Is your garden trampoline covered in bird droppings?
Are springs rusting at the edges?
Are patches of moss creeping in like an uninvited guest?
Neglecting it can quietly drain your wallet and spoil your garden’s charm. A dirty trampoline doesn’t just look bad; it becomes unsafe, unhygienic, and eventually unusable. And let’s be honest, no one wants to replace a trampoline just because of some preventable grime.
That’s why we’ve brought this simple and easy guide to help you clean your trampoline correctly. Whether you’re dealing with garden debris or moldy patches, or want your garden to look neat again, this blog is here to help you do it all without stress or confusion. In this blog, we’ll not only cover how to clean a trampoline like a pro but also how to keep it looking fresh and lasting longer.
Why You Should Clean Your Garden Trampoline
Most of us notice the dirt, the rust, and the wear, but still ignore it. “It’s supposed to get dirty, since it’s outside,” isn’t it? It’s not true. What seems harmless today could become a pricey regret in the future. Here are reasons why giving your round trampoline a proper clean is important.
1. Safety First
Grime, moisture, and built-up debris can make the jumping surface slippery and unpredictable. One wrong bounce on a damp mat or next to a rusted spring can lead to injuries, especially for children. Springs lose tension when they corrode and weakened frames compromise structure. Cleaning and jumping right helps prevent all that while keeping every bounce fun, and not frightening.
2. Financial Maintenance
Damage and discoloration result from neglecting routine cleaning. Trampolines are built tough, but they’re not immune. Dirt, sap, and organic debris slowly eat into the mat’s surface and frame, reducing durability. That means you’ll end up buying replacement parts or a whole new trampoline much sooner than expected.
3. Hidden Hygiene Hazards
Leaves, rainwater, and droppings aren’t just ugly, they’re unhygienic. Left alone, they become breeding grounds for bacteria, mold, and mildew. And if the children are bouncing barefoot or lying down on the mat? The dirt gets on their skin, clothes, and into the house. A simple clean keeps the fun cleaner and safer for everyone involved.
4. Garden Aesthetics
A sparkling-clean in-ground trampoline adds charm to your garden on the other hand a dirty one makes the whole space look ignored. Even the most stylish garden layout can lose its appeal when a rust-streaked, mossy trampoline sits at the center. Keeping it clean helps your outdoor garden design feel fresh, inviting, and well cared for without spending on garden redesigns.
5. Rust Prevention Saves Money
Moisture is your trampoline’s worst enemy. Left unchecked, it seeps into the springs and frame, triggering rust. Once rust sets in, it weakens the structure from within, making repairs unavoidable and expensive. Regular cleaning and thorough drying stop rust before it starts, saving you money in the long run.
Cleaning isn’t just about a tidy look, it’s the difference between a lasting investment and a constant repair bill. Now that we know why cleaning matters, let’s walk through exactly how to do it the right way with the help of a step-by-step guide.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Cleaning your trampoline doesn’t need to be a full-day chore. But doing it right can save you money, extend its life, and keep your garden looking sharp. Let’s break it down into simple, effective steps that even busy mums and dads can follow without the stress.
1. Preparing Your Trampoline
Before the water comes out, clear the area. Remove ladders, enclosures, toys, or loose items around and on the trampoline. It will give you space to move around and also prevent accidental damage while cleaning. Check for rips in the mat, worn springs, or rust spots. By catching problems early, costly repairs can be avoided later.
2. Cleaning the Mat and Frame
Fill a bucket with warm water and add a splash of mild detergent like – washing-up liquid, not heavy-duty cleaners. To remove dirt and stains, gently scrub the mat in circular strokes using a soft sponge or towel. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose (no pressure washers!), then wipe dry with a clean towel. Leaving it wet can invite rust or mildew.
3. Addressing Mold and Mildew
Notice a musty smell or dark patches on your trampoline mat or frame? That’s mildew and it spreads fast. Apply a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water to the afflicted regions using a spray bottle. After letting it sit for ten to fifteen minutes, give it a gentle scrub and rinse. Vinegar is a safe, affordable solution that tackles the problem without damaging your garden trampoline’s surface. Always dry the area completely afterward.
