Best method for storing footballs

[short84]

I have put together a fairly nice collection of game used footballs. How is the best way to store them? I would appreciate any input -- thank you!

[RaiderNationPDX]

As with most items in our hobby, out of direct sunlight and in a temperature-controlled environment is next to essential. Speaking specifically to footballs, direct sunlight - and to a far lesser degree some artificial light - will fade the ball (I've seen a Goodell ball that even within the span of a couple years was light tan on a panel and a half from sunlight exposure) and eventually begin to visibly degrade the leather's physical structure.

UV protected cases are readily available, but a simple acrylic case stored away from harsh, direct light usually suffices for me. This also serves the purpose of keeping dust off, which I've found to be a problem with my non-cased footballs. Have to hit those every few weeks with a soft nylon brush to get the accumulated dust off.

Other than that, I just wear gloves when I handle them (probably overkill) and make sure they're properly inflated (I usually inflate for storage to about 10-11 lbs instead of 13, though others may feel different)

[joelsabi]

Other than that, I just wear gloves when I handle them (probably overkill) and make sure they're properly inflated (I usually inflate for storage to about 10-11 lbs instead of 13, though others may feel different)

deflating slightly the bladder helps to preserve the bladder walls. removal from direct sunlight assists in avoiding cracks.

[short84]

Thank you very much for the replies. I appreciate your time and advise.

[project 4]

Thank you very much for the replies. I appreciate your time and advise.

+1. good advice!

[NEFAN]

As with most items in our hobby, out of direct sunlight and in a temperature-controlled environment is next to essential. Speaking specifically to footballs, direct sunlight - and to a far lesser degree some artificial light - will fade the ball (I've seen a Goodell ball that even within the span of a couple years was light tan on a panel and a half from sunlight exposure) and eventually begin to visibly degrade the leather's physical structure.

UV protected cases are readily available, but a simple acrylic case stored away from harsh, direct light usually suffices for me. This also serves the purpose of keeping dust off, which I've found to be a problem with my non-cased footballs. Have to hit those every few weeks with a soft nylon brush to get the accumulated dust off.

Other than that, I just wear gloves when I handle them (probably overkill) and make sure they're properly inflated (I usually inflate for storage to about 10-11 lbs instead of 13, though others may feel different)

I usually let out enough air to make it soft because I have had full balls bladders leak without any handling.

[short84]

Thanks again!!!! Wow, sometimes my speling sucks!

[Preston]

Thanks again!!!! Wow, sometimes my speling sucks!

+1 - I'm lucky I'm good at spelling!

(just giving you a hard time)