So, You Want to Buy a Bounce House?

The feeling of being launched into the air by a bouncy surface is hard to resist. Renting used to be the only way parents could get a bouncer for a child's birthday party or school carnival. Today, however, inflatable attractions come in many different sizes, styles and levels of quality to fit your needs exactly - even adults can enjoy the fun of bouncing in commercial-quality houses designed to take their heavier weight.

Whether you're looking for something bouncy in your own backyard, or a bounce-able attraction for profit, you'll benefit from a little advice to make sure your purchase is just perfect for you.

Who Will Use It? The first question to ask before purchasing a bounce house is, "Who is going to use the bouncer you buy, and how often will they use it?" If it will be used by the same two to six children every few days or less, and they are less than 100 pounds, you can purchase a residential bouncer. Residential bounce houses are less expensive, great for exercise and a terrific way for kids to burn energy. Choose one with transparent sides if you need to monitor children as they play. If users will weigh over 100 pounds each or the bouncer will be used continuously by many different people (as in a commercial setting) or by more than six people at a time, you need to choose heavier-duty commercial equipment with a floor big enough and strong enough to accommodate your crowd. Commercial bounce houses are wonderful ways to enhance indoor party centers, and school, daycare or church events.

Where Will You Put It?
Measure the spot you'll put the bouncer in, so you can choose one that fits right. Be sure to include enough clearance around all sides for walking, getting up after sliding down the slide, etc.

Always put the bounce equipment on a soft surface, such as grass, and never on an abrasive surface, such as cement. Make sure the area is free of sticks, gravel, toys and other debris. Quality bounce houses are kept inflated with continuously-running pumps, so make sure you have electricity or a generator nearby. Some bounce houses are heavy, so you may benefit from a hand truck to transport your bouncer to the right spot. Be prepared to take down your bouncer between uses to avoid the wear of sun, rain and wind.

What Do You Want to Do in the Bounce House?
Bouncing equipment is available with a wide variety of special features. Some bounce equipment is made especially for use with water, for example, with pools, water slides and fountains to keep users cool. You can use them without water in cooler months, too. Drain all the water before using the equipment dry, and let the blower run to completely dry all surfaces. Bounce equipment not intended for water shouldn't be used with water, but you'll find many other attractions, such as climbing walls, obstacles, basketball hoops and slides. Some slides are there just for safety. If you want users to actually use the slide, choose one that is at least three feet tall.

Everything in place now? Take a flying leap into your bounce house and let the fun begin!