Like all other play equipment, outdoor trampolines require protection during the winter. Here are some tips on doing proper trampoline winter care.

In the run-up to winter, many people start doing preparations to protect their homes, cars and gardens from the colder temperatures. This process, called winterising, also applies to most items in your garden or yard, including trampolines.

Although they’re engineered to be durable, trampolines can also fall victim to nature’s strength.  But with proper care and protection, trampolines can handle more than you think.

How you winterise your trampoline will depend if you plan to use it or not during the cold season. Whatever you choose between the two, here’s how you can protect your trampoline during winter.

If you're going to use your trampoline in winter

Pack it up and store it

If you don’t plan to use your trampoline in the winter and you have enough storage space, then it’s better to take down, pack up and store your trampoline's top components. This includes the net, net poles, mat, springs and spring cover. This is the best way to keep your trampoline in good condition if you're not going to use it for an extended period.

You don't need to disassemble the trampoline frame (since it's designed to withstand most weather conditions), but we recommend using a trampoline cover to protect it. You can keep the other parts in a large box and store them in a dry place such as your shed or garage. Once spring arrives, inspect the parts carefully for damage before reassembling your trampoline. 

If you're not going to use your trampoline in winter

Anchor it down

If you plan to leave your trampoline outside, anchoring it down is very important. This will secure your trampoline against strong winds.

You can get an anchor kit to secure your trampolines. These kits usually include straps and stakes that anchor the trampoline to the ground. If the soil is soft and sandy, you can also use sandbags instead of anchor kits.

When leaving for winter with your trampoline outside your yard, always remember to anchor it down as it may fly away, get broken or damage your property. While weather conditions are out of your control, it’s best to play it safe by weighing your trampoline down.

While some trampolines seem heavy enough, it’s better to ensure that it would not get blown away. If you really don’t want to use anchors, then it’s better to store your trampoline until the winter season passes.

Cover it up

Whether you leave the whole trampoline outside or you’re planning to pack up and store the topmost components, you will still need to use trampoline covers.

It may seem like an added expense at the start, but trampoline covers mainly protect the springs and the structure of the trampoline not only from snow but also from other environmental scenarios like rain and hail.

Trampoline covers also provide the primary protection in trampoline winter care as it keeps the trampoline clean throughout the winter. It protects the frame from getting wet, which can lead to rusting and damage.

Brush snow away

If you opt not to cover your trampoline, you have to clean up any snow or debris that builds up over winter.

Removing snow from your trampoline is very important as it can put weight on the trampoline and eventually cause the jumping mat to sag and lose bounce. Hence, make sure that your trampolines are always clear from snow and other materials by using brooms and brushes.

Do not use shovels or other hard-pointed tools. These may create tears in the jump mat or spring cover, which will make them unsafe to use.

Also, while you may be tempted to use snow blowers or heaters, using these may burn the jumping mat and damage it eventually. Hence, snow blowers and heaters are not recommended for clearing snow off your trampoline

Winter Trampoline Care FAQs

There are some more things that you should know when providing trampoline winter care. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about winterising trampolines:

Do I need to take down my trampoline in winter?

If you’re not planning to use your trampoline in the winter and you have a storage space, then it is better to take it down, pack it up and store all the parts (except the frame). First and foremost, this is the best way to keep your trampoline in good condition.

While the trampoline frame doesn't need to be disassembled, it’s a good idea to get a trampoline cover to protect it.

Can I jump on the trampoline when it's wet?

Brief answer: yes.

However, you should proceed with caution (like you would with any other wet surface). Although jumping on a wet trampoline may not cause any damage to the trampoline itself, the slippery surface can lead to accidents. 

What should I do if there's snow on the trampoline?

On the first sight of snow on the trampoline, do not panic, even if it’s weeks’ worth of accumulated snow. First of all, find a brush or broom to clear off the snow. Do not jump on the snow on the trampoline as it will add further weight and put added pressure on the jumping mat. When removing the snow on the trampoline, do not use hard-pointed brushes or items such as snow blowers or heaters since these may cause added damage.

How do I protect my trampoline from strong winds?

While the winter breeze may seem fun, strong winds may tip your trampoline sideways. This is where an anchor comes in handy. Whether it’s strings and stakes or sandbags, make sure that your anchors do really hold your trampoline in place and can withstand strong winds. 

Winterising your trampoline should be a part of your yearly routine. Knowing how to protect your trampoline against the harsh winds of winter will help you take better care of it during the winter! It will not only extend the longevity of your trampoline but also save you lots of cash in the process.

Keep your trampoline in tip-top condition

While trampolines are designed to last, winterising your trampoline will help it last longer. Performing proper trampoline winter care will ensure you and your family can bounce and play once spring arrives.

Looking for a new trampoline?

Available in round, springless, oval and rectangle shapes, Kahuna trampolines are designed to last long and provide you with years of fun and enjoyment — whatever the season! Check out our full range of trampolines today!