A backyard trampoline sees it all: muddy feet, falling leaves, bird visitors, and the odd popsicle drip. At SpaceJump™, we design our trampolines to live outdoors year-round, and a little regular care keeps them bouncing like new. In this guide, we'll show you how to clean a trampoline step by step, from the supplies you need to tackling mold and stubborn stains, plus the mistakes to skip and how often to do it so the mat stays fresh all season.
Quick Answer:
To clean a trampoline, clear away debris, rinse the mat with a garden hose, then scrub the mat, pads, and safety enclosure with mild soap and warm water using a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and let everything air-dry in the sun before anyone jumps. For mold, use one part white vinegar to three parts warm water. Skip bleach and pressure washers, and aim for a full clean about once a month.
Why Regular Trampoline Cleaning Matters
Clean trampolines are safer trampolines. Wet leaves and algae make the mat slippery, so landings get harder to control.
Debris also traps moisture, giving mold a place to grow and slowly breaking down fibers. A steady routine is one of the easiest ways to extend the lifespan of a trampoline.
What You'll Need Before You Start
You won't need special products, and most of these supplies are probably in your garage already:
| Supply | What It's For |
|---|---|
| Soft-bristle broom or brush | Sweeping and gentle scrubbing |
| Garden hose | Low-pressure rinsing |
| Bucket, warm water, mild dish soap | Everyday cleaning solution |
| White vinegar and a spray bottle | Treating mold and mildew |
| Sponge or microfiber cloths | Wiping pads, poles, and the frame |
| Anti-corrosion spray (optional) | Protecting metal near the coast |
How to Clean a Trampoline Step by Step
Set aside an hour or two, and work from the mat outward so dirt from one part doesn't land on another you've already cleaned.
Step 1: Clear Debris and Rinse the Mat
Remove toys, then sweep off leaves, twigs, and dirt with a soft broom, working from the center out. Give the mat a gentle rinse with your hose on a low or shower setting.
Step 2: Scrub the Mat with Mild Soap
Mix a small squirt of dish soap into warm water. You want a few bubbles, not a foam party. Scrub the mat in small circles with light pressure to protect the UV-treated fabric.
Step 3: Clean the Safety Pads and Safety Enclosure
Wipe the spring padding with the same soapy water, paying attention to seams. Then sponge the 360° Infinity Net lightly from top to bottom, along with the foam sleeves on the poles. Avoid tugging the mesh so the safety enclosure stays taut.
Step 4: Wipe Down the Frame and Springs
Our frames and ThrusterSprings™ use galvanized steel, meaning the steel carries a zinc coating that helps it resist rust. Wipe them with a damp, soapy cloth. Near the coast, rinse the metal with fresh water to remove salt, then add a light coat of anti-corrosion spray once it's dry.
Step 5: Rinse, Dry, and Inspect
Rinse everything until no soap remains, since leftover residue makes the mat slippery. Let it all air-dry in direct sunlight and keep jumpers off until the mat is fully dry.
While everything's clean, check that the springs are secure, the frame connections are tight, and the safety enclosure has no tears. Our support team can help with any replacement parts.
How to Remove Mold, Mildew, and Stubborn Stains
Mold loves damp, shaded spots, and the EPA notes that moisture control is the key to keeping at bay. Thorough drying matters as much as scrubbing.
For patches on the mat, pads, or safety enclosure:
- Mix one part white vinegar with three parts warm water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the affected areas and let the solution sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Scrub gently with a soft brush, then rinse with the hose.
- Let everything dry in direct sunlight to slow regrowth.
For persistent growth, repeat the process or make the mix slightly stronger.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Your Trampoline
Some cleaning shortcuts can wear down the mat, pads, and safety enclosure faster than dirt ever would, so leave these out of your routine:
- Bleach and harsh chemicals: These can weaken fabric fibers and strip UV protection.
- Pressure washers: A high-intensity stream can tear or stretch the mesh.
- Abrasive tools: Steel wool and wire brushes fray fabrics and scratch finishes.
- Jumping on a wet mat: Wait until it's fully dry.
How Often Should You Clean Your Trampoline?
Give your trampoline a full clean about once a month, with quick sweeps in between whenever leaves or debris land on the mat.
| Task | How Often |
|---|---|
| Quick visual safety check | Before every jumping session |
| Sweep off debris | Weekly, or after windy days |
| Full wash | About once a month |
| Rust check on frame and springs | Every two months |
| Deep clean and full dry | Before winter storage |
After a storm, sweep away any branches and check that your Gravity Anchor Kit is holding firm. Before cold weather arrives, a deep clean and full dry helps stop mildew from settling in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Pressure Wash a Trampoline?
No, we don't recommend pressure washing any part of your trampoline. A high-pressure stream can tear or stretch the safety enclosure mesh and stress the mat's stitching. A garden hose on a gentle setting does the job without the wear.
Can I Use Bleach to Clean a Trampoline Mat?
No, skip the bleach. It can weaken the mat's fibers and strip away the UV protection that helps it stand up to the sun. Mild dish soap handles everyday dirt, and a diluted white vinegar solution tackles mold gently.
How Do You Get Mold Off a Trampoline Net?
Spray the 360° Infinity Net with one part white vinegar and three parts warm water, then let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes. Scrub lightly with a soft brush, rinse with a hose, and let it dry in direct sunlight. Repeat for stubborn patches.
Should You Clean a Trampoline Before Winter Storage?
Yes, always clean it first. Storing a dirty or damp mat, pads, or safety enclosure invites mildew over the off-season. Wash everything, let it dry completely, and store fabric parts somewhere dry indoors. If it stays up, clear snow deeper than 4 inches (10cm) to protect the springs and mat.
Consistent Cleaning Keeps Your Trampoline Safer and Built to Last
Sweep often, wash monthly with mild soap, treat mold with diluted vinegar, and let everything dry before the next bounce. Leave the bleach and pressure washer in the garage, and your trampoline will stay ready for liftoff season after season.
For extra protection between cleans, our Eclipse™ Sun Shade shields the mat from harsh UV rays and gives kids a cooler spot to play. Still choosing a setup? Our backyard trampolines are built to handle life outdoors from day one.