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If you’re in a hurry and just want to find out what the best toddler slide is, I’d recommend the Little Tikes First Slide.
Physical exercise is critical for children of all ages. For parents, however, getting our little one moving isn’t always simple, and the best toddler slide can be a great ally. It typically involves climbing, running, and lots of laughter; whether installed indoors or outdoors.
Various models exist, meeting the needs of different age groups and interests. Hard plastic models are sturdy and designed to remain outside. Inflatable types, however, are portable and convenient when traveling.
Here are the toddler slides I will be reviewing:
- Little Tikes First Slide
- Step2 Game Time Sports Climber and Slide
- Eezy Peezy Active Play 3 in 1 Jungle Gym PlaySet
- Little Tikes Inflatable Jump ‘n Slide
- Milliard Soft Foam Toddler Stairs and Ramp Climber Gym Toy
- Costzon Toddler Climber and Swing Set
- Supreme Savings Toddler Outdoor Playset
- ACTION AIR Bounce House
- Little Tikes Hide and Seek Climber
- Step2 Panda Climber
Why Invest in a Toddler Slide?
There’s no doubt that a slide typically provides fun and entertainment to toddlers, but there are many more advantages.
Exercise
Due to the nature of the toy, a toddler needs to climb up before sliding down. The escalating portion generally involves a set of kid-friendly stairs.
Three or four stairs might not seem impressive at first. Going up and down for hours, however, provides more physical exercise than most other toys. Plus, if you’ve installed it outside, your little one will get plenty of fresh air.
Coordination
Slides also require hand and leg coordination to climb up and slide down. They help toddlers work on their motor skills. Keep in mind, however, that kids may require some assistance and guidance the first few times.
Independent Activity
Slides are an activity most toddlers can enjoy on their own without adult intervention. While parents should supervise the activity and keep an eye on their little one, you should be able to sit on the side and relax. Plus, playing independently can help your kid build self-confidence.
Communication Skills
Slides can be used by a child alone, or several kiddos together. They’ll have to negotiate who goes next and take turns. This teaches and enhances social and communication skills.
Educational
Lastly, slides can be fantastic teachers. First, toddlers are introduced to the concept of gravity. If the structure contains a swing, it can also educate on the aspect of pull-push forces and basic physics.
Some products include letters that parents can point out. They’re often designed with various bright colors so that kids can start recognizing and naming them.
Choosing the Best Toddler Slide
If you’re wondering how to pick the best slide for your toddler, we’ve gathered a few tips:
Safety Considerations
Because slides could quickly turn into accidents, selecting a product that’s been thoroughly tested is critical. Models meeting ASTM or CPSIA requirements are advised. Well-known and trusted brands generally comply with these essential standards.
Also, some products indicate a total weight limit—typically from 50 to 200 pounds. Consider how many kids will be using the slide at a time, and calculate the sum of their weight.
Over this threshold, it’s generally unsafe for a child to use the toy. It could tip or get damaged, potentially injuring your little one.
Slide Length
The slide’s length might be the most exciting aspect of the toy. Typically, the longer it is, the more adrenaline and fun it provides.
Young toddlers, however, may be afraid to use long slides. They may also require more parents’ supervision. On the other hand, adventurous, tall, or older toddlers may get quickly bored when the slide is too short.
Storage and Footprint
It’s an essential element to consider as most slides come with a significant footprint. Before committing to a product, put some thoughts on where you’ll install it. Consider if you’ll set it up indoors, outdoors, or will need to move it.
Inflatable models can be folded into a bag for easy storage. Other products, however, come with a large footprint and are designed to remain outdoors all year long.
Material
Toddler slides are often made with plastic, such as high-density polyethylene or HDPE. This material is sturdy and can usually be left outdoors. Make sure, however, that it doesn’t contain sharp edges to avoid injury.
Other models are softer to the touch—such as inflatable types or products made with polyurethane foam. The smooth material is gentler on our crawling toddlers’ knees and hands.
Whichever slide you pick, make sure that it’s robust enough to handle your little one’s rough play. The material should also be easy to clean and maintain.
Extras
Have a look at other activities the slide may include. You’ll find products with a built-in swing, basketball hoop, or even a ball pit.
These additional occupations provide extra physical exercise and fun. They may also help keep your little one entertained for longer; which is never a disadvantage as a parent.
