How to Clean Your Trampoline

Trampolines can be a hassle to clean. The good thing is we are here to guide you through the entire process and make it easy and simple for you.

After some time and frequent use, your trampoline can accumulate dirt, dust, and other debris. This build up might become a minor cause of damage to your trampoline.

So in order to keep it functioning well, look good, and last long, you should know how to clean it properly. 

The cleaning schedule

When is it a good time to clean your trampoline? Washing your trampoline with water is best done at noon until around 4 pm when the sun is at its peak.

This way, your trampoline will dry fast after washing it. Don’t clean it if there is a possibility of rain on that day.

Also, don’t use water to clean it during cold seasons to avoid having ice in unwanted places that could jeopardize the durability of the trampoline. 

Make it a habit to sweep your trampoline, especially when leaves fall. Having some dirt is unavoidable but make sure that it does not build up to an excessive amount.

Wash it with water when necessary. Once a month is a good interval since these things do not get dirty very quickly and it’s also impractical to use that amount of water frequently.

Make sure that the entire thing is dry before letting anyone use it. If the mat is still wet, it can be rather slippery and cause accidents. 

Why clean the trampoline?

There are multiple types of trampolines available in the market, but they all have almost the same method for cleaning. Regular maintenance and cleaning are important to keep the trampoline working well and lasting long.

It’s not that difficult to do and you do not have to spend a lot of money on it. It also helps maintain a fresh look instead of letting it have that worn-out appearance.

Maintenance also allows you to check if there are any problems with the trampoline so you can make advance repairs to prevent future accidents. 

Guide to cleaning your trampoline

Even with the wide variety of trampolines and the different sizes that they come in, the cleaning process is pretty much similar. In the following part, we will provide a general guide to cleaning your trampoline and some exemptions that should be made depending on the type or season. 

Trampoline cleaning starter pack

Don’t worry, this is not a difficult task! You can even make this into a family bonding and include the kids for some extra helping hands. Make sure you have the following tools and equipment first. 

• A push broom with a long handle
• Brushes with soft bristles
• A bucket of warm water with soap
• A water hose for rinsing
• Clean, dry towels
• Salt and lemon for the rust removing paste
• An old toothbrush with soft bristles
• Petroleum jelly or some form of grease

Cleaning your spring-based trampoline

Spring-based trampolines are the most common of all trampolines. The parts that need cleaning are the mat, the enclosure net, the frame, and the springs. 

A step-by-step guide to cleaning the mat

The mat is the most prone to dirt since this is where people step and jump on. Some debris like fallen leaves or animal droppings can find their way to the mat. No worries, you can easily get rid of those with these steps.

1. Sweep

Using your long-handled broom, sweep off the leaves, dust, and other foreign debris from the mat. 

2. Soak 

Wash the mat with water using the water hose or a dipper and a bucket. 

3. Make the soap solution

Formulate your own soap and water solution with ordinary detergent soaps in the bucket.

4. Scrub away

Apply the soapy solution on the mat using a spray bottle or simply splash it onto the mat and use the soft brush to scrub off stains and other residue that wasn’t removed through sweeping. 

5. Final rinse

Thoroughly rinse the mat with water using the hose. Make sure no more soap residue is left to avoid the mat getting slippery. 

6. Drying

Dry the mat using the towels you prepared and leave it under the sun for a while to let it dry naturally and properly.

Cleaning the spring and the frame

The spring and the frame of the trampoline are essential in maintaining the structure of the entire thing. These two components define the lifespan of the trampoline because these are the foundation especially for a gymnastics trampoline.

High quality trampoline frames and springs are made of rust-resistant steel but that still does not guarantee that they won’t develop rust over time. The best thing you can do is to clean them so you can extend their lifespan. 

For the springs and frames that do not have rust, you can simply wash them with soap and water and then rinse them thoroughly afterward, just like what you did with the mat. Make sure to dry them completely, so they do not develop rust easily. 

On the other hand, in the presence of rust, there is a slightly different approach. Cleaning rusty springs will require you to detach them from the trampoline so you can treat them separately.

The substance you will use might affect the mat. Follow the steps below to treat rusty springs. 

• Make a mixture of salt and lemon in a bowl. Use one cup of salt and the juice of a couple of lemons or limes to make a paste. If you do not want to make a DIY paste, rust sprays can be bought at the market. 
• Use a wooden tongue depressor or a popsicle stick to apply the paste onto the springs and leave it for a few hours. 
• With an old toothbrush, scrub off the paste and rust. 
• Rinse the springs with water and leave them out in the sun to dry. 
• When they are completely dry, apply some grease or petroleum jelly to prevent the development of more rust. 

Cleaning the trampoline pad

The pads are used to cover the springs and for the protection of the jumpers as well. It also serves as a cushion. You should know that trampoline pads are not elastic unlike the mat but they are cleaned pretty much almost the same way.

Give more attention to cleaning the part of the pad that is attached to the springs because that is the part that is most prone to the build-up of dirt and dust. 

