Buying Used Inflatables – What Every Hire Company Needs to Know
For UK bouncy castle hire companies, expanding your fleet is always an exciting step. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to add more variety for the new season, the big question often comes up: should you buy new inflatables, or take a chance on used ones?
On the surface, second-hand inflatables can look like a bargain – quick, low-cost expansion with plenty of choice on the market. But while there are genuine opportunities, there are also serious risks that could cost you more in the long run.
At Betterbounce, we receive over 20 messages a week from companies asking about used inflatables. The truth? Many second-hand inflatables fall well short of UK safety standards such as BS EN14960, even if they look new and in good condition. That’s why it’s vital to know the rules before making a decision.
The Golden Rules for Buying Used Inflatables
Follow these essential checks and you’ll avoid most of the common pitfalls:
❌ Never buy an inflatable without a current test certificate – insurance will not cover you if an incident occurs.
✅ Even if a test has expired, it can reveal hidden maintenance issues that could cause a failure later.
❌ Don’t buy from unknown sellers without proper vetting – scams are common.
✅ Always view the inflatable in person – many are stored badly and arrive mouldy, or advertised with old photos.
❌ Avoid private sellers with no hire company background – these are often toy-grade inflatables, not commercial inflatables for hire.
✅ Always ask for full paperwork and test history, just as you would with a second-hand car.
❌ Never buy an inflatable with only a CE mark or CE certificate – 99% of the time, these are toys and not compliant for commercial bouncy castle hire in the UK.
✅ If unsure, ask for advice – share pictures in trusted industry groups or send them to us at Betterbounce.
❌ Be cautious of “ex-hire” listings – this usually means it failed a test.
✅ Always ask about past repairs and future lifespan – otherwise you risk throwing money away.
✅ Remember – new inflatables come with peace of mind:
Free initial safety test
Discounted testing in years 2 & 3
A 2-year warranty
Built to BS EN14960:2019 safety standards
Zero hidden repair costs in the early years
Why Many Hire Companies Choose New Over Used
While second-hand inflatables can sometimes save money up front, the risks of non-compliance, poor storage, mould damage, or failing safety inspections make them a dangerous gamble – especially when your business and insurance are on the line.
New inflatables from Betterbounce are built to the latest safety standards, tested, warrantied, and guaranteed for commercial use. With Velcro artwork ranges, disco-ready bouncy castles, and modular obstacle courses, your hire business can grow faster and stand out in the UK market.
Final Thoughts
Buying used inflatables isn’t always wrong, but it’s full of hidden risks. For hire companies serious about long-term success, investing in new inflatables is the safest and most profitable choice.
At Betterbounce, we specialise in supplying commercial inflatables for hire companies across the UK. Every product is built for compliance, reliability, and maximum return on investment.
Ready to Grow Your Hire Business?
Thinking about buying new inflatables instead of risking second-hand?
👉 Contact Betterbounce today to check our stock, explore our latest bouncy castles and inflatables for sale, or request a bespoke design.
We’ll help you expand your hire business safely, profitably, and with complete peace of mind.
<< Return to news