15-05-2026
Leaves, bird droppings and green algae wear down the safety pad and jumping mat faster than most people realise. A wet or dirty safety pad can dry out and crack, while a grimy jumping mat becomes slippery and unsafe. Use lukewarm water and a soft cloth, or mild soap for stubborn stains, and avoid harsh products or pressure washers to protect the UV coating. With simple cleaning techniques you can prevent damage and extend the lifespan of your trampoline.
Start with the right materials. Use lukewarm water, a soft sponge or cloth, a soft brush and mild soap. A bucket and a garden hose with a gentle spray are handy for rinsing. Avoid abrasive sponges, wire brushes, aggressive cleaning products and pressure washers. These damage the UV coating of the jumping mat and cause plastic components to age faster.
Preferably work in the shade or on an overcast day. Direct sunlight causes cleaning products and water to dry too quickly, which can leave stains or residue. First remove loose debris such as leaves, twigs and sand. This makes the job easier and prevents you from rubbing dirt further into the mat.
While cleaning, take the opportunity to check for visible damage. Tears, loose seams or hardened material on the safety pad are often easier to spot when the trampoline is clean. Note or photograph any damage so you can decide later whether repair or replacement is needed.
Tip: ask your children to help — it's a fun family activity they'll enjoy too!
Work systematically from dry to wet. First remove dry dirt with a soft brush or hand sweeper. Larger leaves can be removed by hand. Carefully brush away sand and dust so you don't scratch the surface.
Next, wet the mat and the safety pad with lukewarm water. Do not use a hot jet. Let the water soak in on stubborn spots for a moment. Use a soft sponge and a small amount of mild soap for stains. Scrub gently and briefly — scrubbing too hard damages the coating.
Rinse thoroughly so that soap residue doesn't leave stains or slippery spots. Dry the trampoline with a soft cloth or allow it to air dry completely before using it again. Seams or the safety pad staying damp for long periods can lead to mould and black spots.
Some products seem convenient but are harmful to the materials. Washing-up liquid and multipurpose cleaners contain degreasers that break down the protective layers of the safety pad. Cleaning vinegar and chlorine dry out plastic and increase the risk of cracking. Also avoid dye and bleach products, as these accelerate discolouration and brittleness.
Pressure washers apply too much force. They can loosen seams and damage the UV coating of the jumping mat. Abrasive sponges and wire brushes scratch the surface and make the material vulnerable. Use only soft materials and mild cleaning products that are gentle on the surface.
Sweep the trampoline regularly with a soft brush to remove leaves and dust. Carry out at least one thorough clean per season. With intensive use or a lot of falling leaves, you can clean more often. After heavy rain and storms, always check for accumulated dirt and damage.
A trampoline that spends most of the day in a shady spot will develop green algae more quickly than one standing in full sun. Prevention saves time and extends the lifespan of the trampoline's safety pad and jumping mat. A protective cover reduces leaf fall and bird droppings, and protects your trampoline against hard frost in winter. Don't place the trampoline directly under tree branches. Aside from the safety hazards this can create, at Etan we see that jumping mats suffer over time when twigs and branches land on them. If you leave the trampoline outside year-round, check after wet periods for green algae and mould. In prolonged wet conditions, a protective cover will significantly improve the lifespan of your trampoline — though it only works if you use it consistently.
A protective cover is often the most efficient measure when there are a lot of leaves. For detailed advice on protecting your trampoline with a cover, visit this page: Discover the best trampoline cover. Specific guidelines for seasonal maintenance and winter tips are available to make upkeep easier.
Bird droppings have a negative effect on the safety pad (PVC) because they are acidic. The pH of bird droppings is often between 3.5 and 4.5, which can cause deterioration of the material.
Let bird droppings soak first with lukewarm water. Allow the area to become wet, then carefully clean with a soft cloth or sponge. Don't scrape them off dry, as this can damage the coating. Rinse well and dry the area carefully.
Green algae develop mainly in shady spots and tend to persist when moisture sits for a long time. Treat algae with lukewarm water and mild soap. Use a soft sponge and rinse thoroughly. If algae keep coming back, check whether you can create more sunlight or ventilation, or move the trampoline away from dense vegetation.
Look for cracks, deep splits or hardened material on the safety pad. If the safety pad tears or shrinks, cushioning is reduced and the risk of injury increases. For the jumping mat, loose seams, visible wear or frayed edges are signs that replacement is needed. Always use original or compatible parts in accordance with the manual.
If you are unsure whether to replace individual parts or buy a completely new trampoline, it is always crucial to check the condition of your current trampoline or have an Etan expert take a look. Sometimes replacing parts makes more sense. However, if multiple parts are worn or the frame is no longer intact, a new trampoline is often the smarter choice. For more information on replacing parts or buying a new trampoline, visit this page: Replace trampoline parts or buy a new trampoline.
In autumn and winter you can take extra steps to protect the trampoline. Do one more thorough clean before winter and remove leaves and nesting material. If your trampoline is freestanding on legs, consider dismantling it completely and storing it indoors for winter. This can extend the lifespan of your trampoline by years! For concrete winter measures, consult the maintenance and winter tips guide: Trampoline maintenance and winter tips, and for practical steps on getting the trampoline winter-ready: How to winterise your trampoline.
Regular cleaning extends the lifespan of the trampoline and improves safety. A practical example: if your trampoline stands under many trees, a protective cover is the best choice. With little leaf fall, weekly sweeping and a seasonal clean are sufficient. This keeps maintenance manageable and cost-effective.
Cleaning a trampoline is important for safety and longevity. By regularly removing dirt and using mild cleaning products, the materials stay intact for longer. When carrying out maintenance, it is essential to work carefully and with the right products so that the protective layers are not damaged. Preventive measures, such as using a protective cover, also contribute to preserving the trampoline. Etan makes durable trampolines and outdoor products of the highest quality, with European production and a focus on safety and enjoyment.
How can I avoid green algae on my trampoline?
What is the best way to prevent weather and mould stains?
Can I use green soap to remove bird droppings?
How often should I check the safety pad for damage?
Why is it important to clean a trampoline regularly?
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