10 Ways to Keep Your Soccer Ball in Good Condition

If you’re mindful of your equipment, you've probably thought a good deal about how to keep your soccer ball in great shape. Practicing with a clean, properly pressured ball can give you more of an edge. Your soccer ball can last for years with the right care, so why not make sure you're looking after it properly?

When caring for your soccer ball, there are a few key things you can do to keep it in good condition.

1. Deflate When Storing

When you store your soccer ball, deflate the air in it to relieve the pressure. This suggestion is ideal for keeping it strong and sturdy for the times you practice and play with it. This tip can also help it last longer. Use a pump and needle, going slowly and carefully to protect it. 

2. Care for the Valve When Inflating

When you inflate your soccer ball to practice with it, placing a few drops of silicone oil, silicone lubricant spray or glycerin oil into the valve can help you care for it. Doing this can help it last longer and avoid the need for replacement. You can find these materials at plenty of sporting goods stores.

3. Inflate It Adequately When Playing

Most soccer balls will have some print or writing stating the correct air pressure on the side, and it's always best to pay close attention to that when inflating the ball before practice. A deflated ball won't be effective, and an overly inflated ball will sometimes wear out quicker and cause damage.

4. Store in Proper Conditions

Many people store their sporting equipment in garages and outdoor spaces, which is a great idea so long as these areas are protected from the elements. Having a secure storage area that blocks out rain and other precipitation is a great way to make sure your soccer ball and other sporting equipment stays safe and dry.

5. Clean It Carefully

Although you're used to kicking it around all day, cleaning your soccer ball is a careful endeavor. Use a damp cloth with water to clean spots and scuffs off the ball's surface. Harsh brushing, power-washing and other more aggressive techniques can warp the ball's shape and appearance, possibly causing damage. 

6. Play on Proper Surfaces

While your soccer ball is durable, certain surfaces can wear it down. Grass, turf and other surfaces for which it is designed are great options, but playing an impromptu game on asphalt, pavement or gravel can cause damage and deterioration. 

7. Avoid Harsh Detergents or Chemicals

Just like playing too hard, cleaning too hard can have some unsightly effects. Harsh perfumes, bleaches and detergents can cause deterioration on the ball's surface, so it's always best to clean your soccer ball with gentle soaps, synthetic leather cleaners or even just water. This can help it maintain its appearance and last longer.

8. Avoid Standing on It

Soccer balls are designed to withstand a lot of pressure, but not too much. Direct pressure in one spot with the entire weight of your body can cause strain on the ball. This tip applies to sitting on the ball as well. Plus, standing on it can cause marks and other surface damage.

9. Avoid Playing on Walls

While using a wall can help develop skills and aid you in practicing solo, kicking the ball against a wall can warp its shape due to repeated hits against a flat surface. It's best to avoid doing this whenever possible or at least keep the wall play to a minimum. 

10. Keep Away From Scratches

Whether you have beloved pets with claws or you tend to take your ball to new places to practice, it's important to keep it away from sharp edges, corners and surfaces that could scratch it. Surface damage can deteriorate the ball, especially if this is repeated often — it's better to be safe than sorry.

Keep Your Goals in Check

You don't want to keep replacing your soccer ball — you want to be able to practice with it for years to come. To do that, look after it with care so you can keep on kicking.

Author Bio:

Oscar Collins is the managing editor at Modded. He writes about cars, fitness, the outdoors and more. Follow @TModded on Twitter for more articles from the Modded team.