Autographed footballs are collector’s items with potentially high value, depending on the condition of the ball and the fame of the player who signed the item. To preserve, or increase, the value of an old, worn or vintage autographed football, you can restore the item to good condition. Proper restoration requires special care to protect the signature itself, which largely determines the value of the item.
Wash your hands to remove any dirt or oils. Dry your hands completely with a microfiber cloth or towel.
Gently grasp the football in your finger tips when cleaning and restoring it, taking care not to touch any part of the signature. Even if your fingers are clean, they may ruin the quality of the signature.
Use a soft brush to remove surface dust and debris from the football, including the parts of the leather that are signed. Note: The soft brush is the only thing you can safely use directly on the signature.
Apply a proper cleaning solution to the ball around the signature, keeping at least a 1/2 inch from the ink. Use only a product specifically designed for football cleaning and restoration. Don't use water to clean the football. Water will damage the leather and the signature.
Pat dry the ball with a microfiber cloth or towel. Do not use a paper towel, which sheds fibers.
Apply a leather recoloring balm to the football to hide any fabric that is exposed due to cracks and wear. Use a balm color that best matches the color of the football. Take care not to touch the signature when applying the balm.