Trampolines, especially those kept outdoors, will need regular cleaning to prevent any debris or dirt that could damage the trampoline or injure any bouncers. Figuring out how to clean your trampoline can be tricky, especially if you have never had to clean one before. With many conflicting answers online, you can easily find yourself overwhelmed and unsure how to proceed. That is where we come in to help, with our step-by-step guide to help you clean your trampoline and keep it well-maintained.
Cleaning a backyard trampoline
When cleaning your trampoline, you must check the cleaning instructions that come with the trampoline. Each trampoline comes with specific cleaning instructions you need to follow to keep the trampoline clean and safe to use. These instructions are usually found in the user manual, with PDF copies available online if needed. We do have a step-by-step guide you can follow to clean your trampoline, but make sure it is suitable for your trampoline. When you are ready, you can follow the steps below:
1. Remove debris
To start, remove all debris from the trampoline. You can use a broom to brush off loose debris from the bed of the trampoline, ensuring the area is free from debris before cleaning begins.
2. Soak the trampoline
Use a hose or buckets to soak the mat and padding using water. Don’t use a pressure washer as it can damage the mat, causing holes, and impacting the performance of the trampoline.
3. Scrub the trampoline
Using a mixture of warm water and soap, scrub down the trampoline. Scrub its frame, mat, padding, and springs to ensure that every part of the trampoline is scrubbed. A brush can be used to help with target grime, but we don’t recommend using harsh cleaning products as these can damage the trampoline.
4. Add protection sprays
Rust protection sprays and treatments can be added to the metal parts of the trampoline. We recommend doing this if you aren’t able to pack the trampoline away during the winter, as the sprays will protect it from the elements.
5. Clean the safety net
Next, apply the same soapy mixture to the safety net and rinse to remove any buildup. You might need to use a brush to remove any grime or debris that has built up.
6. Inspect the trampoline
Before you finish, check all parts of the trampoline for any damage. You are looking for mould, rust, or worn-out areas that could pose long-term issues for the trampoline. If you notice any damage, stop using the trampoline immediately.
7. Leave the trampoline to dry
The trampoline should be allowed to dry fully before it is used again. Using the trampoline while it is wet can increase the risk of falls, especially as the trampoline mat will be slippery.
How often should I clean my trampoline?
Your trampoline should be cleaned every few weeks, or more regularly, depending on how often it is used. The more frequently it is used, the more you want to clean it, as mud and debris can be carried onto the trampoline with every use. You can frequently spot clean the trampoline to remove any debris before your child bounces, and carry out a deeper clean once a month to ensure the trampoline is clean and safe to use.
You can get older children involved with the cleaning of the trampoline,too, having them carry out the spot cleaning before each use. Doing so can help develop your child’s independence and responsibility, without adding to your workload and giving you another item to clean!
How should I maintain my trampoline?
Alongside cleaning your trampoline, you will want to carry out regular maintenance to ensure it is safe for use. Carrying out regular maintenance allows you to spot any issues with the trampoline before they become more serious and pose a risk to your child. Maintenance should be carried out before every use of the trampoline and monthly to help spot issues and ensure it is functioning properly. We have broken the maintenance down for you below:
Before every use
Before your child uses the trampoline, carry out a quick maintenance check, looking for the following:
- Any holes or weak spots in the mat
- Any rips or improperly secured pads
- Any damage to the springs
- Any damage to the spring hooks
- Any instability or weakness in the frame
Every month
You will want to carry out a more in-depth inspection of the trampoline every month to ensure the trampoline is safe and functioning. Look for the following:
- A damaged or bent frame
- Ground condition and stability
- Integrity of joints
- Mat sagging
- Rust or corrosion on the frame and springs
- Tightening any bolts
Find your new backyard trampoline today
By keeping your trampoline clean and well maintained, you can ensure that it lasts for years, providing a safe space for your children to bounce. When it comes to your backyard trampoline, we recommend purchasing one from Vuly. They offer a huge range of trampolines in various sizes to suit every budget, providing something for everyone. Find your Vuly backyard trampoline today!
