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How to Revive a Sticky Koosh Ball

Koosh balls were invented in 1986 by a father who wanted to have a ball his kids could catch in their hands easily. They are covered with about 2000 rubber filaments that look like short thick hairs, and the center of the ball is soft, squishy and plasma filled. Koosh balls come in a multitude of different colors and sizes. Playing with them is fun inside or outside of the house, but unfortunately, things stick to the rubber filaments and in between. Luckily, cleaning is not hard and can be accomplished with common household products.

Fill a sink or bucket with enough warm, soapy water to cover the sticky koosh balls. Since these balls get a lot of handling, use antibacterial dishwashing liquid or antibacterial soap.

Swish the koosh balls around in the water, and massage them so the water gets all the way down to the center. Let them soak for a few minutes, depending on how dirty the balls were.

Rinse the balls thoroughly, until all soap and debris is gone. Allow the balls to air dry on a rack or drainer, so the air circulates all around them.

Put a small amount of cornstarch in a plastic or paper bag, add the koosh balls and shake, so that each filament is covered with a light dusting of powder. Remember to shake off the excess cornstarch before playing with the balls.

Things You'll Need:

  • Sink or bucket
  • Antibacterial dishwashing liquid or antibacterial soap
  • Rack or drainer
  • Small plastic or paper bag
  • Corn starch

Tip

If the koosh balls are still sticky after washing and drying thoroughly, and you do not have cornstarch on hand, baby powder will work, as well.

Warnings:

  • Make sure the koosh balls are fully dry before putting them in the bag of cornstarch, or it will clump.
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