Top Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Your Inground Trampoline for Winter

The holiday season is in full swing, and while your backyard might currently be a frosty wonderland, your inground trampoline winter care routine should be a priority. 

One of the biggest perks of an inground model is its durability, but "durable" doesn't mean "indestructible." As we move into the heart of the cold season, taking a few proactive steps can make all the difference.

To help you navigate the frost and snow, we’ve put together this guide on the most common pitfalls owners face. Avoid these mistakes, and you’ll ensure your backyard remains a place where your friends and family can enjoy years of fun and togetherness.

Neglecting to Clean Your Trampoline Thoroughly

It’s tempting to simply walk away from the trampoline once the temperature drops, but leaving organic debris on the mat is a recipe for disaster. Leaves, twigs, and dirt trap moisture against the fabric of the jump mat. 

Over time, this can lead to the growth of mildew or mold, which can weaken the fibers of the polypropylene. Removing debris also prevents "tannin" stains from wet leaves, keeping your trampoline looking brand new.

Before the first heavy frost, give your mat a gentle scrub with a soft brush and mild soapy water and make sure it is completely dry before putting on a cover. 

Skipping Inspection of the Frame and Springs

Winter weather puts extra stress on metal components. A major mistake in inground trampoline winter care is failing to check for existing rust or wear before the snow hits. 

Moisture from snow can sit in small cracks or scratches, accelerating the oxidation process. Take ten minutes to inspect your springs. 

Are any overstretched or showing signs of surface rust? If so, replace them now. Applying a light coating of a rust-inhibitor spray to the springs and frame joints can provide an extra layer of protection against the salty or damp winter air.

Failing to Remove or Secure the Safety Net

Even though inground trampolines are low-profile, many families use safety enclosures. Leaving these nets up during a heavy snowstorm or high-wind event is a common error. 

Heavy, wet snow can weigh down the netting, putting immense pressure on the enclosure poles and potentially bending them. If your area is prone to blizzards, it is often best to remove the netting and the poles, storing them in a dry garage or shed. 

If you choose to leave them up during the winter, ensure the net is tightened and that you have a plan to brush off snow accumulation immediately.

Ignoring the Condition of the Mat and Padding

The safety pads (the foam sections covering the springs) are often the first things to show age. In winter, the PVC coating can become brittle in extreme cold. 

If your pads already have small tears, water can seep into the foam, freeze, and expand, causing the pads to crack or lose their cushioning ability. Check that your pads are securely tied down. 

Not Using a High-Quality Weather Cover

Think of a weather cover as a winter coat for your trampoline. Some owners think that because the trampoline is "built for outdoors," it doesn't need protection. 

A specialized cover prevents snow from sitting directly on the mat and keeps the drainage area underneath free from falling debris. Ensure you choose a cover designed for an inground model, which typically features a mesh center. 

Leaving the Trampoline Exposed to Harsh Elements

While you can't move your inground trampoline into the garage, you can manage its environment. A mistake many make is allowing heavy snow to pile up several feet deep on the mat. 

One cubic foot of wet snow can weigh up to 20 pounds. If you have a 14ft trampoline covered in a foot of snow, that is thousands of pounds of pressure on your springs!

Use a soft-bristled broom to gently clear snow off the mat after every storm. This protects the tension of your springs and the integrity of your frame.

Improperly Anchoring the Trampoline

Generally, inground trampolines stay put because they are in a hole. However, if you live in an area with a high water table or extremely high winds, "floating" can occur if the pit floods.

Part of proper inground trampoline winter care is ensuring the frame is still level and securely seated against the retaining wall. If the ground shifts due to the freeze-thaw cycle, your trampoline could become uneven and unfit for jumping.

Storing Accessories Incorrectly

Did you buy a basketball hoop, LED lights, or a jumping board this year? Don't leave these attached during the winter. 

Plastic components become brittle in the cold and can easily snap if hit by a falling branch or heavy snow. Remove all accessories, wipe them down, and store them in a climate-controlled area this winter.

Forgetting Regular Checks During Winter

The "set it and forget it" mentality is the biggest enemy of trampoline longevity. Make it a habit to glance at your trampoline once a week. Check for:

• Standing water in the pit (which indicates a drainage clog).
• Animals seeking shelter under the mat (who might chew on the jumping surface).
• Wind damage to the weather cover straps.

FAQ: Your Winter Care Questions Answered

1. Why is it important to winterize my inground trampoline? 

Winterizing protects your investment from the "Big Three" of winter damage: weight (snow), moisture (rust/mildew), and temperature (brittle plastics). Proper care ensures the trampoline remains safe and bouncy for years.

2. Can I leave my inground trampoline uncovered during winter? 

You can, as our mats are UV-rated and weather-resistant. However, using a cover significantly extends the life of the safety pads and keeps the jump mat clean, saving you hours of scrubbing in the spring.

3. Should I remove the trampoline mat for winter? 

In most cases, no. Removing the mat is a difficult task. It is better to leave it on, keep it clear of heavy snow, and use a high-quality weather cover.

4. What happens if I don’t clean the trampoline before winter? 

Debris like wet leaves can cause permanent staining and promote the growth of mold. In extreme cases, the weight of decomposing organic matter can actually cause the mat to sag over several months.

5. Is it necessary to disassemble the trampoline for winter? 

Absolutely not! Inground trampolines are designed to stay in place. You only need to remove the "soft" accessories like the safety net, pads (if you aren't using a cover), and any sports add-ons.

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