Choosing the Right Playhouse: Wood vs. Plastic – A Comprehensive Comparison
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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.
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.
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. Certification: ASTM F963, CPSIA.
Kids Wooden Playhouse: Give your kids a place to play outside with this backyard playhouse. This outdoor playhouse includes a door, windows, mailbox, blackboard, bench, service station, and flowerpot holder.
Easy Access: The outdoor play house with a sloping roof has 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 play house 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 kids outdoor playhouse is made with solid fir wood forms a strong structure for daily use. Suitable for outdoor use.
Kids Playhouse Information: Overall Dimensions: 48" L x 42.5" W x 53.25" H (with roof). Door Dimensions: 15" W x 19" H. Suitable for children 3 to 8 years old. Certification: ASTM F963,CPSIA.
WEB SWING: It's a playhouse and swing set in one with the addition of the attached web swing. This sturdy spider-like rope swing attaches to the wood beam jutting from the playhouse.
PLENTY OF PLAY: Enter the scalloped half door with magnetic closure to role play house. The outside of the wooden house has a graphic fabric wall for extended storytelling. House can accommodate up to five kids, ages 3 to 7.
INDOOR KITCHEN: Play kitchen includes sink, faucet and burner with fire-inspired graphics. Kids can turn the knobs for realistic role playing. Also includes three accessories: pot, pan and spatula that conveniently store on the hanging pegs.
BUILT FOR OUTDOORS: Made to withstand the weather, this wooden backyard set is pre-treated with a water-based stain that includes UV and mold protection to hold up against the elements.
EASY-TO-FOLLOW ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS: Download the free BILT App from the Apple App Store or Google Play for digital and 3D assembly instructions to make setup and installation easy to follow. Average assembly time is 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
LASTING QUALITY: Constructed of premium high-quality wood that is pre-stained and pre-cut for easy assembly
CONTEMPORARY DESIGN: The stylish design features white trim windows, a working door, flower boxes (flowers not included) and wide-open side windows
IMAGINATION ENHANCING: Creative design encourages imaginative play for your little ones to create their own lemonade stand, takeout restaurant, or puppet theater
SPACIOUS LAYOUT: Multiple children can play at the same time safely and conveniently fostering relationships and positive interactions
WARRANTY: 1 year manufacturer's warranty on all parts including wood, hardware and accessories
Outdoor Wooden House - This outdoor playhouse is pre-treated with water-based dye, effectively preventing UV rays and mold, and extending its lifespan. The overall dimensions of this playhouse are 39 inches long x 38 inches wide x 55.5 inches high, suitable for ages 2 years and up.
Cozy Cottage - Featuring a half-sized front door, hedges, vintage windows, a service station, a mailbox, benches, and flower pots, this kids playhouse is designed to replicate a real-life home, allowing children to truly immerse themselves in pretend play. Imagine the joy on their faces as they create their own stories and develop their social skills while playing together in this adorable playhouse.
Premium Fir Wood - Made from premium untreated fir wood, this outside playhouse is not only incredibly sturdy but will also withstand the test of time. It will not split or become damaged over time, making it a durable investment that can be enjoyed for years to come. The sloping roof design ensures that rainwater rolls off effortlessly, preventing any damage to the wood and ensuring it stays in excellent condition.
DIY Design - One of the unique aspects of this kids club house is its DIY design. You have the freedom to decorate or paint the playhouse according to your preferences, making it a truly personalized addition to your backyard. If painting is not your style, simply applying a sealant on the outer layer will help reduce wear and tear, ensuring it retains its beauty and extending its lifespan even further.
Easy Assembly - Assembly is simple and hassle-free, thanks to the clear and easy-to-understand instructions provided. With pre-drilled locations and numbered wooden boards, you and a partner can have it set up in about 3 hours. We recommend that two people do the installation together. Invest in the Outdoor Backyard Playhouse today and enjoying the fresh air and freedom of outdoor play. Trust us, this playhouse will be their favorite spot to play and explore.
Solid Structure: The kids outdoor playhouse is made of sturdy fir wood forms a strong structure for daily use. Includes a bench for rest, which can hold up to 110 lbs.The overall dimensions of this playhouse are 80 inches long x 38 inches wide x 55.5 inches high, suitable for children aged 3 to 6
Kids Wooden Playhouse: Give your kids a place to play outside with this outdoor playhouse! This outdoor playhouse includes 1 door, 2 windows, 2 planter stands, 2 service tables, 1 bench, and 1 mailbox.
DIY Painting: Featuring a natural color and smooth texture, children can freely paint and draw on the playhouse. This adds a personal touch to kids' play space, encouraging imaginative play and helping develop hand-eye coordination.
Fun Gift for Your Kid: Your kid can play pretend with this toddler playhouse designed to look like a real home! Help your child express their creativity, develop their social skills and improve their hand-eye coordination.
Easy Assembly: Assembly is a breeze with our outside playhouse. Clear instructions and all necessary tools are included for a hassle-free setup. Our dedicated customer service team is here to assist you with any questions or concerns.
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.
EASY ASSEMBLY - No hassle. This kids playhouse is straightforward to put together and assemble. Just follow the instruction, very easy like 1, 2, 3.
