Choosing the Right Playhouse: Wood vs. Plastic – A Comprehensive Comparison

The Most Popular Playhouses - Shopping Guide

A playhouse is the perfect addition to any garden! Not only does it offer endless possibilities for children’s imagination and creativity, but it is also a place where children can exercise and play outside in the fresh air.

A garden playhouse is more than just a place to play, it is also a place of relaxation and retreat for children. They can create their own little kingdom and have their own adventures. It is also a place where children can learn to take responsibility by keeping the house clean and tidy.

Wood Plastic


Nevertheless, there are some pitfalls and points to consider if you want to buy such a playhouse. We will now show you what to look out for and what you should think about.

What You Should Look Out for When Buying Playhouses

If you want to buy a playhouse, you should pay attention to a few things to ensure that you can enjoy and have fun with the house for a long time:

  • Material: Garden playhouses are made from various materials, such as wood or plastic. Wood has the advantage of being natural and durable, but it can also absorb moisture and needs to be painted regularly. Plastic is easier to maintain, but is more difficult to repair and extend.
  • Size: Before buying, think about exactly where the playhouse is to be built and how much space you have available. Make sure that the house will fit in the designated space and that your children have enough room to play in it. The child’s head should not hit the ceiling when they are upright. Otherwise, the extended stay can lead to a misalignment of the back.
  • Safety: Make sure that the playhouse is sturdily built and that it has no sharp edges or corners. It should also have non-slip steps and a secure door lock.
  • Base plate: some models also have a base plate. This makes the house stand even better on the ground and it doesn’t get dirty so quickly inside.
  • Age recommendation: Make sure that the playhouse is suitable for the age of your children. There are models that are suitable for children aged 3 and over and for children aged 5 and over.
  • Accessories: Some playhouses come with accessories such as swings, slides and sandboxes. Think about whether you want these things and whether they fit into your budget.
  • Maintenance: If you buy a wooden playhouse, you should be prepared to paint or oil the house at least every 2 years to protect it from the elements.

