Picture this, your kid runs out barefoot to jump on the trampoline after a rainstorm. A few minutes later, their feet are black, the mat is slick, and the fun turns into a wipeout. Whether you’re dealing with dirt, tree sap, or the daily mess kids track in, you’re about to learn how to clean smarter, not harder.

Let’s get into it.

Why Regular Trampoline Mat Cleaning Matters

Regular cleaning is key to keeping your trampoline mat in top shape. It prevents buildup, extends its lifespan, and ensures you get the best bounce every time. Here’s why regular cleaning really matters:

Dirt = Damage Over Time

One big misconception about trampolines is that their mats can handle anything. While Akrobat’s high-quality mats are built for durability and longevity, you still need to take care of it. 

Dirt and debris settle into the mat, acting like sandpaper with every jump, weakening the fibers and shortening the lifespan. Mold and mildew are even worse. Leaving leaves, moisture, or pet hair on the mat invites fungal growth, which stains, causes slick spots, and weakens the material. That means less bounce, more spongy feeling.

What many don’t realize is how much build-up comes from jumpers themselves. Sunscreen, oils, and lotions transfer onto the mat every time someone jumps barefoot or shirtless, gumming up the surface, breaking down the fibers, and attracting more dirt. Over time, your trampoline could become a sticky grimy mess.

Hygiene & Family Safety

A clean trampoline is a safer trampoline.

Kids jump barefoot. They fall, they roll, they wrestle. That mat isn’t just a surface, it’s where their skin makes contact. And when it’s covered in bacteria from organic buildup, pet residue, or leftover food spills from a summer BBQ, you’re risking more than just a dirty foot. You’re risking infections, rashes, and worse.

Slippery surfaces caused by mold or leftover soap residue are another hazard. We have seen skinned knees and sprained ankles caused by slipping on a simple preventable slick spot. A routine cleaning schedule ensures the mat stays dry, grippy, and predictable, exactly what you want when your kids are bouncing full throttle.

What You’ll Need: Safer Trampoline Cleaning Supplies

 

Before you dive into cleaning, it’s key to have the right tools. We’ve seen people ruin perfectly good mats with pressure washers, bleach, or scrub brushes better suited for a garage floor. Trampoline mats are engineered surfaces, not concrete. So if you want to clean your mat without compromising safety, bounce, or material integrity, here’s what you’ll need.

Choose the Right Tools

Let’s start with the essentials to clean an Akrobat mat.

• Soft-bristled broom or handheld blower: This is your first line of defense against leaves, dirt, and grit. A simple sweep before every jump session does wonders for keeping buildup from embedding into the mat.
• Microfiber towels or drying cloths: Skip the beach towel. Microfiber dries faster, won’t leave lint, and glides gently over the surface without catching on stitching or logos.
• Bucket, hose with sprayer, or low-pressure nozzle: You want coverage, not pressure. Use lukewarm water to help break down dirt without stressing the mat weave or dislodging springs.
• Mild soap (non-toxic and residue-free): Look for eco-friendly, biodegradable soap. Remember, Akrobat mats are made with certified non-toxic materials.
• Optional add-ons: For tougher messes like mold or sticky residue (think tree sap or bird droppings), white vinegar or a gentle baking soda paste works well. Just use a non-abrasive truck brush or sponge; nothing sharp or gritty.

Pro tip: Always test a small patch before you go all-in with a cleaner you haven’t used before.

Avoid These Cleaning Mistakes

There’s a reason this section is bolded: these are the biggest, most frequent mistakes we’ve seen homeowners make and they can cost you.

• ❌ Power washers (even on low): This one gets asked all the time, “Can I use a power washer if I set it to low?” The answer is still no. The force can damage stitching and tear fibers, especially on older mats.
• ❌ Bleach or ammonia: We get the temptation. You want to kill mildew fast. But chemicals like these break down UV coatings and lead to premature cracking or fading.
• ❌ Sharp brushes or steel tools: Never use anything metal or stiff-bristled. You’ll scratch the surface, fray the weave, and create weak spots that turn into tears.
• ❌ Cotton towels that leave lint: This one’s subtle, but still worth to take note. Cotton can leave behind tiny fibers that stick to the mat, especially if it’s damp. Microfiber is the way to go.

Getting the right gear is about respecting the trampoline you invested in. You wouldn’t clean a luxury car with steel wool and the same principle applies here. The better you treat your mat, the longer it will return the favor with a perfect, safer bounce.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Trampoline Mat Like a Pro

Step 1 – Remove Dry Debris

Start by sweeping away leaves, dirt, and debris using a soft-bristled broom or handheld blower. Work from the center out and avoid pushing debris into the springs. For trampolines with nets, lift the mat slightly with your foot to sweep debris through the gap.