4. Cleaning the Springs
Your springs keep the bounce alive but they’re also magnets for dirt and rust. Carefully scrub each spring with a gentle brush using the same soapy solution. Wipe them dry right after rinsing to prevent moisture build-up. Keeping them clean will make the rectangle trampoline last longer and give a safer, stronger bounce every time.
5. Avoid Sharp Objects
Put down the wire brush. Sharp tools may look tempting for tough grime, but they can rip the mat or scratch the frame turning a quick clean into a costly replacement. Stick with soft clothes, non-abrasive sponges, and gentle motions. Your trampoline’s surface is tough, but it’s not indestructible.
Cleaning your garden trampoline the right way doesn’t just refresh its look—it protects your investment and the joy it brings. Now, let’s talk about what changes with the seasons—and how to keep your trampoline ready all year round.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips
Just like your wardrobe, your garden trampoline needs seasonal care. Neglecting it through the hot or rainy months may quietly chip away at its quality—and your pocket. A few simple steps each season can protect your bounce, your garden aesthetic, and your investment.
1. Summer Care
Long summer days mean longer exposure to harsh UV rays, and they’re not kind to trampoline mats. UV damage causes fading, weakens the stitching, and makes surfaces brittle. Use a weather-resistant trampoline cover and padded pole covers to reduce sun exposure and extend the lifespan of your gear.
2. Spring Preparation
Before the spring air fills with giggles and garden games, give your trampoline a safety check. Clean off winter debris, check anchor kits for tightness, inspect for wear and tear, and give those springs a quick once-over. A simple pre-bounce check avoids mid-season breakdowns and surprise costs.
Use spring-pulling tools to remove and place the trampoline spring in its place.
Keeping your trampoline season-ready is the key to making it last for years, not just a season. Now that you know what to do, let’s talk about what not to do—the cleaning mistakes that cost trampoline owners the most.
Common Cleaning Mistakes That Cost You
You’re trying to help… but without realizing it, you might be damaging your garden trampoline. Let’s break down the common cleaning habits that quietly eat into your investment.
Harsh Chemicals = Material Breakdown
Bleach and abrasive cleaners may seem like the quick fix—but they’re not trampoline-friendly. These harsh substances can strip the mat’s protective coating and weaken the fabric over time.
Pressure Washers = Frame Damage
That powerful blast might feel satisfying, but it’s too intense for 10ft trampoline parts. Pressure washing can dent the frame, loosen joints, or stretch the mat unevenly.
Skipping Drying = Mold, Rot, and Regrets
If you leave your trampoline to “air dry,” moisture seeps into springs and padding. That’s a shortcut to rust, mildew, and unpleasant smells—not to mention a slippery surface risk.
Avoiding these mistakes is just as important as knowing what to do right.
Keep It Clean, Keep It Bouncing
From sun-drenched summers to damp UK springs, your garden trampoline weathers it all—quietly standing strong in your garden, offering joy, movement, and memories. But behind every bounce lies a truth we’ve uncovered throughout this guide: skipping care now can cost you later.
We’ve walked through why regular upkeep matters—from protecting your family’s safety to saving on future repairs and keeping your garden trampoline looking sharp, not shabby. You’ve learned how to clean trampoline surfaces gently.
Because let’s face it—your trampoline is more than a toy. It’s part of your home, your space, your story.
So, keep it clean, keep it safe, and keep it bouncing for years to come.
Explore our Super Tramp care range—because smart maintenance begins with the right tools.
FAQ's
What is the best way to clean a trampoline?
Use mild soapy water, a soft brush, and rinse thoroughly—then dry completely to prevent rust and mold.
How to prolong the life of a trampoline?
Clean it regularly, use weather covers, avoid harsh chemicals, and store parts properly during off-seasons.
How to upkeep a trampoline?
Inspect for damage, clean gently, tighten springs, and protect it from harsh weather with covers and anchors.
What will damage a trampoline?
Harsh cleaners, pressure washing, sharp tools, constant moisture, and poor seasonal care can all cause wear and tear.
Is it bad for a trampoline to get wet?
Yes—excess moisture can lead to mildew, rust, and slippery surfaces if not dried and maintained properly.
