Want to know about an awesome backyard idea for summer 2021? Water tables are not only fun for kids, but they also provide so much educational value.
If you’re in store for a water table for your little ones, you’ve come to the right place.
Our goal is to make the decision process a heck of a lot easier for you, therefore we’ve created the ultimate guide of the 11 best water tables for kids.
Table of Contents
What Are Water Tables For Kids Used For?
What To Consider Before Purchasing A Water Table
Water Tables For Kids: Quick Stats
Best Overall
Best Budget Option
Best Water Table For Older Kids
Best Water Table With An Umbrella
Best Dual-Use Water Table For Kids
11 Creative Water Tables For Kids 2021
How To Clean Your Water Table
Water Tables For Kids: FAQs
1. What Ages Are Water Tables For?
2. How To Make Water Tables More Fun: What Else Can I Put In My Water Table?
A Final Note: 11 Creative Water Tables For Kids
What Are Water Tables For Kids Used For?
Before we jump into our list of the best water tables on the market, we should probably explain why water tables are an excellent toy for kids and what you use them for.
Sensory Development
Above all, water tables increase sensory development in children. By touching, playing, and exploring, your child will understand movement and physics much more quickly.
Now you might be wondering, “how in the world will my two year old understand physics?” Great question!
From a young age, children can start to comprehend cause and effect relationships. This is the start of understanding physics.
Fine Motor Skills
In addition, water tables are excellent for developing fine motor skills.
By playing with smaller toys and getting different features to function correctly, they need to use various fine motor skills. This practice will do them well in the following years.
Social Skills
And of course, we can’t forget about how water tables benefit social skills in young kids.
Most of these tables are designed for many children to play at once. Playing together, sharing, and communicating helps kids build social skills that they wouldn’t be able to hone while watching TV.
What To Consider Before Purchasing A Water Table
Choosing the perfect water table for your kids can be a difficult task. How do you know which table will meet all of your requirements?
When deciding on a water table, here are the four things you’ll want to take into consideration:
✔ Height
Many people recommend checking the suggested age limits on water tables before purchasing. And while I think it’s important to get an age-appropriate water table, I think it’s more important to find a water table that is a manageable height for your child.
Whether or not the table is adjustable is also an important piece of information to know before buying.
✔ Materials
While most water tables for kids are made of plastic, some are much more aesthetically pleasing. Check out our list below to find the best wooden and steel water tables on the market.
✔ Price
As you browse through the water table options below, pay attention to the prices of each. Water tables for kids range in price from $60 to well over $200 depending on the size and attachments included.
Luckily, there are water tables for all types of budgets so you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank.
✔ Attachments/Features
And finally, we highly suggest understanding the included attachments or features of each water table.
If you’re looking for a water table with plenty of games, knick-knacks, and excitement, pay attention to the “specs” section of each product on our list. This section will tell you what each table includes.
Water Tables For Kids: Quick Stats
Sorting through 11 different water tables can be time-consuming, so to speed up the process, we’ve created a short list of the best water tables for kids:
Water Tables For Kids: Best Overall
Overall, you cannot go wrong with the Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table. This is a multi-functional, sturdy table that will last for years.
It can accommodate several children at once, meaning that your kids can play together while using this toy.
To read more about the Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table, jump down to our review by clicking here.
Water Tables For Kids: Best Budget Option
Looking to stay on a budget this summer while still keeping your kids entertained? Then the Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table might be just what you’re looking for. This table will keep your kids occupied for hours and you won’t have to worry about spending too much money.
For more information about this water table, jump down to our review by clicking here.
Best Water Table For Older Kids
Older kids can be harder to impress, but with the Best Choice Products Kids 3-In-1 Outdoor Wood Activity/Picnic Table, they will feel comfortable and excited to play outside.
This is a 3-in-1 option and can be used as a water table, sandbox, and picnic table.
Keep reading about the Best Choice Products Kids 3-In-1 Outdoor Wood Activity/Picnic Table by jumping down to our review here.
Best Water Table With An Umbrella
In our opinion, water tables that include umbrellas are the best value because they provide shade during hot summer days. The best water table that includes an umbrella is the Step2 Spill & Splash Seaway Water Table.
