How to Winterize a Trampoline: Cover It, Anchor It, or Take It Down?

The first snowfall looks lovely until you see wet snow piling up on the trampoline. Should you cover it, leave it outside, or take it apart before temperatures drop further?

Cold weather in Ohio and Kentucky brings freezing temperatures, strong winds, and wet snow that melts and refreezes. Those conditions can strain the trampoline mat and frame, depending on the model.

Learning how to winterize a trampoline starts with choosing the right option for your equipment. Here's how to decide, remove snow safely, and prepare for spring.

What to Do With a Trampoline in Winter: Cover, Anchor, or Take It Down?

High-quality trampolines can withstand winter without disassembly when they are designed for year-round use and maintained as directed. Not all models qualify, so check the manufacturer's instructions before deciding what to do with your trampoline in winter. Take it down if storage is required, you plan to move it, or strong winds make leaving it up unsafe.

For models staying outdoors, secure the frame before the ground freezes. Our trampoline ground anchor kit is designed for Springfree models, but even compatible anchors are not a substitute for storm precautions.

Option 1: Leave Your Trampoline Up and Anchor It

Leaving the trampoline assembled avoids a full springtime setup, but winter care still matters. Inspect the frame, jumping mat, safety net, and each trampoline pad for tears or loose connections. On spring-based models, check metal springs and fasteners for rust.

Remove leaves and dirt, then dry damp metal parts to help prevent rust. Moisture can collect around joints during repeated freezing and thawing.

If the manufacturer recommends anchoring, follow its instructions before the ground freezes. Inspect the setup regularly, especially after strong gusts, and follow local warnings when high winds are forecast.

For anchor selection and installation details, see our trampoline anchor kit guide.

Option 2: How to Cover a Trampoline for Winter

A weather-resistant trampoline cover can keep leaves and debris off the mat, but its protection depends on the model and material.

Do I need to cover my trampoline? Not always. Check the manufacturer's winter-care instructions first.

Is a trampoline cover worth it? It can be useful for keeping dirt and leaves off a compatible mat, but it will not protect against heavy snow buildup.

If you want to cover a trampoline for winter, follow the cover instructions and check:

• Compatibility: Does it fit your trampoline's shape, size, and enclosure arrangement?
• Moisture: Can you keep water from collecting beneath the cover?
• Snow: Can you remove buildup without pulling or damaging the mat?
• Access: Can you still inspect the equipment after storms?

North, for example, says its tarpaulin protects against dirt but not frost. We don't sell trampoline weather covers, so check the cover manufacturer's instructions rather than assuming a generic cover will work.

Option 3: How to Take Down a Trampoline for Winter

Take the trampoline down if its manufacturer recommends indoor storage, your yard faces damaging winds, or you plan to move it. If you fully disassemble it, follow your model's instructions instead of improvising.

Here's how to store a trampoline for winter:

• Pick a dry day. Avoid working on icy or slippery equipment.
• Clean the mat, net, and padding. Use mild soap and water only if your manual allows it, then let everything dry completely.
• Remove accessories and the enclosure. Follow the manufacturer's removal sequence for the net and poles.
• Release tensioned parts correctly. Remove springs or flexible rods only using your model's instructions.
• Label hardware. Keep clips and bolts together, and photograph the assembly for reference.
• Store parts somewhere dry. A protected garage or shed can help prevent moisture damage and keep pests away.

Avoid forcing stuck joints or improvising with tools. Spring-based and springless trampolines have different disassembly procedures.

Winter Prep: Should You Remove the Safety Net and Pads?

That depends on the manufacturer. Some traditional models require the safety net, pads, and jumping mat to be removed for the cold months, while other trampolines are built for year-round exposure.

Check removable parts for wear before packing them away. Store them completely dry, and keep the hardware organized for spring.

If any parts need replacing, our guide to the best trampoline accessories explains useful additions and replacement considerations.

How to Remove Snow Buildup From a Trampoline Mat

Wet snow adds weight to the jumping surface, and melting snow can refreeze overnight. For models approved to stay outdoors, brush off snow after storms throughout the snowy season.

• Use a soft-bristle broom or brush to sweep snow from the mat.
• Pull snow gently toward the edge or enclosure opening, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Never use a shovel, stiff brush, or sharp scraper on the mat.
• Clear snow from a compatible cover as needed.
• Inspect the frame and enclosure after heavy snowfall or wind.

Don't climb onto an icy trampoline to clear it. If snow has frozen to the surface, follow the manufacturer's advice instead of chipping away at the ice.

Can Springfree and North Trampolines Stay Outside in Winter?

These brands recommend different winter approaches, so check your exact model before deciding.

Can You Leave a Springfree Trampoline Out All Winter?

Yes, Springfree trampolines can stay outside all winter. Their weather-resistant components are designed for year-round use, but even a premium trampoline needs snow removal and regular checks. Use a soft-bristle broom or brush rather than a shovel, as recommended in Springfree's care and maintenance guidance.

North Trampolines: Winter Storage

North recommends removing the safety net, padding, metal springs, and jumping mat for dry indoor winter storage. The company also recommends storing the frame indoors when practical for added protection.

According to North's trampoline care instructions, its tarpaulin doesn't protect against frost. Don't assume a cover replaces the recommended winter takedown.

In-ground trampolines sit lower to the lawn, so wind exposure may be less of a concern than with elevated frames. Snow management and the manufacturer's specific guidance still apply.

Trampoline Care: What to Inspect Before Spring

After the last freeze, inspect the frame and metal parts for rust, loose joints, or other damage. Check the mat, net, and pads for wear before anyone jumps again.

If you stored the trampoline, reassemble it according to the manual. Our spring trampoline safety check covers what to inspect before the new season.

It's also useful to understand what trampoline warranties cover, since weather-related damage may be excluded from some policies.

Protect Your Trampoline Through Winter

Winter prep doesn't always mean disassembly. Choose anchoring, a cover, or storage based on your model's instructions and the conditions in your yard.

Keep an eye on snow buildup and wind damage, even if the trampoline stays assembled. Browse our trampoline accessories for compatible products, or contact our Milford or Powell team for help planning ahead.