Painting, Install & Maintenance
Your Complete Care Guide
Every Hide & Seek Kids product is a DIY project, and this guide walks you through it from start to finish: preparing your site, painting, assembling, anchoring and looking after it for years of family play. Work through it in order before your delivery arrives, then keep it handy for ongoing care.
Important Information
The following guidelines are based on years of experience with timber outdoor play equipment and furniture. If you're unsure about painting, assembling or positioning your products, we recommend seeking professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
Jump to a Section
Plan & Prepare
Paint & Build
Section 1
Your Success Timeline
Follow this timeline for the best results with your Hide & Seek Kids product. Each stage links to the full instructions further down the page.
1. Before Delivery
- Choose a level, well-drained location
- Prepare the base to suit your product
- Plan your anchoring method and soft-fall area
- Call 1100 (Dial Before You Dig) before any digging
- Purchase paint and supplies from a Dulux Trade Centre
- Arrange a helper for assembly day
2. Delivery & Storage
- Check cartons on arrival and report any damage within 4 business days
- Move cartons to a dry storage location
- Verify all components using the packing list
- Download and read the assembly manual
- Unpack and organise components for painting
3. Painting
- Two coats of Dulux 1 Step Prep
- Two coats of Dulux Weathershield
- Allow final cure time before assembly
4. Assembly
- Confirm paint is fully cured
- Gather the tools listed in your manual
- Follow the assembly manual step by step
- Remember: snug is secure, don't overtighten
- Fit any supplied leg anchors before anyone plays
5. First Month
- Inspect weekly for any issues
- Touch up any paint damage from assembly
- Check all screws and anchors are secure
- Apply sealant to joints if desired
6. Ongoing Care
- Monthly: quick visual inspection
- Quarterly: detailed inspection and clean
- Annually: full check and paint touch-ups
- Repaint: when inspections show wear
Section 2
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These are the mistakes we see most often, and almost every one of them shortens the life of the product. Avoid these and you're well ahead.
Section 3
Where Should You Put Your Play Equipment?
Pick a level spot with good drainage, airflow and a balance of sun and shade, then prepare a base that suits your product. Sort this out before your delivery arrives. It's the single biggest factor in how long your product lasts and how safe it is.
What Makes a Good Location?
Level Ground is Essential
Installing on uneven ground causes timber movement, resulting in gaps, warping and structural stress. This affects durability, safety and the lifespan of your product. Check and adjust the level regularly to keep it stable.
If your roof, windows or doors look crooked: before assuming there's a problem with the product, use a level and plumb to check if the structure is sitting level. Most "crooked" issues are actually caused by uneven ground.
Ground-Level Cubby Houses
Ground-level cubby houses sit on a level base of timber sleepers or a even a concrete slab. Support must be provided for all floor joins, and support is required under all walls to limit movement. Sleepers should be level and properly spaced, allowing airflow underneath while reducing moisture and making it easy to adjust for level.
Base preparation with timber sleepers
Proper sleeper spacing for support
Base Materials for a Timber Sleeper Base:
- Treated pine sleepers (quantity depends on cubby size)
- Spirit level
- Spade for ground preparation
- Compacted gravel or sand for levelling (if required)
- Galvanised nails or brackets to connect sleepers
Why Pavers Are NOT Recommended
Do not place pavers directly underneath cubby houses. Pavers can settle unevenly over time, leading to instability and safety hazards. They also prevent airflow underneath, trapping moisture. Use level ground with timber sleepers or a proper concrete slab instead.
Anchoring a ground-level cubby house is optional, but worth considering if you live in an area prone to severe storms or high winds. See Anchoring & Timber Protection.
Raised Cubby Houses, Forts, Swing Sets & Monkey Bars
Anything with legs, a platform or a swing beam needs three things: a level site, every leg anchored with its timber kept off the ground, and enough open space for soft-fall surfacing and swing clearances. Mark out the full footprint, including the fall zone, before you choose your spot.
Mud Kitchens
Drainage is the most important thing to get right. The play surface must let water flow away freely so puddles don't form and water doesn't pool around the base of the kitchen.