Step 2 – Rinse with Lukewarm Water

Gently rinse the mat with a hose or a bucket of lukewarm water to loosen dirt. Avoid using high-pressure spray, as it can damage the mat or push water into seams.

Step 3 – Scrub with Soap & Soft Brush

Use a sponge or soft brush with mild soap and warm water. For stains, try Oxi-Clean sparingly. For mold, use a diluted vinegar solution or baking soda paste. Avoid aggressive scrubbing.

Step 4 – Rinse Thoroughly

After scrubbing softly, rinse the mat well to remove all soap or cleaner. Residue can make the mat slippery and attract more dirt. Check for slippery spots before jumping.

Step 5 – Dry Completely

Pat the mat with microfiber towels to absorb excess water, then let it air dry. For in-ground trampolines, you could use a box fan underneath. On rainy days, use a dry towel to speed up drying by walking on it barefoot.

We obsess over how to make trampolines last longer, perform better, and require less maintenance. Here are some engineering-backed cleaning insights we share with all our customers:

AkroVENT® Mats Dry Quicker Thanks to Airflow Tech

Our AkroVENT jump mats are designed for air permeability, meaning they dry faster, reduce standing water, and resist mold growth more effectively than traditional woven mats. Time your cleanings around sunny, breezy windows for best results.

Use Enclosure Nets + Fitted Covers to Reduce Cleaning Frequency

A fitted trampoline cover keeps leaves, sap, and droppings off your mat. And if you’ve got pets or toddlers, an enclosure net not only prevents accidents, it keeps the mat cleaner by reducing walk-ons and random messes.

Avoid Placing Trampolines Under Trees or Near Flowerbeds

It may look picturesque, but placing your trampoline near trees invites sap, pollen, and birds overhead. Move the unit a few feet away from any high-shedding plants, or install a canopy to reduce exposure.

🔗 Shop AkroVENT® Mats  → Find Your Perfect Mat 

How Often Should You Clean a Trampoline Mat?

Consistency is key to keeping your trampoline in top shape. You don’t need to scrub every weekend, but neglecting regular care can cost you more in the long run. A clean mat is safer and smarter. Here’s the breakdown:

Quick Daily/Weekly Maintenance

Keep a soft broom nearby and sweep the mat after use, especially if it’s near trees or gravel. This prevents dirt from settling in. Also, avoid leaving plastic toys on the mat in the sun, clear toys can act like magnifying glasses and burn holes into the mat.

Monthly Deep Cleans

For regular use, deep clean the mat 1-2 times a month. This prevents buildup from sweat, sunscreen, and pollen. In high-pollen seasons, rainy climates, or dusty areas, clean more often. If the mat feels sticky or looks dull, it’s time for a reset.

Winter & Off-Season Care

Don’t leave the mat out in snow. The weight and ice can stretch, crack, and damage it. Remove and store the mat in a dry place during winter. For deep cleaning in winter, dry it indoors with a fan and microfiber towel, but avoid high heat. Consider a fitted cover for extra protection.

Routine cleaning protects your trampoline, ensuring every jump is smoother, safer, and fun.

🔗 Shop AkrobatUSA’s Best Trampoline Cover  → Find Your Protection Against Wear and Tear

Prolonging Trampoline Life: Beyond Cleaning

Cleaning is key, but regular maintenance keeps your trampoline in top shape. Akrobat builds trampolines to last, but they still need care.

Health Checks

While cleaning, check for:

• Rust on metal parts; treat or replace.
• Frayed stitching; avoid tears.
• Loose or stretched springs; affects bounce.
• Worn safety pads; protect from impact.

Seasonal Storage Tips

• In cold weather, remove the mat or use a cover.
• In hot weather, use a sunshade to prevent UV damage.
• In storms, bring the mat inside or cover it.

When to Replace the Mat

Replace if you notice:

• Tears or worn fabric.
• Loss of bounce.

Proper care helps your mat last longer. When it’s time, we offer replacements.

Cleaning is More Than Just a Chore

Cleaning your trampoline mat is essential for keeping it safer, performing well, and lasting longer. It protects your kids while they play, ensures smooth bounces, and keeps your investment in top condition.

A clean mat prevents slips, reduces skin irritation, and helps maintain your trampoline’s springs and frame. It’s a simple way to show your family you care.

If you’re tired of battling mold, grime, and fading or just want a trampoline that performs as beautifully as it looks, now’s the time to upgrade.

👉 Explore Our AkroVENT® Trampolines
Take care of your trampoline, and it’ll keep taking care of the fun.