Playground Rubber Chippings – Rubber Mulch & Rubber Bark Bulk Bags

Our playground rubber chippings — also known as rubber mulch — are a durable, low-maintenance and impact-absorbing surfacing solution for play areas, playgrounds, gardens, schools, nurseries and commercial landscaping across the UK. Made from recycled rubber, these 10–20mm rubber chippings are a longer-lasting alternative to bark mulch that won't rot, break down or need constant topping up.

Rubber Chippings and Rubber Mulch Explained

Rubber chippings and rubber mulch are the same recycled rubber surfacing — the terms are used interchangeably across the UK. Both describe shredded recycled rubber used as a soft, free-draining ground cover for play areas, gardens and pathways. Unlike loose gravel or soil, a rubber mulch surface stays cleaner underfoot, drains freely and holds up year-round in high-use areas.

Rubber Mulch for Play Areas, Playgrounds and Gardens

These 10–20mm rubber chippings suit garden play areas, school and nursery playgrounds, recreational spaces, pathways and general landscaping. As a play area rubber mulch they create a softer, cleaner surface around swings, climbing frames and trampolines; in the garden they cover muddy patches, borders and walkways without the rot and mess of bark.

Common uses include playground rubber mulch surfacing, garden ground cover, under-trampoline areas, swing and climbing-frame surrounds, muddy lawn repair, pathways and decorative landscaping. Actual suitability depends on the intended use, installation method and required depth.

Bulk Bag Sizes and Coverage

Rubber chippings are supplied in bulk bags from 300kg up to 5000kg, plus a small sample option. Approximate coverage at 50mm depth:

Coverage is approximate and varies with depth, ground conditions and compaction. A shallower layer goes further for decorative cover; a deeper layer is recommended for play areas.

Colour Options

Supplied as standard in black. For green, red, brown and other shades, see our coloured playground rubber chippings range.

Playground Safety and BS EN 1177

Rubber chippings provide a softer surface than gravel, soil or hard landscaping and can help cushion impact in general play areas. Important: beneath swings, slides, climbing frames or any equipment where a child could fall from height, surfacing must be assessed against the required Critical Fall Height and, where applicable, meet BS EN 1177. For muddy patches, pathways, flat play spaces and decorative landscaping, rubber chippings are an effective, durable surface in their own right.

Rubber Chippings vs Bark Mulch

Unlike traditional bark mulch, rubber chippings don't rot, decompose or need regular topping up. They resist mould, hold their colour and stay tidy in high-traffic areas, making them a lower-maintenance, longer-lasting choice where drainage and durability matter. Read our full comparison: rubber chippings vs bark for play areas.

Installation and Maintenance

For best results, lay rubber chippings over a prepared, level base with a suitable weed membrane underneath. Spread evenly to the required depth — typically 30–50mm for landscaping, with greater depth where fall protection is needed. Maintain by occasional raking and clearing leaves or debris with a garden blower.

Bulk and Trade Orders

Need a larger quantity for a school, nursery, park, landscaping or commercial project? Contact us for a custom bulk quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are rubber chippings made from?
Recycled rubber tyre, granulated into 20mm chips. Free from harmful chemicals and tested for playground safety use.

How deep should rubber chippings be for a playground?
Depth depends on the Critical Fall Height (CFH) of the equipment. Typical depths are 100mm for low-level equipment and 200mm+ for climbing frames and slides. Check the equipment manufacturer's specifications.

How much area does one bulk bag cover?
One bulk bag covers approximately 8-10 square metres at 50mm depth, or 4-5 square metres at 100mm depth. Contact us with your area and depth for an accurate quantity calculation.

Do rubber chippings drain well?
Yes. Rubber chippings are free-draining — water passes straight through, preventing puddles and standing water. This is a key advantage over wood bark which retains moisture.

What is the delivery time for rubber chippings?
5-10 working days to mainland UK. Rubber chippings are heavy items delivered on a pallet.