A natural surface such as grass, soil or compacted earth is ideal. For the best play experience, cover the area with bark mulch, wood chips, sand or pea gravel. These let water drain freely, cut down on mud around the base and give kids a comfortable surface to stand on. Extend the ground cover about 1.8 metres in all directions from the kitchen.
Concrete, pavers and other sealed surfaces work well too, as long as they slope or are graded so water runs away from the kitchen (a sloping patio, for example). The problem is flat sealed surfaces, where water sits and can't drain. Not sure about your patio? Watch where the water goes the next time it rains. If it pools near your chosen spot, pick another one.
- Keep the kitchen clear of fences, garden beds and other outdoor structures
- Choose a shaded spot to keep timber and metal surfaces cool
- Position it within reach of an outdoor tap or hose
Picnic Tables & Chairs
Place tables and chairs on level, stable ground so they can't rock or tip. Because they're movable, the best protection is simple: store them out of the elements after use. Discolouration from being left out in the weather isn't covered under warranty.
Kids Beds
Kids beds are indoor furniture and arrive with a finished surface, so they don't require painting. Positioning the bed safely in the room matters most. See our bed safety guidelines.
Section 4
How Do You Secure Play Equipment to the Ground?
Every raised cubby house, fort, swing set and set of monkey bars must be anchored to the ground before children use it, with the timber legs kept clear of the soil. The anchors stop the structure tipping or shifting during play. Keeping the timber off the ground stops it rotting from the base.
Call 1100 Before You Dig
Call 1100 (Dial Before You Dig) before any ground penetration, including driving in anchors. This free service locates underground power, gas, water and telecommunications lines on your property, and it's a legal requirement in Australia.
Supplied Leg Anchors
Many of our raised and freestanding products come with ground anchors that fix each leg to the ground. These include the Marlie, My Kidz Shack and Oscar cubby houses, the Herbie Platform Add-on, The Matilda Play Set, River Fort Set, The Rusty Fort, Georgia Swing Fort, and the Milo, Waratah and Lucas swing sets. Your assembly manual shows whether anchors are included with your product.
Anchor Every Leg Before Anyone Plays
Fit the supplied anchors to every leg and check each one for a firm hold before any child uses the equipment. If you can move an anchor or twist a leg, it isn't secure. Tighten it, or upgrade the anchoring method, before use.
Will the Supplied Anchors Hold in My Soil?
In firm, compacted soil, yes. The supplied anchors are designed for those conditions and hold well in most suburban backyards. Sandy coastal soil, clay that swells and shrinks with moisture, soft ground and waterlogged yards all reduce their holding power. If the anchors don't feel secure after installation, don't use the equipment until a stronger method is in place.
Screw-In Ground Anchors
The best first upgrade for most backyards with firm to medium soil. They spiral into the ground and grip far better than flat stakes, and you can remove them if you ever move the equipment.
Surface Plate Anchors
Bolt through a timber base frame or concrete pad instead of going into the ground. A good option for soft or sandy soil, or properties with a high water table.
Concrete Footings
The most permanent option, and the right choice for very sandy, coastal or constantly wet ground. Always use a post stirrup set into the concrete (see below).
Not sure which suits your yard? Your local hardware trade desk is a practical place to start. Tell them about your soil and drainage and they can recommend an anchor type at no cost. A fencing or landscaping professional can also assess your ground conditions.
Hide & Seek Kids cannot be held responsible for installation failures caused by inadequate or inappropriate anchoring for the ground conditions at your site.
Why Timber Must Never Sit on the Ground
Our play equipment uses untreated timber on purpose. Chemical timber treatments aren't appropriate for something children touch all day. The trade-off is that untreated timber absorbs moisture faster than treated, so keeping it clear of the ground is essential, not optional.
Timber sitting on soil, grass, bark or concrete stays damp at the end grain and decays from the inside out. By the time you can see the damage, it's usually well advanced.