The Most Popular Wooden Playhouses

Bestseller No. 1
Backyard Discovery Sweetwater Cedar Wooden Kids Playhouse Cottage with Play Kitchen, Snack Bar, Half Door, Toy Phone, Windows, Flowerpot Holders, and Working Doorbell for Outdoor Imaginative Play
  • Sunlit Play Space: Wide windows allow plenty of natural light and fresh air while offering visibility for parents
  • Industry-Leading Warranty: 5-year warranty for added peace of mind
  • Ready for Fun: Includes a play kitchen with toy sink, stove, cookware, utensils, cordless phone, and working doorbell to inspire imaginative play
  • Hinged Half Door: Kid-friendly, functional half door adds a realistic touch while creating an inviting space
  • Snack Bar Window: Spacious side window is perfect for serving up juice boxes and snack time treats
Bestseller No. 2
KidKraft Lantana Lane Outdoor Wooden Playhouse with Kitchen and Flap Door
  • KITCHEN ROLE PLAY: A sink and stove with pot, pan and spatula make this house cozy and provides more opportunities for hands-on imaginative play
  • SECRET ENTRANCE: For pets or kids alike, the vinyl fringe entry/exit is a like a secret escape route
  • GRILL TIME: Kids can pretend BBQ just like mom and dad with the built-in grill with clickable knobs (play food not included)
  • TIME FOR FUN: Clock with moveable hands lets kids learn how to tell time and set their opening hours on any pretend business they dream up; dual creativity boards enhance the play (chalk not included)
  • MADE TO LAST: Built of high-quality wood with child-friendly, water-based stain, this playhouse will be the site of many happy memories
Bestseller No. 3
Backyard Discovery Aspen Cedar Wooden Kids Playhouse Cottage with Play Kitchen, Snack Bar, Picnic Bench, Dinner Bell, Mailbox, Dutch Door, Flowerpot Holders, Toy Lights, Country Style for Outdoor Play
  • A children's playhouse with an oval split door / window with working door knob & latch
  • Side serving station with bench and toy lanterns
  • This cedar playhouse comes with play burner, a toy sink, a fruit & vegetables basket and other toy kitchen accessories
  • A mailbox on a picket fence
  • An outdoor playhouse for your kids to "play house"
SaleBestseller No. 4
Outsunny Outdoor Kids Playhouse, Wooden Playhouse with Doors, Windows, Planter Pots and Boxes for Toddlers 3-8 Years, Cottage Play House for Backyard, Beige
  • Cozy Cottage: A kid's outdoor playhouse allows your kids to engage their imaginations and "play house". This charming cottage features a front entrance, retro windows, two plant boxes, and two adorable planter pots.
  • Bright & Charming Design: Featuring lively hues and a fairy-tale charm, this kids' playhouse offers a spacious interior for endless imaginative fun.
  • Outdoor Use: Crafted from fir wood, this outside playhouse is built to last and won't delaminate over time. Its well-designed roof is tilted to efficiently divert rainwater away, preventing the wood from getting soaked and ensuring a shaded area for your child.
  • Educational playhouse: Encourage your children to enhance their imagination, socialize, and develop language skills by engaging in imaginative play with friends and family in this delightful outdoor playhouse.
  • Wooden Playhouse Info: Overall Dimensions: 44.9" L x 49.8" W x 53.1" H. Eave Height: 39" H. Suitable for 3-8 years old. Assembly required.
SaleBestseller No. 5
KidKraft Modern Outdoor Wooden Playhouse with Picnic Table, Mailbox and Outdoor Grill ,Gift for Ages 3+
  • BUILT FOR OUTDOORS: Made to withstand the weather, this wooden playhouse is pre-treated with a water-based stain that includes UV and mold protection to hold up against the elements.
  • HOMEY TOUCHES: Fabric curtains, a mailbox and chalkboard help make this outdoor playhouse feel like a real home.
  • COOK & SERVE MEALS: A BBQ grill has a click-and-turn knob and removable lid so kids can cook up food. Serve it to friends and family at the attached picnic table and benches.
  • INDOOR SINK: Wash hands and play food at the pretend sink and faucet with moving lever.
  • EASY ASSEMBLY: Make assembly easier with more help. Two people can set up this item in approximately 2.5 hours or less.
Bestseller No. 6
Backyard Discovery Caraway Cottage Cedar Wooden Kids Playhouse with Play Kitchen, Chalkboard, Mailbox, Half Door, Windows, Flower Box, Modern Farmhouse Design for Outdoor Imaginative Play
  • Modern Farmhouse Style: Signature design combines cozy traditional charm with sleek contemporary elements
  • Industry-Leading Warranty: 5-year warranty for added peace of mind
  • Sunlit Play Space: Wide windows allow plenty of natural light and fresh air while offering visibility for parents
  • Ready for Fun: Includes a play kitchen with sink, stove, and cookware, a mailbox for special messages, and a mounted chalkboard to inspire imaginative play
  • Hinged Half Door: Kid-friendly, functional half door adds a realistic touch while creating an inviting space
