The good news is that it’s not hard at all to custom-build the perfect backyard water slide. You just need to be a little brave. With the best materials and the right dimensions, pretty much anybody can build a massive homemade slip-and-slide that dwarfs almost any off-the-shelf Slip ’N Slide. You will need a roll of thick plastic, a few tent stakes or garden staples, and a water hose. It takes about 30 minutes to an hour and, depending on the size, should cost around $50 to $60. Here’s how you do it. Step… by step. (Do these steps in order! Don’t slip or slide ahead of yourself!)
What You’ll Need For ADIY Slip-and-Slide
Find the Perfect Spot For Your Slip-and-Slide
Obviously, the size of your slide depends on the size of your yard. We recommended a 100-foot piece of plastic ⏤ because that makes for a long, fun glide ⏤ but if a plastic sheet that long cuts across three of your neighbor’s lawns, go smaller (or roll it up). Nonetheless, you’re looking for the longest stretch of open grass, preferably on a hill, you can find ⏤ the steeper the incline, the wilder the ride. That said, a flat surface usually works just fine ⏤ even better when you add a little baby shampoo to the water. No matter the spot, though, the most important thing you can do is remove any rocks, sticks, or obstructions from the full length of the glide path. Walk it once, twice, three times, whatever it takes to ensure nobody smashes mid-slide into a tree root hidden underneath.
Unroll The Plastic & Secure The Ends
After picking a spot, unfurl the plastic sheet and straighten. Make sure it’s stretched taut and the wrinkles are smoothed out. You have two options for securing the slide:
Add Water And Shampoo
With the slide in place, you’re just about ready to go. Either set up sprinkler(s) along the runway or turn the hose on at the top of the slide and run the water until it’s completely soaked. Depending on the desired speed of the slide, have the kids do a couple of test runs to see how fast the surface is. If it’s too slow, simply pour some baby shampoo the length of the plastic. Not only is it an effective lubricant, but it’s better for the environment than, say dish soap, and it won’t burn the kid’s eyes.
Go Nuts With Your Homemade Slip-and-Slide!
Seriously, that’s it. Line the kids up and let them go wild as they slip and slide. Just remember one rider at a time and no standing, dammit!