This water table is highly-rated among customers and includes awesome features. You can’t go wrong with this Step2 model.
Skip down to read about the pros and cons of this water table by clicking here.
Best Dual-Use Water Table For Kids
Not only is the Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table the best budget option, but it is also the best dual-use water table.
Step2 designed this table with two reservoir basins so that it can hold water and sand separately. This makes exploration and clean up much easier.
Jump down to our review of the Dino Dig Sand & Water Table by clicking here.
11 Creative Water Tables For Kids 2021
We always recommend doing research on each product before purchasing, even if you’ve received recommendations from others.
We wanted to make this process easier for you because we understand that research can be difficult and time-consuming. With that in mind, we’ve listed the 11 best water tables for kids below with extensive information about each product.
1. Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table
Topping our list of best water tables for kids is the Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table. Step2 has dedicated a lot of time to perfecting water tables and they hit the nail on the head with this one.
This 13-piece play table is perfect for young ones that are learning movement and cause-effect relationships. And thanks to its large design many children can play together at once.
We highly recommend this water table as we believe it is the best on the market. Continue reading our review to find out exactly why we think this is the best water table for your kids.
Overall Score
9.9/10
The best of the best, the Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table comes in at a solid 9.9 out of 10 for its durability, size, and various activities.
Although you’ll need to round up a few tools to get this table set up, overall it’s a very high-quality product that will serve its purpose for years and years.
The Good
✅ Sturdy And Durable
✅ Quick Assembly
✅ Multiple Uses
✅ Many Children Can Play At Once
✅ Non-Leak Plug
✅ Very Educational
With so many positive features, it’s hard to highlight all of them. However, we believe the most important aspects of this water table include its durability, ease of assembly, and non-leak drain plug.
If you own a few simple tools, setting up this water table should take approximately 10-15 minutes in total. For busy parents, this is a huge relief.
Unlike other water tables, this one in particular comes with a non-leak drain plug. Compared to other models, this feature is hard to find.
The drain plug also works well for draining the water basin. Other tables require parents to dump the water out by flipping the basin over, but that’s not the case for this product.
We also love that this table helps to develop vital skills like fine motor development and cause/effect relationships.
The Bad
❌ Tools And Assembly Required
❌ Water Table Cover Not Included
Although this is the top-rated water table for kids, there are still a few small flaws that need to be mentioned.
First, in order to put this table together, you’ll need to have your own tools. A drill is necessary to create holes in order to attach different parts together.
In addition, a table cover is not included, which is frustrating considering that this water table will likely stay outdoors. You may consider making your own cover to keep the table clean.
Specs
The Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table is a 13-piece set that includes a bucket, two cups, a rubber duck, a frog water squirter, a fish water squirter, a strainer, a flipper, two spinning pieces, and three mazes.
It weighs approximately 15 pounds in total and the main water basin can hold up to 5 gallons of water.
This is a two-tier table that works using maze-like spinners and ramps.
Buy Here
The Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table is a mid-range item, but as the best water table on our list, we believe the price point is very reasonable.
Check prices on Amazon here: Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table
Know Before You Buy
? The Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table is ideal for children ages 18 months to 5 years.
? Thanks to its design, many children can play at once.
? To get the water table functioning, dump water into the top tray so that it will start the waterfall. The water will end in the pool below.
2. Little Tikes Fish ‘n Splash Water Table
Little Tikes is a well-known brand that continuously delivers quality toys and they didn’t fall short with their Fish ‘n Splash Water Table.
Let the kids enjoy the fishing set or have them practice counting with the other included games; these accessories bring the value of this table up tremendously.
And whether you use this table to entertain your kids or to entertain your dogs (yes, dogs love it, too!), you’ll absolutely get your money’s worth.
Overall Score
9.7/10
Although it isn’t quite as well-designed as the Step2 model above, the Little Tikes Fish ‘N Splash Water Table includes several full games that can accommodate many children at once.
The biggest downfall of this Little Tikes water table is the drain plug, which brings its perfect score down to 9.7 out of 10.
