The Best Stress Balls
We've all had trouble focusing at work or school, which is why a stress ball can be a fantastic resource. Squeezing these flexible toys doesn't just relieve tension, it can also do wonders for focus and concentration. It may also soothe those of us who have sensory issues. But not every stress ball is made to the same standard of quality, which is why we've compiled this list of the ones that we think will help you out the most.
What to Look For
We had three major standards a stress ball had to meet to make it on our list: Is it durable? Does it feel good to the touch? And can it be used for multiple people with different needs? We found a few stress balls that eased their way into our recommendations. Beadeez gave us our favorite choice, thanks to their stress balls’ excellent elasticity and wonderful colors. We also had to give special mention to Power Your Fun’s option, whose small size and glittery glow made it ideal for youngsters. If you need a new stress ball, then simply keep calm and read on.
Beadeez Stress Relief Squeezing Stress Ball
The main squeeze
This three-pack took the prize for our favorite stress ball set, thanks to its lovely look and superb feel. The jelly water beads in these balls have a fun color scheme, and they hold up through hours of squeezing. They’re all durable enough to be stretched as well as squeezed, which makes them safe (and fun) for kids to play with. This is the ideal stress ball pack for folks above the age of three who need some help getting through the day.
Pros
- Each ball has a distinct feel when squeezed, making them great for different situations and moods.
- The outer layers reform to their original shape after squeezing without creating any odd textures.
- These balls arrive in their own sealed bags, helping you keep them organized.
Cons
- The colors may fade over time.
Candescent Hand Therapy Stress Balls
Soft and firm
If you know someone who needs to cool out or concentrate, this stress ball set will be perfect for them. The gel interior and soft fabric coating give these stress balls a unique feel that will appeal to those who don’t get much use out of more standard fare. They also come printed with inspirational sayings to help motivate you throughout the day. Whether your loved ones are struggling or they just need a replacement stress ball, this will make a perfect gift.
Pros
- The more “professional” look gives them appeal to those who don’t care for the aesthetics of standard stress balls. They also fit in with professional work environments.
- The density of the gel and fabric gives it a squeeze-feel that has enough give while still making you use your hand muscles.
Cons
- The letters on the inspirational messages can fray with a lot of use.
Power Your Fun Arggh Glitter Stress Balls
Kids get stressed too
The size and color of each stress ball in this Power Your Fun pack make them perfect for children. Nontoxic gel and vibrant foil glitter combine to make these balls as safe to squeeze as they are fun to look at. Plus, you can extend their lifespan with a gentle wash in warm water. Whether your youngsters need a concentration aid or a new toy, this stress ball can help.
Pros
- Each stress ball has a different level of firmness, letting your child mix up which ones they want to squeeze depending on their mood.
- The color tone of each ball changes when squeezed, which makes for a delightful visual.
Cons
- These aren’t designed to withstand the strength of an adult, so they can pop under high pressures. The inner materials are non-toxic, but they can make a mess.
Crayola Globbles Squishy Gift Stress Balls
Sticking it to them
This stress ball pack evokes quality as well as quantity, offering six quality stress balls from the eminent Crayola. These balls can be squished, stacked, and stuck to your heart’s (or your child’s) content without leaving any messy residue. They’re also easy to clean and come in fun, bright colors to differentiate one from another. Whether you keep the set together or give them out as gifts, each stress ball delivers a fun time.
Pros
- They are surprisingly durable for such tiny balls.
- The quantity they come in makes them ideal for stocking classrooms or birthday parties.
Cons
- Although they’re easy to wash, they do attract dirt, hair, and other detritus fairly easily.
KLT Sensory Stress Balls
Sensing a solution
A stress ball can offer the most benefit to those with sensory issues, and these ones have been made with that specific demographic in mind. These multicolor balls use soft water beads to refocus attention away from behaviors like scratching or nail-biting. And since they come in packs of 12, there are enough to give out to anyone who needs them. For pickers, pullers, or those who need help calming anxiety, these stress balls make a great choice.
Pros
- The beads are durable yet have a lot of give, resulting in a satisfying squeeze.
- Each has a different feel, meaning you can choose the best one for the issue you need help controlling.
Cons
- They are apt to get sticky without frequent washing and powdering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a stress ball even if I’m not an angry person?
Stress balls aren’t just for relieving stress. They’re also great for enhancing concentration and soothing sensory overload. You may not always be aware of how much tension you’re harboring, and a stress ball can be a great way to get more of your body’s functions on track.
What types of stress balls should I avoid?
There’s a common type of stress ball with a mesh outer layer that tends to break more easily than one with a more consistent exterior. If you have a strong grip, you should consider something with greater strength. You want one that’s easy to squeeze, but still has some pushback to relieve tension.
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