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Best Sandboxes Reviewed & Rated for Quality
There are boxes with benches, sandboxes with lids, you can even acquire uniquely designed sandboxes with covers for kids to use as storage containers if needed. Peruse our review of the top ten best on the market to find your ideal selection. The accompanying sandbox buying guide will help you assess each item based on their most outstanding qualities and features.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Style
There are few things that are capable of taking play the next level as effectively as a well-crafted simulation. The sandbox allows your little ones to expand their imagination and that is the effect some of these items have on your child. They simulate events such as ships on a voyage or a mountain range even a water park. With this kind of motivation, it is easy for them to get into character and fully immerse themselves in the new world they have created.
Cedarwood does not only offer quality when it comes to performance it also provides quality when it comes to design. These types of woods can be stained which gives them a beautiful color that will make your outdoor decor simply pop. The bright, brown, natural earthy color will go well with most designs. Due to the stain, users are able to have slight variations to the color of their item giving them the chance to stand out from other models.
A bottomless enclosure may sound like an obvious challenge and more trouble than it is worth but it actually comes with quite a few positives one of which is easy drainage. You won’t need to worry about the moisture from water use turning your sand into sludge. Another benefit that can be easily underestimated is the fact that this sandbox allows you to control the depth of sand you use which can be adjusted to the age and ability of your little one.
Use
One of the main uses of these types of items is digging and building. These sandbox activities may seem simple but help to build the arm muscles of young ones. It also helps them to develop sensory and motor skills, both of which are vital to complete tasks as they get older. This can at times be accompanied by water activity which is ideal for younger children as they learn to distinguish between full and empty and practice pouring contents from one item into another.
A simple period of fun never hurt anyone and at its very basic value, this type of toy is quite fun for children. They get to express their creativity by using the contents to build replicas of things they would see in everyday life such as castles or scenery. This type of creativity does not come naturally to everyone and it’s a great idea to use this time as an opportunity to nurture that all too rare creative spark in your little one.
Capacity
Their size of the structure plays a role in the amount of play sand it can hold at full capacity. Smaller sized toys that offer around 42 inches as its longest side is ideal for smaller children and generally has enough room for more than one. These can hold around two hundred pounds of play sand and carry a depth of around 11 inches which gives enough space for building and digging comfortably. You do, however, receive greater options with a larger selection.
With larger options, you can alternate between water and sand activities. There is also more room to accommodate toys and accessories which can be used to enhance the playing experience. A larger enclosure also means more room which allows more children to participate in playtime. It also means bigger kids can enjoy the experience as there is more room and the depth is sufficient for them to dig and express their creativity.
Tabletop toys offer their own allure with the value you won’t get from other enclosures. For example, smaller enclosures are easy to maneuver and keep contents in a concentrated area. This sandbox reduces the mess you typically have to clean up with larger selections. They also typically come with multiple accessories that can be used to enhance gameplay. It may not be adequate for smaller children but older kids can find hours of enjoyment playing with this toy.
Advanced Features
Molded seats are common with designs that are constructed from hard plastic and are an excellent feature to ensure that kids can have a comfortable seat while they play. These are usually located at the corners of the structure allowing them to sit while their feet are rested safely inside the sandbox so they can dig and build while they rest. With this option, they won’t need to go into the center of the sand to gain access which leaves them cleaner after their experience as well.
Wood construction denotes strength and stability with a typically high level of wear resistance. Not all items have this type of construction but those that do, are expected to have a long period of use. There are some wooden designs that have additional features that improve those naturally occurring benefits. For example, there are sandboxes that feature water resistance. This makes them a great choice for outdoor use as they are able to stand up to the elements.
A sandbox with high levels of exposure to the sun can be a challenge to use after extended periods. The sand gets hot and it usually spells the end of a gaming session, however, some companies have sought to address this issue, coming up with great ideas such as a canopy. Not only does it keep the sand from absorbing the heat given off by the sun but it also provides protection to your little one as heat exposure can cause them to become dehydrated.
Ease of Use
A multipurpose lid comes in handy with these types of items. Generally, with covers, you get the protection of contents from the elements as well as animals and bugs but they do little to contribute to playtime. Some designs on this list, however, make good use of their lids. They may act as visual stimuli creating the illusion of mountains. Others may act as a divider to keep the wet and dry areas separate. With some items, you can even attach accessories to create cool effects such as waterfalls. Flat lids add even more benefit.
Tables with flat lids can be quite useful when not in use which adds value to the selection. For example, the flat area can be used for arts and crafts as it creates a desk-like condition for children to use. The areas that are usually used for play can now be repurposed and utilized as an extra storage area. The ideas and options are limitless when it comes to these types of covers. It is easy to see the possibilities and get the most out of your purchase.