Use Post Stirrups
Post stirrups (also called post anchors or post shoes) lift the base of each timber post clear of the ground, leaving an air gap so moisture can't wick into the end grain. The stirrup touches the ground, and the timber sits above it. They're available at most hardware stores in three styles:
- Screw-in stirrups for use with screw-in ground anchors
- Drive-in stirrups for firm, compacted ground
- Concrete-set stirrups for use with concrete footings
Where a frame sits on a base rather than individual posts, level pressure-treated timber sleepers can be used to raise it off the ground instead. Keep sleepers clear of pooling water.
Never Concrete Timber Posts Directly
If you use concrete footings, set a post stirrup into the wet concrete at each post location and let it cure fully before attaching the frame. The timber post then sits in the stirrup above ground level. Concreting timber posts straight into a footing seals moisture against the end grain and rots the post from the inside. It doesn't hold the timber any better. It just shortens the life of your equipment.
What Not to Do:
- Don't set timber posts directly into soil without a stirrup
- Don't embed timber posts directly into concrete
- Don't use loose pavers or bricks as a base
- Don't let mulch, soil or leaf litter build up against post bases or anchor points
Even with stirrups fitted, check around each post base as part of your seasonal maintenance. Soil creep, mulch or debris that bridges the air gap brings moisture straight back into the timber.
Section 5
How Much Soft-Fall and Space Does Play Equipment Need?
Raised cubby houses, forts, swing sets and monkey bars need at least 300mm of impact-absorbing surfacing, such as bark, wood chips or rubber matting, extending 1.8 metres in all directions from the edge of the equipment. Grass alone isn't enough, and concrete or pavers should never sit in a fall zone.
Keep Clear of Obstacles
Position play equipment well away from fences, walls, sheds, overhanging branches, powerlines and clotheslines. Children move fast and in every direction, and a swing or slide that's too close to an obstacle creates a collision risk.
Top Up Soft-Fall Regularly
Loose surfacing like bark and wood chips gets kicked out of high-traffic spots such as swing landings and slide exits. Rake it back and top it up so the depth stays at 300mm or more.
Section 6
Delivery & Storing Your Cartons
Your order will arrive in several cartons, each containing different components and parts. These cartons are designed to fit through standard doorways, making it easier to move them into your home or storage area.
Check Your Cartons on Arrival
If any carton is damaged, report it to us within 4 business days of delivery with photos, even if the product inside looks fine. This lets us address any hidden damage.
Storage Best Practices
- Choose a dry, covered location protected from rain, moisture and direct sunlight
- Keep cartons elevated off concrete floors if possible to prevent moisture absorption
- Store in a secure area where cartons won't be damaged by other items or equipment
- Avoid extreme temperatures that could affect timber components
- Keep all cartons for one product together so components are easy to locate during assembly
When you're ready to assemble, carefully unpack each carton and verify you have all necessary parts and hardware before beginning.
Installation Manuals
A complete library of installation manuals is available in PDF format on our Assembly Manuals page. You'll also find a printed copy included in your delivery carton.
Section 7
Painting Your Products
Painting is part of your DIY setup for every outdoor timber product, including cubby houses, forts, swing sets, mud kitchens, and picnic tables and chairs. It's also the fun part, where you choose the colours and make it your own. Kids beds arrive with a finished surface and don't require painting.
Why Painting is Essential
Our outdoor products arrive with a temporary water-based stain that protects the timber during storage and transport. This stain is NOT a permanent finish. Sun, rain and humidity break down unprotected timber over time, so a quality sealer and exterior paint is your product's main protection and the best way to extend its life.
Our Recommended Painting System
After consulting with Dulux paint experts, we recommend the following two-step system.
Step 1: Prime & Seal
Dulux 1 Step Prep (water-based primer, sealer and undercoat)
- Apply a minimum of 2 coats to all surfaces
- Provides mould resistance and stain blocking
- Blocks tannin bleed and flash rust
- Creates a strong foundation for topcoat adhesion
Step 2: Protect & Colour
Dulux Weathershield (exterior grade paint)
- Apply a minimum of 2 coats over the prepared surface
- Choose any colour to match your style
- Forms the protective outer layer over the primer
- Gives a durable finish for outdoor timber
Important: Don't Skip the 1 Step Prep
It may be tempting to use exterior paint with built-in primer, but this will NOT provide the same level of protection. Dulux 1 Step Prep offers key features including mould resistance, tannin blocking and proper timber preparation that standard primer-in-paint products cannot match. This step is essential for extending the life of your cubby house or outdoor furniture.
