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10 best water tables for exciting outdoor play
On bright sunny days, exciting outdoor toys such as sand and water tables are a great way to encourage your children to play outside in the garden. Here are the best water tables to buy this year.
By Lucy Cotterill | Last updated Jul 11, 2024
A robust water table can be an investment purchase that will delight children of all ages, with fun activities that allow little ones to build with sand and splash in the water. The best water tables are quick to assemble, constructed from high-quality, solid materials and include lots of accessories - sparking your child’s imagination and encouraging sensory play.
Which are best, paddling pools or water tables? The answer will depend on you and your child (you may even decide on both!). A paddling pool provides hours of physical activity and fun, while a water table encourages quieter, calmer and more creative play. Perhaps you're researching the best outdoor toys for your garden, weighing up the pros and cons of toys such as trampolines, mud kitchens and climbing frames. With our handy round-ups, based on authentic recommendations from real parents and curated by expert writers, we've got you covered.
When it comes to good-quality water tables, you should look for lids that’ll protect the contents, drain plugs for easy cleaning, a sturdy base that is the right height and features grow with your child to provide longevity. If your toddler loves dinosaurs, trains, animals or pirates, there are also some fantastic-themed water tables that they’ll adore.
To make life easier (that's what Mumsnet is here for, after all), we've done the hard work for you, thoroughly researching the best water tables, so you don't have to.
Here are the best water tables to buy in 2024.
Early Learning Centre Sand and Water Table
Great value
Can be used as a play table too
Lots of tools and toys included
Not height adjustable
Price on writing: £60 | Age: 18 months to 5 years old | Size: L 28; W 38; H 70 cm | Capacity: Not specified | Material: Plastic | Cover: Yes |Accessories included: Two sand and water table covers; one boat; one star mould; two funnels, two spinning wheels, one rocker and wheel set, one scoop, one rake and one spade
When it comes to our overall winner, there’s no doubt Mumsnetters love The Early Learning Centre Sand and Water Table. A colourful and robust water table that’s suitable for both toddlers and preschool children, it also comes with two durable waterproof lids for both sections - a practical addition that not all water tables have. We love that the lids have a road map carved into them and can also be used as a play table.
With sturdy legs, generously sized tubs for the sand and water and a solid, stable build, this table is just the right size for a few children to play together. There are lots of tools and toys included too, helping encourage and develop your child’s essential motor skills. A final plus point for parents, this water table is easy to assemble and clean, and can easily be packed away for storage during the winter.
Easy to assemble
Great value
Sturdy
The lid will need a heavy weight on top to keep it in place
Price on writing: £35 | Age: 18 months to 5 years old | Size: H 70; W 52.5; D 52.5 cm| Capacity: 15.2 Litres | Material: Plastic | Cover: Yes |Accessories included: Two moulds; one sand rake; one scoop; two boats
The Chad Valley Sand and Water Table is an affordable option that is not only budget-friendly - it's also quick and easy to assemble too. Both sand and water tubs hold an impressive 7.5 litres, with an easy to use plug, ensuring water stays put for prolonged periods of play and can be drained quickly before popping into storage.
We love the fun waterfall toy attached to this water table, as well as a variety of durable tools to keep children engaged. Despite the low price tag, the Chad Valley Sand and Water Table also comes with a lid, helping keep out moisture, neighbourhood cats and ants, whatever the weather.
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Good quality
Multi-use - converts into a drawing desk
Comes with a selection of moulds and pots
Despite saying it’s suitable for up to eight years, it’s relatively low height (more suited to younger children two to five)
Price on writing: £40 | Age: 2 to 8 years old | Size: H73 x L47 x W67cm | Capacity: Unspecified | Material: Plastic | Cover: Yes | Accessories included: two moulds, two boats, three beakers and water pipes.
The Dolu 3-in-1 Activity Sand and Water Table is a versatile play station that can be used as a mini sand pit, a water play table and even a nifty craft table thanks to the handy lid. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, it is easy to convert to a table when required, even including three removable pots for storing pencils and crayons.
We love the selection of toys and tools that can provide hours of play, including two beach creature moulds and a central water run. The beakers can be used to practice those crucial motor skills and learn about cause and effect, with the two little boats ideal for creative and imaginative play.
While it’s recommended for children aged two to eight, we feel it’s the perfect height for a toddler to stand at, but older kids will still find plenty of room underneath to kneel or sit comfortably.
