Moon Bounce vs. Bounce House: There is No Difference!

With so many different inflatable party options, it's tempting to look for distinctions that really aren't there. That's especially true for the misconceptions surrounding the terms moon bounce vs bounce house because they're just two different names for the same thing. 

 

Origins Of The Terms

Those wondering, "What's a bounce house?" will surely come across another common question customers have: "What is a moon bounce house?"

Fortunately, the difference is not so critical and pretty much no more meaningful than the cultural/regional difference between those who say "soda" and those who say "pop." How the two phrases arose, however, is quite interesting.

 

"Moon Bounce": A Historical Context

Like any form of recreation, those who partake are sure to establish their terminology. If your little ones have frequented a moon/bounce house, you've likely remarked how similar the bouncing effect replicates classic moonwalk videos. That's exactly where the term "moon bounce" gained popularity.

It's interesting to note that a retired NASA employee invented the first bounce house and even opened a bounce house amusement park dubbed "Space Pillow." The early bounce house industry, in general, frequently used space-related terms to describe and differentiate their products (such as the Space Walk and the Jupiter Jump).

 

Popularization of the Term "Bounce House"

By contrast, the term bounce house is more generalized, meant to invoke a wider image of inflatable playsets than moon bounce. Similar terms then followed, such as "bouncy castle" and "jumpy house," emphasizing their broader appeal and a wide range of uniquely themed inflatables, waterslides, obstacle courses, and more!

 

Geographic Variations in Terminology

Generally, the term "bounce house" is more common. "Moon bounce" (and for some, "moonwalk") is more well-known on the East Coast. While we ship to just about any region in the USA, here in Texas, you're most likely to hear "bounce house."

 

"Bounce House" vs. "Moon Bounce": Common Misconceptions

 

Myths Surrounding the Differences

As mentioned, the term "moon bounce" often conjures images of inflatables with a strong moon or space theme. Yet when most people use the term, they're referring to bounce houses of any kind. Some have also suggested that moon bounces refer specifically to bounce houses with shared inflatable sections, so when one child lands, it creates a ripple effect felt throughout (as opposed to bounce houses divided into sections). However, the industry and consumers as a whole have yet to adopt this idea.

 

Why Different Terms May Create Confusion Among Consumers

Some product distinctions can be helpful, but for children's rec equipment, it's more likely to add confusion. Rather, we find customers have the best experience when they look directly at the bounce house options available and choose the options that look fun and appealing; not what they're called.

 

Choosing the Right Moon Bounce/Bounce House

By any name, what matters the most is how well an inflatable play set gives rise to fun-filled memories. When selecting a moon or bounce house for your family or inflatable rental business, be sure to compare a wide variety of factors, including the inflatables:

• Size
• Theme
• Functions and features (e.g., jumping, climbing, slides, etc.)
• Safety features
• Peripherals (e.g., air compressors, stakes, and ropes)
• Expansion options

 

Contact Big & Bright Inflatables for Endless Bouncy House Fun"

Ultimately, we at Big & Bright Inflatables recommend choosing a bounce house according to the end-user's preferences and needs – not terminology. If you have any questions about a vast range of top-of-the-line moon/bounce houses, please contact us. Our experienced bounce house pros are eager to answer any and all queries about how much a moon bounces, indoor/outdoor capabilities, installation considerations, and any other questions you may have.

 

Image Credit: Lumena / shutterstock