Assembly
Finally, a slide needs to be properly installed before your kiddo can start using it. While inflatable types only consist of pumping air into it, other hard-plastic products can be more challenging to set-up.
Make sure that the package comes with adequate assembly instructions and details. You may also want to check if you have the necessary tools at home for installation.
Along the same line, it’s recommended to install the structure on the grass or a carpet if you’re setting-it-up indoors. The toy can easily move and slip when placed over hard surfaces such as cement, tiles, or hardwood floors.
My Toddler Slide Reviews
Among the numerous choices available, what are the best slides available out there for toddlers? Here is our final selection of the top products available.
Little Tikes First Slide
This product should make the perfect first slide. It’s simple for a small child to use and for parents to set-up. No tools are required; it comes with only four pieces that easily snap together.
First, interlock the staircase and the sliding portion. Then, press on each of the blue handles until you hear a click. Placing a drop of soap over the grip’s tip should make the process smoother. That’s all; your toddler’s slide is ready for use!
The slide measures 3-feet long and can accommodate a child weighing up to 60 pounds. It is, therefore, advised to use it with one child at a time.
This model is designed for young and older toddlers—from 18 months to six years old. Parents, however, find it more suitable for young toddlers. Older ones often prefer more challenging models.
It can be used both indoors and outdoors. Users love that they don’t even need to disassemble it entirely. The staircase only needs to be unclipped and snaps behind the slide for convenient storage.
When folded, it shouldn’t take more room than a regular full-size stool. Just tilt it over a wall or slide it between two pieces of furniture until its next use. Even better, the whole structure weighs about 10 pounds, which is easy for most parents to pick up and lift.
It’s advised to install it on a soft surface. Grass or carpet are typically better than hard floors. Some parents, however, had success using it inside their kid’s paddling pool.
Finally, this product assists in keeping your child healthy. If she or he tends to bite or lick anything handy, this model doesn’t include BPA compounds.
Pros
- Easy-to-store
- Simple assembly
- No tools required
- Can be used indoors and outdoors
- 3-foot long slide
- Lightweight
- Suitable for young toddlers
- Doesn’t contain BPA
Cons
- Reviewers mention that handles can be challenging to snap
- The staircase angle can’t be adjusted
Step2 Game Time Sports Climber and Slide
This model might be ideal for anyone wanting a multi-activity slide. Not only will you be able to teach various types of games, but your little one should stay busy for longer. Plus, with different activities within a single construction, several kids can play together without arguing.
To start, the slide features six vibrant colors. Your toddler should become familiar with basic tones such as green, yellow, blue, orange, red, and white. In addition, it offers five different activities.
The orange uphill portion mimics a real climbing wall. It comes with foot holes and handgrips for the most realistic experience. It’s designed to promote hand and foot coordination and gross motor skills while being kid-friendly and easy to use.
After reaching the top, kiddos should have a 360-degree view and can even use the basketball hoop from above. When it’s then time to come down, they’ll use the 33-inch long slide to reach the ground level.
If you’re wondering if it’s safe for your toddler, the manufacturer recommends this model for kids aged two to six years old. Some reviewers could use it with 12-month children, yet with constant supervision. In all cases, make sure your child weighs less than 60 pounds.
When climbing and sliding become too tiring, the basketball hoop should keep your toddler occupied. After scoring, they can even turn the clicking knobs to record up to 10 marks. If your little one is more into soccer, he or she can kick through the blue gap.
If this is a little challenging for young toddlers, the two rounded openings can be used for crawling and hiding. Parents report that this feature alone provides lots of fun.
Pros
- Includes a realistic climbing wall
- Comes with a basketball hoop
- Small openings for crawling and hiding
- 33-inch long slide
- Bright and various colors
- Five activities included
- Also suitable for older toddlers
Cons
- The basketball hoop isn’t adjustable
- Can be heavy for some reviewers
Eezy Peezy Active Play 3 in 1 Jungle Gym PlaySet
If you’re looking for a toddler slide combining several activities and suitable for several kids, this playset could meet your needs. You’ll be able to entertain children between one and three years old.
It comes with a maximum weight capacity of 150 pounds, which is more than most other products. One toddler may use the slide, while another tries out the climbing structure. The youngest ones have great fun crawling and hiding between the construction’s poles before they reach the age to go up the framework.
