How Do You Clean Wet Pour Surfaces?
Wet pour rubber surfaces—commonly made from EPDM granules—are widely used in playgrounds, schools, and public parks. They’re known for being durable, soft, and safe. But without proper maintenance, these surfaces can lose their grip, color, and cleanliness.
To clean wet pour rubber surfaces, regularly sweep debris, rinse with water, and deep clean using a pH-neutral cleaner with a soft brush or rotary scrubber.
Why Maintenance Matters for Wet Pour Rubber
Regular cleaning helps extend the surface life to 8–10 years or more. It also:
- Keeps the surface anti-slip and hygienic
- Prevents buildup of moss, algae, and dirt
- Protects against premature color fading and cracking
- Maintains safety compliance for children’s play areas
Daily and Weekly Cleaning Methods
These simple routines can be done by school janitors or maintenance staff:
- 🧹 Daily: Sweep leaves, dust, plastic pieces, and loose debris
- 💦 Weekly: Rinse with a low-pressure water hose (avoid high pressure)
- ✅ Always check drainage areas and remove standing water
Monthly or Seasonal Deep Cleaning
For high-traffic areas or seasonal cleanup, follow this method:
- Apply a pH-neutral rubber flooring cleaner
- Scrub with a soft-bristle broom or rotary scrubber
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Allow to air-dry before reopening the area
⚠️ Avoid letting cleaning agents dry on the surface.
Removing Algae, Moss, and Stubborn Stains
Outdoor surfaces in humid areas may develop moss or algae. To clean them:
- Use an eco-friendly moss remover (avoid bleach or harsh chemicals)
- Soft scrub multiple times if needed
- Test on a small area first to ensure no discoloration
💡 According to RoSPA (UK), regular cleaning helps preserve playground surfacing safety, especially in shaded or damp areas.
What Not to Do
To avoid damaging the EPDM surface:
- ❌ Do not use pressure washers
- ❌ Avoid harsh bristle brushes or metal tools
- ❌ No acid/alkaline industrial cleaners
- ❌ Don’t drag bins or furniture across the surface
Long-Term Maintenance Tips
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Keep drains clear | Prevents water pooling under surface |
| Remove heavy items regularly | Avoids long-term indentations |
| Clean after heavy storms | Reduces moss/mud accumulation |
| Inspect edges and seams | Prevents lifting or delamination over time |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a pressure washer to clean wet pour rubber?
A: No. High pressure can dislodge the granules and damage the surface.
Q2: What cleaning product should I use?
A: Use only pH-neutral rubber surface cleaners. Avoid bleach or acids.
Q3: How often should I deep clean EPDM playground flooring?
A: Every 1–3 months depending on usage, location, and weather.
Q4: How do I clean algae or moss?
A: Use an eco-safe moss remover and soft brush. Rinse well.
Q5: Is it okay to let water sit on wet pour flooring?
A: No. Standing water accelerates mold growth and weakens the surface.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain safety, performance, and aesthetics of your wet pour rubber surface. With simple tools and eco-friendly solutions, your playground or pathway can stay vibrant and child-safe for years.
Need help choosing the right cleaner or planning maintenance? Contact our team or browse lanhefloor.com for expert advice and EPDM solutions.