Orlando Kids' Directory

Featured Articles :: Moonwalk Madness!

by Michele Peterson owner of Merry Minstrel (Merry Minstrel Special Event Services)

Moonwalks! bounce houses! jumpy things! There are many different names for these popular backyard rentals. During the nine years I have been involved with renting backyard party rentals I have seen the designs change from simple square bouncing houses to popular character designs, pirate ship shaped designs, water slides and much more. I have also seen the number of companies offering these types of rentals double and triple through out the years. Why has this happened? Many people believe that purchasing 4, 5 or maybe 10 inflatable items to supplement their weekly income is a great idea. Little do they realize the hard work, time and cost involved when starting such a business.

Some of the costs involved with an inflatable business include liability insurance, cleaning, delivering (gas), advertising, business license, and of course, the purchase of quality inflatables. To many, not having a business license, not paying sales tax, keeping the inflatables in their garage, not having insurance, purchasing "cheap" or non-licensed product, and not cleaning the inflatables after each use is a way to save money and to pass the savings on to a non-suspecting consumer. These money savings techniques are often used throughout the inflatable industry.

Why should the consumer be concerned? Having a sanitary item for your child should be of the utmost importance. Inflatable items, expecially when they have gotten wet (water slides especially) need to be cleaned and dried out after every use. If not, they will grow mold and bacteria which will not only make a child sick but, they will permanently stain the vinyl of an inflatable making it un-attractive. How do you know if a company cleans regularly? If they tell you they clean on location and it is a Saturday rental be concerned. Whatever might be in that unit has been festering in there since the last time the unit was rented. For example, germs, food, soda, or worse. Yuck! Always ask a company's cleaning policies.

What about insurance? Parks, Schools, HOA's and Businesses will not allow un-insured inflatable companies to set up a bounce house or any inflatable item on their property. Having insurance in case of a tragedy is important to the consumer as well as to the responsible business owner. There are standards set by the inflatable industry in regards to set up including proper anchoring, tarping, matting, maitenance records, etc. that have to be followed for the consumer's safety. Un-insured businesses do not have access to these guidelines. What about mechanical rides? Home made rides are not insurable. Whether it is a kiddie train, spinning cups, or swinging vines, always rent rides that are manufactured by a company. A company should be able to provide you with a current copy of their insurance policy.

Being on time to a consumer's event is so important. A company should be able to get all of their inventory out in the morning. If they can not guarantee a morning delivery it means their delivery personel have too many inflatables to deliver comfortably. There are some great inflatable businesses in Central Florida that deliver inflatables to every Central Florida County in a prompt manner because they have adequate personnel.

So having a great inflatable for your backyard party is very easy. Always ask about cleaning policies, check on insurance, don't rent home made rides, and ask about delivery times. It is always a great idea if you are happy with the service your friend or neighbor used to ask them for the name of the company. It is never a good idea to rent the cheapest ride possible. Do your homework, ask the right questions. Following these guidelines should ensure a safe and fun event with great memories.