How to maintain and sanitize an indoor playground? | Insights by FEI FAN

Maintaining and sanitizing an indoor playground is essential to ensure the safety and health of children, as well as the longevity of the equipment. Below are key practices to effectively maintain and sanitize your indoor playground:

1. Establish a Regular Inspection Schedule

Implementing a consistent inspection routine is crucial. Daily walkthroughs should focus on identifying immediate hazards such as loose bolts, damaged surfaces, or debris in high-use areas like swing sets, slides, and climbers. ((https://www.kidssoftplay.com/maintaining-cleaning-indoor-playground-equipment.html))

Regular inspections help in early detection of potential issues, preventing minor problems from escalating into major repairs. This proactive approach ensures a safer environment for children and reduces downtime due to equipment failures.

2. Implement Effective Cleaning and Sanitizing Protocols

Cleaning removes dirt, chemicals, and microbes from surfaces, while sanitizing reduces the number of germs to a safe level. Disinfecting eliminates all germs listed on the product label.

To maintain a hygienic environment, clean and sanitize surfaces daily or more frequently if necessary. Use soap and water to remove visible dirt, followed by an appropriate sanitizer or disinfectant. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning agents and ensure compatibility with the materials of your playground equipment.

3. Address Bodily Fluid Incidents Promptly

In the event of spills involving bodily fluids such as blood, urine, vomit, or fecal matter, it's imperative to act immediately due to the potential for contagion.

Close the affected area to allow staff to clean and disinfect the surfaces thoroughly. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during the cleaning process and ensure that the area remains closed until it is completely dry and safe for use.

4. Educate and Train Staff on Hygiene Practices

Proper training of staff is vital to enforce hygiene protocols effectively. Educate employees on the correct use of PPE, the importance of handwashing, and the proper procedures for cleaning and sanitizing equipment.

Regular refresher sessions and periodic audits can help maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety within the playground.

5. Maintain Air Quality and Ventilation

Ensuring adequate ventilation and air quality is essential in an indoor playground setting. Regularly inspect HVAC systems, replace filters as needed, and monitor CO₂ levels to maintain a healthy environment.

Proper air circulation helps in reducing the concentration of airborne pathogens and provides a comfortable atmosphere for children and staff.

6. Rotate and Clean Toys and Play Materials

For smaller toys and play materials, consider implementing a rotation system. Keep extra sets that are clean and ready to replace the used ones during cleaning sessions.

This practice ensures that toys are regularly sanitized and reduces the downtime of play materials, maintaining continuous play opportunities for children.

7. Document Maintenance and Cleaning Activities

Maintaining a log of all maintenance and cleaning activities is essential for accountability and compliance. Documenting inspections, repairs, and cleaning schedules provides a record that can be referenced in case of incidents and demonstrates a commitment to safety and hygiene.

Conclusion: The Advantages of Partnering with FEI FAN

Partnering with FEI FAN offers several benefits for your indoor playground:

• Expertise in Maintenance and Cleaning: FEI FAN provides comprehensive maintenance and cleaning services tailored to indoor playgrounds, ensuring equipment longevity and safety.

• Quality Equipment: FEI FAN offers high-quality, durable playground equipment designed for easy maintenance and cleaning, reducing operational costs.

• Compliance with Safety Standards: FEI FAN ensures that all equipment and maintenance practices comply with industry safety standards, providing peace of mind to operators and parents.

By collaborating with FEI FAN, you can enhance the safety, cleanliness, and overall experience of your indoor playground, fostering a welcoming environment for children and families.

References

• Minnesota Department of Health – January 8, 2025 – Guidelines for Indoor Play Area Maintenance and Sanitation

• Soft Play – Published 4 years ago – The Importance of Indoor Playground Maintenance

• Kids Soft Play – September 19, 2025 – Guide to Maintaining and Cleaning Commercial Indoor Playground Equipment

• DL Playground – Last week – Indoor Playground Seasonal Maintenance: A Practical, Evidence-Based Guide for Safer, Healthier Play Spaces

• ELI Play – Two weeks ago – 10 Tips for Maintaining Your Indoor Playground