Related: The best balance bikes for kids, according to Mumsnetters
Lots of interesting activities
Sturdy build
Fun pirate theme
No lid
Price on writing: £75 | Age: 24 months to 6 years old | Size: H 80; W 101; D 71 cm| Capacity: Not specified | Material: PVC plastic | Cover: No |Accessories included: One bucket; one water wheel; two pirate characters; cups; one anchor pulley; one slide
The Little Tikes Anchors Away Sand and Water Table is an excellent toy for sensory development as it has lots of activities such as a water wheel, anchor pulley systems, a squirting cannon and waterfall, plus toys and tools that encourage learning through play.
This jam-packed table can be built in under 20 minutes; you just need to attach the legs and toys. Once erected, it’s sturdy and has plenty of room for toddler friends to play together. It’s a little more costly than some however, and there’s no lid included, so you may want to protect it from debris by popping it in the garage or shed overnight or during bad weather.
Plum Build & Splash Wooden Sand & Water Table
Solid and sturdy wooden table
Includes waterproof liner and cover
Can be used for sand or water
Suitable for all year round use
Requires assembly (around one hour)
No accessories included
Price on writing: £60 | Age: 18 months plus | Size: 69 x 23 x 14 cm | Capacity: Not specified | Material: FSC Certified Wood | Cover: Yes (Liner and cover included) | Accessories included: None
We love the robust and natural look of the Plum Build & Splash Wooden Sand & Water Table which is suitable for use all year round. Made from high-quality FSC-certified wood, this sturdy water table includes a waterproof liner and a convenient cover to help protect the contents from the elements.
There aren’t any accessories included with this set which may be off-putting to some, however with a small footprint and raised legs creating the ideal height for toddlers, this water table makes a a blank canvas for creative play, allowing you to add sand, water balloons, toys or accessories depending on your child’s preferences.
Little Tikes Fountain Factory Water Table
Lots of accessories included
Easy to assemble
Interchangeable pipe system and working fountain (with pump)
No lid
Pricey
Pipes are difficult to clean
Price on writing: £63 | Age: From 2 years + | Size: L19 W74 H73cm | Capacity: Not specified | Material: Plastic | Cover: No | Accessories included: 3 accessories including a boat, water cup and a funnel, interchangeable pipe system and water pump
The Little Tikes Fountain Factory Water Table is an excellent toy to encourage fun learning through play. With a selection of fun accessories and even the ability to operate a fountain using the pump, this brightly coloured water table has plenty to keep little ones entertained for hours.
We love the interchangeable pipe system, with some real educational benefits as children can change the direction of water flow by removing, adjusting and angling the pieces. A great way to teach children about cause and effect, they can scoop and pour before watching in awe as characters pop up or cogs start to spin in the centre.
While this water table has a wealth of play options for children aged two and above, it sadly doesn’t include a lid. This, combined with the narrow design of the pipes means it can be a little more difficult to clean. For that reason, we would recommend using for more short-term play sessions or storing in the garage or shed overnight.
Height adjustable frame
Great value
Multi-purpose
Takes time and tools to assemble the frame
Less entertaining than some other options
Price on writing: From £37 | Age: From 36 months to 10 years| Size: 64 x 62 x 10 cm | Capacity: Not specified | Material: Plastic tray and steel frame| Cover: No |Accessories included: None
Tuff Spots are used in many nursery settings as they’re a hardy, versatile play tray and can be used with or without a stand. It’s evident from the Mumsnet Forum,that many parents find these tables helpful until well beyond a child’s toddler years.
The Tuff Spot stand is adjustable to three heights, which means it can grow with your child up to around 10 years. Beyond that, the waterproof tray can be used indefinitely for crafts and sewing. Although the Tuff Spot isn’t ideal for water play indoors (thanks to low sides) it can easily be a part of your child’s outdoor games. The stand takes some time and tools to build, but once assembled, it’s durable yet lightweight, so can easily be moved around the garden.
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Good quality
Lightweight
Easy to assemble and stow away.
Doesn’t have legs
Children may outgrow it fast
Price on writing: £44 | Age: From 36 months | Size: 22 x 88 x 50cm | Capacity: Not specified | Material: Plastic | Cover: Yes |Accessories included: One lock; one lock gate; one crane; one marina ramp; one amphibious truck and a transport boat with containers.
If you’re looking for a simple, yet fun water table that you can take to friends for play dates, on holiday or to the grandparents, this Aquaplay set is a good choice. It’s lightweight (children can comfortably carry it), yet made from good-quality, durable plastic and is packed with plenty of tools, games and accessories to keep your little one happy and entertained.
