Table of Contents
Sandboxes are one of the most classic ways to keep children entertained on the playground. Bring the joy of the playground to your own backyard by buying a sandbox. The sandbox will keep your children entertained and away from technology these summer months.
When selecting a sandbox, it’s important to find the best model for you and your children.
If you do not take the time to read reviews and buying guides about sandboxes, you can buy a model that is easily broken or becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.
To ensure that you get a sandbox that keeps your children safely entertained for years to come, we have analyzed 22 products over 26 hours. We even considered 756 consumer reviews to bring you the best sandbox in Canada in 2023.
Following out last update, we recommend the Step2 Naturally Playful Sandbox, a high-quality and well-designed sandbox that kids and parents will love!
Our Top Pick Sandbox in 2023
Overall, the Step2 Naturally Playful sandbox is a high-quality, well-designed sandbox that kids and parents alike will love. It doesn’t have the most budget-friendly price or much built-in interactivity, but it best for kids with a lot of imagination since they can take their play in any direction they wish.
Pros:
- Can hold up to 200 lbs of sand
- Cornerstones provide seating area for kids
- Comes with a cover to keep sand safe from rain and critters
- Natural sun/stone design looks great in the yard
Cons:
- Bit more expensive than average
Our selection of the best models available right now:
-
- Step2 Naturally Playful Sandbox
- Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox
- Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox
- Best Choice Products Cedar Sandbox
- Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox
- Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table Playset
- Costway Kids Cedar Sandbox
- Little Tikes Big Digger Sandbox
- Step2 740500 Crabbie Sandbox
- KidKraft 130 Backyard Sandbox
Sandbox Comparative Table
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Top Pick
|
Step2 Naturally Playful Sandbox
|
8,8
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Walmart |
|
Upgrade Pick
|
Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox
|
8,6
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Walmart |
|
Budget Pick
|
Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox
|
8,3
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Walmart |
Our Pick for The Best Sandbox
Presentation of the Step2 Naturally Playful Sandbox
The Best Overall
Step2
Sandboxes are excellent ways for kids to explore their imagination and learn how to socialize and work with your hands. If you’re looking for a model with a great aesthetic design, built in seating for playmates, and a large capacity, the Step2 Naturally Playful sandbox is the one for you.
Step2 Naturally Playful Sandbox Video Review
What We Think of the Step2 Naturally Playful Sandbox
This large sandbox from Step2 has a wonderfully natural aesthetic that helps encourage kids to get involved with their environment. The sun/stone design built into this plastic sandbox will look great in any yard, avoiding the common problem of an eyesore in the space. It weighs 20 lbs and comes fully assembled, so you’ll just have to add some sand and get your kids playing.
With a 200 lb sand capacity, this sandbox is large enough for multiple kids to use it at once without encroaching on each other’s space. This is great for multi-kid families or for inviting friends over for play. Each corner of this sandbox doubles as a seat for children, so they can have rest time and be comfortable without leaving the projects they are building with sand.
After a few weeks of use this summer, I thought it was finally time to give my opinion on this sandbox. My two kids have been using it twice a day, every day, since we got it, and they absolutely love it. It fits in really well with the natural theme I have in my backyard, and I feel like it gives them some great enrichment during their outdoor time. Very happy with my purchase.
molly r.
One of the best things about this sandbox is that it comes with a lid. The lid serves to keep rain and animals out of the sandbox. This ensures the sand stays dry and actually useful, and it also keeps the sand safe since critters won’t be able to walk through it or use it as a bathroom. The plastic build won’t be as durable as other materials, but it should still last a fair amount of time, because it is still well-made.
Step2 Naturally Playful Sandbox Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Dimensions: 81.3 x 111.8 x 39.4 centimeters
- Weight: 20 lbs
- Assembly Required: No
Step2 Naturally Playful Sandbox Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Can hold up to 200 lbs of sand
- Cornerstones provide seating area for kids
- Comes with a cover to keep sand safe from rain and critters
- Natural sun/stone design looks great in the yard
Cons
- Bit more expensive than average
Our Final Opinion About the Step2 Naturally Playful Sandbox
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Step2 Naturally Playful sandbox is a high-quality, well-designed sandbox that kids and parents alike will love. It doesn’t have the most budget-friendly price or much built-in interactivity, but it best for kids with a lot of imagination since they can take their play in any direction they wish.