This product also includes a 27 by 42 inch ball pit containing 50 colorful balls. Your little ones should be able to work on their throwing and catching skills. Most parents, however, purchase at least 100 extra balls to fill-up the pit and increase the fun.
The pit typically requires less supervision than the slide or climbing structure. Parents should nevertheless keep an eye on their toddlers at all times. They report that even 18-month toddlers can climb over the pit’s edge and escape.
Finally, the construction includes a toss target in the shape of a hand, ideal for enhancing fine motor skills. Overall, all activities involve a different type of physical exercise, ensuring your little one is ready for a nap after playtime is over.
Reviewers enjoy how easy the entire structure is to put together. The plastic tubes interlock one onto another, and no tools are required. Plus, it’s made of robust plastic material, making it a durable option.
Keep in mind, however, that this product is best kept indoors. It contains fabric that could grow mildew in a moist environment. Plus, little bugs could find their way inside the tubes.
Pros
- Includes four different activities
- Comes with a ball pit and 50 balls
- Toss target to promote fine motor skills
- Climbing structure
- Easy assembly
- Sturdy product
Cons
- The purchase of additional balls may be required
- Best for indoor use only
Little Tikes Inflatable Jump ‘n Slide
This slide should allow toddlers of all ages to have fun with minimal adult intervention. It’s an inflatable structure, which is soft and smooth for our little ones’ acrobatic adventures.
The main area is designed for bouncing and potentially attempted flips. It measures 84 by 84 inches, giving plenty of space for three kids to play together. Just make sure that their total weight doesn’t surpass 250 pounds.
After each jump, they’ll land on a squishy floor. Even the four columns are inflatable and safe for your little one. They shouldn’t be hitting any hard parts that could cause injuries.
It’s also built with three mesh walls to keep toddlers safely inside the construction and ensure they won’t fall outside. Finally, an extremely wide slide allows the structure’s safe entry and exit.
If you’re worried about the light weight of an inflatable product, you’ll also have six stakes to anchor the unit to the floor. This is critical to ensure that the slide doesn’t flip or move during play. It is, therefore, best to set-it up on grass rather than hard floors.
The product includes a blower, providing constant airflow for uninterrupted fun. It also offers an air pipe when needed. Reviewers reported that they were able to blow up the entire slide within minutes by using this tool only.
It’s built with puncture-resistant material to withstand children’s rough play. If a hole is spotted, the package even comes with four repair patches for a fix on the go. In addition, you’ll get a 90-day and one-year guarantee on the fabric and blower, respectively.
Lastly, we like that the construction comes with a shoe holder to keep them organized. And when the fun is over, the deflated structure fits inside a storage bag for convenient storage.
Pros
- Includes a blower and air-pump for an easy set-up
- Convenient to store
- Soft inflatable material prevents injuries
- Built with mesh walls for safety
- High weight capacity
- Repair patches included
- Storage bag
Cons
- Large footprint requires a significant amount of space
- The blower can be extremely loud for some users
Milliard Soft Foam Toddler Stairs and Ramp Climber Gym Toy
This toy is primarily designed for crawling toddlers. Reviewers report that it makes a perfect tool for young kids starting to climb on any furniture.
It’s made of foam polyester, making it soft for your little one’s knees and hands. He or she won’t run the risk of hitting a hard plastic material when slipping. Yet, the material is firm enough to prevent your child from sinking into the shapes.
This product is free of toxic compounds. It doesn’t contain lead or phthalate and meets ASTM requirements. You should stay reassured that your toddler’s health is taken into account.
Once your toddler has climbed the steps, they’ll reach the sliding portion. This is often seen as a reward. It has a straight design combined with a gentle slope, ideal for a child’s first slide.
The shapes are also covered with a stain-resistant vinyl cover to protect the foam. This makes the toy easy to clean. Parents mention that a simple cloth wipe is generally enough to clean most messes.
The cover features A, B, and C letters; which can be helpful if you intend to teach letters. The slide comes in three popular and elementary colors—green, blue, and red—another educational element of the toy.
The product includes several velcro strips to place under each shape, preventing them from sliding apart. A thicker one attaches the two pieces from underneath, making sure they don’t divide and remain in place.
Realistically, many parents report adding extra velcro strips between the slide and the stairs. The two pieces, however, can be used separately if needed. The steps can be used to climb up a bed, for instance.
