I usually run a little water into the bucket before I empty it to skim any oil off the top of the water. I make sure I have at least 24 hours before I plan to use the ball so any absorbed water will evaporate out of the ball. Like others, I soak it for twenty minutes twice, first with dishsoap then with plain hot water.
--------------------
Moon
--------------------
So many questions, so little time but I'm having fun.