Top Safety Features to Look for in Trampoline Accessories
Author: Jump Star Trampolines Date Posted:6 October 2025
When school holidays are just around the corner in Perth and the weather’s warming up, kids start eyeing the trampoline again. Whether it’s an after-school bounce or weekend flips, the trampoline quickly becomes the backyard favourite. But before the shoes come off and the energy ramps up, it’s worth making sure the whole setup is actually safe for regular use. One part that often gets overlooked? The accessories.
Not all trampoline accessories are about fun add-ons. Many of them play a big part in keeping jump time safe. From a secure net to protect against falls to a ladder that helps kids climb up without slipping, each detail does its bit. And it’s not just what you buy, but how well it’s set up and looked after that really matters, especially in springtime when use starts to pick up again in Perth.
Enclosure Nets: Keeping Jumps Safe and Contained
The enclosure net is probably the most important safety feature for trampolines, especially if you’ve got younger kids or if the trampoline sits near a fence or garden bed. A good net keeps jumpers from launching themselves too far off the edge and adds that layer of protection if someone loses balance mid-bounce.
But not all nets are made the same. If your trampoline has an enclosure, check these things:
- Mesh strength: The fabric should feel firm and flexible, not loose or brittle. If you press it and it stretches too far, it might be worn out.
- Height and coverage: The net should reach high enough to protect from falls and fully enclose the jumping area without big gaps between poles.
- Entry system: A strong zip or clip system helps keep kids from accidentally falling out. Nets with gaps or broken zips aren’t doing their job.
- Pole and clip support: Nets should be attached firmly to the poles all the way around. Weak or broken clips can make the net sag or come loose when in use.
Installing the net properly makes a real difference. Make sure the attachment points are tight and even, and check that the zip closes completely from top to bottom. Gaps near the pole or base need attention straight away.
One Perth family we spoke to had a net that looked fine until their child leaned gently into it one afternoon, and the stitching gave out. The net had been slightly frayed for a while near the zip, but no one thought much of it until it failed during play. Replacing worn parts earlier could’ve saved that scare.
Safety Pads: Protecting From Edge Injuries
Next up are the pads around the edge of the trampoline. These cover the springs and frame so feet stay safe during landings, especially when bounces get unpredictable.
Spring padding doesn’t always get the spotlight, but it plays an important everyday role by:
- Reducing bumps and bruises from missed landings
- Keeping shoes and feet from getting caught in springs
- Preventing smaller objects like toys from slipping between the mat and frame
When picking or checking safety pads, here’s what to look for:
- Full coverage: The pad should sit over every spring and reach out past the frame where possible
- Thick, weather-ready material: Pads need to stand up to Perth’s sun. UV-treated fabric is ideal for outdoor setups
- Strong ties or clips underneath: Loose pads shift with each bounce, which can lead to exposed springs
Once installed, walk around the trampoline and gently press the pads into place. They shouldn’t shift around or wrinkle during use, and the material should bounce back when squashed. Lighter pads might fold or flatten over time, which means they aren’t offering much help when someone steps wrong.
During early spring, remember to inspect the pads for soggy spots or mould if the trampoline’s been out through the colder months. Perth winters are usually dry, but the occasional downpour and early morning dew can still cause issues. If the pad feels squishy or smells funny, chances are it’s not doing its job anymore. Keep it clean and dry between uses so it stays effective and lasts longer.
Ladders and Steps: Making Access Easier and Safer
Ladders and steps might feel like extras, but they make a big difference in how safely kids and adults get on and off the trampoline. Climbing up without a proper ladder often leads to awkward pulls, tiptoes on the frame, or unstable chairs, none of which are safe ways to start playtime.
A good trampoline ladder:
- Has wide, textured steps for non-slip footing
- Sits at a good angle against the frame
- Hooks securely without wobbles or gaps
- Is made from rust-resistant materials, especially for Perth’s dry and sometimes salty climate
Look for ladders with steel framing and plastic steps that don’t get too hot under the sun. Perth’s heat can make exposed surfaces uncomfortable quickly, so avoiding bare metal on step surfaces is a smart move.
Installation is simple, but it’s still worth double-checking a few things. The ladder should hook firmly over the frame. If you notice it tipping or rattling, it's likely not sitting correctly. Teach the kids to use it every time instead of jumping straight off the trampoline. A fall from even a low height can cause injuries, especially if the ground is uneven or paved next to the yard.
Some families also find removable ladders helpful. If you’ve got younger kids at home and want to limit unsupervised play, a ladder that disconnects easily lets you control when the trampoline’s accessible.
Anchoring Kits: Stopping Shifting and Tipping
Even sturdy trampolines can shift a little during strong spring gusts or repeated heavy jumps. Anchoring kits come in handy to stop that sideways wobble or tilting that can develop over time. They’re especially helpful if your trampoline sits on grass or artificial turf, which can get loose or compacted.
There are a few types of anchoring kits, but the most common include spiral stakes or hooks that drill into the ground and strap to the trampoline legs. Some use ratchet straps, while others rely on tension hooks, but the goal is the same: keep the base of the trampoline locked to the ground.
When checking or adding anchor kits:
1. Make sure you’ve got one on each major leg or section of the frame
2. Check the straps or ropes are tight, not sagging or fraying
3. Drive the stake in deep enough to avoid loosening when it rains
4. Aim for even tension across all points so the trampoline sits level
Keep in mind that Perth’s dry soil can harden through spring, so checking whether the stakes are still embedded properly helps prevent long-term loosening. After big weather shifts, look closely around anchor points for signs they’ve bent or popped slightly out of place.
One Perth family recently shared how their kids’ trampoline shifted overnight after a windy weekend. It didn't tip, but it ended up half a metre off its original position and almost clipped the garden shed. After anchoring it with spiral hooks and sturdy straps, that movement stopped altogether.
Simple Fixes That Keep Trampoline Time Stress-Free
Trampolines get a lot of love once Perth’s spring warmth hits full swing. But regular use means wear and tear, and small issues with accessories can lead to injuries if they’re not caught early. Enclosure nets, padding, ladders, and anchor kits aren't just extras. They’re key parts of a safer setup.
Taking time to install the accessories properly, checking on them during the season, and knowing the signs of wear can save you headaches later. It's also worth teaching kids to spot trouble too, like a wobbly ladder or loose net strap.
Keeping your trampoline safe doesn't need to become a big job, but it does mean staying on top of the basics. With the right accessories in good shape, families can enjoy their backyard trampoline without second-guessing every bounce. Better yet, kids can focus on play, and parents can relax knowing the setup is sound.
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