Everything You Should Know About Buying a Trampoline for Your Kids
January 14, 2014A trampoline is a fun way to get your kids to spend more time outdoors. Not only will it entertain them for hours on end, it’ll give them some great exercise – much better than sitting around in front of the TV all day long! The only problem with buying a trampoline is that there is no official British or European standard, meaning that some companies could easily compromise on quality to cut costs. You certainly don’t want your kids to become injured, so what can you do to make sure you’re buying your kids a quality piece of equipment? Here’s everything you need to know:
What is The Best Trampoline For You?
The best trampoline for you and your kids will no doubt be a model that comes with a warranty or guarantee – this way, you’ll have peace of mind. Make sure the trampoline is covered for any structural breakages due to rust, as this can cause accidents. If you plan on having the trampoline for a long time, it’ll also help if you can get spares/replacement parts. Take a look at Outdoor Toys Direct to start you off!
What Shape Trampoline Do You Want?
You can get various shaped trampolines, but the two main shapes are round/rectangular. Real sporting trampolines have always been rectangular, but most trampolines you’ll find in your neighbors gardens will be round. The shape you get totally depends on you and your preferences!
Can You Get Recommendations?
If you do have neighbors/friends with trampolines, you should talk to them to get recommendations. If they have had their trampoline for years and are perfectly happy, you should consider the supplier they purchased their trampoline from. Ask them questions about building the trampoline, purchasing the replacement parts, and how well the company treated them if they did come across any problems.
What Size Trampoline Should You Buy?
There are a variety of sizes when it comes to buying a trampoline, from the tiny models just big enough for one person, to bigger models suitable for around 5 children. If you have the space and budget, it’s recommended you get the biggest sized trampoline you can afford. Many people regret choosing a small trampoline!
How Can I Make The Trampoline Safe for My Kids?
Risks do come with owning a trampoline, so you need to make sure your kids are perfectly safe. To prevent your kids from falling off the trampoline, a netted enclosure works best. To stop toddlers and pets from going underneath the trampoline while people are bouncing, you should consider buying an undernet.
There have also been stories of trampolines taking off in the wind! This can sometimes happen in very high winds, especially if you have a safety net fitted as it acts as a sale. When strong winds are forecast, take away the safety net and make sure the kids stay off it.
How Long Should A Trampoline Last?
Your trampoline is going to live in the garden, so not only is it going to take a bit of wear and tear from the whole family, but the elements too. You should expect your trampoline to last around 10 years!
If you liked this post, be sure to check out this article from our parenting series: