Posted on 2nd October 2025 by Penny Gibbs
Ball pits are a fun, colourful, and exciting addition to any soft play area, play centre, nightclub, or event venue. But we often get asked: “How do you clean ball pit balls properly?”
In this complete guide, Euro-Matic — the global leader in playpen balls — shares everything you need to know to keep your ball pond clean, safe, and looking brand new.
Whether your ball pit is used by energetic children or lively adults, it doesn’t take long before dirt and germs accumulate. Regular cleaning of your playpen balls helps maintain a hygienic environment and ensures everyone can enjoy a fun and safe experience.
Clean ball pits not only improve safety but also enhance your venue’s reputation, encourage repeat visits, and create great photo opportunities for your guests.
One of the most effective ways to keep your ball pit clean is to start with commercial-quality balls, like those from Euro-Matic.
Euro-Matic balls are:
Tip: Always check for damaged or split balls regularly and replace them as needed.
Before cleaning, you’ll need to collect the balls. Here are a few practical methods:
Once gathered, store the balls in net sacks or bin bags to prepare them for washing.
For small to medium-sized ball pits:
Balls can also be cleaned in a washing machine or dishwasher, as long as they are not split or damaged. This is a great option for small batches.
For large ball pits containing thousands of balls, there are two efficient options:
Ball cleaning machines can clean up to 20,000 balls per hour. These machines:
Though an initial investment, ball cleaning machines save time and effort and are popular among large play centres, nightclubs, and event companies.
The frequency of cleaning depends on usage:
In addition to cleaning, inspect your ball pit regularly for wear and tear. Repair any damage promptly and replace worn-out pits or balls to avoid safety risks.
High-quality Euro-Matic balls are designed to last for years. Replace only damaged or missing balls.
Fun fact: Balls often “go walkies” as children sometimes take them home, so periodic top-ups may be necessary to maintain the correct depth for safe play.
Here’s a quick reference guide:
| Ball Pit Size | Depth | Approx. Number of Balls | Approx. Number of Bags |
| 1m x 1m (toddler pool) | 0.5m | 1,500 | 3 |
| 2m x 2m (kiddie paddling pool) | 0.5m | 6,000 | 12 |
| 3m x 3m (average play room) | 0.5m | 13,000 | 26 |
| Football pitch size (example) | 1m | 15.5 million | 31,110 |
Want a precise number for your space? Use our Ball Calculator for quick and accurate results.
Euro-Matic is the world leader in manufacturing and supplying playpen balls, shade balls, pool insulation balls, and chemical tank covers.
We offer the widest range of playpen ball sizes and options:
Have more questions about cleaning ball pits, choosing the right balls, or need a quote?
Contact Euro-Matic today — we’re always happy to help!
Check out our Ball Calculator or explore our full range of high-quality playpen balls here.