Our Upgrade Pick for a Sandbox
Presentation of the Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox
The Complete Station Pick
Best Choice
The Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox is our upgrade pick because it is a complete station for your children. It includes a cabana, seating, and wooded materials, making it a great choice for those looking for an upgraded sandbox.
What We Think of the Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox
If you are looking for a sandbox that goes above and beyond the everyday sandbox, we recommend the Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox. This sandbox has everything your child could need and more.
Aside from the traditional sandbox area, it features a cabana that goes over the sandbox, keeping the sand and child safe from harsh rays or some rain. The perimeter of the sandbox include seating and side buckets for extra play.
On top of including everything a child wants from a sandbox, it is durable. Being made from wood, it is both attractive and durable. The firwood is nontoxic and sturdy, allowing you to rest easy with the knowledge that the sandbox will last a while.
This upgrade pick comes with a really convenient liner too. This liner goes underneath the bottomless box, allowing you to drain, ventilate, and control how much sand is within the box. This liner is a great benefit since it was one of the drawbacks of our best overall pick.
The biggest drawback we have about the sandbox is that it doesn’t come with a cover to put directly over the sand. It only offers the canopy. Even though the canopy is helpful while your child is playing, it does not protect against rodents and other pests.
It’s cute, very different from other sandboxes. I recommend. I’m highly happy with his purchase. It is better in person and my baby loves it.
Belky
Another drawback is its price. The Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox certainly is expensive because of its numerous features and durable materials. At least you get what you pay for with this product in the most positive way possible.
Nevertheless, the Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox is our upgrade pick because it offers so many fun and functional features. Your children will be playing all day with it, just expect to pay quite a bit for this upgraded pick.
Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox Specifications
- Brand: Best Choice
- Material: Wood
- Dimensions: 127 x 117.5 x 117.5 centimeters
- Weight: 45.5 pounds
- Assembly Required: Yes
Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Comes with a cabana
- Additional play stations
- Seating
- Liner
Cons
Cons
- Not cover
- Expensive
Our Final Opinion About the Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.2 out of 5.0 stars
The Best Choice Products Kids Wooden Cabana Sandbox is our upgrade pick because it comes with numerous play features and additions that both you and your child will love. Keep in mind you will need to purchase a separate sand cover in addition to the already expensive sandbox.
Our Budget Pick for a Sandbox
Presentation of the Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox
The Budget Pick
Kids Indoor
The Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox is a great budget pick if you want to offer additional entertainment for your children without spending a fortune. Its inflatable design makes it portable, affordable, and suitable for indoor and outdoor use alike.
What We Think of the Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox
If you are on a tight budget, you can still buy your child a super fun and durable sandbox for the summer. We recommend the Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox because it is more versatile and durable than other sandboxes of its price range.
Most importantly, the sandbox is made from high quality PVC material and includes nontoxic ink printing. This PVC is not as durable as wood, but it is much more durable than other materials of this price range.
One advantage of the PVC material is that you can blow it up, making it super portable. Bring this with you to the beach or leave it in your home. You can practically take this sandbox with you anywhere, creating an incredibly versatile playing experience.
You can even bring this sandbox indoors or outdoors. For outdoor use, you can use it as a traditional sandbox, but you can fill it up with cleaner items when playing with it inside.
On top of the versatility, the Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox is highly affordable. No other sandbox on this list is even close to its price, making it the overall best budget pick.
They’re great and cost a fair price. I love that they are portable and easy to store. Will use them for sensory projects and arts and crafts.
Adam O.
The most obvious downside of the sandbox is that it is made from PVC plastic. This plastic has its benefits, but it is not very durable and is not suitable for constant outdoor use. Your child also needs to be more careful within this box.
Aside from the material being less durable than wood or hard plastic, the Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox is a great budget pick. It is inexpensive, and it is highly portable, allowing you to take it with you anywhere.
Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox Specifications
- Brand: ELEDUCTMON
- Material: PVC plastic
- Dimensions: 57 x 42 x 7 centimeters
- Weight: 0.62 pounds
- Assembly Required: Blow up only
Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Highly affordable
- Versatile
- Portable
- Indoor and outdoor safe
Cons
- Less durable than other sandboxes
- Not suitable for constant outdoor usage
Our Final Opinion About the Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.8 out of 5.0 stars
The Kids Indoor PVC Inflatable Castle Sandbox is our budget pick because it is really inexpensive and can be used in a variety of ways. Select this option if you are looking for a budget pick and aren’t too worried about the material being flimsier than others
Alternative Products to Consider
Presentation of the Best Choice Products Cedar Sandbox
The Seated Pick
Best Choice
The Best Choice Products Cedar Sandbox comes with two benches that include backrests. These backrest seats make this product our seated pick. Children and adults will enjoy their time in this sandbox.
What We Think of the Best Choice Products Cedar Sandbox
If you want to sit with your kid in the sandbox, the Best Choice Products Cedar Sandbox may be the choice for you. It features two rows of benches with back rests. Most other sandboxes with seats do not offer backrests, making this option a bit unique.
What makes this sandbox even more unique is that the chairs are actually folded up. When not using the sandbox, you can fold these chairs down, creating a heavy-duty cover for the sandbox. Wooden covers are the best option for sandboxes because they are durable, attractive, and difficult for rodents to get into.
This sandbox is made from Cedar wood. Cedar is highly attractive and very durable. The Best Choice Products Cedar Sandbox is ASTM certified and is heat treated and includes rust resistant hardware.
On top of being really durable, the sandbox is functional. For example, it includes a sand screen at the bottom of the box, allowing moisture to drain into the ground and away from the sandbox.
This is a great size for our kid to grow into. I can sit on the bench and lean on it comfortably. The wood is straight and sturdy. The instructions aren’t clear, but we got it together.
Angi H.
One drawback of this model is that it is more difficult to assemble. Even though it comes with instructions, multiple users note that assembly is more difficult and offer their own tips for making assembly easier.
Another drawback is that the sandbox has a gap down the middle of it. This creates a less protected sandbox. Some recommend getting additional parts to try to minimize this gap and its effects.
Because if its backrest benches, though, the Best Choice Products Cedar Sandbox is our seated pick. This is a great choice if you want a seated option, but you will need to take extra time for set up and may need to get additional parts to fix the gap.
Best Choice Products Cedar Sandbox Specifications
- Brand: Best Choice
- Material: Cedar
- Dimensions: 120 x 124.5 x 21.6 centimeters
- Weight: 41 pounds
- Assembly Required: Yes
Best Choice Products Cedar Sandbox Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Two benches with back rests
- Benches fold into cover
- Cedar material
- Liner
Cons
- Cover leaves a gap
- Poor instructions
Our Final Opinion About the Best Choice Products Cedar Sandbox
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
The Best Choice Products Cedar Sandbox is the sandbox for you if you want a completely seated option. Bear in mind that it has a gap and poor instructions, making it less suited for those who don’t want to assemble the sandbox.
Presentation of the Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox
The Octogonal Pick
Creative Cedar Designs
The Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox is the perfect sandbox if you don’t like the traditional square shape. This octagonal sandbox is more attractive, provides more seating, and is really durable.
Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox Video Review
What We Think of the Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox
So far, all of the sandboxes we have looked at are square or rectangle. The same is true of the sandboxes we haven’t looked at yet, excluding this one. The Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox has an octagonal shape, making it perfect for those who want something a bit different.
The octagonal shape of the sandbox means that there is a lot of room and additional benches. Whereas the other options only have two benches, this one has four, one on every other side of the sandbox.
The sandbox itself is made from beautiful Cedar. The Cedar is really attractive, but it is durable too. The sandbox even features a ground liner and top cover, ensuring that the sand is well ventilated and protected from pests.
One other thing we especially love about the Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox is its price. Despite its durable materials and attractive design, this is one of the more affordable options on this list. The affordability of this sandbox makes it perfect for many people.
Great product- easy to assemble. The cover is not the greatest so we built a solid one out of plywood. Took about 15 bags of play sand.
Emily
The biggest downside about this sandbox is its cover. Multiple users noted that it is difficult to put on the sandbox. Several even noted that it is nearly impossible to put over the sandbox without someone helping you.
People also said that water pools at the top of the sandbox cover. This can be a huge issue if it rains a lot because it can either rip the cover or make it difficult to remove the cover without spilling the water in the sandbox.
With the exception of the poor cover, the Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox is a great choice if you are looking for something a bit different. Its octagonal shape is matched with great materials and an affordable price.
Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox Specifications
- Brand: Creative Cedar Designs
- Material: Cedar
- Dimensions: 84 x 78 x 9 inches
- Weight: 28.5 pounds
- Assembly Required: Yes
Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Unique shape
- Four benches
- Cedar materials
- Liner
Cons
- Very bad cover
Our Final Opinion About the Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.7 out of 5.0 stars
The Creative Cedar Designs Octagonal Wooden Sandbox is the sandbox for you if you don’t want a traditional square design. Its octagonal shape makes it stand out from amongst the crowd. Keep in mind that the cover is inadequate at best.
Presentation of the Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table Playset
The Standing Pick
Step2
The Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table Playset is the perfect choice for you if you want a standing sand box. The standing design is matched with other features that make the sandbox super fun for you and your kids.
Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table Playset Video Review
What We Think of the Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table Playset
All of the sandboxes on this list, with the exception of this one, have a sit-in design. Sit-in designs are great if you have a lot of space, but not all yards have the area available for a sit-in sandbox. If you need a standing option instead, we recommend the Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table Playset.
This standing sandbox is Dinosaur themed and is highly durable. It includes a deep sandpit, water station, built in volcano, and tree. All of these features make the sandbox ultra fun for your kids.
The sandbox is great for you too because of how portable and small it is. It is 33 by 30 by 29.5 inches, making it a much smaller sandbox than the other options on this list. You can easily place it inside or outside with no issues.
The sandbox itself is made from heavy-duty plastic. The plastic makes it lightweight and easy to clean. However, the plastic isn’t as durable as wood, but it can last you many years if you take care of it properly.
Like all of the other products on this list, there are some notable drawbacks to this product. Most importantly, it doesn’t come with a cover, and the tree and volcano make it next to impossible to find a premade cover to fit. You will have to use some sort of fabric option if you want to cover it at all, which we recommend.
Great water table for dinosaur lovers. Amazing table that keeps both our boys (2 and 5) engaged for hours of fun.
Tania
Another issue we have with this product is that it can lead to more bacteria than other sandboxes. It is not recommended to use water and sand in the same box because the two together can create a lot of bacteria. We recommend choosing one or the other.
The sandbox is also pretty expensive for what it is. Even though the plastic is durable, it is still plastic. The size is also smaller than other sandboxes. These two features make the sandbox slightly overpriced for our preferences.
For those who want a standing sand box, though, the Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table Playset is one of the best. Just keep in mind that you should invest in a tarp or some other cover to properly protect the inside while not in use.
Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table Playset Specifications
- Brand: Step2
- Material: Plastic
- Dimensions: 33 x 30 x 29.5 inches
- Weight: 13.5 pounds
- Assembly Required: No
Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table Playset Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Standing design
- Lightweight and portable
- A lot of fun features
Cons
Cons
- Overpriced
- Should not use water ad sand together
- Does not include a cover
Our Final Opinion About the Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table Playset
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.1 out of 5.0 stars
The Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table Playset is a great choice if you are sold on a standing playset, but it certainly comes with quite a few drawbacks, meaning you should consider this option carefully before purchase.
Presentation of the Costway Kids Cedar Sandbox
The Storage Pick
Costway
The Costway Kids Cedar Sandbox is a really large sandbox that includes two large storage containers. The storage containers allow you to keep your children’s sandbox toys with the sandbox while still protecting it from pests and other nuisances.
Costway Kids Cedar Sandbox Video Review
What We Think of the Costway Kids Cedar Sandbox
There’s no point in having a sandbox without any toys. The Costway Kids Cedar Sandbox allows you the option to store your sandbox toys in two compartments separate from the main sand compartment. This creates a safe and efficient storage experience.
Aside from the two storage compartments, the sandbox has quite a few other notable features. For example, it includes a canopy and two bench seats. Both of these features make this sandbox more usable for both you and your child.
The sandbox is also made from fir. Much like Cedar, fir is a great material for sandboxes because it is highly durable and attractive. This sandbox should last you quite awhile.
The biggest complaint we found about this product is its cover. Multiple users noted that it is not very effective and doesn’t fully cover the sandbox. As we have already said, this is a major issue because it exposes the sandbox to a number of harmful bacteria.
Great product! Love it! The delivery was 4 days sooner than expected, thank you! I got this for my 3 year old niece and she will be ecstatic!
