May 3, 2012. Paul Hixon
After a long, cold winter of snow and misery, most corn toss game players are anxious to unpack their game bags and begin holding backyard tournaments as soon as Spring arrives. This is understandable, but there are certain steps that should be taken to ensure that the game pieces are prepared for another long season of action. Skipping these procedures can lead to problems down the road, and will ultimately compromise the lifespan of the games.
Getting your corn hole bean bags ready for Spring begins with preventative measures. First, microwave them on a high setting for 60 seconds. Don’t worry; the corn inside won’t pop. If you have regulation bags then they will be filled with whole kernel corn, not popcorn. The point to this is that it will kill any bugs that are inside the bags. It will also help to destroy mold or mildew that has begun to develop. If your bags were exposed to rain, moisture, or animals during the previous summer then mold and bug issues are a very real possibility.
Next, it’s important to prepare your bean bag toss game bags for the long season ahead with a clear coating of sprayed polyurethane. This will not only help to keep moisture out but will also protect the fibers of the duck cloth. Corn hole games can take their toll on the bags. The constant pounding that they take when tossed against the boards will degrade the canvas in time, but a clear coating can help to delay this process.
The final step is to keep the bags in an airtight bag or container when not in use. This will help to keep out humidity, bugs, and pesky animals or pets. A gallon-sized, ziploc baggie will suffice. To take it even a stage further, place the zipped-up bag in the freezer to protect the bags between tournaments. Just remember to thaw them before game time!
Updated May 3, 2012. Published March 24, 2011. Paul Hixon
