The Little Tikes Deluxe Easy Store Sand & Water Table is a versatile play station that can be used as a mini sand pit, a water play table and, with the lid on, a nifty craft table too, which is an extra bonus. It’s robust enough to be used outside yet perfectly proportioned for indoor use too. It’s the perfect height for a toddler to stand at, while older kids will find plenty of room underneath to kneel or sit comfortably. The Little Tikes Magic Flower Water Table has five unique activities toddlers will enjoy. If your child likes nature, this water table will fascinate them.Toddlers will have lots of fun with all the surprises waiting to be discovered. Get a Tuff Spot. Then you can use it for loads of things” (Recommended by Mumsnet user LooseLipsSinkShips) Our verdict Age: 2 to 6 years old | Size: H 50.5; W 144; D 74 cm| Capacity: holds up to 22kg of sand | Material: Plastic | Cover: Yes | Accessories included: three garden tools; two moulds What we love

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. 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 opinionsAge: 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 What we love This article was written by Brigitt Earley, a freelance writer who has spent the last 10-plus years researching the best home goods for various digital publications, including The Spruce and Good Housekeeping. Brigitt has four kids—all under the age of three—so it’s fair to say she’s spent her fair share of time facilitating afternoons playing at water tables. Her family has a Little Tikes water table, though she’s definitely lusting over the more refined option from Crate & Barrel.

Despite the seemingly endless activities at the kids’ disposal, this water table is also convenient for parents because it only weighs 10 pounds. Carry it from spot to spot based on the angle of the sun that day, or stash it in your garage when not in use to keep it in prime condition. 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.If your kids are younger, a few simple features—such as cups to pour and/or a water wheel—will do. But if your kids are a bit older and more active, look for a water table with more to do. Think water mazes, fishing rods, and more. 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

I got this for my two-and-a-half-year-old. He is enjoying it. It's not the fanciest one and is a little basic but it does the job well. It depends on how much you want to spend. It comes with a cover which is useful and the little spade, fork, boats etc.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user eyesbiggerthanstomach) Our verdict

4. Best water table for sensory development: Little Tikes Anchors Away Pirate Ship Sand and Water Table

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. 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.

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. 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.

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The Little Tikes Fish ‘N Splash Water Table set is an excellent activity table for a child learning to count or enjoy fishing fun. It holds up to seven gallons of water and comes with a fishing rod, five critters, a fishing net, and a water cup.The size of the activity table is a good option for smaller spaces. Top Features 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: This budget-friendly table comes with a lid that, with the help of a bag of sand or toys, will keep out moisture, neighbourhood cats and ants in all weathers. 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.