What Should You Do With Your Trampoline During the Winter?

Backyard trampolines can entertain even the most high-energy children for hours. The fast-paced jumping and acrobatics involved are fun for adults, too, and also offer a good aerobic workout.

The question of if you should leave your trampoline standing during the winter depends largely on personal preference and available storage space. If you leave your trampoline up, you'll need to prepare the structure for the cold and wet of the season.

The cold season can wreak havoc on your trampoline, especially if you live in a climate with snowy conditions. Don't let winter ruin your trampoline. Use these tips to properly store your trampoline for optimal winter care and long-lasting use.

Winterization keeps your trampoline clean and safe if you opt to leave it up over the winter. Remove frame pads and store them indoors to keep them from getting soaked from rain or snow, according to TrampolineReviewGuide.com.

The jumping surface acts as a sieve (aka a sifter) and will allow water through the bottom. However, heavy snows can build up on the mat, over-stretching the springs. Clear snow off the trampoline with a shovel or broom after each storm.

Trampolines can be a safety hazard in windy areas if they are not anchored down. Specialized anchor kits that include stakes that attach to the frame can help secure the trampoline to the ground, according to TrampolineReviewGuide.com.

Another option is to dig trenches in the ground before the initial placement of the trampoline, according to TrampolineReviewGuide.com. Place the legs of the structure into the trenches and surround the holes with packed dirt or mulch until the frame is firmly secured in the ground, making sure the trampoline is level.

A trampoline cover can lock in moisture that can cause sagging and mildew, according to TrampolineReviewGuide.com.

With that being said, trampoline covers can be a good idea if you're expecting low to moderate snow and want to leave your trampoline up all winter. Just make sure to check your cover once or twice a week. If it looks too wet, take it off your trampoline and dry it thoroughly.

Many trampolines are designed with durable, rust-proof materials, which means they don't have to be taken down during the winter. However, if you have the storage space and/or are expecting tons of snow, you can disassemble your trampoline and place it in a dry place.

Every trampoline is different and disassembly instructions may vary, so it's important to read your trampoline's instruction manual to learn how to take it down. However, TrampolineReviewGuide.com offers a few helpful tips, below.

1. Wipe your trampoline clean with a damp towel or washcloth.
2. Remove your trampoline's pad(s).
3. Remove the safety netting around your trampoline.
4. Remove the springs from your trampoline.

You can leave the poles that hold the netting into place, and the metal frame to which the springs and mat attach, standing in the yard if you'd like. But you can also remove them from your yard and store them with the rest of the pieces listed above.

Practice trampoline safety at all times. Check your trampoline for tears, detachments and deterioration before jumping, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Dry wet surfaces and allow them to dry completely before allowing friends and family members to jump.

Limit jumping to one person on the mat at a time to reduce the risk of injury. Have an adult supervise children during use. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons doesn't recommend trampolining for children younger than 6 years old.