The thoughtful educational theme behind the design will allow your child to steer the boat through the canals and let the water raise it. Plus, the crane shifts containers between the boat and car, providing hours of fun. When you’re done, simply drain, lock and off you go.
Read next: Best collapsible folding wagons for the beach, festivals and family adventures
TP Toys Picnic Table and Sandpit
Made from sustainable wood
Weatherproof cover included
Comes with one-year guarantee
The instructions aren’t clear and it can be tricky to put together
Doesn’t come with accessories
Price on writing: £100 | Age: From 6 months to 12 years | Size: H 14.6; W 44. 5; D 9.8 cm | Capacity: Not specified | Material: FSC wood and plastic tubs | Cover: Yes |Accessories included: None
This Picnic Table and Sandpit is a fantastic idea for small gardens as it combines seating and playtime for up to four children. It’s beautifully made and will look fab in your garden or on a patio.
The table is made from FSC-certified pine or spruce wood, so you can be assured it’s sustainably sourced, and it’s also been treated for best protection against the elements. Sand and water or toys can be stored in the durable bright blue tubs in the centre of the table, and the surface is suitable for eating or drawing. We think this picnic/play table is excellent value as it’ll last for many years and comes with a weatherproof cover that can be tied on for protection during the winter.
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High number of play accessories
Has a drain to empty the water
Parasol offers extra shade
Pricey
Price on writing: £140 | Age: From 2 years + | Size: H109.96 x D24.77 x W125.81cm | Capacity: Up to 22.67 kg of sand (not included) and up to 9 litres of water (not included) | Material: Plastic | Cover: Yes | Accessories included: Boat, dumper truck, trailer, truck cab, crane and a bridge as well as large sun canopy.
The Little Tikes Builders Bay Sand and Water Table is a sturdy and generously sized outdoor toy that combines a sand pit with a water play area, allowing three to four children to comfortably play together.
With a construction theme throughout, there are tons of accessories included, including a digger and bulldozer for scooping, smoothing and pouring sand and water. We love the interactive crane and the bridge running between the two sides - ideal for creative role-play with friends.
Thanks to the detachable parasol secured to the centre of the table, your children have full coverage and shade to protect them from the midday sun as they play. If you can drag them away from this table at the end of the day, the two robust lids can keep unwanted guests out of the sand - leaving it clean and ready to play with again the next day.
Read next: Best garden slides for toddlers and beyond
What age are kids' water tables suitable for?
While the recommended age will vary from one brand to the next, water tables tend to be recommended from the age of 18 months to around five years, with some designs also accommodating older children up to around eight years of age.
Water and sand tables with smaller accessories such as moulds, diggers and water pipes tend to be recommended for children two years and above.
As water is involved, its important you supervise your child at all times while playing.
What to look for when buying a water table
Knowing the best water table to buy depends on your children's age and interests. There are some brilliant, themed tables, but the practicalities are essential too if you’re to see value for money. Here are a few things to consider before you buy:
Age range: Some water tables can be used without the legs, which would suit the needs of small toddlers; others have adjustable height legs that make it easy for taller children to play. The features, toys and tools are vital to think about too. For example, little ones will be thrilled to simply tip water in and out of a cup, whereas older children will enjoy more scientific tools and gadgets such as pulleys, pumps and waterfalls.
Versatility: For maximum fun and longevity, it’s a great idea to get a table that combines lots of types of play, from digging in the sand, splashing in the water and experimenting with tools like locks and pulleys or funnels like you’ll find in the Early Learning Centre Sand and Water Table
Accessories, toys and tools: Most water tables will come with attached toys and accessories like watering cans, creatures and pouring cups. What's included should be durable and add something to the quality of the play, like pirate characters with the Little Tikes Anchors Away set. Always ensure the accessories in the picture of the toy you’re interested in are included in the price.
Ease of care: A water table which sits outside can get grubby very quickly. It’s a good idea to purchase one that can be emptied, cleaned and dried regularly to stay fresh and free of debris.
Stagnant water is especially grim! Most tables have plugs through which they can be drained without fuss. The sand and water tubs can usually be removed entirely on simple tables without many attached toys. Plastic is easy to clean with hot soapy water, and if you choose a wooden model, ensure the wood has been treated and maintained every two years.
Lids and covers: A securely fitted top or cover will protect your water table from cats using it as a litter tray, fallen leaves and twigs and the weather. Budget models often need extra weight on top of the lid to keep it watertight; a bag of sand is helpful for that.
