How to Stop a Trampoline from Squeaking (10 Helpful Techniques)

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Sick of the trampoline noises? Discover exactly how to stop a trampoline from squeaking so you can bounce safely, live harmoniously with neighbors, and lengthen the trampoline’s life.

Trampolining should be all about fun: bouncing, jumping, laughing, and of course, burning calories.

But all this fun can fade away when the trampoline starts squeaking.

Sure, the kids may withstand the high-pitched sound, but soon, it might drive you and your neighbor nuts.

Trampoline noises can signal severe mechanical problems with the unit and if left unattended, can shorten the trampoline’s life.

But that’s not all. Worn out parts, such as springs, responsible for squeaking, can break down and cause hazardous falls.

Luckily, you can stop the trampoline noises so everyone can have peace of mind in addition to extending the trampoline’s lifespan.

In this guide, we’ll look at how to stop a trampoline from squeaking.

Let’s jump in.

1. Remove Rust from the Squeaky Springs

A common cause for a squeaking sound in trampolines is rusty springs that rub against the frame.

The good news is you can nip this in the bud without breaking the bank.

Here’s what to do to stop rusty springs from ruining the trampoline fun:

  • Take a good, close look at the springs for any rust popping out on the springs and frame, reddish-brown in appearance. 
  • Spray a rust remover on that surface.
  • Let the rust remover work for the recommended time (depending on the product, it can be anywhere from 15 minutes to a couple hours) and then scrub away the rust using a small, stiff brush.
  • Rinse the area with water and let it dry off. Drying is especially crucial to ensure rust doesn’t invade the springs again.

Removing rust is essential not only in curbing the noise; it also adds to the trampoline’s longevity.

2. Clean the Frame

If the frame catches rust, it may start rattling when bouncing on the unit, producing noise. The process of removing rust from the frame is similar to that of springs.

After removing the rust, wash the frame with some water and let it dry. The best way to dry the frame is to use clean rugs or leave it on the sun for some time.

3. Oil the (Non-Rusty) Squeaky Springs

Just like rusty trampoline springs, non-rusty springs can generate irritating noise too.

How’s that even possible? You ask.

Well, noise can also result from metal grinding on other metals, and in this case, springs grinding on frames.

So, after inspecting the squeaky springs and realizing there’s no rust, it’s time to oil or spray WD40 on the springs.

For effective results, oiling or spraying some WD40 on the springs should be a regular practice rather than a one-off remedy. Not only will this prevent squeaking and grinding, but it’ll also keep rust at bay.

If WD40 doesn’t stop the squeaking, we recommend you apply Vaseline or some grease.

Hopefully, the springs are quiet by now.

But if you still hear the noise, then it’s time to try the following effective technique:

4. Grease the Metal Joints

Greasing the trampoline metal joints will quiet almost any noise.

Just like with the other methods, you don’t need costly tools to stop the trampoline noise. Instead, you only need grease or Vaseline.

Roll up your sleeves, take your finger’s tip and get approximately a pea-size out of the pot. 

Next, use a screwdriver to slightly unscrew some screws and stuff the grease or oil on those parts. The other place you want to apply is the upper section of the eyelet, where the spring connects to the frame.

Now the next step is more critical:

Start jumping on the trampoline or have a kid do it. At this point, you’re probably thinking, like for real dude? But, seriously, don’t skip this part.

Here’s why this step is crucial:

Jumping on a trampoline allows the joints and springs to expand, allowing the grease to penetrate to every part and do the magic.

Pro tip: Whenever you’re working on metal parts, always wear heavy-duty gloves. Otherwise, the metal edges might bruise you.

5. Clean the Jumping Mat

You may be wondering, can a jumping mat add to the trampoline noise?

Well, the truth is it does, mainly when the mat is wet or dirty.

So, before you or the kids start rebounding on the trampoline, take a few minutes to clear away any dirt.

Use a dry brush to scrub away stones, pebbles, leaves, small twigs, and other dirt. If you scrub it like crazy, it’s going to damage the mat fibers. So, be gentle when scrubbing.

