Whether they're scooping it, sifting it, building castles with it, making mudpies or digging through it - playing in the sand allows children to use their imaginations and hone their socialisation skills.

Living close to a number of beautiful beaches is never lost on us as a family, and the fact that we have the mother of all sandpits on our doorstep is something we never take for granted. But if you live inland or don’t like the idea of all that sand, you can bring the beach home to you, with kids sandpits.

What to Look For When Buying A Sandpit

The challenge isn’t finding a sandpit, after all, there are plenty to choose from. But it can be a little tricky knowing which one is best for your needs.

With this in mind, I've shared a little buying guide that will hopefully help you in your search...

1.The Size of the Sandpit Matters

When choosing a sandpit, the size of the sandpit matters, as well as the size of your garden. Ideally, you want something that can accommodate at least two children (think playdates), and that will be big enough to be played in four or five years down the line.

2. The Size of Your Garden Also Makes a Difference

While bigger is often better, you want a sandpit that doesn’t take up your entire garden. If space and budget are a real concern, there are some really great portable sandpits to choose from.

3. Where Do You Plan On Putting the Sandpit?

Knowing where you are going to be putting the sandpit is essential. Not only will this help you choose one that's the right size and shape for your garden, but you'll also be able to decide whether you need a sandpit with a canopy or a cover.

4. What Is the Sandpit Made Of?

Sandpits don't only come in all shapes and sizes, they are also made from different materials. Wooden ones are always popular, but if you are worried about the weather or are short on space, there is always the option of getting a sandpit made from non-toxic, eco-friendly plastic.

Aesthetically, a wooden sandpit looks nicer in a garden, but you will need to maintain to keep it looking as good as new, and prevent it from cracking. Plastic sandpits, depending on the weather, can fade over time and are also susceptible to cracking.

5. Raised or Ground-Level? 

You can choose whether you want a sandpit that’s raised or one that’s ground-level. Raised ones can be better suited to younger children, as they come with different features to help develop your little one’s creative play. Ground-level models are best for older kids. While both have their pros and cons, the one you finally decide on will come down to your personal needs and budget.

6. What Else Can a Sandpit Be Used For?

It’s worth considering what else a sandpit can be used for, especially if you’re spending quite a bit of money on one. Some sandpits double up as a picnic table or bench, which makes them excellent value for money. Plastic sandpits can be filled with water, while those with lids make for an additional playing surface. And of course, there's the option of turning your little one's sandpit into a ball pit every now and then.

7. How Easy is it to Assemble?

Believe it or not, some sandpits are quick and easy to assemble, while others might need a little DIY on your part. To save yourself a lot of frustration and bother, go for a pre-made sandpit or choose one that has pre-drilled holes as well as easy-to-follow instructions.

8. The Cost of Filling It

Don't forget about filling it. In all the excitement of choosing a sandpit, it's easy to forget about the cost of filling (and refilling) it. If you have pets or plan on using it all year round, it might be worth considering getting one with a lid. And whatever you do, don’t skimp on the quality of the sand you buy. Building sand contains substances that aren’t healthy and can cause long-term health problems down the line. Although it’s slightly more expensive, it’s worth investing in a good quality sand that is safe and non-toxic.

9. Safety Comes First

Safety should always be top of mind, so try to avoid sandpits with sharp edges and keep an eye out for splinters. Raised sandpits can topple over, so don’t leave little ones playing unattended.

Have you got any other useful buying tips to add? Share them in the comments!

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