Nothing says summer fun quite like a slip and slide, and you don’t need to buy a commercial one to have a blast. Creating your own DIY adult slip and slide is a fun project that can provide hours of entertainment. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a slip and slide that’s perfect for adults.
Materials Needed
- Heavy-duty plastic sheeting (10-12 feet wide, at least 50 feet long)
- Garden hose
- Lawn stakes or tent stakes
- Pool noodles or foam padding
- Non-toxic, eco-friendly dish soap
- Hammer or mallet
- Water source (outdoor spigot)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Select a suitable area in your backyard that has a gentle slope. This will help ensure a smooth, fast ride. Make sure the ground is free of rocks, sticks, and other debris that could cause injury or damage the slide.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground
Mow the grass if necessary and remove any sharp objects. If the ground is hard, consider watering it the night before to soften it up. This will provide a more comfortable sliding surface.
Step 3: Lay Out the Plastic Sheeting
Unroll the heavy-duty plastic sheeting on the chosen area. Ensure that it runs down the slope. If you need a longer slide, you can overlap multiple pieces of plastic sheeting, securing the overlap with waterproof tape.
Step 4: Secure the Slide
Use lawn stakes or tent stakes to secure the plastic sheeting to the ground. Place stakes along both sides of the slide, spacing them about 4-5 feet apart. Be sure to hammer them in firmly but leave enough room for the plastic to move slightly.
Step 5: Add Pool Noodles for Safety
Place pool noodles or foam padding along the edges of the slide to create a safe boundary. You can secure them with duct tape or additional stakes. This will help prevent sliders from going off the slide and onto the grass.
Step 6: Set Up the Water Source
Attach a garden hose to a water source and run it along the length of the slide. Secure the hose in place with stakes or tape, making sure the water flows down the entire slide. You can use a sprinkler attachment for more even water distribution.
Step 7: Add Dish Soap
Apply a generous amount of non-toxic, eco-friendly dish soap to the plastic sheeting. This will reduce friction and make the slide slippery. Spread the soap evenly across the slide for the best results.
Step 8: Test the Slide
Before inviting everyone to join in, test the slide yourself. Adjust the water flow and add more soap if needed. Ensure the slide is sufficiently slippery and that all safety measures are in place.
Step 9: Invite Everyone to Slide
Once everything is set up and tested, it’s time to invite your friends and family to join in the fun. Remind everyone to slide feet first to minimize the risk of injury.
Step 10: Maintain the Slide
Throughout the day, reapply dish soap and adjust the water flow as needed. Check the slide periodically for any tears or loose stakes, and make necessary adjustments to keep the slide safe and fun.
Tips for a Successful DIY Slip and Slide
- Supervision: Always supervise the slip and slide to ensure everyone’s safety.
- Hydration: Keep plenty of water and snacks on hand, as sliding can be physically demanding.
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen and take breaks in the shade to avoid sunburn.
- Footwear: Consider wearing water shoes to protect your feet from the ground underneath the slide.
- Clean Up: At the end of the day, thoroughly rinse the slide and hang it to dry before storing it.
Creating a DIY adult slip and slide is a fantastic way to bring excitement to your backyard. With a little preparation and some simple materials, you can enjoy a fun and memorable summer activity that’s sure to be a hit with friends and family.