SaleBestseller No. 7
Wooden Playhouse for Age 3-8 Years Boy Girl,Outdoor Cottage Playhouse with Door, with 2 Windows and Flowerpot Holder,42" Lx46 Wx55 H,for Outdoor Garden, Lawn, Patio, Backyard
  • 【Material】Use solid wood material made from,100% Firwood can withstand bad weather conditions. Our wood is rot resistant. It's more sturdy and durable for daily use.
  • 【Product Dimensions】42" L x 45" W x 55" H (with roof),Weight: 81 lbs.
  • 【Children's Wooden Playhouse 】Suitable for children 3 to 8 years old. The wooden playhouse is fun for your kids. It will look perfect in your backyard. It has wide windows for breezes and natural light and your kids can play games inside. Its front is with flowerpot holders and a cute half-door. The door helps provide fun and easy in and out. There is a side snack window ideal for serving up drinks and other tasty treats. With easy assembly you will have the playhouse set up and ready for fun in any time.
  • 【Design 】The playhouse is with a cute-half front door and country style details design. It includes flowerpot holders on each side of the front door, windows and side snack window for serving up drinks and all kinds of other play. Our playhouse gives your KIDS a place to play game, explore and improve their social skills.
  • 【Simple & Quick Assembly】Assembly Required, Average assembly time: 5 hours, Recommend 2 adults for assembly. It has Pre-cut, pre-drilled, pre-stained and insturction in AI by the step-by-step. So the playhouse is panelized for quick, easy assembly. If you encounter any problems during assembly, please contact us promptly, and we will respond and resolve the issue within 24 hours to your satisfaction.
SaleBestseller No. 8
Outsunny Kids Wooden Playhouse, Outdoor Garden Games Cottage, with Working Door, Windows, Flowers Pot Holder, 47" x 38" x 54"
  • Kids Outdoor Playhouse: Give your kids a place to play outside with this outdoor play house. It includes a door, windows, an open serving station, and flowerpot holders.
  • Easy Access: The toddler playhouse has an open serving station and three windows to provide air circulation and keep your little ones comfortable. The half-sized door allows your kids to enter and exit the house quickly.
  • Fun Gift for Your Kid: Your kid can play pretend with this playhouse for kids designed to look like a natural home! Help your child express their creativity, develop their social skills and improve their hand-eye coordination.
  • Solid Structure: The outside playhouse is made with solid fir wood forms a strong structure for daily use. Suitable for outdoor use.
  • Kids Playhouse Information: Overall Dimensions: 46.75" L x 38.25" W x 54.25" H. Door Dimensions: 14.25" W x 15" H. Suitable for children 3 to 8 years old.
Bestseller No. 9
Evermeadow Wooden Playhouse | Garden Games | 51" H x 41" W x 38" D (Playhouse)
  • HIGH QUALITY MATERIALS - The Evermeadow House is made from quality Fir Wood. It makes a great play space for toddlers and children and all of their adventures. Great for backyards.
  • EASY SET-UP - No difficult assembly or equipment like other sets. The panels come together easily, with the assistance of easy-to-follow instructions. This listing includes does not include a floor.
  • FUN AND EXCITING FEATURES - Enjoy the natural beauty of the Evermeadow (but we do recommend you seal/ treat it) or paint it with the whole family for a fun DIY project.
  • CHILD SAFE AND FRIENDLY - Safe for children aged 18 months+, this house measures 41" wide x 38" deep x 51" high.
  • FLOOR NOT INCLUDED - Floor available with house in a separate listing.
Bestseller No. 10
Qaba Foldable Outdoor Playhouse, Wooden Kids Cottage with Windows, Working Door, Snack Bars, Waterproof Covers, Blackboards, for Kids 3-8 Years, Brown
  • Magical Country Charm: Step into a world of imagination! Designed for children aged 3-8, this country-style kids' playhouse is a wonderful space for little ones to bond, share adventures, and build social skills while playing together
  • Effortless Setup & Safe Play: This kid's outdoor play equipment features foldable walls that make assembly a breeze—getting your kids into their new favorite play spot faster than ever
  • Cool & Comfortable: With five windows for excellent airflow, your children will stay cool and comfortable as they play. The clever waterproof cover under the eave not only protect from rain but also shield your kids from harsh UV rays
  • Endless Creativity: With two built-in blackboards, it's suitable for drawing, writing, or creating fun games. The spacious windowsill is great for displaying toys or serving up pretend snacks, making their "play house" game always creative
  • Built for Play: Crafted from fir wood with an A-frame roof, this toddlers' outdoor playhouse stands strong against the outdoor weather. The smooth surface, solid construction, and door that won't pinch fingers make every playtime safe

