Gel blaster guns are becoming more popular among hobbyists and players looking for a fun, safe, and exciting way to enjoy tactical games. These guns use gel balls—tiny, water-absorbent beads that expand when soaked—as their primary ammunition. While gel balls are affordable and easy to use, they do require proper care, especially when it comes to storage.
If not stored correctly, gel balls can dry out, shrink, or become too soft, affecting your blaster’s performance. Here are the best practices for storing gel balls to help you get the most out of them and ensure they're always ready for action.
1. Start with Proper Soaking
Before we discuss storage, it’s important to understand that proper soaking is key to long-lasting gel balls. Most gel balls should be soaked in clean, filtered water for at least 3–4 hours or until they reach their full size. Avoid using hot or dirty water, as it can affect the texture and durability of the gel balls.
Once fully grown, drain the excess water before moving on to storage. Soaking only the amount you plan to use in a session is ideal, but proper storage is a must if you want to prepare a larger batch ahead of time.
2. Use Airtight Containers
One of the most effective ways to keep your gel balls hydrated and fresh is by storing them in airtight containers. Plastic tubs or jars with tight-fitting lids work well. Avoid leaving the balls exposed to air, as this will cause them to dry out over time.
Airtight containers help prevent water evaporation and also protect the gel balls from dust, dirt, or bugs. Label the containers if you're storing different types or sizes of gel balls so you can easily identify them later.
3. Keep Them in a Cool, Dark Place
Heat and sunlight can damage gel balls. When exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight, the water inside the gel balls begins to evaporate, causing them to shrink or become too soft. This not only shortens their lifespan but also makes them unusable in your blaster.
Always store your containers in a cool, dark place—like a cabinet, drawer, or even a fridge if the weather is particularly warm. The goal is to maintain a stable, cool environment that keeps your gel balls hydrated and firm.
4. Don’t Store Them in Water for Too Long
Some users think it’s okay to keep gel balls soaking in water for days, but this can actually weaken their structure. Over-soaked gel balls may become too soft or fragile, leading to breakage when fired.
Once your gel balls have reached full size, drain the water and transfer them to an airtight container. If you accidentally leave them soaking for too long, check their firmness before using them. If they feel too squishy or break apart easily, it’s better to dispose of them and soak a new batch.
5. Use a Refrigerator
In hot or humid areas, storing gel balls in the fridge can help them stay fresh longer. The cool temperature slows down evaporation and helps the gel balls maintain their size and shape. Just make sure the container is fully sealed to prevent them from drying out or absorbing food odors.
This is especially useful if you’ve soaked a large batch ahead of a game and want to keep them in top condition.
6. Regularly Check for Quality
Even when stored properly, gel balls don’t last forever. Over time, they can lose water, shrink, or become uneven in shape. Before each game, take a few minutes to check the quality of your stored gel balls. If they appear dry, cracked, or too soft, it’s best to discard them and soak a fresh batch.
Well-maintained gel balls will fire more accurately, reduce the chance of jams, and protect your blaster from unnecessary wear.
7. Store Dry Gel Balls Separately
If you’ve purchased a large supply of dry gel balls, keep them sealed in their original packaging or in a dry, airtight container. Exposure to moisture or humidity can cause them to expand prematurely. Soak only what you need, and store the rest safely.
This also helps you avoid waste and ensures you always have fresh gel balls ready to go.
Final Thoughts
Proper storage of gel balls is essential for keeping your gel blaster performing at its best. With just a little care—like using airtight containers, avoiding direct sunlight, and checking quality regularly—you can extend the life of your gel balls and save time, effort, and money.
Whether you're a beginner or a regular player, good storage habits mean fewer surprises on game day and a smoother experience overall.