Summer Care for In-Ground Rectangle Trampolines
Author: Jump Star Trampolines Date Posted:21 December 2025
Discover tips on keeping your in-ground rectangle trampoline clean and safe this summer. Extend its lifespan and enjoy endless fun in Perth's sunny weather.
Perth summers are hot, dry, and full of backyard fun. When outdoor play takes over, the trampoline often becomes the centre of it all, especially in-ground rectangle trampolines. These models blend well with landscaped yards and sit closer to the ground, giving families easier access and a cleaner look. But with more use during summer holidays, they also get more wear. A bit of care can keep everyone bouncing safely.
If they’re not looked after, trampolines can wear out quicker than you’d think. Perth’s strong sun can weaken mats and padding. Dirt, fallen leaves, and dust add tension to the stitching and cover surfaces. And when kids are using it daily without skips, the springs and frame take a beating. A simple routine of checks and cleaning can help keep the whole setup in good shape for longer.
Keeping Your In-Ground Rectangle Trampoline Clean
Leaves, gum nuts, and dry dust are more than just unsightly. When they collect on the trampoline surface, they increase friction and weight, putting extra pressure on the mat. This leads to early tears or weakened stitching. Keeping the trampoline clean helps to protect your investment and makes it so much nicer to use.
Here’s a simple cleaning guide to follow during Perth’s dry summer months:
- Sweep the mat using a soft broom or handheld leaf blower every few days
- Use a damp cloth to wipe dust off the safety pads and the frame edges
- Check inside the pit or trench for dirt or leaves building up in corners
- Trim any grass and pull out weeds growing near the trampoline
Stay away from harsh soaps or pressure washers. These can affect the tough fibres used in quality trampoline mats and pads. A gentle wash and occasional deeper clean every few weeks keeps the surface firm, flexible, and safe to jump on.
It really doesn’t take much. One family in City Beach keeps a soft broom by the back door and does a quick clean each Saturday morning. They say it’s made a big difference. Their mat still looks great and feels much softer on bare feet.
Protecting From Sun And Heat
Trampolines are built for the outdoors, but Perth’s summer sun packs a punch. Over time, exposure to UV rays can dry out foam padding, fade the stitching, and stretch the mat unevenly. That can lead to weak bounce zones or loose fitting pads, both of which are avoidable with the right care.
To help protect your trampoline from summer heat:
- Throw on a fitted trampoline cover when it’s not in use. It protects against both dirt and UV rays
- Use garden umbrellas or shade sails for extra cover during especially hot days
- Plant new trees or shrubs nearby (not too close) to create natural midday shade as they grow
- Pick a location where your trampoline gets morning or late afternoon sun rather than harsh midday exposure
If you know a heatwave is coming and the trampoline won’t be in use, keep it fully covered. This will reduce strain on the fabric and help avoid issues like mat discolouration or spring fatigue. These little steps go a long way, especially in suburbs like Darch or Willetton where backyards get full sun for hours.
Inspecting for Wear and Tear
Even top-quality trampolines will show signs of wear if they’re used often, especially during summer. A quick inspection every couple of weeks is enough to catch early problems—before they cause injuries or damage that’s harder (and more expensive) to fix.
Start in the middle and move outward as you check:
- Look for faded areas, loose stitching, pinholes, or patches thinning quicker than expected
- Feel for uneven bounce zones that could point to stretched springs or mat fatigue
- Check springs for rust, stretching, or loss of tension
- Inspect edge padding for signs of cracks or sun damage
- Make sure all bolts look tightly secured and frame joints are aligned properly
- Push gently at the corners of the frame to check for any movement or weakness
If something doesn't look or sound right while being used, pause jumping until it can be checked properly. It’s always easier to replace one spring than lining up a whole series of repairs.
Trampolines built in the ground may look cleaner and tidier, but they wear just like above-ground models. Don’t let their compact appearance fool you into skipping important checks.
Ensuring a Safe Jumping Environment
It’s not just what’s on the trampoline that matters, it’s what’s around it. Perth’s sandy or clay soil can shift more than expected during long, hot days. This might cause small dips around parts of the trampoline, making the mat feel slightly off-kilter or bounce unevenly—all without being too obvious at first glance.
To create a safer area around your in-ground trampoline:
- Keep at least one metre of space clear along all sides
- Check for signs the ground has shifted, like gaps between the frame and soil or pooling water
- Make sure weeds or overgrown grass don’t block visibility
- Lightly press along the outer frame to test soil firmness
- Remove toys, hoses or tools that might get in the way of jump paths
Review basic jump rules with your kids too. Things like wearing socks, one jumper at a time, and never flipping unless an adult is watching, all help reduce injury risk. One family in Duncraig learned this first-hand. After a few stormy nights, their in-ground trampoline leaned without them noticing. This caused one side to stretch more than the other, leading to uneven bouncing. A basic edge inspection caught the issue and saved the mat before major damage happened.
Bounce Into a Fun-Filled Summer
Looking after an in-ground rectangle trampoline in Perth’s summer heat doesn’t have to be a hassle. A quick routine of sweeping, shade checks, basic inspections, and keeping the area clear can make all the difference. It’s the best way to keep playtime safe, smooth, and stress-free.
Whether it's a few quick jumps after school or a weekend bounce session with cousins, the trampoline stays ready to go when small checks are done regularly. Families who pop out to sweep the mat or test for frame movement often end up with equipment that lasts longer and handles better.
Good trampoline fun starts with good care. A few moments of attention now can keep your kids jumping all season long.
For more tips on maintaining your trampoline and to explore options for setting up an ideal in-ground rectangle trampoline, head over to Jump Star Trampolines. Our selection offers quality and durability to suit your family's needs. Keep your backyard buzzing with safe and fun jumps all summer long.
