How to Choose the Right Sandpit for Your Backyard

Getting kids outside is one thing - keeping them entertained is another. A sandpit is one of the simplest and most effective ways to do both, and it's a backyard classic for good reason.

Easy to maintain, space-friendly, and endlessly entertaining, sandpits encourage creativity and sensory play in a way that few other outdoor activities can match. But with so many options out there, choosing the right one can feel a little overwhelming.

That's where we come in. Here's everything you need to know to find the perfect sandpit for your backyard.

Consider Your Available Space

Before purchasing, take some time to map out where your sandpit will go - it's not just about size, but finding the right spot too.

When measuring up, make sure to leave a little extra room around the perimeter. Kids get excited, sand flies, and a small buffer zone will save you from constantly sweeping it off your patio, deck, or pathway.

It's also worth thinking about shade. Kids will stay outside longer when they're comfortable, and keeping the sandpit out of direct sun means cooler sand and happier children. Large trees or bushes can help, but if your backyard doesn't have natural cover, a gazebo or freestanding umbrella works well - or consider a sandpit with a built-in canopy like the Lifespan Kids Playfort 2 Sandpit, which handles it all in one.

Editor's Tip:

“I'd always recommend leaving more buffer space around the sandpit than you think you need - sand has a way of travelling further than you'd expect, and your future self will thank you for it!”

What Size Sandpit Do You Need?

One of the most common questions parents have is around size - and it's a fair one. Once you've figured out your available space, a good starting point is thinking about how many kids will be using it at once.

Situation	Best Choice
👦 One child	Smaller sandpit - more flexibility on size
👦👦 Multiple kids / siblings	Larger rectangular or octagonal sandpit
🏡 No permanent spot needed	Smaller, lightweight model that's easy to relocate

Sand tables and picnic-style sand tables tend to feel cramped with multiple children, so if you've got a busy household, going bigger is always the safer bet.

A nice choice for families is the Mighty Rectangular Sandpit. Here's why it stands out:

Spacious play area - 1.9m x 1.25m, perfect for siblings or a group of friends
Play tubs included - great for water play or sandcastle building
Built-in storage - keeps toys and tools tidy and close at hand

Finally, if you'd prefer something that isn't in a permanent spot, opt for a smaller and lightweight model. This makes it much easier to move around if your backyard layout or landscaping changes down the track. The Lifespan Kids Strongbox Square Sandpit is a great option here - compact, easy to move, and a solid choice if flexibility is a priority.

Choosing the Right Material

After you've sorted size and placement, it's time to think about materials. Sandpits come in a couple of different options, each with their own advantages:

Wooden: The most popular choice for good reason. Parents love the natural finish, and a well-made wooden sandpit looks right at home in almost any backyard. As long as it's properly cared for, a quality wooden sandpit is built to last and will handle the demands of outdoor play for years to come. The Treasure Beach Wooden Sandpit is a great example of what a quality wooden sandpit looks like.
Plastic: A practical alternative to consider if you're after something lightweight and easy to move around. Plastic is simple to clean and generally more resistant to weathering in the sun and rain. The Keezi Kids Sand and Water Table is a solid plastic option that's great value for money.

Editor's Tip:

"For most families, wooden is the way to go - it's the choice we see time and time again, and it's easy to see why!"

Sandpit Features to Look For

Parents can often feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of sandpit features available. Not every feature will suit every family, but here's a handy breakdown of the most popular ones to look out for:

Feature	Why It's Worth It
🪣 Lid	Keeps sand clean and dry when not in use
☀️ Canopy	Creates shade - essential in the Aussie sun
🍳 Mud/sand kitchen	Encourages imaginative and creative play
💧 Combo sand & water pit	Perfect for toddlers who love sensory play
🧍 Standing sandpit	Great height for younger toddlers
🛝 Built-in play structures	Adds extra play value beyond just the sand
🪑 Built-in seating	Keeps kids comfortable during longer play sessions - the Strongbox XL Square Sandpit is purpose-built for this with its built-in bench seating
📦 Built-in toy storage	Keeps sand toys and accessories organised and handy

For families with toddlers, a sand and water activity table can be a good choice. The Plum Sandy Bay Wooden Play Table is a brilliant example - combining sand and water play in one compact, toddler-friendly design.

Before you start shopping, it's a good idea to jot down your must-haves versus your nice-to-haves. It makes narrowing down the options much quicker and less overwhelming.

Choosing Safe and Suitable Sand

Believe it or not, the sand you choose matters more than most parents expect. Here's what to look for:

Holds its shape well: Sand should mould together easily, otherwise building sandcastles and other creations becomes frustrating. The finer the sand, the better it holds water - especially important if you have a sand and water combo table.
Rounded grains: Look for sand with smooth, rounded grains rather than sharp or coarse ones. It's much kinder on little hands.
Washed and clean: Always make sure the sand has been properly washed before use for safety reasons.
Labelled as "play sand": This is the most important one. Play sand is specifically produced for children and is very different from the sand you'd use for landscaping or construction projects.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, there's no perfect formula - but a bit of planning goes a long way. Now that you've considered your space, the size you need, the features that matter most to your family, and the right type of sand, you'll be well on your way to making a purchase you're happy with - and one your kids will absolutely love for years to come.

If you have any questions at all, feel free to drop us an email at hello@thebestbackyard.com.au - we're always happy to help!

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Sandpits

Sandpits are a timeless outdoor play option that allow children to dig, build, and create endless sandcastles right in their garden. Whether you choose a simple box-style pit or one with built-in benches and covers, or a canopy, a sandpit can provide hours of imaginative play.

Available in various sizes and shapes, most sandpits can fit into almost any outdoor space and are often made from wood or durable plastic. Many come with lids to protect the sand from the weather and animals, helping to ensure a clean and safe play environment for children.

Why is a sandpit with a canopy a good idea?

A sandpit with a canopy allows your kids to have hours of fun and play safely even when the sun is shining. A canopy protects them from harmful sun and helps keep them cool during hot summer days.

How much sand do I need to fill your products?

The amount of sand needed depends on the size and depth of the sandpit. As a general rule, most of our products require around 5 to 10 bags of play sand for a decent depth. Always check the dimensions and refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for recommendations.

Do they all come with a cover?

Not all pits come with a cover, but it’s a useful feature to look for. A cover helps protect the sand from rain, leaves, and animals, keeping it clean and ready for play. If your pit doesn’t come with one, you can usually purchase a compatible cover separately. A cover should be made out of heavy duty PVC.

Can I place a sandpit directly on grass?

Yes, they can be placed directly on grass. However, it’s a good idea to put down a base layer, such as a tarp or weed mat, to prevent weeds or grass from growing through the sand and to improve drainage, which will help keep the sand clean.

Can they be used for activities other than sand play?

Yes, sandpits can be used for a variety of activities beyond just sand play. They can be filled with water, small toys, or other sensory materials like pebbles or kinetic sand to create different play experiences. Some families even use these sandpits as a space for gardening or for storing outdoor toys when not in use.