Don't go to extremes to preserve your basketball, follow these simple tips to keep your ball looking newer for longer. 

Basketballs can be made from many different materials. Whether the ball is made from natural leathers, synthetic leathers or rubber compounds, understanding how to properly care for your basketball will extend its life.

Although these instructions are specifically for Molten Basketballs, they will apply to a basketball of any brand that's made from similar materials.

Important Care advice

• Always store your basketball in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight;
  • Never leave your basketball exposed to high temperatures or humidity, make sure it's not left in your car boot/trunk. Extreme temperatures can warp the ball and affect performance.
  • Keep your basketball away from fire.

• Creams and sprays, normally used for protecting leather coats and shoes, should not be used on leather balls, as they may make the surface slippery and less capable of absorbing sweat.

• Give your basketball a rest from time to time.
  • Like all athletes, the basketball needs a break from time to time. Extend the life of your basketball by using two or more in rotation.

• When inflating your basketball it is important to lubricate the needle before inserting it into the valve.
  • When topping up an inflated ball ensure you have the correct needle and that it is not damaged in anyway which could cause damage to the valve.

If your basketball gets wet

• Wipe off any excess moisture with a clean cloth.
• Leave the basketball to dry in a well-ventilated place, out of the sun.
• Never use hair-dryers or similar appliances to speed up drying.

Cleaning your Basketball

Keep your basketball at its optimum for longer. Be sure to check out the cleaning instructions for your Molten basketball. 

Natural leather Molten Basketballs – GL Series

Gently clean natural leather Molten Basketballs using a small amount of natural leather cleaner with a soft cloth. Rub on the entire surface and wipe off any leftover leather cleaner until the surface is polished. 

Some stains can be removed using water and a high-quality leather shampoo. Never leave it immersed in the leather shampoo.

After cleaning, be sure to wipe off any oils or shampoo left on the surface.

Leave the ball to dry in a well-ventilated place, out of the sun.

It is important to note that the Molten GL Series Basketball comes inflated direct from the factory. Try to avoid deflating the ball as creases may appear on the ball.

Synthetic leather Molten Basketballs – GF, GM, GE, GA & Libertria series

• Wipe the surface of the ball with a soft, damp cloth.
• Use a soft eraser/rubber to rub off dirt or grit.
• For tough stains use a synthetic leather cleaner.

If the basketball extremely dirty, mix some water and a mild detergent in a bowl and use a cloth to clean. Never leave it immersed in detergent.

After cleaning, be sure to wipe off any detergent left on the surface.

Leave the basketball to dry in a well-ventilated place out of the sun.

Molten Rubber Basketballs – GRD series

• Wipe the surface of the ball with a soft, damp cloth.
• Use a soft eraser to rub off dirt or grit.
• For tough stains use warm soapy water and a soft scrubbing brush to remove the dirt. Never leave it immersed in detergent.

After cleaning, be sure to wipe off any detergent left on the surface.

Leave the basketball to dry in a well-ventilated place, out of the sun.

Disclaimer: Anyone using these guides should rely on their common sense in regards to the harshness of the detergents used and other potential risks. In other words, we are not responsible for any damage caused to you or your ball if these guides are not followed properly.