Bounce House Rental Guide: Sizes, Prices & Safety Tips

Bounce houses turn any backyard party or community event into an instant hit with kids (and plenty of adults). Whether you're planning a birthday party, school carnival, or church picnic, here's everything you need to know about renting one.

Types of Bounce Houses

Not all inflatables are created equal. Here are the main types you'll find from rental companies:

Standard bounce houses are the classic enclosed jumping area. They come in various themes (princess castles, sports arenas, tropical designs) and accommodate 6-10 kids at a time. These are the most affordable option.

Combo units pair a bounce area with a slide, climbing wall, or basketball hoop. They cost a bit more but provide more variety and keep kids entertained longer.

Water slides and wet combos are perfect for summer events. These inflatables include built-in water features and slides. You'll need a water hookup within 100 feet of the setup location.

Obstacle courses are the showstoppers for larger events. Running 30-60 feet long, they feature tunnels, climbing walls, slides, and squeeze-throughs. Great for corporate team-building events and school field days.

How Much Does It Cost?

Bounce house rental prices depend on the type, size, and your market:

• Standard bounce house (13x13): $150–$275 per day
• Large bounce house (15x15): $200–$350 per day
• Combo with slide: $250–$450 per day
• Water slide: $300–$500 per day
• Obstacle course: $400–$800 per day

Most rentals are priced for a full day (typically 6-8 hours). Weekend and holiday bookings may carry a premium. Delivery and setup are usually included within a certain radius — ask your vendor about their delivery area.

Choosing the Right Size

Before you book, measure your setup area carefully. You need:

• Flat, level ground — slight slopes can cause tipping
• At least 3 feet of clearance on all sides of the inflatable
• Overhead clearance — check for tree branches, power lines, and roof overhangs
• Access for delivery — most inflatables need to be carried through at least a 4-foot-wide opening

A standard 13x13 bounce house needs roughly a 19x19-foot area. Larger combos and obstacle courses need significantly more space. Your rental company should confirm the footprint before booking.

Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know

Bounce house injuries send thousands of kids to emergency rooms each year. Most are preventable with basic precautions:

Supervise constantly. An adult should watch the bounce house at all times. No exceptions. Most injuries happen when supervision lapses.

Separate by age and size. Don't let teenagers bounce with toddlers. Weight and size mismatches cause the majority of collision injuries. Many rental companies recommend separating kids into groups within 2-3 years of age.

Follow capacity limits. Every inflatable has a maximum occupancy. Overcrowding leads to collisions and increases the risk of the unit tipping. Your rental company should provide capacity guidelines.

No shoes, no sharp objects. Remove shoes, glasses, jewelry, and anything in pockets before entering. Inspect the bounce house for debris before each group enters.

Anchor properly. Inflatables must be staked into the ground (on grass) or weighted with sandbags (on hard surfaces). Wind is the biggest danger — most rental companies won't set up if sustained winds exceed 15-20 mph.

Booking Tips

Book 2-4 weeks in advance for standard weekends. For peak dates (Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day weekends), book 6-8 weeks ahead.

Confirm the setup surface with your vendor. Grass is ideal. Concrete and asphalt work but may require sandbag anchoring. Dirt, gravel, and uneven ground are usually not suitable.

Ask about their weather policy. Reputable companies have clear rain and wind policies. Most offer reschedules for weather cancellations at no charge.

Check insurance. Professional rental companies carry liability insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance, especially for public events or if your venue requires it.

Browse bounce house rental companies on Rent Event Machines to compare options in your area and get quotes from trusted local vendors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is appropriate for a bounce house? Most rental companies allow children ages 3 and up. Kids under 6 should use smaller units and bounce separately from older children. Always follow the vendor's age and weight guidelines.

How long is a typical bounce house rental? Most rentals are for a full day, typically 6-8 hours. Some vendors offer half-day (4-hour) options at a reduced rate. Overnight and multi-day rentals are also available from many companies.

Can you set up a bounce house on concrete? Yes, but the unit must be secured with sandbags or water weights instead of ground stakes. Most vendors provide the appropriate anchoring for your surface type at no extra charge.

What happens if it rains on the day of my rental? Most reputable companies have a weather policy that allows you to reschedule at no additional cost. Some inflatables can be used in light rain, but vendors will not set up during thunderstorms or high winds.

Do I need to provide a power source? Yes, bounce houses require a standard 110V electrical outlet within 100 feet. The blower must run continuously to keep the unit inflated. If your venue lacks power, ask your vendor about generator rental options.

How many kids can bounce at the same time? Capacity depends on the unit size. A standard 13x13 bounce house typically holds 6-8 children. Larger units and obstacle courses can accommodate 10-15 at once. Your vendor should provide specific capacity limits.

Is the rental company responsible for supervision? No. The rental company delivers, sets up, and picks up the equipment, but supervision during the event is your responsibility. At least one adult should monitor the bounce house at all times while children are using it.