Maximising Safety with In-Ground Trampoline Placement
Author: Jump Star Trampolines Date Posted:13 October 2025
When it comes to outdoor play, trampolines are one of the top choices for families. They're fun, active, and give kids something to do that doesn’t involve a screen. But safety matters just as much as fun. No parent wants to worry about bumps or falls every time their kids start jumping. That’s where in-ground trampolines come into play. With a lower height and no need for a ladder, they can offer a safer jumping experience, especially for younger kids.
In Perth, backyards are as varied as the seasons. Some are flat and sandy, others are sloped with thick clay. Spring in Perth is the perfect time to get started on outdoor improvements before the full summer heat rolls around. If you're considering adding an in-ground trampoline to your yard, now’s a great time to think about safety from the start, beginning with where and how you install it.
Choosing The Right Spot In Your Yard
The first decision you’ll need to make is where to place the trampoline. Getting the location right will make a big difference in how safe and stable it is over time. A good spot in your yard should tick a few boxes:
- Flat surface: Avoid sloped areas as they make installation harder and can lead to an uneven frame
- Good drainage: Places where water pools after rain should be skipped. Stagnant water can cause the trampoline to sink or shift over time
- Clear surroundings: Keep a safe distance from trees, fences, garden beds, and patios to prevent injuries and space restrictions
If you live in Perth, the condition of your soil can also affect where you install it. Sandy soil, which is common in many Perth suburbs, drains well but might need extra support around the edges to stop the frame from shifting. Heavy clay, found in other areas, can hold water and should always be tested for drainage before the trampoline goes in. Digging a simple test hole and filling it with water can help you check if the area drains fast or holds water for hours.
Think about sun exposure too. A trampoline in full sun all day might wear faster unless protected with shade. A partly shaded spot can help with comfort on hot afternoons without making things too slippery from fallen leaves or sap. Just keep in mind thorny shrubs and low tree limbs, as they are better avoided altogether.
In some parts of Perth, yards aren’t perfectly shaped or spacious, so a compact trampoline style may work better. No matter the size, the spot you choose should let your kids climb on and start jumping with no obstacles in their way.
Proper Installation Steps
Once you’ve picked the right place, the next job is installing it properly to make sure it’s not just fun but also stable. A sloppy installation can cause long-term issues and may even make the trampoline unsafe. Here’s a clear order to follow:
1. Mark the area clearly using a rope or spray paint where the pit will go
2. Start digging the hole to the depth and shape that suits your trampoline model. Most in-ground trampolines need a bowl-shaped hole with more depth in the centre
3. Check the walls of the pit. They need to be firm and not collapsing inward. In sandier soil, you might need to reinforce them
4. Level the base and compact the soil so you’re not dealing with sagging later
5. Set up the frame inside the pit and make sure it’s level from all sides
6. Allow for good airflow underneath. Many trampolines come with vented retaining walls or drainage pipes to help with this part
Use gravel or drainage pits if the water doesn't drain naturally, especially if your area gets heavy rain. Perth weather can swing between very dry and very wet, so making sure water can escape will save headaches in the future. After installation, check around the edge to fill in gaps and keep it flush with your lawn or garden. This helps prevent tripping and gives it a clean, natural look.
Once the trampoline is in place, do a visual check for movement when pressure is applied. A solid install will feel tight and not show any shifting when someone walks or jumps on it. Don’t skip this part as it can help spot problems before the kids jump on and make them worse.
Enhancing Safety Features for In-Ground Trampolines
Getting your in-ground trampoline placed correctly is one thing. Making it safer with the right extras is just as important. Even though these trampolines are closer to the ground, accidents can still happen if the surrounding setup isn't thought through.
Adding soft padding around the edges helps cut down the chance of little legs or hands hitting the frame. Choose padding that’s made for outdoor use and wide enough to cover the full edge, not just parts of it. It should be thick enough to cushion missteps, especially where the mat meets the metal frame.
