Summer is here and if you are planning a garden party, birthday celebration, or outdoor event for children, soft play equipment can completely transform the experience. Here is everything you need to know about using soft play sets outdoors this summer.
Can Soft Play Be Used Outside?
Yes, absolutely. Our foam soft play sets are designed primarily for indoor use but they work brilliantly outdoors in dry weather. The key is to set them up on a flat, clean surface, ideally on grass or decking, and to bring them in or cover them if rain is forecast. The foam is robust and the upholstery is durable, but like all foam products you want to keep them away from prolonged moisture.
The Best Sets for Garden Parties
For a proper party setup, our Soft Play Party Set is the obvious choice. This 36-piece commercial-grade set creates a full soft play zone that can keep a group of children entertained for hours. It is available in white, grey and white, multicoloured, and beige and white, so it can suit any party theme or colour scheme.
If you want something slightly smaller but still impressive, the Soft Play Tunnel Set creates a fantastic outdoor adventure course. Children love crawling through the tunnel and navigating the surrounding pieces.
Pair with a Bouncy Castle for Maximum Impact
For the ultimate garden party setup, combine a soft play zone with our Rainbow Bouncy Castle. The bouncy castle gives older children somewhere to burn off serious energy while the soft play area keeps toddlers and younger guests safely entertained in their own space. It is a combination that works brilliantly for mixed-age parties where you have children ranging from babies up to 8 or 9 years old.
Tips for Setting Up Soft Play Outdoors
- Choose a shaded area if possible to keep the foam cool and comfortable on hot days.
- Use a foam play mat or clean tarpaulin underneath to protect the base of the pieces.
- Keep a watchful eye on numbers. Outdoors, children tend to be more boisterous.
- Check the weather forecast. If rain is likely, have a plan to bring equipment under cover quickly.
- Set up a dedicated soft play zone with some gentle barriers or boundaries to keep younger toddlers safely in the play area.
Planning a Soft Play Hire Business?
If you are thinking about turning your love of soft play into a business, summer is the perfect time to start. Garden parties, school fetes, and community events all create consistent demand for soft play hire throughout June, July, and August. Our commercial-grade sets are built to withstand repeated hire use. Read our blog on starting your own soft play hire business for more guidance.
Ready to make this summer unforgettable? Shop the full range at Children's Soft Play UK.