Exclusive Dulux Partnership
Save on premium paint and supplies
We've partnered with Dulux to offer you exclusive trade discounts on quality paints and supplies. Simply present our trade account details at participating stores.
Available at: Dulux Trade Centres and Outlet stores (e.g. Inspirations Paint)
Not available at: Major hardware chain stores
What you'll need: trade account number, your name as the purchase order, and an invoice showing your Hide & Seek Kids product
Click to Reveal Trade Account Number
Hide & Seek Kids Trade Account
450467
When to Paint
We strongly recommend painting BEFORE assembly. This approach offers several advantages:
- All surfaces are accessible and easier to coat thoroughly
- Hard-to-reach areas and joints receive proper protection
- Assembly is cleaner without wet paint
- Better coverage means better protection and longer life
- Reduces the risk of missing spots that could lead to weathering
Day-by-Day Painting Schedule
- Day 1-2: Apply the first coat of Dulux 1 Step Prep to all surfaces
- Day 3-4: Apply the second coat of Dulux 1 Step Prep
- Day 5-6: Apply the first coat of Dulux Weathershield
- Day 7-8: Apply the second coat of Dulux Weathershield
- Day 9-10: Allow final cure time before assembly
Tip: Weather Matters
Don't paint in extreme heat, cold, rain or high humidity. Check the paint tin for the recommended application conditions and drying times, and allow longer between coats in cool or humid weather.
Brush or Spray?
Spray application may seem faster, but brush application is strongly recommended for best results.
Extra Sealing for Weather-Exposed Spots
An exterior-grade, paintable sealant (such as Selleys Storm Sealant) adds an extra layer of protection against leaks, especially in areas that cop heavy rain. Use it on fine timber cracks and gaps, roof joints, window frames and other weather-exposed areas. It can be applied before or after assembly. Check the product label for curing time before painting over it.
Painting Supplies Checklist
Essential Materials:
- Dulux 1 Step Prep (primer, sealer and undercoat). Calculate 2 coats for all surfaces.
- Dulux Weathershield Exterior Paint. Calculate 2 coats for all surfaces.
- Quality paint brushes (2-3 sizes for different areas)
- Paint rollers and trays for large flat surfaces
- Stirring sticks
- Drop sheets or tarps to protect the painting area
- Painter's tape for clean edges if desired
- Rags or paper towels for clean-up
Optional but Recommended:
- Exterior-grade paintable sealant (e.g. Selleys Storm Sealant)
- Fine grit sandpaper for any rough spots
- Paint can opener
- Brush cleaner
Section 8
Assembly Guidelines
Assembling your Hide & Seek Kids product is a rewarding DIY project. Follow these guidelines for best results.
Before You Begin
- Read the instructions thoroughly before starting assembly
- Gather all necessary tools and materials in advance
- Enlist a helper. A second person makes assembly significantly easier.
- Choose a clear, flat workspace with plenty of room to move
- Verify all parts are present using the instruction checklist
- If painted, make sure the paint is completely dry before assembly
Critical: Do NOT Overtighten Screws
Overtightening is the leading cause of timber splitting and cracking during assembly. Tighten screws until they are snug and secure, but not overly tight. The screw should be firm, but you should NOT see timber compressing or bulging around the screw head. If using a drill, reduce the torque setting or finish tightening by hand.
During Assembly
- Follow the instructions step by step in the exact order provided
- Check for level and stability throughout the process
- Tighten fasteners progressively rather than fully tightening one at a time
- Make sure all connections are secure but not overtightened
- Check gaps on railings and platform edges as you go.
- Fit any supplied leg anchors and check them before anyone plays on the equipment
Typical Tools
Every product is different, so check your assembly manual for the exact tools you'll need. Most builds use some or all of the following.