The Good
✅ Sturdy And Durable
✅ Easy To Set Up; No Assembly Required
✅ Quick Draining
✅ Room For Multiple Children
✅ Fun Games
✅ Easy To Clean
✅ Exactly As Described
Above all, we believe that this is one of the best water tables for kids on the market. It includes fun games, an easy setup, and a large design to accommodate several children at once.
The included fishing game is especially fun for little ones who want to work on their counting.
In addition to these awesome features, this table includes a plug at the bottom of the water basin for easy drainage. The drain also helps parents clean this table with ease.
The Bad
❌ The Drain Plug Can Be Difficult To Seal
There is one major problem with this water table. Although the Little Tikes Fish ‘n Splash Water Table comes with a drainage plug, it’s very difficult to get it to fit properly. This causes leaks, which can be very frustrating.
Specs
Included with your purchase of the Little Tikes Fish ‘n Splash Water Table are 10 play pieces such as a fishing pole, floating critters, a water cup, and a fishing net.
The entire table weighs approximately 9 pounds and it can hold up to 50 pounds of water or sand. The water basin is approximately 7 inches deep.
Buy Here
Since you’ll likely spend less than $100* on the Little Tikes Fish ‘n Splash Water Table, you can expect to save some money in comparison to the Step2 model above.
*Prices vary. Check Amazon for up-to-date and accurate prices.
Check prices on Amazon here: Little Tikes Fish ‘n Splash Water Table
Know Before You Buy
? To drain the water table, pull the plug on the bottom.
? Multiple children can play with this water table at once.
3. Step2 Tropical Rainforest Water Table
One of our favorite water tables for kids is the Step2 Tropical Rainforest Water Table. With so many fun features, your children will learn through exploration while practicing social and fine motor skills.
Little ones are especially intrigued by the spinner toy, which helps them understand cause and effect relationships.
As a Step2 product, you can expect a quality table that will last for years. But don’t just take it from us. Here are the pros, cons, and specifications of this product:
Overall Score
9.4/10
The company, Step2, is a powerhouse when it comes to water tables, so it comes as no surprise that the third best water table for kids is the Step2 Tropical Rainforest Water Table.
Since you will need to provide your own tools for assembly and noting a few other small mishaps, we’ve landed on a final score of 9.4 out of 10 for this table.
The Good
✅ Sturdy
✅ Non-Leak Plug
✅ Easy To Drain
✅ Easy To Clean
✅ Multiple Children Can Play At Once
✅ Very Educational
The Step2 Tropical Rainforest Water Table is perfect for families with many children; thanks to its large design, it can accommodate several children at once.
After you are finished using it for the day, drain out the water using the easy drain plug. This drain plug also makes it simple to clean this table.
Note: The easiest way to clean this water table is by using disinfectant wipes or all-purpose cleaner.
Educational benefits are a major perk for this product. Your kids will be able to practice their social skills, fine motor skills, and sensory skills.
The Bad
❌ Pieces Can Fall Off Easily
❌ Drill Not Included But Required For Assembly
Before you decide on the Step2 Tropical Rainforest Water Table, there are a few negative aspects to be aware of.
First, you should know that some of the attachments are known to fall off with use. Keep an eye on your kids as they play with this water table to be sure they are using it properly.
In addition, you’ll need to have some of your own tools in order to get this table set up. A drill is not included with your purchase, but you’ll need one because this table is connected through screws.
Keep all of this in mind going forward.
Specs
When you receive your package, you’ll find the water table basin, a rainforest canopy tray, and 13 accessories like a tree frog, toucan, and tropical fish.
The table is approximately 17 pounds and the main water basin can hold up to 5 gallons of water.
Buy Here
As one of the best water tables for kids and as a Step2 product, you can expect to pay much more for this water table than other options on our list.
Check prices on Amazon here: Step2 Tropical Rainforest Water Table
Know Before You Buy
? This Step2 Tropical Rainforest Water Table is best for children ages 18 months to 5 years old.
? Thanks to its large design, you can have many children playing with this water table at once.
4. Step2 Spill & Splash Seaway Water Table
A unique water table for kids is the Step2 Spill & Splash Seaway Water Table.
We personally love this water table because it includes an umbrella to keep the kids cool while playing outside. Not to mention, the included activities are so unique in comparison to other water tables.
This table was designed to improve hand-eye coordination, social skills, and fine motor skills.
