Trampoline safety: what you need to know
Trampolining is great fun, but safety should always come first. Here's what to consider:
Age matters: The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) advises against trampoline use for children under 6, as they may not be physically developed enough to bounce safely.
Always supervise: Children should be watched by an adult at all times while using a trampoline.
One at a time: Most injuries happen when multiple kids jump together. Stick to solo bouncing to avoid collisions and awkward landings.
Set ground rules: No flips or somersaults. If rules aren’t followed, be firm - safety comes first.
Watch out for common injuries: Sprains, fractures, and bumped heads are common, especially when different-aged or weighted children jump together.
Rebounders and indoor options: Rebounders suit older kids for indoor use. For younger ones, choose an indoor trampoline with a safety bar.
Choosing a safe trampoline
Look for trampolines with:
Padded spring and frame covers
Safety enclosures (netting)
Anchors to secure to the ground
Models that comply with EN71-14:2014 safety standards
Surface and placement:
When considering where your trampoline should go, consider the following:
Place on a soft lawn or use safety mats if setting up on a hard surface.
Ensure a 2.5m safety zone around the trampoline.
All trampolines should comply with European safety standard EN71-14:2014.
How do I choose the best trampoline?
Before jumping into your purchase, it's important to plan where your trampoline will go. Once you’ve got a spot in mind, you can start thinking about shape, size, and style.
Measure your space: Take a moment to measure your garden and choose a flat area that’s free from slopes, low-hanging branches, or other obstacles.
Prioritise durability: Look for trampolines made with long-lasting materials. Spending a little extra for solid frame padding and spring covers is worth it—these features help reduce the risk of injury.
Think long term: Choose a brand that makes it easy to replace individual parts, like nets or padding. Trampolines are a long-term investment, and being able to swap out worn components saves money in the long run.
What is the best size trampoline to buy?
What size trampoline you buy will ultimately depend on how much space you have, but ideally, you'll want to get the biggest trampoline you can to allow your children to grow into it (a 10ft or 12ft trampoline is a good choice in this sense). Although you might not want the entire garden taken over. An 8ft trampoline is ideal according to parents on Mumsnet. It’s also the most popular size to go for.
What is the best shape for a trampoline?
Consider a rectangular or oval trampoline if your garden is on the smaller side, as they fit neatly into a corner. Rectangular trampolines also tend to be bouncier and give you a bit more control in the bounce too.
Round trampolines are the most common, however, and offer a light bounce, while octagonal ones are a bit more interesting and give a good vertical bounce.
If you're concerned about your lawn, and are planning to move the trampoline regularly to avoid dead patches in the grass, then consider the weight of the model when purchasing – some of them are pretty hefty.
Should I buy an in-ground or above-ground trampoline?
When it comes to space, aesthetics (no spoiled view) and safety (less distance to fall), in-ground trampolines are a popular option.
You should be able to set the trampoline into the ground yourself by digging a big hole, but you'll need to know about retaining walls, drainage and such. Might be one for the professionals unless you're very handy.
Above-ground trampolines are easier to assemble, but larger ones could take up most of your garden and potentially irritate the neighbours.
Can trampolines be left out in winter?
Yes! Most trampolines are robust enough to be left outdoors, however, as with any outdoor accessories like patio furniture and tables, it’s best to cover them with a sturdy weatherproof cover – to offer protection against rain, frost, and snow. (The size of the cover will depend on the size of your trampoline. It’s also worth checking whether the trampoline you purchase comes with a cover).
If your trampoline feels particularly light, it’s a good idea to anchor it into the ground using an anchor kit. This will reduce the risk of it flying through the air and into your neighbour’s garden should there be a storm.
A sure-fire way to protect your trampoline from the elements in winter is to dissemble it and store it away in a garage or shed. Although this could be cumbersome, it’ll go a long way towards ensuring your trampoline stays in tip-top condition for longer.
How much should I spend on a trampoline?
Trampolines range in price from approximately £30 to over £1,000 but you can get a decent one of a good size for around the £250 mark.
As with anything, the most expensive product won't necessarily be the best, so consider your budget as well as how much outdoor space you have before you buy.
The bigger you go, the more expensive, generally. It’s definitely worth buying a trusted brand here, like any of the trampolines we’ve featured. Now is not the moment to be scouring the middle of Lidl for a bargain.
Which trampoline brands stand out?
Top-rated premium brands: Springfree, Plum, JumpKing, and TP are highly rated by both parents and experts - though they can be on the pricier side.
Budget-friendly alternatives: Brands like Chad Valley (often available at Argos) offer more affordable options without compromising too much on quality.
What is the best trampoline on the market?
Based on extensive research and after considering countless reviews from real parents who have personally used the product, we believe that the best overall trampoline for kids is the Plum 12ft Space Zone II Trampoline. Despite its competitive price point, this model is made from good-quality materials and gets a thumbs up for its numerous safety features.
It's also a decent size, not too big or small and is suited to most children above age 6.
About the authors
Laura Cooke is a freelance writer at Mumsnet, with a special focus on child’s play, outdoor play and toddler play content.
Laura started writing Swears By articles for Mumsnet in 2021, writing buyers' guides and product reviews to help Mumsnetters make informed choices when it comes to parting with their pennies.
Laura is also a freelance journalist and has written articles for publications including the Daily Mirror, the i, Metro, Stylist and Happiful magazine.
Tammy Jacks is a writer and researcher specialising in children’s development, wellbeing and safety. She is known for her extensive work on car seat safety, including in-depth guides for Mumsnet on rear-facing car seats as well as car seat regulations in the UK. Drawing on both professional expertise and personal experience as a mother, she also reviews baby products, offering practical insights into safety, comfort and everyday usability for families.
With an Honours Degree in Journalism and Historical Studies, Tammy brings over 20 years of experience in the publishing industry. She has held senior roles including Managing Editor and Health & Beauty Editor at Woman & Home in South Africa, and Assistant Editor at Living and Loving, a parenting title focused on children’s health and development. She has contributed to a wide range of lifestyle publications and edited books for fitness influencers and health professionals.