Typical Tools:
- Power drill with adjustable torque settings
- Phillips head screwdriver bits
- Manual screwdriver for final tightening
- Spirit level
- Measuring tape
- Rubber mallet for gentle tapping into place
- Adjustable wrench or socket set
- Pencil for marking
- Step ladder for taller structures
Helpful Additions:
- Work gloves
- Safety glasses
- Carpenter's square
- Sawhorses or a work table
Section 9
How Do You Maintain Timber Play Equipment?
A quick look every month, a proper inspection every three months and paint touch-ups as soon as you spot wear will keep your product safe and looking good. Here's the schedule at a glance, followed by the detail.
Maintenance Schedule at a Glance:
- Monthly: quick visual inspection, remove debris
- Quarterly: detailed inspection, check fasteners and anchors, clean thoroughly
- Annually: full maintenance check and paint touch-ups
- Repaint: whenever your inspections show the paint wearing thin, cracking, peeling or fading. Spots with heavy sun, coastal air or high humidity usually need it sooner.
- After storms: thorough safety inspection before allowing children to play
- After use: store picnic tables, chairs and other movable items out of the elements
Regular Cleaning
- Clean with mild detergent and water regularly
- Remove dirt, leaves and debris from all surfaces
- Pay special attention to joints and crevices where moisture can collect
- Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely
- Remove cobwebs and insect nests regularly
Periodic Inspections
Check your products at least every 3 months for:
- Structural integrity: look for cracks, splits or warping
- Loose fasteners: tighten screws and bolts as needed
- Ground anchors: each anchor should feel tight with no movement in the legs
- Post bases: clear any soil, mulch or leaf litter built up against them
- Paint condition: touch up any areas where paint has chipped or worn
- Rot or decay: address immediately if found
- Mould growth: clean and address moisture sources
- Hardware condition: check for rust or damage
- Soft-fall depth: top up bark or wood chips that have been kicked out
- Safety hazards: splinters, protruding nails, loose components
When Should You Repaint?
Repaint when your inspections tell you to, not on a fixed timetable. Touch up chips and worn spots promptly so moisture can't get in, and plan a full repaint once the paint is wearing thin, cracking, peeling or fading across larger areas. Always use quality exterior-grade products.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Follow this seasonal schedule to keep your products in top condition year-round.
Spring (September to November)
- Deep clean after winter to remove dirt, debris and cobwebs
- Inspect paint for winter damage and touch up as needed
- Check for mould after winter moisture and clean if present
- Tighten all fasteners and test ground anchors for a firm hold
- Clear soil and mulch from around post bases
- Inspect the roof for water damage or leaks
- Clear drainage around the base area
- Top up soft-fall before the busy warmer months
Summer (December to February)
- Check paint protection early and apply touch-ups
- Watch sun exposure and consider shade if it's excessive
- Check regularly as this is peak usage time
- Clean weekly during heavy use periods
- Check mud kitchen areas are draining properly
- Keep enclosed structures well ventilated
- Check surfaces for heat before kids play on hot days
Autumn (March to May)
- Remove fallen leaves and debris regularly
- Clean gutters on cubby houses if applicable
- Prepare for the wet season by checking paint and sealant
- Inspect and seal any new gaps or cracks
- Consider weather covers for exposed equipment
- Check drainage is working effectively
- Plan any repainting for dry autumn days
Winter (June to August)
- Inspect for water damage and check drainage early in the season
- Increase inspection frequency during wet weather
- Check for water pooling or leaks after rain
- Monitor for mould in damp conditions and clean promptly
- Cover or secure cushions and fabric accessories
- Check structure stability after storms
- Plan spring projects and order paint and supplies for touch-ups
Section 10
Is It Normal for Timber to Crack and Move?
Yes. Small cracks and gaps that open in dry weather and close again in humid weather are normal for natural timber and don't affect structural integrity.
Timber is a Living, Natural Material
Timber continues to respond to its environment throughout its life. Understanding these natural characteristics helps you appreciate your product and maintain it properly.
Thermal Expansion & Contraction
Timber naturally expands and contracts in response to temperature and moisture changes:
- Dry seasons: timber dries out, showing minor gaps and cracks
- Humid seasons: timber absorbs moisture and gaps close up
- This is completely normal and does not affect structural integrity
- Each piece responds differently based on grain, density and position
Natural Variations
Your timber product may display knots and grain variations, slight colour differences between pieces, natural markings, and minor imperfections that add character. These are part of timber's natural look, not defects.
