Why Is Playground Mulch Important?

• The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that "more than 200,000 children go to U.S. hospital emergency rooms with injuries associated with playground equipment." Using the proper kinds and amounts of mulch can be highly effective in preventing playground injuries. In fact, the CPSC continues, "Most injuries occur when a child falls from the equipment onto the ground. Many backyard play sets are placed on dirt or grass--surfaces that do not adequately protect children when they fall." It may be tempting to cut corners and costs by using less mulch, but taking the proper precautions may save your child a painful injury while saving you the cost of an ER visit.
  
  

How Much and What Kind Should I Use?

• There are several different kinds of mulches you can use for the playground area. For smaller play sets, sand or pea gravel can be used. If you choose to use sand, however, Lowe's advises that you, "Make sure you use play sand, which is most likely washed river sand. Builder's sand is not as smooth or clean and should not be used in play areas". For playground equipment up to seven feet high, the CPSC advises that you use at least nine inches of wood chips, mulch or shredded rubber. For shorter equipment up to five feet high you can also use at least nine inches of sand or pea gravel.
  
  

Mulching For Peace of Mind

• Product manufacturing guides will help you set up your particular play set safely, but they cannot protect your child from inevitably falling while playing. It may take a little extra time and money up front, but the peace of mind you'll gain from knowing your child is safe should make properly mulching your home playground a worthwhile investment.