What features on the outside of these types of items is just as important as what features on the inside. A screen base is highly valuable as its main job is to allow proper drainage. These sandboxes allow liquids to escape while the sand is kept secure inside the enclosure. This stops the sand from turning to mud and allows the use of water inside the enclosure with a minimal amount of cleaning being done after every play session.
10 Best Sandboxes
1. Step2 Play And Store
The Step2 Play Store with cover has four molded seats and a lid for extra protection from the elements and animals.
This sandbox has a contemporary design and is large enough to accommodate multiple children at once. They have the opportunity to develop their sensory skills while having fun with building and digging. Made in the United States of America, the structure is quite durable and holds up to 200lbs at capacity.
Capacity
At full capacity, this structure is able to hold up to two hundred pounds of play sand with measurements of twenty-eight inches by forty-two inches and a depth of eleven inches. Assembly is not required for this item as it comes pre-assembled.
Advanced Features
The seats have been molded into the structure so children can sit while they dig and build on the inside of the selection. Sandbox comes with a cover lid to protect the contents when not in use.
Cost and Value
The Step2 Play Store with cover has a moderately low price range. Encourage your little ones to dig, build castles and so much more with this spacious toy. The sand needed for use of this item is not included in your purchase.
2. Step2 Splash N Scoop Bay Sand And Water Table
The Step2 Splash Bay table is dual-sided to accommodate both sand and water with a waterfall for “mountain” cover.
This sandbox has a water tower that runs down the structure like a maze. There are multiple slides and the height creates a mountain like display to excite the little ones. The square shape allows for a more stable structure with four legs and multiple areas for each child to set up during playtime.
Ease of Use
With dual operation it may be a challenge to ensure the water and sand stay separate, however, this design comes with a lid that can be placed on either side to secure its contents. The easy drain plug makes clean up a walk in the park.
Style
There is a lot of simulation to this sandbox and it is sure to keep your little one occupied for hours. They can play with both water and sand with a simulated mountain incorporated into the lid. This then extends up to create a waterfall scene.
Cost and Value
The Step2 Splash Bay table has a low price range. Its seven-piece accessory sanbox set includes toys such as a removable cup, shark scoop, and spinner. Accessories are removable for a custom play session every time.
3. Step2 Crabbie Sandbox
The Step2 Sand crab Box has two claws that can be used as seats with a sand capacity of up to 200 lbs.
This sandbox has a bright and inviting color shaped in the form of a sand crab. It can be used for both glasses of water and play activities with the claws of the animal provided a comfortable spot for kids to sit while they play. At capacity, this structure can hold up to 300 lbs with a lid to protect the contents from the elements as well as animals.
Use
Sand and water activities can both be accommodated by this sand crab structure. It gives little ones the opportunity to dig and build in an environment conducive to creativity and imagination.
Capacity
At full capacity, this sandbox can hold up to three hundred pounds of play sand which is ideal for younger ones around the age of one who may be a bit overwhelmed by larger enclosures.
Cost and Value
The Step2 Sand Crab box has a high price range, however, the shell lid is sculpted providing a beautiful design. Accessories used for display are not included in the set upon delivery.
4. Best Choice Products
The Best Choice wooden sandbox is designed to split at the top to form chairs which provide a built-in screen from elements and debris.
This sandbox promotes imagination with enough room for your little one to explore and get involved in activities with their hands to build creativity. This design is quite adjustable and opens at the top to create a dual seating area where children can rest comfortably while at play.
Advanced Features
The wood used to construct this item is designed to be water-resistant which means it can withstand the onslaught of rains and other elements. This heavy-duty selection is made to last.
Ease of Use
The inside lining of this sandbox features a sand screen at the base. It effectively allows moisture to escape while keeping the play sand in place reducing the chances of mud developing within the enclosure.
Cost and Value
The Best Choice wooden sandbox has a very high price range, however, it is highly adjustable and folds to seal the entire enclosure to protect the contents and unfolds to provide seating when in use.
5. Creative Cedar Designs
The Creative Cedar octagon sandbox has a capacity of up to five hundred pounds with a polyethylene cover to protect the contents.
This sandbox is 84 inches long and 78 inches high with a depth of 9 inches. At capacity it holds a whopping 800 pounds and its cedar walls ensure that it can hold up to the wear and tear of outdoor use. The wide seat boards that form the perimeter of the structure provides comfortable seating during gameplay.
Style
The stained wood used for the construction of this enclosure gives it a great look to blend in with your outdoor decor. It has wide seat boards that can be used by multiple children to relax in comfort while having fun.
