How to Buy the Perfect Playhouse for Your Kids

Your Guide to buying the best Playhouses

Overview

A playhouse is a perfect way to encourage the imaginations of young minds and encourage outdoor play. When selecting a playhouse for your child, there are a variety of options available, ranging from simple to complex. It is important to consider the size, construction, and features of the playhouse before purchase to ensure it is safe, suitable, and will provide your child with years of fun. This buying guide will provide an in-depth overview of the different styles, types, and features of playhouses, as well as guidance on how to select the best playhouse for your child.

Key features

  1. Material: What material is the playhouse made of? Common options include wood, plastic, and metal. Consider the weight, durability, and safety of each type.
  2. Size: Consider whether the playhouse is large enough for one or multiple children, and determine if it will fit in the available space.
  3. Features: Look for features like windows, doors, slides, etc. This will decide how much fun children can have in the playhouse.
  4. Assembly: Is the playhouse easy to assemble and does it require any extra tools?
  5. Age Range: Is the playhouse suitable for the age group of children that will be using it?
  6. Safety: Is the playhouse safety certified so you can be sure that no harm will come to your children when using it?
  7. Price: Consider your budget and the cost of the playhouse.

See the most popular Playhouses on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability/Safety - Playhouses are designed to be durable, making them capable of withstanding the elements and daily wear and tear. They are also made to be safe for children, with no sharp edges or dangerous parts.
  • Fun & Educational - Playhouses will provide hours of fun for children, and can also be a great educational tool. Kids can use their playhouses to pretend and imagine, which can help to develop their imagination, creativity, and interpersonal skills.
  • Variety of Options - Playhouses come in a variety of shapes and sizes, meaning there is sure to be one that fits your needs. You can also choose from different materials to customize the look and feel of the playhouse.
  • Easy to Maintain - Playhouses are relatively low maintenance and easy to clean and care for. A simple wipe down is usually all that is needed to keep them looking great.
  • Affordable - Playhouses can be purchased for a relatively affordable price, making them a great choice for families on a budget.

Cons

  • Safety Concerns - The biggest concern when buying a playhouse is making sure that it is safe for your child to play in. Make sure to check for any sharp edges, that the wood is treated against weathering, and that the structure is stable.
  • Cost - Playhouses can be a big investment, and the cost can vary based on the size, materials, and design of the playhouse.
  • Maintenance - Playhouses may require frequent maintenance, such as cleaning, painting, and repairing parts that have worn down over time.
  • Location - When selecting a playhouse, you need to make sure that you have enough space to put it in, and that it is in a safe location.
  • Assembly - Most playhouses come in kit form and require assembly. This may involve using special tools, which you may not have or want to purchase.

Best alternatives

  1. Trampoline - A large round piece of equipment that uses a flexible surface stretched over a frame and springs, allowing people to jump and flip.
  2. Swing Set - A play set consisting of one or more swings suspended from a frame, allowing someone to sit and be pushed back and forth for amusement.
  3. Sandbox - A shallow box filled with sand, typically kept in a backyard or garden, used by children for play.
  4. Basketball Hoop - A basket attached to a pole or backboard, used for shooting hoops.
  5. Slip 'N Slide - A type of plastic sheeting with a surface intended to be wet and slippery, used as a plaything and slide.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Toys/Accessories - balls, stuffed animals, vehicles, dolls, and more to help furnish the playhouse and make it fun to play in.
  • Cushions/Pillows - can be used to make furniture, such as a comfortable couch or bed.
  • Curtains/Blinds - to provide privacy and a feeling of home inside the playhouse.
  • Lighting/Lamps - to provide a pleasant atmosphere inside the playhouse and create a safe environment for play.
  • Doorbell/Knockers - to add a fun element to the playhouse and give kids a feeling of home.

Common questions

  1. What types of Playhouses are available? Playhouses come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes, and materials. Common types of playhouses include wooden playhouses, plastic playhouses, inflatable playhouses, and indoor playhouses.
  2. What features should I look for when purchasing a Playhouse? When shopping for a playhouse, consider factors such as size, safety features, design, durability, and cost. Most importantly, make sure the playhouse is appropriate for the age of the children who will be using it.
  3. What safety features should I look for? Look for playhouses with rounded edges, secure ladders, and no sharp or jagged parts. You should also make sure the playhouse is stable and won’t tip over easily. If the playhouse has a door, make sure it closes securely and has an appropriate latch.
  4. How much do Playhouses cost? The cost of playhouses varies depending on the size, material, and features. Generally, plastic playhouses are more affordable than wooden playhouses, but they may not be as durable. Inflatable playhouses can be more affordable, but they may not last as long as other types of playhouses.
  5. How much space do Playhouses take up? The size of the playhouse will depend on the type of playhouse you choose. Generally, wooden playhouses are larger than plastic playhouses. You should also consider the amount of space around the playhouse for safety and accessibility.

Trivia

In 2017, an enterprising couple in the UK managed to build a replica of a three-story playhouse in their own garden, using recycled materials that cost them just £500. The playhouse includes a kitchen, a bedroom, a living room and a playroom and the couple and their two children have been enjoying it ever since. The amazing playhouse is even complete with a secret passage and a functioning doorbell! This story was reported by the BBC in 2017, who also produced a video about the project. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.