A trampoline covered in bird droppings can be a real eyesore and make it pretty unappealing to use. Cleaning it off your trampoline isn’t exactly a fun task, but it’s one you’ll have to do in order to get your trampoline back in business.
Today we’re looking at how to get bird poop off your trampoline properly, why you really NEED to clean it off before you let your kids play there, and how to stop birds from choosing your trampoline as their favorite hang out spot in the first place.
How To Get Bird Poop Off A Trampoline (Step By Step Instructions)
Cleaning bird poop off your backyard trampoline is not a pleasant task, but it’s important to do so in order to maintain a clean and hygienic environment for your family. Here are some steps you can follow:
- Put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands from the bird droppings.
- Use a broom or brush to remove any loose debris from the trampoline (such as feathers or leaves).
Use a garden hose or pressure washer to spray down the trampoline and enclosure to remove any remaining debris.- Mix a solution of water and mild dish soap in a bucket. Dip a soft-bristled brush or a sponge into the solution.
- Gently scrub the bird droppings with the brush or sponge. Be sure to cover the entire affected area, including those spots on the safety enclosure netting.
- Rinse the trampoline and enclosure with the hose to remove the soap and bird droppings.
- If there are any stubborn stains or lingering odors, you can try using a solution of water and vinegar or a specialized outdoor cleaner. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions if using a cleaner.
- Once you have finished cleaning, allow the trampoline and enclosure to air dry completely before using them again, or dry your trampoline using these methods.
Use a garden hose or It’s also a good idea to inspect the safety enclosure netting periodically for any damage or tears, and to make any necessary repairs as soon as possible to maintain the safety of the trampoline, so that you don’t get trampoline warping or speed up the aging of the trampoline mat (resulting in black marks on your feet and clothing).
Why It's Important Not To Get Bird Poop On Your Skin
If you get bird poop on your skin, it’s important to clean it off as quickly and thoroughly as possible. Bird droppings can contain harmful bacteria and microorganisms, which can lead to infections and other issues, such as the following:
- Skin irritation and redness: Bird droppings contain a high level of acid that can cause irritation and redness on the skin, especially if left on for an extended period of time.
- Infections: Bird droppings can contain a variety of bacteria and microorganisms that can cause infections if they enter the body through cuts or other open wounds. In some cases, bird droppings have been linked to diseases like histoplasmosis, which can cause flu-like symptoms and lung infections.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to bird droppings, and exposure can cause symptoms like itching, redness, and swelling.
- Staining of clothing or surfaces: Bird droppings can leave behind stains on clothing, upholstery, and other surfaces, which can be difficult to remove (so catch your kids before they wipe their bird-pooped-on-hands on their clothing!).
To minimize the risk of these outcomes, it’s important to clean bird poop off your skin (or your kids’ skin) as soon as possible. You can use soap and water, hand sanitizer if that’s all you have nearby, or a mild disinfectant, to thoroughly clean the affected area. Hopefully you won’t need it, but seek medical attention if you end up experiencing any unusual symptoms.
How To Stop Birds From Pooping On Your Trampoline In The First Place (8 Ideas)
Stopping birds from pooping on your trampoline can be a challenge. But there are several things you can try to discourage birds from landing on your trampoline and pooping on it. Here are 7 ideas:
1. Scare The Birds Away
You can try using scare tactics to keep birds away from your trampoline. For example, try placing a fake owl or hawk on or near your trampoline. Birds are naturally wary of predators, so the sight of a fake one might keep them away. Or, set up a motion-activated sprinkler to startle birds when they get too close. You may even want to consider going the scarecrow route!
2. Hang Shiny Objects
Some birds are deterred by shiny objects that reflect light. You can try hanging reflective tape, old CDs or DVDs, or shiny streamers around the trampoline to discourage birds from landing.
3. Create A Bird-Free Zone
Try to the area around your trampoline unappealing to birds, by trimming any nearby trees or bushes back, and by moving any bird feeders or birdhouses close by to the far side of the yard.
4. Add A Bird Feeder (Somewhere Else)
Continuing on the above thought, lure the birds AWAY from your trampoline by adding a bird feeder or two on the FAR SIDE of your backyard. It could be entertaining to watch the birds flock to the feeder instead of the trampoline. (See “How To Attract Birds To A New Feeder“.)
5. Use Bird Repellent
There are a variety of bird repellents available that are designed to keep birds away from specific areas. You can try using a spray-on bird repellent on your trampoline, but make sure it’s safe for the material of your trampoline and won’t damage it, and has no skin irritation warnings.
6. Install Bird Spikes
Although they sound nasty, bird spikes are actually a humane and effective way to prevent birds from landing on your trampoline. You can install them along the edges of the trampoline or in areas where birds tend to perch.
7. Cover The Trampoline
If all else fails, you could consider covering your trampoline with a weatherproof tarp or official trampoline cover when it’s not in use. This will help to keep the birds away, as it makes it less appealing for birds to land on. (A cover will not only protect the trampoline from bird droppings but also from other natural elements like rain, dust, and debris – it will also prolong the life of the trampoline mat.)
As you can see, there are several strategies you can try to discourage birds from landing on and pooping on your trampoline.
Even though bird poop can be super frustrating to deal with, remember that birds are an important part of our ecosystem. Always use humane and safe methods to deter birds, and avoid using anything that may harm or injure them.
For Further Info: Cleaning A Trampoline
Key Takeaways
Discovering bird poop on your trampoline is frustrating, and it means that you will need to get out the broom and hose, as well as some soap and a scrub brush. Getting the bird poop off your trampoline quickly keeps it sanitary and safe for your kids to bounce on. There are several ways you can prevent birds from selecting your trampoline as a hangout spot… why not give some of them a try?