Colour Variations in Plastic Accessories
Plastic accessories such as slides, handles and climbing rocks may vary slightly in colour between manufacturing batches. We work to minimise these variations and keep quality consistent across all components. These variations do not affect the safety or functionality of the products.
Why Does Mould Grow on Outdoor Timber?
Natural Occurrence on All Outdoor Timber
Regardless of timber type or treatment, mould will eventually find its way to outdoor timber products. It's a completely natural part of the outdoor environment. The good news is there are proven measures you can take to slow mould growth and protect your investment.
How mould develops. Mould needs moisture (from rain, dew or humidity), oxygen, a host material such as timber or leaves, and humidity, especially in damp, shaded areas. Spores travel through the air until they find suitable conditions. In damp, humid environments they can flourish quickly, resulting in dark spots on timber surfaces.
Preventing mould growth. The most effective prevention method is proper sealing with quality primer and exterior paint. When applied correctly, it:
- Creates a protective barrier against moisture penetration
- Protects the timber surface from sun and rain
- Prevents mould spores from establishing on the timber surface
- Makes cleaning and maintenance easier
Cover Every Surface
Make sure every square millimetre of your product is coated, including all edges, joins and hard-to-reach areas. Any unpainted timber provides an entry point for moisture and mould.
Section 11
Preparing for Bad Weather
Weather Safety Notice
Severe storms and high winds call for preparation to protect your investment and keep everyone safe.
Before Severe Weather
- Secure loose items including cushions, toys and accessories
- Cover cubby houses with tarps or weather covers if possible
- Bring movable items indoors such as picnic tables, chairs and decorative items
- Remove or secure shade sails and fabric elements
- Check anchors and make sure ground fixings are secure
During Severe Weather
- Avoid using play equipment during heavy rain, thunderstorms or strong winds
- Keep children indoors until conditions are safe
- Monitor equipment from indoors if possible
After Extreme Weather
- Inspect for damage including loose screws, cracks or structural issues
- Check every anchor is still tight and no legs have shifted
- Check for water build-up, especially in enclosed areas
- Make necessary repairs before allowing children to play
- After flooding, thoroughly inspect structural integrity and allow complete drying
Section 12
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Tap a problem below to see the likely cause and how to fix it.
Doors or windows won't close properly
Cause: the structure is not level.
Solution: use a spirit level to check if the base is level. Adjust the base or sleepers to achieve a level installation. Most "crooked" issues are caused by uneven ground, not product defects.
Timber has small cracks or gaps
Cause: natural thermal expansion and contraction.
Solution: this is completely normal and does not affect structural integrity. Small cracks open in dry weather and close when humidity returns. This is expected behaviour for natural timber.
Paint is peeling or bubbling
Cause: inadequate primer, moisture penetration, or painting in unsuitable conditions.
Solution: strip the affected areas, allow the timber to dry completely, apply Dulux 1 Step Prep (2 coats), then reapply Weathershield topcoat (2 coats). Make sure all edges and joins are fully covered.
Dark spots appearing on timber
Cause: mould growth due to moisture and humidity.
Solution: clean with a mild detergent and water solution and allow to dry completely. Touch up paint if needed. Improve ventilation and consider relocating if the product sits in an overly shaded, damp area.
Timber is soft or rotting at the base of a post
Cause: the timber has been in contact with soil, mulch or concrete, or water is pooling around the post.
Solution: stop children using the equipment and contact our team about replacement parts. Once repaired, fit post stirrups or a raised base so the timber sits clear of the ground, and keep mulch and soil away from the post bases.
Screws or bolts coming loose
Cause: natural timber movement or vibration from play.
Solution: check and tighten all fasteners every 3 months. This is normal maintenance. Do not overtighten when re-securing.
Timber split during assembly
Cause: overtightened screws.
Solution: if the split is minor, proceed carefully and make sure there are no sharp edges. If it's a major split, contact our customer service team for a replacement part.