Use
Sand and water activities can both be accommodated by this sand crab structure. It gives little ones the opportunity to dig and build in an environment conducive to creativity and imagination.
Cost and Value
The Creative Cedar octagon sandbox moderately high price range. Not only is there an inner liner to protect against moisture but there is a top cover also designed to protect the contents of the enclosure from elements and animals alike.
6. My Little Sandbox
The My Little Builder box is a 20 x 20 tabletop playset designed to encourage creativity and imagination.
This sandbox is designed to be used as a tabletop toy so you won’t need to worry about space or whether when selecting this product. It comes with a custom playset that will expand your child’s imagination as well as their motor and sensory skills. Included with your purchase are builder blocks and an entire construction crew.
Capacity
The enclosure provided with this sandbox measures twenty inches by twenty inches and is designed to be used as a tabletop toy. Its small size makes it easy to manage but does not decrease the enjoyment during use.
Ease of Use
As a desktop toy, this design is not as messy as a full-sized structure would be. It is more manageable and provides an excellent range of mobility priming muscles and working well to develop coordination.
Cost and Value
The My Little Builder box has a low price range. Sandbox uses fine sand and comes with accessories such as a fork and digging shovel that little ones can use to enhance their playing sessions.
7. Costzon Kids
The Costzon Kids convertible cabana is constructed from hardwood with two benches for comfortable seating.
This sandbox has two pop up benches that can accommodate multiple children for comfortable seating while at play. They can dig, build and let their imagination go wild. Sandbox set up is easy and each bench area has handgrips that can be used for opening and closing the adjustable doors.
Advanced Features
Having a highly adjustable lid allows users to protect the enclosure contents when it is not in use and provides comfortable seating for children while they are at play with enough space for multiple kids.
Style
This sandbox has a bottomless construction which makes it easy for water to escape if it is being used during playtime. It also allows you to easily adjust the depth your child plays in so it is customized to their age and ability.
Cost and Value
The Costzon Kids convertible cabana has a very high price range, however, it comes with a black fabric mat so you can set up the enclosure anywhere you go so your child has on the go fun wherever life takes them.
8. Sandbox Critters
The Sandbox Critters turtle set is designed to challenge your child and help them build important skills such as sensory and motor.
This sandbox measures 20 inches by 20 inches for use on tabletops. It has construction vehicles, safety cones, and even a construction crew to immerse your little one in this enjoyable experience. There is a lid attached to this selection which protects the contents from spilling or interaction with animals.
Ease of Use
As a desktop toy, this sandbox is not as messy as a full-sized structure would be. It is more manageable and provides an excellent range of mobility priming muscles and working well to develop coordination.
Use
The main purpose of this sandbox is to encourage your child to expand their imagination and develop their ability to be creative. With the hand-selected toys included in this kit, there is ample room for growth.
Cost and Value
The Sandbox Critters turtle set has a very low price range. The sand used in this enclosure is quite fine which makes for a pleasant experience for your little one. Additional toys include a construction crew and safety cones.
9. Simplay3
The Simplay3 activity table accommodates both sand and water play with adjustability for arts and craft.
This sandbox is a multipurpose table that is highly interactive. It can be used indoors as well as outdoors with designated areas for both sand and water games. The adjustable structure can also be repurposed as a desk and even be used as a source of additional storage space.
Style
With dual operation it may be a challenge to ensure the water and sand stay separate, however, this design comes with a lid that can be placed on either side to secure its contents. The easy drain plug makes clean up a walk in the park.
Capacity
At full capacity, this enclosure holds up to two gallons of water and when filled with sand you can store up to twenty-four pounds of sand. This is made possible by a structure that measures sixteen inches by nine inches.
Cost and Value
The Simplay3 Kids outdoor activity table has a high price range, however, this sandbox is ideal for use at home with a four in one function that extends out of the interactive play and transcends into storage and arts and crafts.
10. Plum Store
The Plum Store wooden pit has a protective cover to keep the contents secure from the elements and pets along with grounding paper for comfort.
This sandbox is quite colorful and encourages outdoor activities such as digging and exercising. Using the sand to build shapes and objects helps to develop important sensory and motor skills that children will need to nurture as they get older. Built with PFC this structure is sturdy and safe to use.
Use
The main purpose of this sandbox is to encourage your child to expand their imagination and develop their ability to be creative. With the hand-selected toys included in this sandbox kit, there is ample room for growth.
Advanced Features
The inside lining of this sandbox features a sand screen at the base. It effectively allows moisture to escape while keeping the play sand in place reducing the chances of mud developing within the enclosure.
Cost and Value
The Plum Store wooden pit has a moderately low price range. It is designed for use out of doors for young children around the age of one. It does require some assembly, however, it can be covered when not use to protect its contents.