And although it is expensive in comparison to other options, it is still a quality item made by a respectable company.
Overall Score
9.0/10
We love the design and overall ease of use of the Step2 Spill & Splash Seaway Water Table. The functional umbrella is a fantastic touch and keeps the kids cool during hot summer days.
However, we had to knock off a few points since this table doesn’t come with a drain. This seems like a no-brainer for any water table, but Step2 (in)conveniently forget to include one for this model.
Due to this small annoyance, we’ve given this table a 9.0 out of 10.
The Good
✅ Sturdy
✅ Umbrella Included
✅ Multiple Children Can Play At Once
✅ Multiple Uses
✅ Easy To Clean
The best thing about this water table is that it’s a great height for toddlers and young children. Other water tables can be difficult to play with if they are too tall.
You’ll also love the included umbrella for those hot summer days. Keep your kids cool while they play outside with their new toy.
This colorful and large water table will be the talk of the neighborhood and luckily, it’s large enough for multiple children to play at once.
And of course, we can’t forget to mention that this table can be used for many different activities; sand and foam seem to be a big hit among little ones.
The Bad
❌ No Drain
❌ Tools Required For Assembly
❌ Assembly Can Be Confusing
❌ Expensive
With the good comes the bad and it’s important to know exactly what you’ll be getting when you order this water table.
The biggest issue we have with the Step2 Spill & Splash Seaway Water Table is that there isn’t a drain plug on the bottom of the water basin. This makes the storage process a heck of a lot harder.
Note: But on the bright side, you won’t have to worry about any leaks!
Have a few tools prepared for when you decide to set up this water table. A drill is necessary but it isn’t included in your purchase.
And while you’re assembling your table, be sure that you follow the instructions meticulously. We’ve found that it’s easy to put this table together incorrectly and when that happens, the features don’t work as they should.
Last but not least, understand that this is one of the most expensive options on the market. If you’re on a budget, you may want to purchase a different model.
Specs
The Step2 Spill & Splash Seaway Water Table includes a two-tier water table, an umbrella, and 11 accessories including different toys and knick-knacks.
This particular design is fun for kids because the two tiers create a waterfall effect.
In total, the table weighs approximately 16.5 pounds.
Buy Here
The Step2 Spill & Splash Seaway Water Table is the most expensive water table on our list. Expect to pay more than double for this model than the Little Tikes option that takes the second place spot.
Check prices on Amazon here: Step2 Spill & Splash Seaway Water Table
Know Before You Buy
? The Step2 Spill & Splash Seaway Water Table is best for children ages 1 to 4.
? Thanks to its large design, many children can play together at once.
5. Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table
Introducing the dual-functioning Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table. Let the kids enjoy water activities or sand activities; you can do it both with this model.
This is Step2’s most affordable option, so if you’re looking to stay on a budget for summer fun, consider this water table.
Before purchasing, be sure that this table meets all of your requirements; read about the pros, cons, and specifications below.
Overall Score
8.9/10
Coming in just below the Step2 model above, the Dino Dig Sand & Water Table is functional and easy to maintain. This is a huge stress reliever for busy parents.
Not to mention, the price is right and won’t break the bank.
On the other hand, some included pieces of this table can easily fall off, leaving us to believe this isn’t the highest quality option. All in all, this Step2 table receives an 8.9 out of 10.
The Good
✅ Sturdy
✅ Easy To Clean And Maintain
✅ Great Packaging
✅ Multiple Uses
✅ Easy Assembly
✅ Cover Included
✅ Non-Leak Drain Plug
✅ Affordable
The Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table is a dual-use table that is designed so that kids can enjoy playing with water and sand at the same time. No need to drain the water and dry it out before adding sand because there are two different compartments.
This is a very sturdy table that can withstand rough play, which is perfect for energetic little ones.
Another important feature you should know about is the included cover. Not all of the water tables on our list include covers, so finding one that does is really special. Especially at the price they ask for this one.
The Bad
❌ Palm Tree Isn’t Attached To The Table
The only dilemma we had with this water table is the palm tree. Since it isn’t attached, it can easily fall over while the children are trying to play with it. To fix this, you can always super glue it to the table, but remember that you’ll likely be storing this at some point.