Cari
Aside from that major drawback, there is nothing else we absolutely don’t like about this product, but the other sandboxes on this list are more impressive simply because they offer more unique features. Still, the Costway Kids Cedar Sandbox could be a great choice for you if you want additional storage.
Costway Kids Cedar Sandbox Specifications
- Brand: Costway
- Material: Fir
- Dimensions: 7 x 49 x 47.5 centimeters
- Weight: Not listed
- Assembly Required: Yes
Costway Kids Cedar Sandbox Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Comes with storage
- Benches and canopy included
- Fir wood
Cons
Cons
- Bad cover
- Nothing special
Our Final Opinion About the Costway Kids Cedar Sandbox
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
The Costway Kids Cedar Sandbox is a great choice if your kid has a lot of sandbox toys. Other than that, we would recommend going with a different sandbox since this one doesn’t have any spectacular features.
Presentation of the Little Tikes Big Digger Sandbox
The Interactive Alternative
Little Tikes
If you have a little boy or girl (or both) that loves to play with toys and build things, the Little Tikes Big Digger sandbox is the best product. It has a built in excavator and functional lid, and comes with the toys and accessories your kids need for hours of fun.
Little Tikes Big Digger Sandbox Video Review
What We Think of the Little Tikes Big Digger Sandbox
This Little Tikes sandbox is a very unique and engaging product for kids. It comes with a number of tools and toys, including 2 characters, a sand cup, a sand sifter, a shovel and rake, a dump truck, and even a built in excavator. All of these items allow your child to play in the sand and truly create a world of fun for themselves, without putting any additional financial burden on you for the extras.
Within the sand area itself, there are ramps and roads for the truck to drive on, which helps keep a kid’s interest even more. There is even an attached lid that doubles as large truck ramp exiting the sandbox; this doubles the play surface and has the added bonus if keeping the toys and sand safe when not in use. This will help improve the longevity of the sand and the toys/accessories.
My young son is absolutely obsessed with this sandbox. It is all he asks to play with now. It is really lightweight and easy to move around even with some sand in it, and the toys and overall design is just amazing. He has a lot of fun driving the truck around and using the excavator. I expect my daughter will love it too once she has grown up a bit and it is safe for her to play with.
james l.
One of the only limitations of this design is the lack of seating, so you will have to make sure your kids have a comfortable grass or otherwise padded area to sit or kneel on during use. This model has a 100 lb weight limit, so your kids will be able to safely lean on the sandbox without damaging it. It comes fully assembled with all the toys included, so you can just open it, add sand, and get your kids engaged.
Little Tikes Big Digger Sandbox Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Dimensions: 156.8 x 119.4 x 33 centimeters
- Weight: 13.2 lbs
- Assembly Required: No
Little Tikes Big Digger Sandbox Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Comes with 2 characters, a sand cup, a sand sifter, a shovel, a rake, a dump truck, and a built in excavator
- Truck ramp doubles as a lid to keep sand dry
- Sand area has molded in ramps and roadways
- 100 lb weight limit is inclusive of various kid ages
Cons
- No seating
Our Final Opinion About the Little Tikes Big Digger Sandbox
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Little Tikes Big Digger sandbox is a wonderful addition to any kid’s backyard. It has a substantial list of interactive components to feed the minds and imaginations of your little ones; this should make up for the slightly higher price and slightly lower build quality.
Presentation of the Step2 740500 Crabbie Sandbox
The Eye-Catching Alternative
Step2
When you want a combination of reliability and functionality in a kid’s sandbox, the Step2 740500 Crabbie sandbox is the one to choose. Its higher price won’t be great for everyone, but it has all of the quality features we expect in a sandbox in this price range.
Step2 740500 Crabbie Sandbox Video Review
What We Think of the Step2 740500 Crabbie Sandbox
This 26 lb Crabbie sandbox is one of the larger models on the market, so it would e a great fit for families with more than one young child. The crab-shaped design is very engaging for young minds, and parents will love how much joy this product brings their children. It comes fully assembled, so you won’t have to try and put it together and waste precious play time for your kids. Just add sand, and it is ready to go.
The two claw seats that are molded into the design provide a great place for your kids to sit comfortably out of the sand, without taking them too far away from the action. Kids can choose whether to use the seats, kneel outside the sandbox, or get right in it. However they want to play and whatever they want to create, this sandbox has the space and versatility for it.