Pros
- Soft foam material
- Bright colors
- Displays letters
- Covered with sturdy vinyl
- Easy to clean
- Toxic-free
- Complies with ASTM requirements
- Ideal for young toddlers
Cons
- Parents have a hard time keeping the two pieces together
- May get boring for older toddlers
Costzon Toddler Climber and Swing Set
This slide should be suitable for all kids from three to eight years old. It doesn’t only include a slide, but also a basketball hoop and telescope, plus there’s even the option of a swing. The bright colors—blue, red, orange, yellow, and green—make it entertaining at first sight.
The four stairs are patterned with stripes and cute baby feet shapes. This prevents toddlers from slipping and hurting themselves.
The next activity consists of a real basketball hoop. Although a ball isn’t included, any 6 to 8-inch models should fit the opening’s diameter. There’s also a telescope which is ideal for role-play, and crawl-through spaces at the bottom of the structure. Overall, you’ll be able to have three kids play together, using different activities.
If you choose the set with the swing, it’s designed with younger kids in mind. It features a high back and hand-bar for added safety. Your little one should enjoy his or her time without being afraid of slipping out of the chair. Plus, as your child grows older, the frontal bar can be removed.
The structure is made of durable and non-toxic HDPE plastic material. The manufacturer recommends, however, to limit the structure to a maximum of 110 pounds.
Parents were able to use it both indoors and outdoors. At the bottom of the structure, you’ll find large holes within the blue walls. Some users utilized these as anchors to keep the construction in place, preventing it from sliding.
It’s also extremely easy to assemble. It doesn’t take more than 30 minutes for a parent to put it together without help or instructions.
Pros
- Includes lots of activities
- Designed for a range of ages
- Doesn’t contain sharp corners
- Bright colors
- Non-slip stairs
- Weight capacity of 110 pounds
- Non-toxic and durable HDPE material
Cons
- Swing height isn’t adjustable
- Parents wished the structure was more stable
Supreme Savings Toddler Outdoor Playset
If a colorful slide doesn’t match the style of your backyard or patio, this model might be a good alternative. It comes in neutral shades—dark red, brown, beige, and dark green—fitting most tastes and outdoor environments. If you prefer to take it indoors when winter comes, its compact size makes it easy to move.
Parents report that the double-wall construction is stable and can be left outdoors after playtime ends. The structure features an open design. This is a characteristic most reviewers seem to appreciate as it enables them to keep an eye on their toddler at all times.
This model comes with a realistic roof, with tiles molded into the plastic material. Stairs are easy to climb and lead to the sheltered platform. Children up to 3-feet tall should be able to stand up straight.
The platform provides shade for the kids and makes a fantastic rest area for picnics and snacks. From there, kids also spend a great deal of time using the pivoting periscope. It comes with a mirror and, thus, works like a real one.
The yellow tube can be moved up and down for a more realistic play. It also helps your little one enhance fine motor skills, as well as hand-eye coordination. The 33-inch long slide allows them to get back to ground level in a fun and quick way.
This product has been granted the highest ranking by the Canadian Toy Testing Council. It evaluates products’ function, design, play value, and durability.
The construction can be used by kids aged from 18 months to five years old. It is, however, safer to have only two kids playing together, or up to 50 pounds.
Pros
- Neutral colors
- Roof with a shaded area
- Pivotable periscope
- Two kids can play together
- Pretend tiled roof for realistic play
- Stable structure
- No sharp edges
Cons
- Some reviewers found it smaller than expected
- The slide could be longer
ACTION AIR Bounce House
Although this product is large in size, it can be moved from indoors to outdoors within minutes. Parents report that it takes them less than 2 minutes to inflate the entire castle using the blower.
Plus, it comes with a convenient carry bag for easy storage. When folded and placed inside the case, it shouldn’t take up more space than a gym bag. Plus, the handles make it ideal for bringing on the road, or to grandma’s.
If you’re looking for entertainment during a birthday party or sleepover, this toy should be of assistance. It’ll fit several children as long as they weigh less than 200 pounds altogether.
It includes a jumping area, which might be the most exciting part for many toddlers. The three mesh walls will keep them safely inside the structure. On top of that, the entire construction is inflatable, without dangerous hard parts.
The structure comes with a hoop. While bouncing, your little one might want to score, enhancing motor skills and coordination.
A gentle slide makes entry more challenging. They’ll also have to crawl to fit inside the small rounded opening. On the way out, the slide will make the exit process exciting and fast.