This is something that we feel Step2 could improve upon when it comes to the Dino Dig Sand & Water Table.
Specs
The Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table includes the water table base, seven toy pieces (dinosaur themed), and two scooping buckets.
This is a dual-use water table where kids can play with sand and water at the same time. In total, the table weighs approximately 14 pounds.
Buy Here
You’ll find that this Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table is the most affordable water table on our list and on the market. However, since it isn’t currently available on Amazon, you’ll need to buy directly from the Step2 website.
Check prices on Amazon here: Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table
Know Before You Buy
? The Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table is best for children ages 2 to 5 years old.
6. Paw Patrol Sea Patrol Water Table
Let’s move away from Step2 water tables for kids and talk about the popular Paw Patrol Sea Patrol Water Table.
Not only does this model have a fun design that will keep the kids engaged, but mom and dad will love how easy it is to set up and move when necessary.
Of course, no water table is perfect, so be sure to read our review below to decide if this model checks all of the boxes.
Overall Score
8.6/10
Sturdiness is the biggest downfall when it comes to the Paw Patrol Sea Patrol Water Table.
With that said, it still has plenty of fantastic features and let’s face it.. what child wouldn’t want a Paw Patrol-themed water table? Considering its flaws and positive attributes, this table gets an 8.6 out of 10.
The Good
✅ Easy To Assemble
✅ Many Children Can Play At Once
✅ Easy To Move
✅ Many Activities
✅ Non-Leak Drain Plug
We all know how much kids love Paw Patrol. Chase, Rubble, and the whole gang can light up any child’s face. That is likely why this is one of the most sought-after water tables for kids.
We particularly like that this table is big enough so that many kids can play at once. This will help their social skills and teach them to share.
In addition, this table comes with many different activities to keep your toddler busy for hours. Getting them to spend time outside will be a breeze.
And we can’t forget to mention how easy it is to set this water table up. Spending hours setting up a new toy can bring the excitement down quite a bit, but you don’t have to worry about that with this product.
The Bad
❌ Not Very Sturdy
❌ Pieces Can Fall Off
Unlike other models on our list, the Paw Patrol Sea Patrol Water Table isn’t the most sturdy option. Things tend to fall apart or break easily, so be aware of this before purchasing.
The easiest way to prolong the life of your Paw Patrol water table is to keep an eye on the kids and make sure they are using it the right way.
Specs
The Paw Patrol Sea Patrol Water Table includes the water table base, a lookout tower, decals, and four Paw Patrol character toys. The accessories make this a fun activity center for multiple children.
In total, the table weighs 10 pounds.
Buy Here
We were pleasantly surprised to see this branded Paw Patrol water table at an affordable price. It’s not the cheapest table on our list, but it is still a budget-friendly option.
Check prices on Amazon here: Paw Patrol Sea Patrol Water Table
Know Before You Buy
? The Paw Patrol Sea Patrol Water Table is best for children ages 18 months to 4 years old.
? It is big enough to accommodate many children playing at once.
7. Little Tikes Frog Pond Water Table
If you’re looking for a simple water table, consider the Little Tikes Frog Pond Water Table. As mentioned before, Little Tikes puts a lot of effort into making toys that offer the best value; they are a company you can trust.
With the Frog Pond Water Table, you’ll keep the kids busy for hours on end while they explore the way water works and moves.
Sure, this model isn’t our favorite option on the market, but it still offers plenty of positive features. Here is what you need to know before purchasing this water table:
Overall Score
8.5/10
Little Tikes is a brand name that you can trust and they don’t let their customers down when it comes to water tables for kids.
This is a simple table that can accommodate several children at once. But beware that the table is known to leak, which can lead to some messes.
The Little Tikes Frog Pond Water Table receives an 8.5 out of 10.
The Good
✅ Good Height For Little Kids
✅ Easy To Clean
✅ Multiple Uses
✅ Easy Drain Plug For Emptying
Little Tikes does a great job delivering products of value. Because of this, you’ll find that their Little Tikes Frog Pond Water Table has plenty of positive qualities.
You’ll love that it is the perfect height for your little ones to enjoy.
The drain plug also comes in handy because you can easily drain and clean your water table without hassle.