I absolutely love how vibrant and fun this sandbox is. My young daughter has fallen in love with crabs since she saw one on the beach once, and she was so happy to see this massive crab-shaped sandbox waiting in our backyard on her birthday. She has a lot of fun playing in it, and the lid is great for keeping the sand cool and dry and ready for play at all times. It is a great family activity.
jill e.
Our favorite feature, and one parents will appreciate a lot, is the lid/cover for the sandbox. The ‘back’ of the crab is completely removable to give your kids total access to the sandbox, but when it is time to pack up, you can simply put the lid back on. This keeps the sand dry and safe from critters. Since this lid is essentially wind-proof, you won’t have to worry about it blowing away in bad weather conditions.
Step2 740500 Crabbie Sandbox Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Dimensions: 119.4 x 121.3 x 40.6 centimeters
- Weight: 26 lbs
- Assembly Required: No
Step2 740500 Crabbie Sandbox Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Crab-shaped design is very engaging
- Comes with a lid to keep sand dry
- Has two molded-in ‘claw’ seats
- Durable build and reliable lid is quite wind-proof
Cons
- Quite expensive
Our Final Opinion About the Step2 740500 Crabbie Sandbox
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Step2 740500 Crabbie sandbox is an expensive but worthwhile investment for your kids. It doesn’t come with any toys, but the durable build, built-in seating, and wind-proof but completely removable lid are all features that elevate the quality and usefulness of this sandbox.
Presentation of the KidKraft 130 Backyard Sandbox
The Best Overall
KidKraft
The KidKraft 130 Backyard Sandbox is an extremely spacious, durable, and attractive sandbox, making it the best overall choice on this list. This is a great choice if you are looking for a sandbox that merges functionality with convenience and affordability.
What We Think of the KidKraft 130 Backyard Sandbox
The KidKraft 130 Backyard Sandbox is our top pick for the best sandbox because it has just about everything you could want, including an attractive appearance, durable materials, and an affordable price tag.
The sandbox is made from reinforced wood panels. These wood panels prevent the box from warping and weathering through the years. The panels are also really attractive and will match just about any yard. The wood comes up over the corners, providing convenient seating for those inside the sandbox too.
Whenever the sandbox is not in use, you simply pull the mesh cover over the top. This mesh cover adequately prevents rain and pests from getting into the box when your children are not playing anymore. It is also lightweight, making it easy to install.
Not to mention, the KidKraft 130 Backyard Sandbox is a pretty good price. It certainly isn’t the best choice if you are on a tight budget, but it is really affordable given its materials and size – it is SUPER spacious!
Nice solid wood. It is big enough with the parent plus two kids. It holds a lot of sand and is easy to put together. The only downside is I made a solid winter cover by splicing two pieces together.
Jacob
Although the sandbox is our best overall pick, there are some downsides. Most notably, it does not come with any type of lining to keep the sand within the box. This can be very annoying and make it more difficult to keep your yard clean. Some people also complain about the cover because you must strategically place it to cover all the sand within.
Other than these two drawbacks, the KidKraft 130 Backyard Sandbox is the best overall sandbox. It is attractive, durable, and spacious. Additionally, it is really affordable. Most users with a large backyard will absolutely love this sandbox.
KidKraft 130 Backyard Sandbox Specifications
- Brand: KidKraft
- Material: Wood
- Dimensions: 150.2 x 149.9 x 21.3 centimeters
- Weight: 30 pounds
- Assembly Required: Yes
KidKraft 130 Backyard Sandbox Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Spacious
- Durable wood
- Attractive and function
- Affordable
Cons
- No liner
- Complaints about the cover
Our Final Opinion About the KidKraft 130 Backyard Sandbox
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
The KidKraft 130 Backyard Sandbox is our best overall sandbox because it is made from wood, making it both durable and attractive. The box is also incredibly spacious and affordable, making it the best all around sandbox in Canada in 2023.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Sandbox
What are the benefits of a sandbox?
Sandboxes are a great addition to your backyard if you have young children for a number of reasons. Most obviously, sandboxes are fun and will keep your children entertained for hours. Not to mention, sand is cleaner than dirt, meaning you will have less of a mess to pick up in the process.
