A brief history of Bouncy Castles
John Scurlock is credited as the inventor of the first inflatable structure. According to his family, he was inspired in the late 1950s while designing inflatable tent covers for tennis courts.
Scurlock, a plastics specialist who taught at Tulane University and worked for NASA, later also invented the Space Walk safety air cushion used by stunt performers and fire brigades responding to high-rise fires.
The idea to rent inflatables for parties is attributed to Scurlock’s wife Frances, who was running a rental business by 1969. Bob Regehr is also credited for inventing the bouncy house in 1968.
A favorite at birthdays and gatherings with little ones, the bouncy castle is indispensable. Here are 5 things you should keep in mind when renting a bouncy castle.
Make the right choice
Ever heard the saying: The success of a party depends on your choice of the bouncy castle? On a serious note, choose your inflatable bouncy with care. Most importantly, the average age of your guest list should be in single digits – there are weight restrictions that matter. There is also the issue of the size of the bouncy in relation to available space and to the number of kids. Here’s a ready reckoner that you can glance through to get an idea about the size of bouncy you will need for your party.
Themes
There are bouncies and then there are matching bouncies. And YOU just managed to match the bouncy to the birthday theme – best parent ever! Most event companies will update their existing bouncy menu of monsters, pirates, aliens, vehicles, and castles with the latest pre-teen heartthrob or theme. After all, Elsa fans must have a Frozen-themed castle, and Potterheads can’t do without an inflatable Hogwarts!
Bouncies are not just for Jumping
Does your bouncy have double-lane slides, climbing walls, or one of those obstacle courses? Before you know it, you’ll have kids showing off their combat fitness or using the bouncy to set up an imaginary fort. Pre-teen dream come true! Additional features are added attractions for kids looking to do more than just bounce around. More action, more fun.
Rent from a reputable company
Your bouncy castle must be durable, certified safe for use, and vetted for quality. A commercial-grade bouncy is safe and will ensure that none of your little guests return with an unwanted party favor. Check your supplier’s credentials and go through the website for photographs and videos of the bouncy in action. Glance through the review section as well. Or, you could simplify things by letting the meticulous people at Hafla organize a safe, exciting, and fun party.
Venue and placement
Before signing on the dotted line, share details of your venue with the supplier. A bouncy is large and bulky equipment and is usually wheeled to its spot on a small trolley, making access an important factor. For example, it would help if there was a side entrance to your garden. You should also check available electrical connections to avoid last-minute glitches. In apartment buildings, you would need permission for the use of the community hall/garden. Placement is important too – bouncies are kept inflated by motorized fans and generate a lot of noise. This, combined with the sound of bouncing kids having the time of their lives, could create quite the decibel level.
Just remember, kids of all ages hopped up on sugar love to jump, and bouncy castles provide a controlled space for them to go wild. So, as long as you choose wisely and plan carefully, your party will be the talk of the town. Go ahead, bounce away!
Pro Tips:
- In case of strong wind and wet weather, kids should not be allowed in a bouncy castle.
- Check the sturdiness of the bouncy castle installation. It should be tightly secured to the ground and away from fences, overhead cables, etc.
- Open sides of the bouncy must be secured with soft cushioning that provides support in case of a fall.
- The blower machine of the bouncy should be placed at a safe distance from the castle.
- No kids should be allowed on the bouncy in the absence of adult supervision.
- The number of kids jumping on the bouncy at a given point of time should be in adherence to the safety guide issued by the bouncy castle company.
- Parents should ensure that the kids are not wearing (like spectacles) or carrying any sharp or hard objects while in the bouncy castle. Taking any eatables or drinks on the bouncy is a strict no-no.
Popular Bouncy Castles:
| Theme | Name | Dimension | Price |
| Animal Themed | Big Monkey Bouncy Castle | L600cm x W500cm x H300cm | AED 532 |
| Cartoon Character Themed | Minion Bouncy Castle | L550cm x W500cm x H400cm | AED 532 |
| Clown & Circus Themed | Clown Combo Bouncy Castle | L700cm x W700cm x H600cm | AED 563.5 |
| Jungle Themed | Jungle Hurdle Inflatable Bouncy | L2000cm x W400cm x H600cm | AED 1800 |
| Princess Themed | Pink Princess Bouncy Castle | L500cm x W500cm | AED 444 |
| Sports Themed | Soppy Snooker Football Field | AED 1840 | |
| Superhero Themed | Spiderman bouncy Inflatable Castle | L400cm x W400cm | AED 632 |
| Activity Based | Inflatable Soft Play | L600cm x W500cm x H250cm | AED 880 |
| Obstacle Based | Inflatable Maze | L1000cm x W1000cm x H250cm | AED 2047 |
| Games & Activities | Double Wipe Out Game | AED 2530 |
FAQ’s
- What age is a bouncy castle for?
Bounce houses are generally safe for kids between 6 and 13. Children younger than 6 could get hurt. Kids who are unable to stand or walk independently should never use bounce houses because they can get knocked down from jumping or other children’s bouncing could cause them to fall down.
2. Is bouncy castle safe?
Yes, But people should not wear shoes or glasses and should empty their pockets of all sharp or dangerous items. Regularly check that anchor points are still secure.
3. Can both adults and children use the bouncy castle?
Yes, but not at the same time. Users should go on together at similar heights to avoid any accidents or injuries.
4. Can I turn the bouncy castle off?
No, the blower must be running constantly whilst the castle is in use. If you stop using the castle just switch off the blower and let the castle deflate.
5. How many children can fit in a bouncy castle?
Generally speaking, between 4 to 8 children at one time. This really depends on the size of the users and the castle.