional)
- Towel
Steps to Cleaning a Spalding Basketball:
- Prepare your cleaning area
- Gather all of your materials
- Wipe down your Wilson Evolution Basketball
- Clean ball with cloth and/or brush (only if needed)
- Use a damp cloth to rinse the Wilson Evolution basketball
- You may need to use a small spray bottle (be careful not to get the ball too wet)
- Dry the ball with a clean and dry cloth
Prepare Your Cleaning Area
You will need an area to clean Spalding basketballs. I like to use my garage but almost any area will work. You can do it outside near a house or even in the kitchen or bathroom.
Gather all of Your materials
I listed the materials you will need above to clean a Spalding basketball but will go into a little more detail for you.
First, you will definitely need a water source. I have a sink in my garage which makes this process easier. Remember, we are not soaking this basketball. The water is only needed for the solution and to rinse the basketball.
Prepare the cleaning solution by putting warm water in a bucket with a few drops of dish soap.
Prepare another small bucket with clean water to be used for rinsing later in the process.
You will also need to ensure you have a cloth, sponge and a soft bristle brush just in case you have marks. You can purchase a basketball cleaning solution online but dish soap works perfectly.
A dry towel will be needed to dry the basketball.
Leather conditioner and cleaner can also be beneficial.
Wipe Down the Spalding Basketball
Ok, here comes the fun part. Get your cloth moist and wipe down your Wilson Evolution basketball. Use this opportunity to find the dirty spots which will require the most attention.
This step should break down much of the dirt and grime on your basketball.
Feel free to spend as much time as you need to really break up the dirt on the basketball. You may need to get your cloth damp several times throughout this process.
Use the cloth to clean the seams or lines on the basketball.
Clean the Spalding Basketball
The next step is only needed if you have really tough stains on your Spalding basketball. These could be stains from dried up gatorade or scuff marks. In this step, carefully use the soft bristled brush to remove any tough dirt spots or stains on your basketball. You may need to scrub a little hard to remove these but be careful not to wear down the bumps and grip on the basketball.
Rinse the Spalding Basketball
During this step use a second cloth and a new bucket of water or the sink. Get the cloth damp and use it to rinse off the soap from the Spalding basketball. Make sure all of the soap has been removed from the ball and you are ready to move on to the next step.
Dry the Basketball
Use a seperate and new cloth. Make sure it is dry. Dry it off as completely as possible. You may need to let it dry for several hours. Be sure not to leave your Spalding basketball in the direct sunlight especially if it’s leather. It is not good for the basketball. You can read more about why you should avoid using direct sunlight to dry your basketball here.
Summary:
Cleaning your Spalding basketball is a simple process that includes washing the ball with a mild detergent and water and then drying the basketball. Cleaning the ball regularly can help maintain its performance and extend its lifespan. Regular maintenance not only keeps the ball looking clean and fresh but also ensures that it performs optimally on the basketball court. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, and your Spalding basketball will remain in top condition for many games to come.
