Hiring a bouncy castle or inflatable can turn a good party into an unforgettable one but only if it’s done right. Every year, we see customers who’ve had issues simply because of small mistakes made during booking.
To help you avoid disappointment (and stress!), here are 7 common mistakes people make when hiring inflatables and exactly how to avoid them.
1. Choosing Price Over Safety
The mistake:
Booking the cheapest inflatable without checking safety standards.
Why it’s a problem:
Low prices can sometimes mean poor-quality equipment, lack of insurance, or unsafe setups.
The solution:
✔ Always choose a company with public liability insurance
✔ Ensure inflatables are regularly tested and maintained
✔ Ask about safety mats, anchors, and supervision advice
Safety should never be optional especially when children are involved.
2. Not Measuring Your Space Properly
The mistake:
Guessing the size of your garden or venue.
Why it’s a problem:
Inflatables need space around them for safe access and anchoring. A bouncy castle that doesn’t fit means delays or worse, cancellation.
The solution:
✔ Measure length, width, and height clearance
✔ Check for trees, fences, walls, or overhead cables
✔ When in doubt, ask your hire company for guidance
3. Forgetting About Weather Conditions
The mistake:
Assuming inflatables can be used in any weather.
Why it’s a problem:
Strong winds and heavy rain can make inflatables unsafe.
The solution:
✔ Choose a company with clear weather policies
✔ Have a backup plan (indoor hall, soft play, or reschedule option)
✔ Trust professionals to make the safety call
4. Booking Too Late
The mistake:
Leaving booking until the last minute.
Why it’s a problem:
Popular themes and weekend slots get booked weeks in advance especially during summer and school holidays.
The solution:
✔ Book as early as possible
✔ Secure your preferred inflatable with a deposit
✔ Plan ahead for birthdays, weddings, and school events
5. Not Checking Power Requirements
The mistake:
Forgetting that inflatables need electricity.
Why it’s a problem:
No nearby power = no inflatable.
The solution:
✔ Ensure there’s a standard outdoor power socket
✔ Use RCD protection (often supplied by professionals)
✔ Let the hire company know if power is far away
6. Choosing the Wrong Inflatable for the Age Group
The mistake:
Hiring a castle that’s not suitable for the children attending.
Why it’s a problem:
Too small = bored kids
Too big = safety risks
The solution:
✔ Match inflatables to age ranges and user limits
✔ Ask for advice if your party has mixed ages
✔ Consider multiple inflatables for larger events
7. Not Using a Local, Trusted Company
The mistake:
Booking from an unknown provider with limited reviews.
Why it’s a problem:
Late arrivals, poor communication, or no-shows can ruin your event.
The solution:
✔ Choose a local company with real reviews
✔ Look for clear contact details and professionalism
✔ Support businesses that care about their reputation
Final Thoughts
Hiring inflatables should be fun, easy, and stress-free. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your event runs smoothly and everyone has an amazing time.
At Midlands Inflatables, we pride ourselves on:
✅ Safe, clean, high-quality inflatables
✅ Friendly, reliable service
✅ Clear advice from booking to pack-down
🎉 Planning a party or event? Get in touch today and let us help you choose the perfect inflatable.
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