Setup and Care
These products are built tough, but almost every inflatable that fails early fails for one of three reasons: it was over-inflated, it was packed away damp, or it was dragged across concrete. All three are avoidable.
Inflating
Use the supplied 500 W pump — it inflates or deflates in about a minute. Inflate until the chambers are firm but still have a little give when you press hard with a thumb. Drum-tight is too tight. On a hot day air expands, so a slide inflated rock-hard at 9am can be over-pressure by midday. The larger slides have pressure relief valves for exactly this reason, but do not rely on them as a substitute for sensible inflation.
Anchoring
Use the supplied straps every time, even for a short session. An unanchored slide moves when someone lands on it, and that movement is what turns a fun afternoon into a chipped tooth. Check the minimum water depth for your model before the first ride — 4 ft for the Minima, 6 ft for the Mikros and Megalo.
Protecting the base
Concrete, pavers and pool decks are abrasive. Lay the slide out on the grass to inflate where you can, then carry it into position rather than dragging it. The reinforced base is tough, but it is not sandpaper-proof.
Cleaning
Rinse with fresh water after use, especially after salt water. Mild soap and a soft cloth for anything stubborn — no solvents, no abrasive pads, and never a pressure washer on the seams.
Drying and storage
This is the step people skip. Pack an inflatable away damp and you will find mildew on the inside of the storage bag next season, and it does not come out. Let it dry completely — both sides — before rolling it. Store it out of direct sunlight; UV is what makes PVC brittle over years.
Repairs
Every slide and ramp ships with a repair kit. Small punctures are genuinely repairable and worth fixing straight away, before the hole works itself larger.
FLOATING WATER MATS
- Determine the size and location of the damage.
- If the damage is at the edge of the mat, we recommend cutting out the damaged section to prevent it from being a weak point.
- For small tears, use spray foam glue.
- For larger tears, we suggest using a leather PVC patch and following the video instructions.
Please follow the instructions in page 3 of the water mat manual.
INFLATABLE PRODUCTS
Inflatable slides, Dog ramps, etc.- To easily deflate the slide, use the 500W E-pump in deflate mode.
- Before deflating the stepping pad, ensure there is no water remaining in it.
- After deflating the pad, roll the slide tightly until it fits into the storage bag.
- Use the straps to secure the rolled-up slide.
All Crocpad inflatable products come with a repair kit that includes PVC patches and glue. Follow these steps to repair a leak or hole:
- Locate the leak or hole.
- Cut a patch that is at least ½ inch larger than the tear.
- Apply a small amount of glue to the patch.
- Place the patch over the tear, ensuring it is well-covered.
- Place a heavy and flat object over the patch.
- Allow the glue to dry for at least 12 hours.
All Crocpad inflatable products come with a repair kit that includes glue. Follow these steps to repair a seam:
- Locate the leak
- Clean the area
- Apply a small amount of glue
- Place a heavy and flat object over the patch.
- Allow the glue to dry for at least 6-12 hours.
More details in this link.
All Crocpad inflatable products come with a repair kit that includes PVC patches and glue. To repair or add a D ring patch, follow these steps:
- Prepare the D ring patch, which can be purchased from Crocpad.
- Locate the new patch position near the existing D ring, ensuring it is close enough to anchor effectively.
- Apply a small amount of glue to the patch.
- Place the patch near the defective one.
- Allow the glue to dry for at least 24 hours.
To protect your Crocpad slide from rough surfaces like tiles or pavers, follow these tips:
1. Use a Protective Mat:
- Place a durable, non-slip mat or tarp under the slide to create a buffer between the surface and the slide.
2. Inflate Properly:
- Ensure the slide is fully inflated to reduce friction and prevent sagging that can cause unnecessary contact with rough surfaces.
3. Avoid Dragging:
- When moving the slide, lift it completely instead of dragging it across the ground.
4. Inspect the Surface:
- Clear the area of sharp objects, debris, or anything that could puncture or scratch the material.
5. Store Safely:
- When not in use, deflate and store the slide in a clean, dry area away from sharp or abrasive surfaces.
These steps will keep your slide in top condition and extend its lifespan!
We suggest starting with a vinegar and water solution, or simply soap and water. If that doesn’t remove the mould, you can try a small amount of diluted methylated spirits on a soft cloth.
Test it on a small area first, then rinse thoroughly with water afterwards.
Please note
- Methylated spirits can weaken PVC, so use the least amount possible and always follow up with a water clean.
- Always rinse and air-dry fully in the sun before packing away
How to Set Up an Ice Bath at Home
Everything You Need for a Safe and Effective Recovery PlungePick a container that fits your body comfortably:
- Bathtub, stock tank, portable ice bath, or a professional plunge like Crocpad.
- Ensure it’s deep enough to submerge your shoulders.
Indoors: bathroom, laundry, or garage (with drainage).
Outdoors: backyard, patio, or balcony (on a flat, shaded surface).
Start with cold tap water.
Target 10–15°C (50–59°F) for recovery. Beginners can start slightly warmer.
Add 20–40kg of ice or reusable frozen bottles.
For hassle-free daily plunges, use a chiller system like Crocpad that maintains water temperature.
- Rinse off before plunging.
- Drain and refill small tubs every 2–3 uses.
- For bigger tubs, use a filter or sanitizing agent.
- Cover when not in use to keep debris out.
- Start with 2–3 minutes and progress to 5–10 minutes.
- Breathe calmly, never force it.
- Keep your head above water at all times.
- Always have a towel and warm clothes ready for after.
- Dry off and warm up slowly.
- Plunge 3–4 times per week for best results.
WATERPROOF STORAGE BAGS
Dry bag or water mat storage bag- Place the water mat or your staff into the bag, align the top edges of the bag, and squeeze them together.
- Tightly roll down the top of the bag at least three times. For a better seal, roll it down all the way until you reach the water mat or staff, increasing the tension on the closure.
- Clip the two middle buckles together.
- Bend the ends in the opposite direction towards the back, away from the side where you rolled the top down. This puts more tension on the fold and enhances the seal.
- Buckle the ends together, and you're done.