Another major benefit of sandboxes is that they enhance development. Studies have shown that playing in sandboxes help develop a child’s motor skills and problem solving abilities. Sandboxes can help strengthen your child’s social skills as well.
Are there risks associated with sandboxes?
For the most part, a properly cared for sandbox is a perfectly safe form of entertainment for your children. However, selecting the wrong sand or not properly taking care of your sandbox can lead to a number of health risks.
Most importantly, it’s important to select sand that will not hinder your child’s respiratory system. Make sure the sand you use is certified play sand, meaning it is made from natural river sand or beach sand. Don’t use sand made from limestone, marble, quartz, and other dusty products.
You also need to make sure to keep proper care of your sandboxes. If you do not cover the sandbox or take other steps for keeping it clean, the sandbox can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria, rodents, and other pests. Covering your sandbox and keeping it free from excess liquid and pests should keep it healthy.
What types of sandboxes are there?
Sandboxes all serve the same function, but there are two main types of sandboxes. The first is a sit-in sandbox. This is the type of sandbox you see at playgrounds. Sit-in sandboxes will sit directly on the ground and include a lining of plastic, wood, or some other material. The children can sit-inside the box and on the sand.
The second kind of sandbox is a sand table. These are great for limited space. Sand tables are exactly what they sound like. The sandbox is on legs, just like a table. This allows your child to play in the sandbox while standing.
What items can be used in a sandbox?
Sandboxes are designed for playing in sand, but you can use other items inside a sandbox too. You might want to select a different item if your child is sensitive to sand or you want a cleaner alternative.
You can use imitation gems, packing peanuts, small balls, and other small items that can be easily stored within the sandbox and played with by the children. This is a great idea for indoor sandboxes.
How do I keep my sandbox clean?
It’s important to keep your sandbox clean to prevent germs and pests from over running the box. The easiest way to keep the sandbox clean is to keep it covered when it is raining and when not in use. Covering the sandbox prevents the sand from getting wet and from animals getting inside it.
In the case that the sandbox gets wet while your child is playing, leave it opened in direct sunlight. The sunlight will dry the sand and kill any bacteria in the process.
How to Properly Choose Your Sandbox
When it comes to your children, you only want to select the best products. Even when reading a roundup of the best sandboxes, you still want to ensure the sandbox you select is 100% right for your children and home.
To help you determine which sandbox you should select, we have created this buying guide to help you make a more educated decision. Before deciding on any sandbox, you need to consider the following six factors about sandboxes.
Material
Sandboxes can be made from different materials, including wood or plastic. You want to select a material that is durable, high quality, and fits your budget.
Cedar tends to be the best option because it is durable and attractive. The downside of Cedar is that it can be a bit expensive. For those on a budget, plastic may be a great option, but it likely will not hold up as well as time goes on.
Size
Before even looking at a sandbox, it’s a great idea to measure how much size your backyard offers for the sandbox. Knowing how much size you have available can help you narrow down the choices from the beginning.
Obviously, you want a sandbox that is not too big for the space. If you have a lot of space available, large sandboxes will do. If your space is more minimal, you can select standing options that tend to be smaller. These standing options can also be used indoors.
Cover
Sandboxes need to be kept clean and covered when not in use. Make sure that the sandbox you have comes with a cover. The cover will protect the sand from getting wet and prevent pests from getting inside the box. The tougher and more durable the cover is, the better.
If your sandbox does not come with a cover, it is best to select a different sandbox entirely. If the sandbox is flimsy, it also may be a good idea to either look for a different model or reinforce it.
Accessories
Accessories are not necessary, but they certainly can be a great addition if you want a luxury sandbox. Some sandboxes come with seats and canopy, whereas others may have ramps, scoops, and other toys. Look for accessories if you want a comprehensive sandbox to keep your children entertained.
Assembly
If you do not want to put any time into the sandbox’s assembly, you need to think about the assembly. Some sandboxes are premade, whereas others will require you to get your hands a bit dirty. If you don’t care about assembling the product, this factor won’t matter as much.
Price
Finally, the last factor to consider is price. Sandboxes typically cost between $25 and over $100. The cheaper the sandbox is, the less durable it will be and the smaller it will be. You don’t necessarily need the most expensive sandbox, but it is wise to shoot for a median priced model to ensure it is durable and long lasting.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of sandboxes allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