Prevention: use a lower torque setting on your drill and finish tightening by hand.
Structure feels wobbly
Cause: uneven base, loose fasteners or anchors, or incorrect assembly.
Solution: check that the base is level and every leg anchor is tight. Verify all screws and bolts are properly tightened (but not overtightened), and review the assembly manual to confirm all steps were completed. If the anchors won't hold in your soil, upgrade the method as described in Anchoring & Timber Protection. Don't let children use it until it's solid.
Still Having Issues?
If you've tried these solutions and are still having problems, please contact our customer support team. Have your order number and photos of the issue ready so we can help you quickly.
Section 13
Safety & Adult Supervision
Supervision is Always Necessary
Adult supervision is essential whenever children are playing in or around cubby houses, beds and outdoor play equipment. This is especially important for younger children who may not be fully aware of potential hazards.
Supervision Guidelines
- Always supervise children during play
- Teach children safe play practices
- Set and enforce clear rules for equipment use
- Regularly check that children are using equipment safely
- Monitor weather conditions and restrict use when unsafe
- Keep the play area clear of hazards
Bed Safety: Floor Beds & Low Profile Beds
Critical Floor Bed Safety Guidelines
Positioning against a wall: for cubby house beds and similar framed designs, place the headboard end against the wall rather than the long side. This avoids a long gap between the bed and the wall where a toddler could become trapped.
No gaps between mattress and wall: if any side of the mattress sits against a wall, push it flush so there is no gap a young child could slip into. If you can't close the gap completely, move the bed well clear of the wall instead.
Firm mattress required: always use a firm mattress to minimise the risk of sleep-related accidents.
Correct mattress fit: make sure the mattress fits the bed frame properly with no gaps where a child could become trapped.
Clear sleep space: keep the area around the mattress completely free from soft toys, bean bags, plastic bags or similar items that a young child might roll onto. Soft objects can contour around a child's face and present a suffocation risk.
Kids beds arrive with a finished surface and do not require painting.
Section 14
What's NOT Covered Under Warranty?
Damage caused by skipped painting, poor placement, missing anchoring or lack of maintenance is not a manufacturing defect, and it isn't covered. How well you prepare and look after your product directly affects how long it lasts.
Your Setup Determines Your Product's Lifespan
Under our warranty policy, failing to prepare and service your product in line with our recommendations will void your warranty. For example, not painting a cubby house or placing it incorrectly. Following this guide is the best way to protect both your product and your warranty.
Common Issues and How to Reduce the Risk
Other Warranty Conditions
- Modifications: any modification made to the equipment will void the warranty
- Fittings and accessories: only use fittings and accessories provided by Hide & Seek Kids, or your warranty may be invalidated
- Discolouration: discolouration of equipment is not covered. Store picnic tables, chairs and other movable items out of the elements after use.
- Timber surface cracks and thermal expansion: normal timber movement is not considered a fault
- Plastic accessories: colour variation in slides, handles, climbing walls and plastic accessories is not regarded as a fault
For full terms, read our Warranty & Repairs Policy.
Section 15
When to Contact Customer Service
We're here to help. Contact our customer service team if you experience any of the following.
Contact Us For:
- Missing parts or hardware: we'll send replacements immediately
- Damaged cartons or components on arrival: report within 4 business days of delivery with photos, even if the product inside looks fine
- Assembly questions: if instructions are unclear, we're happy to help
- Manufacturing defects: structural issues, major warping or quality concerns
- Warranty claims: for issues covered under warranty terms
- Spare parts orders: replacement components available
Before Contacting Us:
To help us assist you quickly, please have ready:
- Your order number
- Photos of the issue (multiple angles if possible)
- Product name and size or colour ordered
- A description of the problem
Response times: we aim to respond to all enquiries within 1-2 business days.
Additional Resources
Your Success is Our Priority
This guide brings together years of experience and customer feedback to help you get the most from your Hide & Seek Kids products. Every backyard is different, so if you're ever unsure about any part of installation, painting or maintenance, we encourage you to seek professional advice or contact our team.
We're here to support you from delivery to assembly and through years of family play. Thank you for choosing Hide & Seek Kids.