The Most Popular Plastic Playhouses

SaleBestseller No. 1
Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse - Blue Large
  • Made in the USA. The Little Tikes Company is located in the heartland of America.
  • CAPE COTTAGE DESIGN - The Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse is a stylish addition to your play room and backyard. It has a sweet victorian feel with blue and white color scheme pefect for both girls and boys.
  • DEVELOP YOUR CHILD'S SKILLS - Multifunctional play house that helps kids develop fine motor skills and cognative abilities. It can help child's social and emotional skills, improve language, encourage problem-solving and build other developmental skills.
  • INDOOR AND OUTDOOR USE - Our indoor playground for toddlers are water-resistant so you and your little one can use it outdoors too. It features a working door, 2 windows with working shutters, a mail slot and flag holder.
  • DURABLE AND SAFE - We made sure that your baby is safe as he plays that's why we created this indoor kids playhouse with robust and durable materials. It's cut with precision but with comfortable on every corner.
SaleBestseller No. 2
Step2 Neat & Tidy Cottage Kids Playhouse, Indoor/Outdoor Playset, Interactive Play with Sounds, Made of Durable Plastic, for Toddlers 1.5+ Years Old, Grey
  • FUN PLAYTIME: Entertain your little children for hours with pretend sink, fireplace, doorbell, mailbox, and flower boxes, supports role play, develops social skills in children, makes sense of real-life situations
  • SENSORY PLAYSET: Allows toddlers to engage in activities, develop skills, and acquire important abilities by engaging various senses for holistic development (batteries not included)
  • FUNCTIONAL STORAGE: Offers abundant storage to keep all toys in order, making clean-up a breeze, assembled dimensions 49.75" H x 53.25" W x 33.75" D
  • EASY TO CLEAN & ASSEMBLE: Use disinfectant wipes or household cleaners to clean for sanitary play environment, adult assembly required, includes assembly hardware
  • DURABLE: Built to last, double-walled plastic construction, years of use with colors that won't chip, fade, crack, or peel
Bestseller No. 3
Step2 Charming Cottage Kids Playhouse, Indoor/Outdoor Playset, Interactive Play with Sounds, Made of Durable Plastic, For Toddlers 2+ Years Old
  • FUN PLAYTIME: Entertain your little children for hours with pretend sink, fireplace, doorbell, and flower boxes, supports role play, develops social skills in children, makes sense of real-life situations
  • SENSORY PLAYSET: Allows toddlers to engage in activities, develop skills, and acquire important abilities by engaging various senses for holistic development (batteries not included)
  • FUNCTIONAL STORAGE: Offers abundant storage to keep all toys in order, making clean-up a breeze, assembled dimensions 58" H x 58.75" W x 50.13" D
  • EASY TO CLEAN & ASSEMBLE: Use disinfectant wipes or household cleaners to clean for sanitary play environment, adult assembly required, includes assembly hardware
  • DURABLE: Built to last, double-walled plastic construction, years of use with colors that won't chip, fade, crack, or peel
SaleBestseller No. 4
Step2 All Around Playtime Patio with Canopy, Kids Indoor/Outdoor Kitchen Playset & Sensory Playhouse, Made of Durable Plastic, Includes 16 Piece Toy Accessories, For Toddlers 2+ Years Old, Green
  • FUN PLAYTIME: Entertain your little children for hours with pretend grill, large countertop, water and sand table, supports role play, develops social skills in children, makes sense of real-life situations
  • INTERACTIVE PLAY: Accommodates wheelchairs, 16-piece toy kitchen play set, enhance playtime with pots, pans, silverware, plates, sand toys
  • REMOVABLE CANOPY: Sun protection during outdoor fun or easy to remove for space-saving indoor play, assembled dimensions 60" H x 47.5" W x 47.5" D
  • EASY TO CLEAN & ASSEMBLE: Use disinfectant wipes or household cleaners to clean for a sanitary play environment, adult assembly required, includes assembly hardware
  • DURABLE: Built to last, double-walled plastic construction, years of use with colors that won’t chip, fade, crack, or peel
Bestseller No. 5
Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse with Working Door, Windows, and Shutters - Red| For Kids 2-6 Years Old
  • Made in the USA. The Little Tikes Company is located in the heartland of America.
  • IT'S A RED CAPE COTTAGE PLAYHOUSE - Has a sleek and contemporary style. With modern windows, an arched doorway, and brick details this little house will be a perfect first playhouse for any boys or girls who would love to play outdoor and indoor.
  • IMAGINATIVE ROLE PLAY. Features two working windows and working door. Toddlers will love the fun role-play elements like a working mail slot (mail not included) and flag holder (flag not included) that will spark their imaginations.
  • EASY TO ASSEMBLE AND STORE - This toddler play house is not difficult or time-consuming to assemble, even your kids can do it with your supervision. Because of its lightweight materials and design, it's easy to move, transport, and store.
