How to Clean a Bounce House: A Professional's Guide

Bounce houses are a popular choice for parties, festivals, and various events, offering endless fun for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a school event, or any outdoor gathering, the best bounce houses add excitement to the occasion. However, with all the fun and play, it’s crucial to maintain the cleanliness and safety of the inflatable to ensure everyone has a good time and remains safe. Knowing how to clean a bounce house properly will not only extend its lifespan but also help prevent the spread of germs and dirt.

If you’re in the business of renting bounce houses, cleaning them effectively after each use is essential for maintaining a professional and hygienic operation. Professionals in the bounce house rental industry follow a set of thorough steps to ensure the inflatables are spotless and safe. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the cleaning process, step by step, highlighting the techniques that keep these inflatable structures looking new and ready for use.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Cleaning Supplies

Before you begin cleaning your bounce house, it’s essential to gather the right tools and cleaning products. Using the wrong chemicals or improper equipment could damage the material or leave harmful residues behind. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Mild detergent or soap: A gentle cleaner, like a mild dish soap or all-purpose cleaner, works best for bounce houses. Harsh chemicals can damage the vinyl or cause fading.
• Soft cloth or sponge: Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads that can scratch the surface. A soft cloth or sponge is ideal for wiping down the bounce house.
• Hose or pressure washer: A hose is sufficient for most bounce house cleaning jobs, but a pressure washer can help with more stubborn dirt or stains. Just be cautious not to use too high of a pressure setting.
• Disinfectant: After cleaning, it’s important to disinfect the bounce house to kill germs and bacteria.
• Towel or squeegee: These tools are used to dry off the inflatable after cleaning.

Once you have your supplies ready, you’re ready to start the cleaning process.

Step 2: Deflate the Bounce House

The first step in cleaning a bounce house is to deflate it completely. This allows you to move around freely and gives you better access to all areas. Ensure that the bounce house is fully deflated before starting the cleaning process. This will prevent any damage to the structure and make the cleaning process easier. Once deflated, remove any debris, such as leaves or dirt, that may have accumulated during use.

Step 3: Clean the Exterior

Start by cleaning the exterior of the bounce house. Depending on the model, the exterior surface might have dirt, marks, or other stains that need attention. Here’s how you can clean the outside:

1. Use a hose to rinse off any dirt, mud, or dust from the surface of the bounce house.
2. Apply a mild detergent mixed with water to a cloth or sponge. Gently scrub the outside surface of the bounce house. Focus on areas that have visible stains or grime.
3. Rinse the detergent off with clean water. Be sure to remove all soap residue, as it can attract more dirt once the bounce house is used again.

Step 4: Clean the Interior

After cleaning the exterior, it’s time to turn your attention to the interior of the bounce house. The interior is where most of the dirt and germs tend to accumulate, so it’s essential to clean it thoroughly.

1. Vacuum the inside: If you have access to a vacuum with a hose attachment, use it to remove any loose dirt, sand, or small debris from the interior.
2. Wipe down the surfaces: Once you’ve removed the debris, use a cloth or sponge with mild soap and water to wipe down the interior walls, floors, and any other surfaces.
3. Clean the mesh: The mesh windows of a bounce house can also accumulate dirt and dust. Use a cloth to wipe down the mesh sections, being careful not to damage the material.

Step 5: Address Stains and Spots

Bounce houses are exposed to a lot of action, and stains are almost inevitable. If you notice stubborn spots or stains that don’t come off with regular cleaning, here’s how to handle them:

• Tackle stains with a mixture of vinegar and water: For more persistent stains, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the stained area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub it gently with a soft sponge.
• Use a commercial cleaner: If the stain persists, a commercial cleaner designed for vinyl surfaces may be necessary. Be sure to follow the product’s instructions and test it in a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the material.

Step 6: Disinfect the Bounce House

Cleaning isn’t complete without disinfecting. It’s important to disinfect both the exterior and interior of the bounce house, especially if it’s used by multiple children or groups. This step helps kill germs and bacteria, ensuring that the inflatable is safe for the next round of fun.

• Use a disinfectant spray: After cleaning, lightly mist the surfaces of the bounce house with a disinfectant solution. Be sure to choose a disinfectant that is safe for vinyl and other materials used in the bounce house.
• Allow it to air dry: After applying the disinfectant, let the bounce house air dry completely before folding or storing it. This ensures that any remaining moisture doesn’t lead to mold or mildew growth.

Step 7: Dry and Store the Bounce House

Once you’ve cleaned and disinfected the bounce house, it’s essential to dry it properly before storage. Moisture can cause mold or mildew, so be sure to follow these steps:

1. Use a towel or squeegee: Wipe off any excess water from the surface of the bounce house. Pay special attention to the seams and corners where water might accumulate.
2. Air dry: Allow the bounce house to dry completely before storing it. If possible, leave it in a well-ventilated area or use fans to speed up the drying process.
3. Store in a dry, cool place: Once dry, fold the bounce house carefully and store it in a cool, dry location. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight, as this can cause the colors to fade or the material to weaken over time.

Step 8: Regular Maintenance

Keeping your bounce house clean is crucial, but regular maintenance is just as important. Check the bounce house for any signs of wear and tear, such as punctures, holes, or torn seams. If you spot any damage, repair it immediately to avoid further issues.

Regular maintenance ensures that the bounce house remains in great condition and ready for use. You may also want to inspect the blower to ensure it’s functioning properly and keep the zippers and mesh sections in good shape.

Conclusion

Properly cleaning and maintaining a bounce house is vital for ensuring it stays safe and functional for all your events. By following these professional cleaning steps, you can ensure that your bounce house looks and operates like new every time. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to keep your bounce house clean and ready for action, remember that professional cleaning services are always an option.

For those who own or operate bounce house rental businesses, maintaining the cleanliness of your inflatables is crucial for providing a high-quality experience. Regular cleaning and maintenance are key to keeping your inflatables safe and enjoyable for all.