How to Put a Net on a Trampoline

No matter what you do for recreation, you should always put safety first. That includes when you or our children use your trampoline. This equipment brings a lot of joy and laughter to the whole family (see our comparison of the best trampolines for families). That is until an accident happens. But, you can avoid those accidents by placing a safety net around the trampoline and making it even more fun to use. Putting a safety enclosure around your trampoline isn’t hard, but it is often the most time-consuming part of setting up a trampoline. Read below for general instructions on setting up your safety net so your family can enjoy the trampoline to the fullest while reducing injury risk.

Setting Up the Safety Enclosure

The following will be generic instructions because every safety net is not put up in the same manner. We encourage you to use the below procedures as a general guide but remember to always follow the instruction manual that came with your trampoline.

1. Check to make sure you have all the poles, netting, connectors, and hangers that are supposed to be in the box. Gather your tools and supplies and head on over to your trampoline.

2. Now check the area around the trampoline to make sure there is enough space to put the net up (learn how to properly measure a trampoline). Keep the trampoline and net away from fences, low-hanging branches, roof eaves, and similar objects.

3. Next, assemble the poles and attach them to your trampoline. Make sure you are attaching the right pieces together.

4. Before attaching the netting, you should place any foam protection around the poles and put the spring cover in place. The netting may protect you from falling off the trampoline but it won’t protect you from falling through the springs.

5. After you have done those steps, unfold your net and spread it around the surface of the trampoline. You do not want to be walking on the net with your shoes. Tie the bottom of the net to the proper place on the poles and start placing the sleeves over those poles. Do this one at a time.

6. At this point, you should see a bungee cord left in the box. Weave it around the bottom of the net and attach the cord to the trampoline frame. This will keep both adults and kids from rolling underneath the netting.

7. Once that is done, tie the net at the top so it stays firm but flexible. You want a security net and not a hard wall.

8. Double-check your knots, connections, and other key net and pole points to make sure the net and the poles are very secure.

9. When you are done, test the net out to make sure it will not fall down at the wrong moment. And you are done.

What to Look for When Buying a Safety Net

There are little details you should look for when you are out shopping for a safety net. Those details help you find the right one for your trampoline. You can also take a look at our comparison of the safest trampolines to view some of the best currently available. Here are some things to consider when buying a safety net.

Height

Your children’s height is a big factor and you do not need a very tall safety net when they are small. You can always upgrade when they grow some more. That being said, the taller the net is, the better it does at preventing high jumps from causing an accident.

Construction Material

For the net, it should be made from nylon or some other strong synthetic fiber. The poles should be either made of steel or aluminum so they can handle the rough treatment your kids provide. Foam padding should cover the poles to further insulate jumpers from injury.

Weight

The net should not be that light. if it is, it may have trouble holding the bodyweight of both kids and adults. the heavier the netting, the stronger it is. Also, the heavier netting is harder to tear.

Doorway

Make sure the zipper is made from high-quality materials and will last a long time (see our Zupapa 15 Foot Trampoline and Enclosure Review). Metal zippers are not good as they can rust closed or open on you at the wrong time.

UV Resistance

Since home trampolines are positioned out in the open spaces of your yard, it is good to check to see if the netting is covered in a UV-resistant material. If it is, then the netting should last a few seasons and not just one.

Anti-bacterial

While not mandatory, it helps if the netting is also made from or coated with anti-germ, anti-microbial, and anti-bacterial chemicals.

Weave

This is as important as the weight of the net. A weak weave or weave knots means the net can fall apart very easily and quickly. Make sure the weave is strong and able to endure lots of weight.

Price

Cheap does not always mean bad and expensive does not always mean good. Find one that meets the above criteria and fits your budget. Check for any warranties and other coverage as well. Does it include additional features, like a net, ladder, basketball hoop (see our review of the Jins & Vico trampoline), or anything else that may add to the cost?

Some Final Words

Keeping your children safe while they have fun is important. While you cannot protect them 100% of the time, a good safety net around your trampoline is a good start. A safety net helps your children have more fun and enjoy the trampoline a lot more. Plus, you save yourself a lot of worrying when you erect these nets correctly. Follow the instructions that come with the netting to make sure your kids are safe.