Sandbox Golden Rules: Choosing the Right Types of Play Sand
Sandbox has been a great present for the lovely kids over the years, it allows them to create a world on their own and enjoy their time with neighbourhood friends freely. Nowadays, many scientific studies show that a sandbox is a great space that fosters children’s social skills, such as problem solving and communication abilities. However, before we let our kids get into their sandbox and create their artistic work, how to fill up the box with the right sand is an annoying problem for us. There are too many sand types with different characteristics, some types are even harmful to our kids, which needs us to be careful when choosing the sand. Thus, this blog will give you a comprehensive guide to the types of sandbox sand and help you build a safe and comfortable sand world for your children.
What Types of Play Sand Are Non Toxic To Your Kids?
To know the most suitable sandbox sand, firstly you need to know the difference between different sand types:
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Types of Sand Need To Avoid:
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Construction Sand |
Often contains sharp particles and is not safe for children |
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Industrial Sand |
Usually contains harmful chemicals or heavy metals, making it unsafe to play |
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Artificial Sand |
This sand is manufactured by crushing granite or basalt rock |
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Types of Non Toxic Play Sand:
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Colored Sand |
This sand is processed by filters and dyed with non toxic colors, and is often used for crafts or decorative projects |
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River Sand |
River sand is a type of white play sand that comes from rivers, streams and banks. It forms naturally from small rocks through years of erosion, which causes it to be coarser than processed sand |
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Beach Sand |
Sea sand can be found at beaches and seashores. The texture of this sand offers a natural feel and makes it easier to clean off |
(Image from Freepik)
Although these types of sand are generally safe, sometimes there are small minerals like silica mixed in it. When kids play with sand in extremely dry conditions, it can create silica dust that could be inhaled. According to the latest research, prolonged inhalation of silica dust is harmful to kids and may lead to respiratory issues. Luckily, there are some proper safety measures that can deal with silica dust. For instance, spraying the sand with water before play will effectively prevent the silica dust and make it easier to make sandcastles. Besides, you can place the sandbox in a well-ventilated area, the air flows will keep the sandbox air fresh. If you’re still worried about the silica dust, you can choose safer alternatives like silica-free play sand. This type of sand is often made from crushed stone or other materials that do not pose the same dust risks. Furthermore, although choosing the right type of play sand will reduce the risk of involving metal impurities, it would be better to sift it to remove any debris or sharp objects before placing it in the sandbox.
Take Care of Your Play Sand by Choosing A Sandbox With Lid!
Once you’ve settled the sandbox with plenty of sand, it’s not only a fairyland for children but also a paradise for the ones who love the sand, like little animals and bugs. For instance, stray cats may come along and use it as a litter box. Thus, it's crucial to choose a sandbox with a lid. For instance, a brand like EROMMY often sells multi-function sandboxes that help you maintain the sand and ensure long-term safe use.
Recommendation Type: EROMMY Kids Sandbox with Cover
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Foldable Benches |
The two side benches can be turned into a lid that helps to keep the bugs and cats away when it’s not in use |
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Water-proof & Adjustable Canopy |
This sandbox has a cover with 420D Oxford cloth, which is UV-resistant and water-proof. It can prevent raindrops and leaves from getting into the box on rainy days, and help you block sunlight from different angles in summer with 180° rotation. The adjustable knobs allow you to adjust heights, and you can also remove the canopy when you want more free space for your kids |
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High-Quality Mat |
This sandbox includes a floor mat that prevents sand from leaking out and reduces the entry of animals into children's play sand |
Where to Purchase Play Sand?
As for buying safe play sand for your sandbox, there is a variety of different sources, both online and offline:
- Amazon: There are a bunch of bagged sand with “play sand” labels selling on Amazon.
- Walmart: You can see various options of play sand from their website with customer reviews.
- Landscaping Company: Some landscaping companies may sell bagged sand that can be used for sandbox after rinse.
- Home Improvement Stores: Most local Home Depots or similar stores usually have play sand on sale.
- Toy Stores: These are the best stores to buy sand from as they sell childcare products.
- Garden Centers: You may find play sand fit for children at most garden centers, but be sure to check that the label states it's safe.
All in all, playing in the sandbox can be regarded as one of the most enjoyable and constructive activities for children, and it can bring huge benefits for them in the early developmental stage. Therefore, good sand is an important part of kids' safety and it ensures a safe space for them to enjoy a wonderful sand world with no concerns. It’ll be a great thing when you can watch your kids using their creativity to build a wonderful world on their own.
Hope this blog has helped you understand the types of sandbox sand. Thanks for your reading, and have a nice day~
