Like any piece of high-quality equipment, trampoline needs the right care to perform at its best. 

A dirty trampoline shortens its lifespan. Dirt, debris, and even the smallest particles of grime work their way into the mat, frame, and springs, wearing them down over time. 

We’re going to walk you through the most effective ways to clean your trampoline so you can learn exactly what tools to use (and which ones to avoid), how to tackle everything, and the simple routines that can help your trampoline last for years. 

The Best Tools & Products for Cleaning a Trampoline

When it comes to cleaning a trampoline, the tools and products you use make all the difference. A trampoline isn’t a driveway or a patio, you can’t just blast it with high pressure or scrub it like a kitchen floor,  it needs a gentler touch to stay strong.

What Cleaning Tools Are OK to Use?

To clean your trampoline effectively without damaging it, stick with soft, non-abrasive tools:

✅ A soft nylon brush – Gentle enough for the mat but effective at loosening dirt and debris without fraying the fibers.
✅ Microfiber cloths – Ideal for wiping down padded areas, frame parts, and the safety net without scratching protective coatings.
✅ A hose with a gentle spray setting – Avoid high-pressure streams. A soft rinse is all you need to wet the surface or rinse off soap.
✅ A dedicated trampoline broom – Keep a broom used only for your trampoline so you’re not transferring grit or oil from garage floors or other dirty areas.

It’s worth noting that we don’t recommend power washers. 

While a power washer might seem like a quick fix, the force can stretch or weaken the mat fibers, enlarge small holes, or strip protective coatings from padding and springs. If you absolutely must use one, keep it on the lowest setting, hold it far from the surface, and never spray directly at seams or stitching.

Cleaning Products to Avoid

The same caution applies to cleaning products. Harsh chemicals, bleach, or anything with strong solvents should never touch your trampoline. They can degrade the material, weaken UV protection, and leave behind residues that irritate skin, especially if you’ve got kids jumping barefoot.

Instead, the best bet is plain dish soap or a mild detergent. That’s all you need to break down dirt, sap, and bird droppings without compromising the mat’s integrity. If you prefer, you can also use a cleaner specifically designed for outdoor fabrics or trampolines.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean a Trampoline 

Here’s how we clean (and recommend you clean) a trampoline mat effectively.

1. Clean The Mat

Keep your trampoline clean by sweeping debris, checking for damage, gently hosing it down, scrubbing with mild soap and a soft brush, rinsing until clear, and then towel-drying before letting it air dry completely in the sun. Avoid high-pressure washing and ensure the mat is fully dry before use to prevent slipping. AkrobatUSA trampolines with AkroVENT® mats dry faster.

Helpful Resource -> How To Clean A Trampoline Mat

2. Clean the Springs

Clean trampoline springs by wiping each with a damp cloth and mild soap. Dry them completely to prevent rust. Lubricate squeaky springs with a silicone-based spray. Akrobat covered springs require less frequent and aggressive cleaning due to reduced debris buildup.

🛒Check Out Akrobat’s 8.5-Inch Trampoline Springs Replacement

3. Clean the Frame

After washing the mat and springs, always towel-dry the frame thoroughly to prevent lingering moisture from settling into seams or joints.

If you spot any small rust patches, use fine sandpaper to gently remove surface rust, then apply a rust-proofing spray to protect the metal going forward. It’s a simple step that goes a long way toward maintaining structural integrity over the years.

4. Clean the Safety Net

Gently brush safety nets with a soft brush to remove dust, pollen, and webs, using light, sweeping motions. Avoid harsh scrubbing, especially on UV-resistant nets, to prevent weakening. Well-designed net enclosures naturally limit debris. Regular light cleaning preserves appearance and safety without needing harsh methods.

With a little care and attention to these supporting parts, your trampoline will stay strong and enjoyable for years to come.

🛒Check Out Akrobat’s Trampoline Enclosures

Bonus Tips: Protecting Your Trampoline from Dirt & Damage

Over the years, we’ve learned that simple protections make a big difference in keeping a trampoline in peak condition.

First and foremost, use a trampoline cover whenever the trampoline isn’t in use. A high-quality cover shields the mat and springs from falling leaves, bird droppings, and direct UV exposure. It’s one of the easiest ways to cut down on cleaning frequency and protect against weather-related wear.

If possible, avoid placing your trampoline directly under trees. Tree sap, in particular, can be tough to remove without repeated cleaning. By choosing an open location, you’ll reduce the amount of debris that collects on the mat.

Another thing many people overlook: never leave clear plastic toys or objects on the trampoline. Transparent plastics can magnify sunlight like a lens, creating concentrated heat spots that burn tiny holes into the mat. It’s a costly mistake that’s easily avoided.

The good news is that if you own an AkrobatUSA trampoline, our mats and padding are already built to resist UV rays and harsh weather conditions. But even with premium, durable materials, adding protective measures like a cover or strategic set up further extends the trampoline’s lifespan and keeps it looking and performing like new.

Final Checklist: Dos & Don’ts of Trampoline Cleaning

Here’s a quick-reference checklist to guide you every time you clean:

✅  The Right Way to Go	❌ Think Twice Before Doing This
Use a soft brush	Use steel wool
Clean with mild soap	Use bleach or harsh chemicals
Towel dry the frame	Leave wet in the sun
Inspect after cleaning	Jump on a wet mat

Why Regular Trampoline Cleaning Matters

What most people don’t realize is that a dirty trampoline loses its bounce. When dirt and grime settle into the mat or between the springs, they interfere with the flexibility and tension that give the trampoline its signature feel. Instead of a smooth, controlled jump, you end up with uneven spots that make it harder to land properly. 

Here’s what we tell every customer: routine cleaning is the best protection you have. 

By sticking to a simple, gentle cleaning schedule, you prevent dirt from embedding deeply, stop sap from hardening into stubborn stains, and avoid the gradual stiffening that robs a trampoline of its bounce. A well-maintained trampoline performs better, and feels like new every time you jump.

Final Bounce: Keep It Clean, Fun, and Built to Last

Routine cleaning preserves the bounce, prevents wear, and keeps every jump smooth.

Akrobat trampolines are built with premium materials that stand up to weather, wear, and time. But even the best trampoline performs better with care. By following the right cleaning practices, using gentle tools, and protecting your trampoline with covers and enclosures, you’ll extend its lifespan and preserve that like-new performance for years to come.

If you want to cut down on cleaning time while adding an extra layer of protection, investing in a high-quality cover or safety enclosure is one of the smartest moves you can make. So you spend less time cleaning, and more time enjoying every bounce.