The Indoor Playground Equipment Diaries

Indoor playgrounds are extremely popular destinations for families with children, but if not properly cleaned they can become a danger to public health and safety. A proper cleaning schedule is extremely vital for keeping your playground safe for kids.
First, let us look at the differences between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting.
Cleaning: using water and soap to remove chemical, physical, and microbial compounds from surfaces.
Sanitizing: using substances or other verified methods to decrease the amount of germs on clean surfaces to a safe level.
Disinfecting: utilizing compounds to remove each the germs recorded on the product label, which may consist of bacteria, parasites, or viruses.
Germs may still be present even if playground surfaces appear clean. Properly cleaning then sanitizing or childhood perceptions disinfecting will decrease harmful germs and children's risk for disease and illness.
Regular cleansing and sanitizing
Indoor playground surfaces should be cleaned and sanitized every day, and spot cleaned throughout the day, even if they don't look cluttered. Clean and sanitize surfaces immediately if dirt is present. Clean surfaces thoroughly with warm water before sanitizing. Indoor Playgrounds International recommends assigning a staff member to constantly spot clean during the structure during business hours. Does this guarantee a clean playground, but it helps parents.

indoor jungle gymBody fluids (blood, urine, vomit, fecal matter) are highly contagious and should be cleaned up immediately. The affected area ought to be closed so employees can clean and disinfect. Clean surfaces thoroughly with soap and water before disinfecting.

Below is a list of do's and don'ts regarding cleaning supplies.

Soap & Water: mild antibacterial dishwashing soap and warm water are recommended for cleaning. Use approximately 2 tablespoons to one gallon water. Never use degreaser on any plastics, domes, or windows.
Soft cloths: clean, absorbent soft cotton fabrics are best to use for cleaning.
Soft bristle brush: use clean, soft bristle brushes for cleaning ropes and web crawls, and eliminating debris and dust from plastics. Wash and rinse the surface immediately after having to remove any residue.
Cann'ts
Paper towels: never use paper towels onto domes or dividers.
Harsh compounds: never use harsh chemicals like bleach, chlorine, or other compounds that may hamper or dull the plastic.
In Indoor Playgrounds International, we put cleanliness and safety of above all else. Showing parents that you care about the health and security of the children ensures they will return and spread the word.