Playgrounds are spaces where kids create memories, bond with friends, and enjoy the great outdoors. Over time, though, all that fun can take a toll on the surface beneath the swings and slides.

A rubber playground surface may withstand a lot, but it still needs care to stay safe, clean, and inviting. Luckily, it only takes a few easy steps to clean rubber playground surfaces to get them looking fresh again.

Remove Debris

Before you do anything else, clear away leaves, dirt, and other debris. A broom does the job, but a leaf blower makes this task quicker and easier, especially for larger surfaces. Moving debris away from the playground makes cleaning simpler and prevents scratches and damage to the rubber as you move on to the next step.

Wash With Water

Once you’ve cleared the surface, rinse away the finer dirt. A garden hose works fine here, but if you have access to a pressure washer, this tool will speed things up. Avoid high power settings when pressure washing, as they can damage the material. The water will wash off surface dust and grime, prepping the area for a deeper clean.

Scrub out Stains

Playgrounds experience spills, sticky messes, and scuffs that don’t come out with just water. For tougher stains, a little elbow grease works wonders. A solution of water and vinegar is usually enough to tackle most blemishes, but gentle soaps also work well. Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the problem spots without harming the rubber surface.

Rinse Soap off the Surface

After scrubbing, rinse thoroughly to remove all soap or cleaning solution residue. Leftover soap can make the surface slippery. A quick but thorough rinse with your garden hose should do the trick.

Let It Dry

After following these easy steps to clean rubber playground surfaces, leave the surface to dry completely before letting kids run back to play. A wet rubber surface can be unsafe, so it’s worth the wait for everyone’s safety. The drying time depends on how much water you use and the weather conditions, with a sunny day typically speeding up the process.

Make Repairs When Needed

Over time, even the best-maintained rubber playground surfaces can wear out or become damaged. Cracks and wear can compromise the look and safety of the surface. If cleaning doesn’t bring back its former glory, consider replacing parts of your poured-in-place playground surface.