Cleaning the safety net and ladder

The safety net enclosure serves as a barrier for jumpers not to fall outside the trampoline. Even with high-quality square or rectangular trampolines that have equal bounce distribution, it is still possible to land outside the trampoline. 

If you can set aside time, you can wash the net by hand. But for quick cleaning, use a pressure hose to quickly wash the net and the ladder with water.

If there is rust on the ladder, do the same cleaning technique you used for the springs or apply some rust-resistant spray on it. 

Cleaning your springless trampolines

Let’s face it, trampolines without springs are much easier to clean. Because of the absence of springs, you do not need to detach anything from underneath.

The ways to clean the mat and the net are the same with spring-based trampolines. 

The rods, frame, and other metal components can be scrubbed with soap and water. After washing everything with soap, just simply rinse them all down with a water hose and dry them first with a towel before leaving them under the sun to completely dry.

Spray an anti-rust treatment wherever necessary.  

Cleaning in-ground trampolines

In-ground trampolines are one of the oldest types of trampolines. The cleaning process is almost the same with only a few variations. 

• Sweep the mat using the long-handled broom. Do not let dust and debris go into the springs.
• Apply the warm soapy water to the mat. 
• Gentle scrub the mat with a brush to remove all grease, residue, and stains. 
• Rinse with water and allow it to dry under the sun. 

Clean the enclosure net with a water hose. If you see slight tears or holes on the mat, repair it as soon as possible. Check the springs for any build-up of rust and treat immediately.

Cleaning water trampolines

When it comes to the recreational side, water trampolines are the top choice of most people. The key to making this type of trampoline last long is to keep the surface clean. Eliminate any dirt or molds that form in the crevices. 

There are cleaning solutions specifically formulated for water trampolines that you can buy in the market. These chemicals can get rid of grease, scuffs, chalking, stains, solidified animal droppings, and rust caused by oxidation.

If you can’t get a rust solution, just simply use mild soap. 

The ladder, inflatable tube, D-rings, and other components should also be cleaned every once in a while to maintain their durability and prevent damage. Get a measurement of your trampoline so you can estimate the amount of cleaning material you will need. 

Cleaning a trampoline park

Trampoline parks are used by the public, so more thorough and frequent cleaning and maintenance are needed for it. Because a lot of different people use it, the staff responsible for it need to prioritize the health and safety of the public, so they have to clean it every day. 

There are antibacterial sprays or disinfectants that they use for easy cleaning. But these contain some allergens that some people may be sensitive to, so the trampoline parks are placed in well-ventilated areas with regular air circulation.

Some trampoline park management require people to wear socks when inside the park for safety. 

How to clean a trampoline on days without sun

You need to clean your trampoline, especially after heavy rain or during winter when there is snow. Since you can’t easily bring the trampoline or keep it in a shaded area, you will most likely be keeping it outdoors and exposed to different weather conditions.

Here’s how you can clean your trampoline for every occasion. 

During the winter especially in areas that experience snowfall, you need to clean the trampoline every day to prevent the mat and the springs from deteriorating due to the cold and build up of snow.

Use a soft broom to sweep off the snow off the mat. Don’t use a shovel or any hard or sharp tool to clear out the snow so you won’t risk damaging the mat. Allow it to dry in the sun. 

After heavy rainfall or a thunderstorm, the trampoline must be cleaned and dried immediately. Sweep off the debris from the mat and towel it dry.

If there are any damaged parts or a hole in the trampoline, you should repair or replace these before letting anyone use it again.

Getting rid of unwanted debris on your trampoline

Because trampolines are placed outdoors, they are susceptible to dust and dirt, and other debris from the environment. This can lead to the development of stains and the build up of unwanted residue.

But not to worry because this can easily be removed. Make sure that you resolve this immediately so it won’t become a source of worse problems. Some molds can also be carriers of disease, so it’s best to get rid of these as soon as possible.

Here are some common stains and debris that can infect your trampoline:

• Molds and/or mildew

This is very common after the trampoline has been exposed to an environment with high moisture or if they are covered for a long period of time. Molds are a form of fungi that can be associated with several infectious diseases when inhaled, ingested, or even through direct skin contact. 

To get rid of molds, all you need is warm water, soap, and a soft brush. If the mold has spread to a large part of the trampoline, you can apply bleach as a disinfectant to prevent it from forming again. Leave it under the sun to dry completely. 

• Lichen

This is also another type of fungi. You can use soap and water to wash it along with some bleach. You can also use other commercial antifungal disinfectants as an alternative to get rid of lichens and stop their spreading. 

• Sap

If the trampoline is placed in an area surrounded by many trees, then it’s possible that stains from tree sap may have reached it. Tree sap is a very sticky substance so you will need either a hand sanitizer or warm soapy water to rub it off. 

If the sap has hardened, use cooking oil to soften it so you can remove it easier. Other people have shared that they use peanut butter or WD-40, you can look up some video tutorials about how to use them.

