How to Make Cheer Pom‑Poms Last Longer | Care & Storage Tips

August 13, 2026

How to Make Cheer Pom‑Poms Last Longer | Care & Storage Tips

Good cheer pom‑poms represent a team investment. Many teams find their pom‑poms get tangled, split or turn dull after only one season. Most damage comes from improper handling, washing and storage, not product quality. Follow these easy steps to keep your pom‑poms fluffy and bright for multiple cheer seasons.

1. After‑Every‑Use Routine

Right after practice or performance:

Hold the handle and shake firmly to untangle loose strips.
Use your fingers or wide‑tooth comb to gently separate tangled strands. Do not pull hard.
Remove dirt, grass and dust before putting them away.

2. Washing Rules

Hand wash only in cold water with mild soap.
Do not scrub roughly, do NOT put in washing machine or dryer. High heat will melt plastic and metallic strips.
Rinse clean, hang vertically in shadow to air dry completely. Do not expose to strong sunlight for long time (will fade bright colors).

3. Best Storage Methods

✅ Good：Hang pom‑poms by the handle in closet or storage rack. Keep fluffy shape, avoid heavy pressure.

❌ Bad：Throw into gym bag crushed under shoes and uniforms. This creates permanent tangles.

For team storage: Install simple wall hooks in your cheer locker room for all squad members.

4. Things To Avoid

Avoid dragging pom‑poms on gym floor or grass. This causes fraying.
Keep away from sharp objects and high‑temperature equipment.
Metallic foil pom‑poms are more delicate: save them for competitions; use plastic pom‑poms for daily rough practice.

When It Is Time to Replace Pom‑Poms

Replace pairs when large amounts of strips break off, colors fade heavily, or handles become loose. Having spare backup pairs for tournament day avoids last‑minute emergencies.