How to Protect Garden Toys in Winter

With the winter months just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about how to Protect Garden Toys in Winter and keep your play equipment in top condition. Freezing temperatures, wind, and rain can all cause damage to your garden toys and make it essential to take steps to Protect Garden Toys in Winter. While quad bikes, scooters and other ride-on toys can be safely stored in sheds or garages, the same can’t be said for more oversized items such as trampolines, climbing frames, swing sets and sandpits.

To ensure your garden play equipment stays looking and performing its best for years to come, we’ve asked our experts for their top on how you can best Protect Garden Toys in Winter.

How to Protect Garden Toys in Winter

Climbing Frames

Regardless of whether your climbing frame or swing set is metal or wood, there are general maintenance checks that you should undertake before the cold weather hits. Take time to check that all of the main parts and fixings on the set are secure; if you spot any areas impacted by rust or loose screws, ensure that they’re taken care of to reduce the risk of them worsening.

Take time to check that all of the main parts and fixings on the set are secure; if you spot any areas impacted by rust or loose screws, ensure that they’re taken care of to reduce the risk of them worsening. 

Oil any metal components where necessary. 

Using a piece of sandpaper, smooth any wooden areas that are splintered or rough. 

Check any attachments such as swings or climbing handles to ensure that they are fully secure. 

Check all ropes for damage or deterioration. Repeat this as a matter of priority before play resumes in spring/summer. 

If possible, detach any pieces that can be stored over the winter months. Swing seats other smaller attachments can be placed in a shed or garage. 

Cover the play equipment with a piece of tarpaulin and secure it with tent pegs for additional protection over the winter.

Sandpits

Sandpits are great fun during the summer months and ideal for sensory play, but how can you keep yours in top condition when the weather turns?

It’s recommended that you fully change the sand in the sandpit at least once a year. If you are putting your sandpit away for winter, completely remove all sand and give the shell a thorough wash before leaving to dry. 

Check the empty shell for any cracks or sharp edges; smooth these with sandpaper if possible. Cracks can be patched up with strong tape. 

Store your empty sandpit in a garage or shed until your next use. 

Trampolines

Trampolines are still proving to be extremely popular with families looking for garden fun. However, they do need extra care and maintenance to ensure they stay safe and secure. 

If you have the space to do so, fully dismantle the trampoline for storage in a garage or shed. If not, remove the trampoline jump mat and netting, leaving the frame assembled in the garden. 

Invest in a trampoline cover to protect the frame from rust damage. If you’ve ever heard the sound of a creaking trampoline, chances are there is rust damage to the springs. 

Check on the trampoline throughout the winter. Ensure the frame is sturdy and free from rust. You should also check on the jump mat and netting to avoid any damage from damp. 

Check out our other blog post where we outline the best ways to Protect Garden Toys in Winter, such as ride ons!

So, there we have it! Out top tips to help you Protect Garden Toys in Winter. Of course, even with the best care and attention, sometimes play equipment needs replacing. If you’re looking to get ahead and add some outside toys to your space, why not take a look at our full range of garden play equipment?

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Want to learn more? Visit out website: www.outsideplay.co.uk