How to Care for Your Cheer Poms and Keep Them Fluffy All Season

Your cheer poms are more than just an accessory; they're the star of your routine. Bright, fluffy, and full of energy, pom poms add spirit and visual excitement to every move. But with all the jumping, flipping, and shaking, they can easily lose their shape or shine if not properly cared for.

Whether you're a cheer coach, team captain, or a new cheerleader, learning how to care for your pom poms can help you extend their life, maintain their fluff, and keep your performance looking sharp from the first game to the last competition.

This guide will help you keep your cheer pom poms clean, fluffed, and fabulous all season long.

Step 1: Store Pom Poms Properly

Why Storage Matters

Improper storage is one of the fastest ways to flatten or damage your poms. When they’re shoved into bags, stepped on, or left in the sun, strands can bend, fade, or frizz.

Best Storage Practices:

• Use breathable mesh pom pom bags: These allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
• Hang them if possible: Use a hook or rack to keep poms from getting crushed.
• Avoid tight packing: Don’t overstuff bags or lockers with uniforms and gear on top of your poms.
• Keep them cool and dry: Avoid heat or direct sunlight, which can warp or fade the strands—especially metallic and holographic ones.
  
  

Step 2: Fluff Regularly

Why Fluffing Is Important
Poms tend to flatten with use, especially when transported in bags or used outdoors. Regular fluffing helps them regain their volume and movement.

How to Fluff Cheer Poms:

1. Hold the handle tightly and gently shake the pom pom to loosen the strands.
2. Use your fingers to separate clumped or compressed strands.
3. Fan out the streamers in different directions until the pom regains its round shape.
4. For metallic or plastic poms, lightly twist or scrunch the strands between your fingers to restore bounce.
   
   

Pro Tip: Do this before every performance or game for the best look.

Step 3: Clean Them Carefully

Can Cheer Poms Be Cleaned?

Yes, but with great care. Since pom poms are typically made of plastic, metallic, or holographic materials, they should never be machine-washed or soaked in water.

Safe Cleaning Instructions:

• Dust off gently with a dry microfiber cloth or soft towel.
• For sticky or dirty spots, use a damp cloth (not wet) and gently wipe the area.
• Avoid harsh chemicals, detergents, or bleach. They can fade or damage the color and shine.
• Let air dry completely before storing again.
  
  

Step 4: Handle with Care During Performances

Prevent Premature Wear

Cheer routines are fast and energetic, but being mindful of how your squad handles their pom poms can prevent damage.

What to Avoid:

• Dragging pom poms on the ground
• Tossing or slamming them during routines
• Sitting on them during breaks
• Letting others (especially younger siblings!) play with them
  
  

Encourage team members to treat poms like part of their uniform with pride and responsibility.

Step 5: Rotate Your Poms (If Possible)

If your team has multiple pairs of pom poms for different events (e.g., games vs. competitions), it’s a good idea to rotate usage. This reduces wear and helps you keep one pair looking performance-ready for high-visibility events.

Step 6: Replace When Necessary

Even with the best care, cheer poms won’t last forever. After a full season (or several), it’s normal for pom poms to lose some of their shine, bounce, or structural integrity.

Signs It’s Time to Replace:

• Strands are fraying, splitting, or falling out
• Color fading or discoloration
• Streamers remain flat even after fluffing
• The handle becomes cracked or loose
  
  

Bonus Tips for Coaches and Team Managers

• Label each pom pair with the cheerleader’s name to prevent mix-ups
• Assign one team member each week to do a “pom check” for fluff and shape
• Store extra pairs in a clean, dry team supply bin for emergencies
  
  

Final Thoughts

Your cheer poms are an essential part of your team’s image and performance. With the right care, you can keep them looking fluffy, bold, and crowd-ready all season long. Proper storage, gentle cleaning, regular fluffing, and responsible use will help you get the most out of your investment and keep it looking its best on every occasion.

At GetPoms.com, we offer a wide variety of high-quality cheer pom poms and accessories to help your team perform with confidence and style.