Mulch for a Playground

Creating a Safe Playground Surface with Mulch

When children are climbing, swinging, and jumping, falls are inevitable. A proper soft fall surface can mean the difference between a minor tumble and a serious injury. For a backyard play area of 5 metres by 4 metres under a typical swing set or climbing frame, you'll need a significantly deeper mulch layer than standard garden applications. At 150mm depth, this 20 square metre area requires approximately 3 cubic metres of wood chip mulch.

The weight of 3 cubic metres of wood chip mulch is approximately 1.2 tonnes. This is a substantial delivery that will require bulk transport, but the investment in your children's safety makes it worthwhile. When ordering for playground use, specifically request playground-grade or soft fall mulch, which is processed to remove splinters and sharp edges that could injure bare feet and hands.

Why Playgrounds Need 150mm Depth

The deeper 150mm application serves a critical safety function. Australian playground standards recommend soft fall surfaces that can cushion falls from the maximum height of your play equipment. The mulch compresses on impact, absorbing energy that would otherwise transfer to a child's body. Over time, foot traffic and weather will compact the mulch, so starting at 150mm ensures the surface maintains adequate cushioning between top-ups.

Installation and Maintenance

Prepare the area by installing timber or plastic edging to contain the mulch and prevent it spreading onto lawn areas. Lay landscape fabric beneath if desired to prevent weed growth, though this isn't essential. Spread the mulch evenly and rake it smooth. After installation, walk the entire area to identify any low spots that need extra material. Check the depth monthly and top up any areas that have compacted below 100mm, particularly in high-traffic zones directly under swings and at the base of slides.

Have a larger or differently shaped play area? Use our main mulch calculator to enter your exact dimensions.