Why Your Trampoline Net Keeps Coming Loose
Author: Jump Star Trampolines Date Posted:13 October 2025
Trampoline safety nets that keep coming loose can be more than just a nuisance. They affect how safe the trampoline is for kids and adults who want to jump with confidence. Seeing the net sag, flap around, or disconnect entirely can be frustrating, especially when it's meant to protect your family during play. A loose net doesn't just look untidy, it's a sign that something isn't working the way it should.
If you’ve been trying to reattach your trampoline net over and over without much luck, you’re not alone. Perth’s changing weather, simple wear and tear, or even the way the trampoline was put together could all play a part. This article looks at the common reasons why nets come loose and what you can do to keep things safe and secure year-round.
Common Causes Of Loose Trampoline Nets
Perth’s climate can be tough on backyard gear like trampolines. Between dry, windy days in summer and heavy rainstorms in the cooler months, swings in temperature and moisture can stretch or wear out trampoline nets faster than expected.
Here’s how local weather and other common issues can mess with your trampoline net:
- Hot summers: Constant exposure to strong sun can dry out the netting material, making it lose its stretch and weaken over time
- Rainy seasons: Water weakens stitching. If your net stays damp for too long, thread can wear out or mildew may start to form around key connection points
- Repeated tension loss: Nets are under constant strain. After weeks or months of bouncing, even a good net can start to loosen if it hasn't been correctly fitted in the first place
- Incorrect assembly: If the net wasn’t pulled tight or anchored properly during setup, it might not hold once someone starts jumping
Besides weather, there’s also simple wear from daily use. If kids are leaning on the net or pulling at it while climbing in and out, it’s bound to loosen unevenly. One common sign to look for is gapping where the net meets the pole or base. Another is the sound of clips or zips popping off when tension builds from inside pressure.
It doesn’t always mean the net is broken, but it’s usually a sign the setup needs a quick check. Looking after it early helps avoid larger problems later on.
Proper Net Installation Techniques
Many trampoline net issues begin during installation. If you're seeing problems now, it’s worth checking over your original setup. Locking the net in well at the start can make a real difference, both for safety and how the net holds up over time.
Try these straightforward steps when checking or reinstalling your trampoline net:
1. Start with the right fit: Only use nets made for your trampoline size and shape. Measure frame diameter, pole height, and number of attachment points to make sure they match
2. Anchor bottom sections first: Begin by securing the lower straps or ties to the trampoline frame. This helps keep even tension as you pull the net upward
3. Attach to the poles evenly: Work in a circular pattern, attaching the net to the poles one by one instead of doing one side all at once. This helps stop gaps from forming
4. Check central pull lines or clips: Some nets are stitched with a top ring or pull cord that needs to be tightened evenly. Double-check that everything is snug but not overstretched
5. Examine zips and locks: Entry points should be zipped up comfortably without strain. If they’re a struggle to close, the net might be off-centre or pulled too tight
Once installed, take a quick look at the net when no one is jumping. Is it sagging on one side? Does it lean away from a pole? A solid installation should create a straight, centred frame without pressure pulling too hard in one direction. Spending a few minutes on this check now can save loads of time and hassle later.
Maintenance Tips To Prevent Loose Nets
A correctly installed net is only half the equation. Keeping it secure comes down to regular care, and it doesn’t need to be complicated. Perth has extreme temperatures at both ends of the spectrum, so staying ahead with a few routine checks through the year can make a big difference.
Here’s what to keep an eye on:
- Inspect all connection points every month, especially after periods of heavy use or strong winds
- Rinse off dust and dirt using a hose—not a pressure cleaner—and let it dry fully to avoid thread damage or mildew
- Avoid covering the trampoline with plastic tarps or anything that traps moisture underneath
- After long dry spells, give the net a gentle pull in key areas to test for tension loss or stretching
- Watch the pole sleeves for worn stitching or frayed ends—these often show up before a bigger split happens
If your net design allows it, rotate the net around the frame every few months. This spreads out the daily strain and helps stop one section from wearing out faster than the rest.
It’s also worth checking any accessories like ladders or hoops attached to the frame. Kids often grab the net when climbing or ducking, which can cause it to stretch or tug out of place without anyone realising.
Heading into October, check for residual moisture coming out of winter. Wet ground from cold fronts and storms can still collect in unexpected spots, especially around pole bases and under the mat. Keeping those areas dry helps the net stay tight and firm.
When To Replace Your Trampoline Net
Even with the best maintenance habits, all trampoline nets age and eventually wear out. Constant tension, sunlight, and moisture leave their mark after a few years of use. Knowing when to shift from repairs to a full replacement can keep your trampoline safe and prevent more trouble in the future.
It’s time to think about replacing your net if you see:
- Severe fraying at the seams, bottom or top edge
- Large holes that grow when pulled gently
- Clamps or cords that keep loosening after tightening
- A completely sagging shape even when all connections are secure
If your net slips over the poles using fabric sleeves, double-check those sleeves closely. They take the most tension and tear faster than other spots. Once the stitching in that area starts to fail, it usually doesn't last much longer.
When shopping for a replacement, measure your trampoline carefully. Get the pole count, height, and trampoline diameter correct so the net fits snugly without needing to be forced. Buying a net that’s too small or too loose sets the same problem in motion again from day one.
Choose a mesh that’s UV-stabilised to withstand the harsh Perth sun. Lighter, low-quality materials tear more often and don’t hold up, especially in warmer suburbs with all-day sunlight.
If you’ve already patched your net in multiple places or can’t reattach it evenly no matter what you try, replacement is probably the better path. Starting fresh removes the risk of mid-jump failures or clips snapping out suddenly while kids are on it.
Keep Your Backyard Bouncing Safely
A loose net doesn’t always mean there’s major damage, but it is a clear sign that it needs your attention. Whether it’s the result of harsh weather, stretched-out stitching, or a tricky first installation, giving your net a quick check keeps everyone safer.
Tightening a few clips, adjusting placement, or clearing off old muck may be all it takes. The main goal is to catch issues before they get worse, rather than after someone gets hurt. If repairs no longer hold and you can’t keep the net in place, a high-quality replacement is often the way forward.
With the right fit and regular checks, your trampoline stays safe, clean, and ready for daily use. It’s a small step homeowners in Perth can take to keep the fun going without added stress or constant repairs. Nothing beats peace of mind while the kids burn off energy outside, enjoying their trampoline the way it was meant to be used.
Keep your trampoline safe and in top shape by addressing issues before they escalate. When you're in need of a reliable solution, consider our trampoline net replacement to protect your family as they bounce around. Jump Star Trampolines is committed to providing high-quality options that withstand Perth’s diverse weather conditions, ensuring that backyard playtime remains fun and secure. Explore our products today and keep your peace of mind intact!