Loose elements, such as sand and dust, may stick to the mat as soon as you apply water. Removing them will be difficult after that.

So, start by scrubbing with a brush, and if you still find some mud, bird poop and other debris stuck on the mat, apply water using a hosepipe.

Remember to remove the spring pad and enclosure net before you apply water.

Only apply water when there’s still dirt after scrubbing. Otherwise, you don’t need to apply any water to the mat.

Lastly, wipe the mat with a dry cloth and put it in the sun to dry.

Beware of using chemicals or a hard brush to clean the mat as they may damage it.

6. Tackle the Screws

The other culprit when it comes to trampoline noise is the screws.

Screws can be a cause of annoying noise for two reasons. First, the screws could be loose, causing the entire trampoline to rattle when bouncing on it. This is risky as it can bring the entire unit down. If this is the case, tighten the screws, and the noise should stop.

The second reason is the screws might be rusty. This requires unscrewing, followed by cleaning them up.

Next, hit the screws with some WD-40, or if they don’t look good, get new ones. Not only will doing this add more years to your trampoline, but it’ll guarantee quiet and enjoyable jumps.

7. Replace the Damaged Springs

We’ve already talked about dealing with rusty trampoline springs. But other than rusty springs, we also have damaged springs.

Such springs are not only a source of noise, but they can also break and cause falls and injuries.

That’s why you should get new ones without delay. Before replacing them, count the number of damaged springs and measure their length. 

Now, visit your local hardware or check with an online retailer. 

Easy, right?

8. Use Bolts Instead of Screws

Want a sturdy connection that won’t budge or cause the trampoline to squeak? Replace the screws with bolts.

Bolts have the best holding strength than screws. Due to their threads, bolts do provide an exceptional level of holding power.

Installing bolts requires a washer and nut. The nut secures a bolt in position while the washer aids in spreading the load over a more extensive surface area, thus reducing the tear and wear. On top of that, the washer reduces the loosening of a bolt over time.

Simply put, bolts will fasten your trampoline tightly, reducing the possibility of any loosening that may squeak when bouncing on the unit.

Other than their powerful holding strength, bolts are also easier to remove than screws.

You’ll need a handheld or pneumatic wrench to install bolts. The latter provides more torque, making installation super easy.

9. Store the Unit Properly

In addition to standard maintenance, the way you store the trampoline may cause squeaks. 

How do you know poor storage is the cause of trampoline noise? Well, if you hear squeaks on one side of the unit, chances are there’s incorrect storage that exerts pressure on particular springs. If that’s the case, replace the affected springs and store the rebounder properly going forward.

What’s the best position to store a trampoline?

Store it uprightly as this reduces the pressure on its joints. Upright storage and applying some grease on the joints will make the trampoline noise-free.

10. Disassembling It

What if, after trying all these tips, the trampoline won’t stop making noise? The problem could be much complex that it requires disassembling the whole unit.

After taking it apart, focus on the frame joints, including the square-tubed exterior joiners for wear patterns and burrs.

If you come across any high contact points, you may want to file them off. Additionally, grease all joints.

The other part you want to look at is the spring hole slots. If there’s excessive wear around the spring hole, the hook may lack clearance within the slot (you’ll realize the hook presses tightly on the hole’s either side).

And if there’s a lot of wear, some slots may have raised burrs that need filing down.

Final Thoughts 

We hope this guide on how to stop a trampoline from squeaking helps restore calm in your backyard.

If you’re yet to purchase a trampoline or want to acquire a silent model in addition to the squeaky one you have, we recommend you check out these two trampolines:

1. JumpStart Home Fitness Rebounder – This virtually silent trampoline is also stable and safe with a broad jumping surface. You can jump on it anytime, even when everyone at home is asleep.

2. Skywalker 15ft Square Trampoline – The unit has a galvanized steel frame along with tightly-coiled steel springs with a rust-resistant coat, making them squeak-resistant. 

We wish you fun-filled and silent bouncing!

Shmulik Dorinbaum

Shmulik Dorinbaum

I like to jump, as high as I can, so what else I can do in these days? in these quarantine days? to jump on my large-sized trampoline! (an extreme jumper)