Ease of assembly: Building your water table should only need 30 minutes and a screwdriver if that. Ensure you follow the instructions and view any YouTube videos they direct you to. It may take a little longer to construct if you’re investing in an elaborate wooden picnic table/sand pit.
How to keep water tables safe for kids
Children should always be supervised when they are playing with or near water. We recommend draining the water out of your table when each playtime is over. A secure lid or cover will prevent cats from pooping in the sand and sharp debris from getting in. It’s also essential to keep the toy as clean as possible to avoid a build-up of bacteria.
Where do you put a water table?
Water tables are best kept in the garden so you won’t be worried about the mess. Place them away from overhanging trees and dripping roofs and keep them in a shed or garage if they don’t have a lid.
How often should I empty a water table?
“Just a tip, I don't use sand and water at the same time on different sides, or it becomes one big slush as my one tips sand into water and vice versa. One day is the sand day, and another is water day!” (Useful advice from Mumsnet user eyesbiggerthanstomach)
Stagnant water is smelly, unsightly, and a health hazard, and even fresh water can be unpleasant after a day of play, especially when combined with sand. Therefore, most water tables will either have plastic tubs that can be removed and the water tipped out or a convenient plug through which you can drain the water after each use.
If you decide to keep the water in place for a day or two, put the lid or a tarpaulin over the top and make sure you sieve out any debris and dirt before play begins again.
What toys should I put in a water table for kids?
“We bought bath toys to put in it for water play.” (Suggestion from Mumsnet user 8by8)
Bath toys, plastic gardening tools like watering cans and simple plastic cups of different shapes, sizes and colours are all great options for toddlers. Pots, pans and plastic food are also fab for little ones who enjoy pretending to cook; their imagination will no doubt lead them to include the sand that might be on the other side of the table. Foam soap and bath gels which older children can sculpt and squidge is another fun choice.
How do I clean a water table?
You need hot soapy water and a scrubbing brush to clean a water table and accessories. Doing it regularly will be much less arduous; mould and grime can quickly build up in nooks and crannies. Vinegar and water is a helpful solution for tackling stubborn mould and dirt. A hose or pressure washer will be beneficial (and fun) for a deep clean at the start of the warmer weather. If your table comes with a lid or cover, use it. It will make keeping the whole thing clean much more manageable.
What is the best kids’ water table to buy?
While there are many great water tables on the market, we picked the Early Learning Centre Sand and Water Table as our overall winner. It’s affordable, yet good quality and made with inquisitive children in mind. We like that the table comes with plenty of fun toys and accessories that can be neatly packed into the table after use, with a convenient lid to keep all contents safe. Plus, another bonus is that the table is suitable for both water and sand, and is easy to keep clean and store away.
This model gets a lot of love on our Forums too!
How we chose our recommendations
To help you choose your child’s new water table, we’ve thoroughly researched the best you can buy in 2024 by consulting a wide range of reliable and trustworthy sources. Here's more on how we carefully selected our picks.
Recommendations from real Mumsnet users
Members of the Mumsnet community agree that a robust water table with lots of fun accessories is a great way to keep their children entertained in the garden. So, we weighed the toys their toddlers have played with and loved, which they wholeheartedly recommend. Their experiences, including cleaning advice and the tables which suit children of all ages, have informed our choices of the outdoor toys you should invest in.
Expert opinions
Water tables need to be easy to assemble and keep clean, and they can be expensive, so we wanted to be confident that the tables we picked would perform well while being educational. To do this, we’ve investigated the opinions of the child development experts and toy retailers we trust the most.
Authentic customer reviews
We then evaluated the outdoor toy bestseller lists and investigated the best water table reviews from various retailer sites to see which products were best rated. Lastly, we weighed the pros and cons of each choice to determine which were best suited to different age ranges.
About the author
Lucy Cotterill is a mum of two and a Content Writer at Mumsnet, specialising in baby/child and lifestyle product reviews and round-ups. Having written product reviews on her own blog Real Mum Reviews since 2012, Lucy loves to research and explore the pros and cons of products, scrutinising reviews and consumer feedback to help people make confident purchases.
Lucy loves spending time in the garden with her girls and having personally reviewed a wide range of outdoor toys and games, she’s confident finding the features that children will love.
Why you should trust us
Mumsnet has been helping parents make their lives easier since 2000 and, in that time, we've investigated, tried and reviewed thousands of products. As the mother of two children, Jasmine and Liam, our writer Gemma was determined to provide honest and independent advice on the water play tables your little ones will love using.
Transparency is vital to us, and that's why we're always honest about where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their friends and family.