How to clean rubber playground – comprehensive guide for beginners

16 February, 2024

Creating a safe and hygienic environment for children on rubber playgrounds is a task that requires care and proper maintenance. In our comprehensive guide, we will share practical tips and step-by-step instructions designed for beginners. We’ll show you why rubber is the best choice for playgrounds, how to keep the playground clean, and how to ensure the durability and safety of the rubber coating. With the help of our guide, creating the perfect playground for children will be easy.

How Much Does A Poured Playground Surface Cost

Why rubber is a popular choice for playground surfaces

Rubber playground surfacing is recognized not only for aesthetics but for several benefits that make it popular with parents and play area designers.

  • Safety and cushioning: Rubber has a shock absorption property that reduces impact and the risk of injury during play. For active children, this is especially important to ensure safety and protection.
  • Strength and durability: The rubber is resistant to weather, UV radiation, and other negative factors, making the playgrounds durable and hard-wearing.
  • Water-repellent properties: Rubber does not absorb water, which makes it an ideal choice for places where contact with moisture is possible – this is the key to preventing the appearance of fungi and bacterial metastasis.
  • Easy to maintain and clean: The surface of the rubber is easy to clean, providing simple maintenance of the playground. It is especially important as children’s play areas require regular attention to hygiene.
  • Variety of designs: Rubber surfacing is available in a variety of colors and textures, allowing for interesting and creative playground designs to meet aesthetic preferences and functional needs.
  • Choosing rubber for playground surfacing is not only a bet on the children’s safety, but also an investment in creating a comfortable and exciting space for them to have fun.
How to maintain playground flooring

Playground rubber flooring cleaning tips

  1. Choosing the right products.
    Use neutral detergents without harsh chemical ingredients. The optimal choice will help to maintain not only the cleanliness but also the safety of the rubber coating.
  2. Soft brushes and sponges.
    Use soft brushes or sponges to clean the surface. It prevents scratches and damage to the rubber, allowing for effective cleaning without compromising its integrity.
  3. Avoid solvents. Avoid using solvents as they can damage the structure of the rubber and affect its cushioning properties. Avoid harsh chemicals to ensure a long service life for the playground.
  4. Safety comes first. Make sure the area is free of children before you start cleaning. Use gloves and protective clothing to avoid getting cleaning products on their skin, ensuring safety for those caring for the playground.
  5. Rinse thoroughly. Ensure the playground is thoroughly rinsed with water to remove any residual cleaner. Not only will this ensure a power washing, but it will also avoid possible allergic reactions from chemical residue.

By following these tips, you will not only be able to clean your rubber playground effectively, but you will also ensure the long life and safety of this crucial space for little, happy players.

brushes and sponges

Step-by-step cleaning guide

Ensuring safety and hygiene on rubber playgrounds is a task that requires care and proper maintenance. In our detailed guide “How to clean a rubber playground,” we will share practical tips, including playground rubber flooring cleaning tips, and sequential steps specifically designed for beginners. We’ll show you why rubber is the best choice for playgrounds, how to properly clean its surface, and how to ensure the durability and safety of the rubber surface. With our instructions, creating the perfect playground for children will be a breeze.

Step 1: Removing loose debris and dirt

The first step in caring for your rubber playground is to remove debris and dirt. Use a soft brush or shovel to effectively collect leaves, branches, and other small particles on the surface. This step helps to prepare the area for deeper cleaning and prevents scratches during subsequent processes.

Step 2: Deep cleaning techniques

For effective deep cleaning of a rubber surface, use neutral detergents. Dilute them in water and apply them to the playground. Use a soft brush or sponge to wipe thoroughly. This step will help remove dirt and dust that may accumulate over time.

Step 3: Addressing stains and spills

For stains or spills, use a soft sponge or cloth dampened with a detergent solution. Keep it on the stain for a few minutes and then wipe it off thoroughly. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the rubber.

Step 4: Rinsing and drying the playground

After the surface has been cleaned, rinse the play area thoroughly with water to remove any residual cleaning agent, incorporating how to maintain playground flooring.  Once the surface is rinsed, allow it to dry completely. If possible, use solar energy for natural drying.

Step 5: Inspecting and repairing damages

The last step is to check the rubber coating for damage, considering equipment and germs.  Check each element of the playground regularly, looking for cracks, deformation, or separation. Repair any damage to ensure the safety and longevity of the playground.

By following these playground flooring cleaning tips, your rubber playground will not only be safe to play on but will also look brand new after each cleaning.

how to keep the playground clean

How to maintain playground flooring

Playground floor care is a vital element in ensuring the safety and long-term operation of this space for children. Proper care not only preserves the aesthetic appearance but also maintains the functionality of the rubber coating. First and foremost, regular cleaning is the foundation. Frequent removal of dust leaves and other contaminants in the trash receptacles can not harm or affect the safety of children’s play. 

Special detergents that do not damage the rubber surface are also recommended. It helps to preserve its structure and cushioning properties. Also, when caring for the playground, avoid exposure to aggressive substances that can lead to wear or loss of color fastness of the rubber coating. And remember to check the condition of the playground regularly: inspect it for damage or separation of parts. If something is found, repair it in time to prevent deterioration of the surface and ensure the safety of the children.

This approach to the care of the rubber playground not only keeps it in good condition but also guarantees the durability and safety of the playground for the active and joyful play of children.

cleanliness

When should you seek professional help?

Usually, “How to clean rubber playground” can be carried out at the user level. However, there are situations when seeking professional help becomes an important step to maintain the integrity and safety of the play space.

  • Serious damage: If the rubber surface shows serious physical damage, such as large cracks, deep scratches, or loss of material integrity, it is recommended that you contact a professional to assess and correct the issues.
  • Significant wear: If the rubber coating is heavily worn and has lost its cushioning properties, a professional evaluation may be important. Professionals will be able to determine if reconditioning or complete rubber replacement is necessary.
  • Drainage problems: If the site is constantly exposed to water and there are drainage issues, it can cause fungi and bacteria to grow. Professional help will ensure that drainage problems are competently analyzed and resolved.
  • Ineffective cleaning: If self-cleaning attempts do not lead to the desired result, or if persistent stains and dirt appear, rubber care professionals can suggest more effective cleaning methods and products.

In general, if you notice any serious problems with the rubber surface, it is a wise decision to contact professionals to ensure the safety and long-term operation of the playground. Specialists will provide competent expertise and timely resolution of current issues.