There are a few reasons why people may keep balls stored with clothes that need to be put away:
Convenience – It’s easier to keep all sporting equipment together in one place rather than having balls scattered in different areas of the home. Putting balls in with the clothes to be put away keeps things tidy and organized.
Limited storage space – Some homes have limited closet space or shortage of storage options. Keeping balls with spare clothes is an efficient use of the available space.
Makes locating easier – Storing balls with off-season clothes means you know exactly where to find them when needed. The balls are all in one designated spot rather than being lost in the depths of the closet or garage.
Helps avoid damage/losing balls – Keeping balls out of the way in a drawer or on a closet shelf helps ensure they don’t get lost or damaged when not in use. Kids won’t be as tempted to play impromptu ball games in the house if the balls are tucked out of sight.
Benefits of Storing Balls With Clothes
There are several advantages that make storing balls with extra clothing a logical solution:
Maximizes space – Closets, dressers and other storage areas often have wasted vertical storage that balls can utilize without taking up other needed space.
Prevents clutter – Containing balls in one designated spot avoids them rolling around loosely in the home and making clutter.
Keeps balls clean – Being stored in a drawer or shelved area protects balls from getting dusty or dirty compared to being left out.
Saves money – Balls stored properly will have less chance of getting lost, stolen or damaged. Replacing balls less often saves money.
Allows quick access – You know exactly where to grab a ball when needed for a sporting event or game. No hunting required.
Best Practices for Storing Balls and Clothes
If you decide to keep balls combined with spare clothing, follow these tips:
– Use stackable storage containers. This keeps balls corralled in one section of the drawer or shelf.
– Alternate ball storage with off-season clothing. For example, store summer clothes with soccer balls and winter clothes with footballs.
– Label storage containers for easy identification of contents.
– Use drawer organizers or shelving units to neatly separate types of balls.
– Store very fragile balls separately to prevent damage. For example, store golf balls in a small box rather than loose.
– Occasionally reshuffle storage to cycle out balls that haven’t been used in awhile.
– Check that balls are properly inflated before storage to help retain shape and bounce.
Recommended Ball Storage Containers
| Container | Features |
|---|---|
| Plastic storage bins | Sturdy, stackable, transparent for easy content identification |
| Cloth drawstring bags | Lightweight, breathable fabric, compact storage |
| Mesh bags | Provides ventilation, visibility of contents, easy to clean |
| Utility buckets | Handles for easy transport, molded plastic does not retain odors |
When to Store Balls Separately
While combining clothes and balls works well in many situations, here are some instances when it’s better to store balls entirely separately:
– If space allows, keep balls that are used frequently near the location of play for easy access. For example, store backyard sport balls in the garage or mudroom.
-Separating seasonal balls from off-season clothes avoids having to dig for them when needed. Store winter balls like footballs separately from summer clothes.
-Balls used for different sports may do best stored individually to avoid damaging each other. For example, store baseballs and softballs separately.
-Precious signed balls, antique balls or balls with sentimental value deserve their own individual storage to prevent damage.
-Separating exercise balls gives them room for inflation and makes transportation for workouts easier.
Alternatives to Storing Balls With Clothes
If you decide not to combine balls and clothes, here are other great options for ball storage:
Ball holders – Wall mounted mesh holders or freestanding racks keep balls visible and easy to access.
Shelving – Utilize garage shelving or utility room shelves to neatly store types of balls.
Sports bags – Store balls in spare sports duffle bags or backpacks by sport.
Plastic tubs – Clear under-bed bins allow visibility of contents.
Sports lockers – Old sports lockers make ideal vintage ball storage.
Ball carts – Rolling sports carts with ball compartments make transport easy.
Ball nets – Hanging net bags on coat hooks or walls keep balls wrangle yet visible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why shouldn’t you store balls under furniture or beds?
Balls stored under furniture or beds can be smashed or deformed by weight and movement above. The confined space also traps humidity and gases which can damage balls over time.
What’s the best temperature to store balls at?
Ideally, balls should be stored in a controlled climate of 55-75°F and around 50% humidity. Avoid temperature extremes like attics or garages which cause balls to deflate and perish faster.
How can you extend the life of indoor balls?
– Inflate balls to recommended pressure before storage
– Avoid exposing balls to direct sunlight or moisture
– Check balls periodically for proper inflation
– Wipe down balls occasionally with damp cloth
– Replace heavily used balls annually
– Store balls away from heat vents or forced air
Why shouldn’t golf balls be stored loose together?
The hard shells of golf balls will bang against each other when loose, causing nicks and dents over time. Store golf balls lined in an egg carton, divider box or mesh pouch to cushion between balls.
Conclusion
Storing spare balls with off-season clothing can be an efficient storage solution for active households. Following basic organizational tips will keep balls protected, make them easy to access when needed for a game or practice and avoid sporting equipment clutter around the home. Be selective about which balls combine best with clothes versus separate storage based on ball value, frequence of use and fragility. With some forethought, it’s easy to devise a storage strategy that suits your family’s sporting needs and space constraints.