It’s a good idea to add a safety net too, especially if younger kids are bouncing. Some think in-ground models don’t need them, but a net offers extra peace of mind. It works as a gentle barrier, guiding kids safely back to the centre if they get too close to the edge. Make sure the net attaches securely and doesn't sag. A taut, firm net around the jumping area can help keep jumpers safe without spoiling the open feel of the trampoline.
Regular checks also go a long way in keeping things safe:
- Look out for damaged stitching on the mat or net
- Watch for signs of wear on the padding
- Confirm the frame hasn’t shifted out of place
- Check that any drainage systems are still working and not blocked
A quick inspection during regular yard chores is easy. Walk around the trampoline's edge, press down gently on the padding, and see if anything feels loose or shifts. One family in Perth noticed their padding had slid off slightly over time, leaving the frame exposed. It only took minutes to put back, but it likely prevented a painful bump.
Safe use is about more than just good gear. Habits matter too. Teaching kids not to push, to jump one at a time, and avoid flips unless there's enough room means fewer risks and more fun.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips For Perth Weather
Perth seasons go from dry and sunny to rain-soaked in a short time, and those swings can be hard on backyard equipment. Trampolines are no different. The better you look after them through the year, the longer they last and the safer they stay.
In summer, UV rays are your biggest enemy. Materials wear down quicker than many people realise. Before the heat kicks in, give the padding, net, and jump mat a good look. If the fabric is faded or cracking, it might not last much longer. Shade sails can help protect gear and make it more comfortable during playtime.
Winter doesn’t bring snow to Perth but can still mean soaked ground. If your trampoline is sitting in a spot with poor drainage, water can build up under the mat. Sandy soil usually handles this well, but any clay in the mix may block proper runoff. That’s why it helps to check drainage every few months, especially after big storms.
Here’s a quick list to keep up with seasonal maintenance:
- Inspect stitching, mat tension, and padding at the start of each season
- Trim any weeds or plants near the frame
- Rake out leaves and other debris from inside the pit
- Clean the safety net gently to avoid damage over time
- Check airflow and drainage under the trampoline, especially after rain
Watch out for ants and other pests too, especially during the warmer months. Burrowing insects can loosen the soil and mess with how stable the frame feels.
Late spring is the perfect time to do a full refresh. That way, once summer holidays hit and weekends are filled with activity, the trampoline is ready for everyday use. Some families in Perth find they only need to check it briefly from December through March if they do their main prep work in October.
Safe Trampolining Fun for the Whole Family
Once your trampoline is in place, safe, and ready to go, it’s time for the fun part: actually using it. In-ground trampolines are easier for kids to climb on and off. They give adults a full view from any angle so supervision becomes simpler.
Family games are a great way to get everyone involved while encouraging safe use at the same time. Here are a few ideas:
- Timed bounce challenges to see who can stay balanced the longest
- Simon says using bounce-friendly moves like knee drops or seat landings
- Tossing a soft ball back and forth while bouncing gently
- Letting each child show off one or two favourite moves, one at a time
Just having a safe, accessible place for kids to get active without needing screens or extra effort is worth the setup. Whether it’s a morning energy boost or a relaxing bit of fun before bedtime, a trampoline adds value to your daily routine.
And when the rules are followed and the equipment is maintained well, everyone benefits.
Keep Jumping Safe and Fun
Choosing an in-ground trampoline is a smart move for many families across Perth. What makes the biggest difference after that is how you prepare, install, and look after your setup. Good drainage, a flat surface, and strong soil support all make the foundation strong. Then it’s down to doing the job right when setting it up.
Once it’s in place, adding safety gear and checking things from time to time keeps your family safe without much extra work. Getting in the habit of quick inspections and seasonal clean-ups means fewer surprises and more time spent bouncing.
In-ground trampolines make access easier and blend better with your yard. When parents feel confident in the setup and kids stick to smart jumping habits, it’s one of the best backyard additions a family can enjoy together.
For families who want a safer and more seamless play space, choosing an in-ground trampoline in Australia can be a great fit for both kids and your backyard. At Jump Star Trampolines, we offer options that are built to blend into your outdoor space while keeping the fun going. Explore what works best for your home and enjoy peace of mind while the kids bounce safely.
