What To Put Under An Inflatable Water Slide?

Choosing the Right Surface for Your Inflatable Water Slide

When setting up an inflatable water slide, one of the most critical decisions you'll need to make is what to put underneath it. The surface you choose can have a significant impact on the safety and enjoyment of the experience. In this article, we'll explore the different options available and discuss the pros and cons of each.

Grass

Grass is a popular choice for many people when setting up an inflatable water slide. It provides a natural, soft surface that is comfortable to walk on barefoot. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind when using grass as the base for your water slide.

One potential drawback of using grass is that it can become slippery when wet, increasing the risk of slips and falls. To mitigate this risk, you can consider placing a non-slip mat or tarp under the slide to provide better traction. Additionally, grass can become muddy and messy after prolonged use, which may require extra cleaning and maintenance.

On the other hand, grass is a relatively forgiving surface, making it a safe option for kids to play on. It also provides some cushioning in case of falls, reducing the risk of injury. Overall, grass can be a suitable choice for an inflatable water slide as long as you take precautions to address potential safety concerns.

Concrete or Asphalt

Concrete or asphalt surfaces are another option for setting up an inflatable water slide. These surfaces are durable and easy to clean, making them a convenient choice for many homeowners. However, there are some significant drawbacks to using concrete or asphalt as the base for your water slide.

One of the main concerns with concrete or asphalt is that they can be hard and unforgiving surfaces, increasing the risk of injuries from falls. Without any cushioning, a fall on concrete or asphalt can result in bruises, scrapes, or even broken bones. To address this issue, you can consider placing a thick foam mat or padding under the slide to provide some protection.

Additionally, concrete and asphalt surfaces can become extremely hot in the sun, posing a burn risk to bare skin. To prevent burns, you can try to set up the water slide in a shaded area or use a tarp to cover the surface. Overall, while concrete or asphalt surfaces may be convenient, they come with significant safety considerations that must be addressed.

Sand

Sand is another popular choice for setting up an inflatable water slide. It provides a soft, cushioned surface that is comfortable to walk on and provides some traction when wet. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind when using sand as the base for your water slide.

One potential drawback of using sand is that it can be difficult to clean and may get tracked into your home or pool. To prevent this, you can consider placing a tarp or mat at the entrance and exit of the water slide to help contain the sand. Additionally, sand can become compacted and hard over time, reducing its cushioning properties. You may need to regularly rake or replace the sand to maintain its softness.

On the other hand, sand provides a natural and aesthetically pleasing surface for your water slide. It also offers excellent traction when wet, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Overall, sand can be a suitable choice for an inflatable water slide, provided you are willing to put in the extra effort to maintain it properly.

Foam Mats or Pads

Foam mats or pads are a popular option for setting up an inflatable water slide. They provide a soft, cushioned surface that is comfortable to walk on and offers excellent traction when wet. Additionally, foam mats or pads can help protect against injuries from falls by providing some impact absorption.

One potential drawback of using foam mats or pads is that they can be expensive compared to other options. However, the additional safety and comfort they provide may be worth the investment for many homeowners. Additionally, foam mats or pads are easy to clean and maintain, making them a convenient choice for setting up a water slide.

Overall, foam mats or pads are a practical and safe option for setting up an inflatable water slide. They provide a comfortable and forgiving surface that can help enhance the overall enjoyment of the experience. If safety and comfort are top priorities for you, foam mats or pads may be the ideal choice for your water slide setup.

Rubber Playground Tiles

Rubber playground tiles are another excellent option for setting up an inflatable water slide. They provide a soft, cushioned surface that is comfortable to walk on and offers excellent traction when wet. Additionally, rubber playground tiles are durable and easy to clean, making them a practical choice for many homeowners.

One potential drawback of using rubber playground tiles is that they can be expensive compared to other options. However, the long-term durability and safety benefits they provide may outweigh the cost for many people. Additionally, rubber playground tiles come in a variety of colors and designs, allowing you to customize the look of your water slide setup.

Overall, rubber playground tiles are a versatile and safe option for setting up an inflatable water slide. They provide a comfortable and forgiving surface that can help minimize the risk of injuries from falls. If you are looking for a durable and aesthetically pleasing option for your water slide, rubber playground tiles may be the perfect choice.

In conclusion, there are several different options available for what to put under an inflatable water slide. Each surface has its own set of pros and cons, so it's essential to consider your specific needs and priorities when choosing the right base for your water slide. Whether you opt for grass, concrete or asphalt, sand, foam mats or pads, or rubber playground tiles, the most important thing is to prioritize safety and comfort for everyone using the water slide. By selecting the right surface and taking necessary precautions, you can create a fun and enjoyable water slide experience for yourself, your family, and your guests. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions for setting up and using your inflatable water slide to ensure a safe and memorable experience.