  • HIGH-QUALITY TODDLER PLAYHOUSE - This cute playhouse is sturdy and safely designed for children.
SaleBestseller No. 6
Lifetime Heavy Duty Plastic Outdoor Playhouse, 6ft x 6ft x 7 ft Tall, Beige & Blue
  • Strong and durable structure: Built to last for years and provides a low maintenance design that requires no sanding, painting, or staining.
  • Reusable stickers: Fun shapes featuring furniture, plants, pets, and more. weather resistant and can be moved around throughout the playhouse
  • Door with mail slot and working doorbell, play sink and stove combo, toy food, pans, and utensils included
  • Floorless interior and water resistant roof, anchor points at corners for securing into place
  • Exterior building dimensions: 69.7” l x 69.7” w, Exterior roof dimensions: 72.9” l x 72.9” w x 84.4” h, Interior height: 83”
Bestseller No. 7
Step2 Woodland Climber II Kids Playset, Ages 2 –6 Years Old, Toddler Slide and Climbing Wall, Outdoor Playground for Backyard, Sturdy Plastic Frame, Easy Set Up
  • FUN PLAYTIME: Bring excitement of the park playground to the backyard, climbing wall, play area, two steering wheels, slide, ladder, a lower level for hiding or storage, kids can have unlimited fun
  • INTERACTIVE PLAY: Climber play strengthens the muscles, improves fine motor abilities, increases physical and mental strength, encourages imaginative play, discovery, and problem-solving
  • NATURAL DESIGN: Earthy colors, realistic textures that reflect nature, blend with the backyard, safe play environment for your baby and kids
  • EXTRA STORAGE: Storage underneath for outside toys or hide-and-seek, make into a hideaway to inspire creativity, enough space to add a sandbox, maximum weight: 240 lbs., assembled dimensions: 75” x 47” x 53.75”
  • DURABLE: Built to last, easy to clean, durable double-walled plastic construction, years of use with colors that won't chip, fade, crack, or peel, low maintenance, easy to clean
SaleBestseller No. 8
Step2 Adventure Camper Kids Playhouse, Indoor/Outdoor Playset & Kitchenette, Interactive Play with Sounds, Includes 52 Piece Toy Accessories, Made of Durable Plastic, For Toddlers 2+ Years Old
  • FUN PLAYTIME: Entertain your little children for hours with pretend sink, oven, stove, grill, doorbell, and skylight, supports role play, develops social skills in children, makes sense of real-life situations
  • INTERACTIVE TOYS: Realistic sounds, 52-piece toy kitchen play set, enhance playtime with cooking pot, tongs, oven mitt, trays, plates, utensils, s'mores, food (batteries not included)
  • FUNCTIONAL STORAGE: Offers abundant storage to keep all toys in order, making clean-up a breeze, assembled dimensions 50" H x 63" W x 36" D
  • EASY TO CLEAN & ASSEMBLE: Use disinfectant wipes or household cleaners to clean for sanitary play environment, adult assembly required, includes assembly hardware
  • DURABLE: Built to last, double-walled plastic construction, years of use with colors that won't chip, fade, crack, or peel
Bestseller No. 9
Backyard Discovery Sweetwater White Cedar Wooden Kids Playhouse Cottage with Play Kitchen, Snack Bar, Half Door, Toy Phone, Windows, Flowerpot Holders, Working Doorbell for Outdoor Imaginative Play
  • Sunlit Play Space: Wide windows allow plenty of natural light and fresh air while offering visibility for parents
  • Industry-Leading Warranty: 5-year warranty for added peace of mind
  • Ready for Fun: Includes a play kitchen with toy sink, stove, cookware, utensils, cordless phone, and working doorbell to inspire imaginative play
  • Hinged Half Door: Kid-friendly, functional half door adds a realistic touch while creating an inviting space
  • Snack Bar Window: Spacious side window is perfect for serving up juice boxes and snack time treats
SaleBestseller No. 10
LulliSpace Outdoor Playhouse,Play for Indoor & Outdoor,Outdoor Kids and Toddler Playset,Easy to Assemble Playhouse for Kids,Ages 2-10,Large
  • 1.Safety:The outdoor play house is designed and made with children's safety in mind. The rounded exterior design avoids sharp corners and dangerous edges, reducing the risk of children getting hurt while playing
  • 2.Stable design:The outdoor house is 56.7 inches high, 53.9 inches wide and 48.8 inches deep. It is large in size and suitable for multiple children to use at the same time. The overall appearance is strong and stable and can withstand certain outdoor environmental conditions
  • 3.Interactive design:The design with windows and doors allows children to role-play and socialize. The switchable windows and details such as door handles increase children's interactivity and playability
  • 4.Easy to assemble and maintain:The design of the outdoor children's house adopts a modular assembly method, which is convenient for parents to assemble and move. At the same time, the use of plastic materials is easy to clean and maintain, suitable for outdoor use
  • 5.Decorative elements add interest:Heart-shaped and carved decorations are designed on the roof and walls to increase visual interest and make the outdoor house more attractive