The castle is entertaining even from the outside. It features vibrant colors and joyful images. You’ll find around the entrance images of air balloons with a koala, kangaroo, and drawings of mountains.
Even though this is an inflatable toy, parents appreciate the security it provides. The slide section comes with yellow inflatable side tubes, which is safer for little ones as they come out. The castle can even be secured to the ground using the included stakes.
The product was also granted the Children Product Certificate and meets the CPSC standards.
Pros
- Lead-free
- Comes with a carry bag
- Soft inflatable type
- Includes a basketball hoop
- Mesh walls for added safety
- Fun imagery
- Includes an air blower, stakes, and a repair kit
- Jumping, throwing, and sliding activities
Cons
- Large footprint
- Some reviewers wished it came with a larger jumping area
Little Tikes Hide and Seek Climber
When looking for a compact slide for a toddler or two, this product might be of interest. Just ensure that their total weight doesn’t surpass 90 pounds.
It’s meant for children from one to four years old. Parents, however, mention that they generally outgrow this toy by the time they reach three or four years of age. Young ones should also be supervised while rock climbing.
A 12.5-inch pretend climbing wall leads to a flat platform. It’s designed with four small rock-shaped steps for a realistic and adventurous play. Adults reported that the stones are often too tiny for babies’ feet, your toddler may require some assistance to go up.
The tall walls at the top assist little ones in staying balanced; they might even play peek-a-boo out of the windows before sliding down. Plus, users mention that the platform is large enough for kids to sit down, which makes a great hideout. Despite its short length—28 inches—adults report that the slide comes at a steep angle, which children love.
The two bases contain openings for toddlers to crawl and hide. This further enhances their motor skills, providing further physical exercise.
Users were successful in placing the slide both inside and outside the house. Although colors can slightly fade under sunlight, it holds up extremely well. Even better, it’s easy to assemble, and parents were able to easily move it indoors whenever needed.
This product comes with round corners and edges throughout to ensure your child’s security. He or she will be able to safely hold on to the structure while climbing, walking over the platform, or sliding.
Pros
- Encourages toddlers to climb
- Peek-a-book windows
- No sharp edges
- A low-height platform for added safety
- Ideal for young toddlers
- Can be kept outside
- Maximum weight capacity of 90 pounds
Cons
- Some users found the slide too short
- Can be difficult for some toddlers to climb up the pretend rocks
Step2 Panda Climber
If you’re searching for an outdoor model that’s compact enough to fit in small backyards, this product should be worth considering. It’s built with sturdy materials able to withstand wind and rain. It even comes with drain holes towards the base.
The slide features neutral colors, suitable to most tastes and styles. The open concept allows easy communication with parents or playmates. Plus, adults can keep an eye on their little ones at all times.
Two built-in steps allow access to a flat platform. The two side handles help kids climb and pull themselves up. The manufacturer, however, only advises its use for toddlers up to 60 pounds.
This structure is suitable for kids aged from 18 months to five years old. Some children may require assistance for the first few times. Reviewers mention, however, that most kids are quickly able to go up the ladder independently.
This provides a full-body workout before they slide down under the blue arch. All sides are smooth to prevent cuts. Toddlers will be able to grab the edges to either maintain balance or access the platform.
Kids love the hiding spots the construction offers. They can crawl under the platform through the small and rounded openings. Parents may even pretend they can’t see them.
Above, the platform is large enough for two or three kids to sit together. Reviewers mention that some toddlers even set-up pillows for more comfort. While it may be a good hideout, the open windows keep them in contact with the outside world.
Lastly, this model is easy to install and clean. Some users have set it up indoors, but on the carpeted floor to ensure it doesn’t slide.
Pros
- Neutral colors
- Allows climbing and crawling
- Non-toxic materials
- Sturdy double-wall construction
- Simple to clean
- Maximum weight capacity of 60 pounds
- Designed for outdoor use
Cons
- Some reviewers think the drainage holes are too small
- A few users still found some sharp edges
Conclusion
Slides are a popular toy that brings enjoyment and physical exercise. For parents, it’s also an opportunity to let their toddler play alone. The best toddler slide from our selection is the Little Tikes First Slide.
We love the fact that it’s simple and only comes with four separate pieces that easily snap together. It can be used both indoors, outdoors, and folded for convenient storage.