LEARN and PLAY: Year-round entertainment for toddlers ages 1.5 plus , outdoor in the backyard or inside a playroom, multiple kids can engage in active play
SENSORY PLAYSET: Allows toddlers to engage in activities, develop skills, and acquire important abilities by engaging various senses for holistic development
REALISTIC FEATURES: Functional shutter and doorbell with Dutch-style doors, play phone, windows, tabletop, fireplace, skylight, molded-in sink, backyard BBQ, and drive thru
EASY ASSEMBLY: Effortless assembly process, realistic stacked stone and a classic color palette, assembled dimensions: 49.75"H x 53.25"W x 33.75"D
DURABLE: Built to last, double-walled plastic construction, years of use with colors that won't chip, fade, crack, or peel, low maintenance
LEARN & PLAY: Year-round entertainment for toddlers ages 2 to 10, outdoor in the backyard or inside a playroom, multiple kids can engage in active play
SENSORY PLAYSET: Allows toddlers to engage in activities, develop skills, and acquire important abilities by engaging various senses for holistic development
REALISTIC FEATURES: Functional doorbell with dutch-style doors, windows, tabletop, fireplace, skylight, molded-in sink and storage, ready for kids to play Restaurant, Backyard BBQ, or Drive Thru
EASY ASSEMBLY: Effortless assembly process, with authentic stone, faux wood finishes, flowerboxes, blends nicely in the backyard
DURABLE: Built to last and easy to clean, durable double-walled plastic construction, years of use with colors that won't chip, fade, crack, or peel
SENSORY PLAYSET: Engages multiple sense for holistic development, allowing toddlers to play, learn, and develop essential skills
KID-FRIENDLY: Accommodates wheelchairs, making it accessible to every kid, suitable for indoor and outdoor play, assembled dimensions 60" H x 47.5" W x 47.5" D
INTERACTIVE ACCESSORIES: 16-piece accessory kit to play, enhance playtime with grill and sink, snack table, water table, cover for sand included, food models and sand not included in set
REMOVABLE CANOPY: Sun protection during outdoor fun or easy to remove for space-saving indoor play, pretend and play on a realistic outdoor kitchen that looks like the grown-ups
UNMATCHED STRENGTH AND DURABILITY: Built to last with double-walled construction, this playhouse is easy to assemble, ensures years of fun and adventure for your children
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.
PLAY MATTERS! At Little Tikes, we don't just make toys, we make PLAY! So get out and play! Together, you and your kids can discover a whole wide world around you, unlocking their full potential up until before bedtime. Quality time well spent.
COZY COTTAGE: Showcasing a country half front door, country style details in the design of the playhouse. The Sweetwater includes custom style flower pots on each side of the front door, kitchen with pots, pans, sink, phone, and a working doorbell.
LONG LASTING, WITHSTANDS IN SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS: Why Cedar? Cedar thrives in damp climates, enabling it to withstand many conditions. Our durable cedar wood is rot resistant from the elements.
INDOOR OR OUTDOOR: The Sweetwater playhouse is sturdy and small enough to fit in any size outdoor or indoor area. So when the weather changes, you can keep your child entertained and bring the playhouse indoors.
SAFETY FEATURES: The Sweetwater playhouse provides hours of fun for your little one. The Sweetwater playhouse is made with quality, safe materials. The cedar is pre-cut and built safely, windows are made without any glass, indoor tools are plastic.
ASSEMBLED DIMENSIONS: Box 1: 46 1/2" x 14 3/4" x 15" Weight: 88 lbs. Small and light enough to enjoy outdoor or indoor.
HOURS OF ENTERTAINMENT: Stimulate kid’s imagination with the House of Fun from Palplay; a detailed spacious & sturdy playhouse resembling a real house for pretend play & backyard fun!
EVERYONE CAN PLAY: There is enough room for several kids to play at the same time. So roomy you can fit a table & some chairs inside!
PLAYHOUSE FEATURES: Every detail sculpted for a real-house feel: open design with clear views, door mail slot, balcony, hinged windows, & working doors that open & close soundly.
DURABLE & DEPENDABLE: Made from the highest quality raw materials, this playhouse for kids is designed to last. For indoor or outdoor use, the Palplay House of Fun is perfectly safe.
SPECIFICATIONS: Recommended for children ages 2 & up. Overall dimensions: 50.7'' H x 42.5'' W x 44.9'' L. Overall Product Weight: 32.56 lbs. Simple assembly required.
BRIGHT & FUN STYLE: Outdoor playhouse with sweet color palette and decorative details for a charming look, engages multiple sense for holistic development, allowing toddlers to play, learn, and develop essential skills
PRETEND PLAY: Electronic doorbell and phone for realistic play, full-sized door, working shutters, decorative roof with skylight, and heart-shaped flower pot, Electronic doorbell requires 2 AAA batteries, play phone requires 2 AAA batteries, (batteries not included)
OPEN LAYOUT: Features a spacious interior with a door and functioning shutters for added realism, includes mirror wall decal, clock with movable hands, and decorative flowerbox for added charm
EASY ASSEMBLY: Effortless assemble process, the interior of this playhouse measures 55.5" at its tallest point, providing ample room for imaginative play, assembled dimensions 58" H x 47" W x 53" D
URABLE: Built to last, double-walled plastic construction, years of use with colors that won't chip, fade, crack, or peel, low maintenance
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”
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.