The Most Frequently Asked Questions / FAQ About Playhouses

Why Do I Need a Playhouse?

A garden playhouse has many advantages! Here are some of the reasons why you should consider a garden playhouse:

  • Encouraging child development: playhouses offer children the opportunity to exercise their imagination and creativity and develop their motor skills by climbing in and out, playing and moving around.
  • Creating a retreat: Children need a place where they can retreat and have their own adventures. A garden playhouse can provide this place and give children a sense of independence and autonomy.
  • Encouraging family time: A garden playhouse can also be a place where families can come together and spend time together. Parents can watch their children play and join them to spend quality time together.
  • Enhancing the garden: A garden playhouse can also help to make the garden more attractive and varied. It can become a focal point for the garden and help children learn to appreciate nature and the environment.
  • Entertainment: A playhouse can keep children entertained and occupied, offering them an alternative to electronic devices and TV. It can also be used to invite friends over and encourage children’s social skills.
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of wooden garden playhouses?

Advantages:

  • Natural: Wood has a natural beauty and can fit well into a garden. It also has a pleasant smell and can provide an enjoyable play experience for children.
  • Durable: Wood is sturdy and long-lasting when properly cared for. A wooden garden playhouse can last for decades.
  • Customizable: Wood can be easily painted or varnished, making it easy to customize the playhouse to the child’s or garden’s wishes.
  • Easier to repair: Broken or worn wooden slats can be replaced quickly and inexpensively.

Disadvantages:

  • Maintenance-intensive: Wood requires regular care to stay in good condition. The playhouse must be painted or oiled annually to protect it from the weather and pests.
  • Sensitive to moisture: Wood can absorb moisture and become moldy. You should make sure that the playhouse is well ventilated and dry.
  • Difficult to transport: Wood is heavier than other materials and can be difficult to transport, especially larger models.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Plastic Playhouses?

Advantages:

  • Easy to maintain: plastic requires little maintenance and does not need to be painted or oiled. It is easy to clean and has a long service life.
  • Easy to transport: Plastic is lighter than wood and can be transported more easily, especially with larger models.
  • Weatherproof: Plastic is resistant to moisture, rain, snow and sunlight.

Disadvantages:

  • Appearance: plastic does not have the natural beauty of wood and can look out of place in some gardens.
  • Unsafe materials: Some cheap models can be made from toxic and unsafe materials and may not meet health requirements.
  • Less durable: A plastic garden playhouse may not last as long as a wooden one. It can fade and become brittle if it is exposed to a lot of sunlight or if it is affected by extreme temperatures.

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