• Food stains

Now this one is caused by little human beings who bring food inside the trampoline and end up spilling it on the mat. But just like any other material, food stains can easily be removed with soap and water and a trusty soft brush.

So you won’t be hassled by this again, tell the kids not to bring food when going on to the trampoline.  

How often should you clean the trampoline?

Trampolines are quite sturdy structures but you still have to look out for them every now and then. Regular cleaning is advised to keep it working well and protect it from getting worn out.

If it is unused for a long period of time, you should clean it before using it again. Deep and thorough cleaning should also be done after the trampoline is exposed to heavy rain or snow. 

How often are trampoline parks cleaned?

Caretakers have to clean trampoline parks every day. Because it is used by different people, they have to be safe by using disinfectant before and after people use it to avoid allergies or getting infected with a disease that can be transmitted via objects. 

Cleaning tips for your trampoline

The first thing you should do (and this goes for all kinds of trampolines) is to sweep off the dust and debris from the mat using a soft long-handled broom or brush. 

Use a hose to wet the entire mat before scrubbing it with soapy warm water using a soft brush. Be gentle so you won’t risk damaging the mat. Rinse it using the water hose again and pat it down dry using towels.

Leave it uncovered under the sun for it to dry completely. 

Then proceed to cleaning the protective pads and the springs. Clean off dust and other lodged debris in the crevices.

If your trampoline is frequently used, then you should also conduct regular cleaning so the dirt won’t remain for a long time and cause damage. 

What you need to remember.

• You can do regular cleaning of your trampoline if the sun is out. 
• Use rust protection sprays on the metal components like the ladder and the springs. 
• If you notice some rust or white spots forming on the ladder or the springs, use a vinegar and water solution in a 1:3 ratio. Apply using an old toothbrush on the area and leave for a few minutes before rinsing off. 
• Don’t use strong chemical cleaning agents. Some of these substances can affect the ability of your trampoline mat to resist UV light from the sun. 
• The safest and most effective cleaning agent is the classic soap and water mixture. 
• If you won’t be using the trampoline for a while, cover it to protect it from dust, debris, and the elements brought by changing weather conditions. 
• Trampoline mats with UV light protection could dry up when overexposed to the sun. This can lead to some holes in the mat that can jeopardize its integrity and be a safety hazard. 
• Clear fallen leaves from the mat using a brush or soft-bristled broom.
• Check regularly for rust on the ladder and the springs and resolve it immediately by applying rust protection sprays or lubricants to prevent further spreading. 

In-ground trampolines are much faster and easier to clean because there are no springs, nets, or ladders, so you would only be cleaning the mat with the use of a brush. 

Miscellaneous maintenance

Do not overlook the zippers on the net enclosure. Make sure they are well-lubricated so they can zip and unzip with ease.

If you don’t plan to use the trampoline for a while, it is best to remove the safety net and just reattach it when you want to use it again. 

Check the metal frames as well for any formation of rust. Apply some grease to the parts where there is rust forming. If the springs are also squeaking or creaking, you have to apply lubricant. 

Things to avoid when cleaning

Now that you know the things you need to do, we will also give you a list of what not to do while cleaning a trampoline.

• Do not use any sharp objects.
• Don’t clean the trampoline if there is a chance of rain on that day. 
• Don’t scrub with a brush that has hard bristles. 
• Avoid using cleaning agents with strong chemical contents to not risk damaging the canvas. Only use manufacturer-recommended cleaning solutions if there are any. 
• Don’t stand on a wet mat.
• Don’t rub or scrub the mat too harshly. 

Other reminders for trampoline maintenance

Weight capacity

You should know the maximum weight limit that your trampoline can hold. Limit the number of kids you allow inside the trampoline at a time and get an estimation as to how many can go in at the same time.

If the mat is overloaded, it can collapse, and that will lead to injuries and accidents and wear down the trampoline. 

Weather

For areas that experience extreme weather conditions or are prone to frequent rainfall and heavy winds, you might want to take down your trampoline and keep it in the garage to protect it from the harsh elements.

If this is too much of a hassle for you, you can simply tie down the trampoline so it won’t get carried away by the wind. After a storm, you should check for any damages and resolve them immediately before letting people use it. 

Location

As much as possible, do not keep the trampoline under the direct heat of the sun. Find an area where there is shade but not directly under a tree where a lot of leaves may fall from.

Also, another very important thing to remember is to place it on a flat surface. Never put the trampoline on an inclined or steep ground. Do not place it near fire pits or fences as well. 

Conclusion

Hopefully we have given you all the information you need to help you clean your trampoline. For now, we suggest that you plot a cleaning schedule and acquire all the necessary tools and equipment that you will need.

It’s not that hard to clean a trampoline, you can even invite your kids to join you as a collaborative task.

Regular cleaning and maintenance is important to make sure that your trampoline lasts as long as it should and it could even extend its total lifespan and maintain its durability and integrity of the parts.

Inspect every week or a couple of times in a month for damages and rust. 

If you take good care of the trampoline, it will serve you well for a long time, bringing you and your family fun while also keeping you safe.