The Bad
❌ Drain Plug Is Known To Leak
❌ Not The Best Design
But of course, there are some flaws to mention and consider before buying.
Even though there is a drain plug for easy drainage, it can pose a big problem. The drain on the bottom of the water basin tends to leak, which can make a mess in your yard or patio.
We have also found that the overall design isn’t the best. Although it’s a simple product, the base isn’t well-constructed and we also think there could be a few more included activities.
Consider these complaints before making your decision.
Specs
Included in your purchase is the water table basin, five frogs, two floating lily pads, and a fill cup. The water basin can hold up to 7 gallons of water.
In total, the table weighs approximately 4 pounds (empty).
Buy Here
The Little Tikes Frog Pond Water Table competes in price with the Paw Patrol table above. You’ll love its affordability.
Check prices on Amazon here: Little Tikes Frog Pond Water Table
Know Before You Buy
? Little Tikes recommends this water table for children ages 18 months to 3 years old.
? This table is perfect for one children or many children playing together.
8. Step2 Naturally Playful Sand & Water Activity Center
And we’re back to another Step2 model. The Step2 Naturally Playful Sand & Water Activity Center is a large table that can accommodate many children at once.
If you are looking to entertain several kids, this is likely your best bet. Throw some cars, trucks, and other toys into the mix and watch your children’s faces light up with excitement.
This Step2 water table is lower on our list thanks to its higher price, but it may just be exactly what you’re looking for.
Overall Score
8.3/10
What isn’t to like about a water table that provides shade for the kids on sunny days? Not only that, but the Step2 Naturally Playful Sand & Water Activity Center is known to last for years.
On the contrary, this table tends to leak; we believe that Step2 could have focused more on the overall quality of this table, especially for the asking price.
We’ve settled on a final score of 8.3 out of 10 for this model.
The Good
✅ Durable And Sturdy
✅ Cover Included
✅ Great Design
✅ Drain Plug For Emptying
✅ Many Kids Can Play At Once
This is another dual-use water table; we especially like these designs because they bring more creativity to the play table.
Sit back and relax as the kids play together; they will learn sharing and social skills, which are vital to everyday life.
The included cover is a nice touch so that you don’t have to continuously drain, clean, and store your water table. You can simply add the cover and use it the next day.
Not only does the cover help to keep things clean, but it also prolongs the lifespan of your table. Many customers have reported that this product can last for years and can withstand all types of weather.
The Bad
❌ Drain Plug Is Known To Leak
❌ Expensive
The biggest complaint from customers is the price tag. Sure, it’s a good water table, but is it really worth double the price of other tables on our list? We don’t think so.
And for the asking price, we expected the design to be flawless. Unfortunately, the drain plug leaks quite a bit.
Specs
In the box, you’ll receive a water table basin with legs, an umbrella, and 7-piece accessory kit, which includes boats, bridges, a sand shovel, and buckets. It also includes a cover, which is incredibly helpful.
This is a dual-use table that has two sides: one for water, one for sand. In addition, the umbrella is removable and is approximately 60 inches in length.
The water basin can hold up to 1.5 gallons of water and 20 pounds of sand. When empty, the table weighs 25 pounds.
Buy Here
For this Step2 model, you’ll need to loosen the purse strings a bit. It is one of the most expensive water tables for kids.
Check prices on Amazon here: Step2 Naturally Playful Sand & Water Activity Center
Know Before You Buy
? Step2 recommends that children ages 2 to 6 years old use this water table
? Thanks to its size, many children can play together at once.
9. Little Tikes Sandy Lagoon Sand & Water Table
The Little Tikes Sandy Lagoon Sand & Water Table is an excellent option if you want your children to be able to play with both sand and water at the same time.
Apart from the sand-water combo, this table is also impressive thanks to its features and gadgets; it is the perfect introduction to physics.
On the lower end of our list, it’s important that you weight the pros and cons of this water table before purchasing.
To save you the time, we’ve done all of the testing and researching for you. Continue reading about this product below:
Overall Score
8.2/10
Whether you decide to use the Little Tikes Sandy Lagoon Sand & Water Table inside or outside, you’ll love its versatility and quick setup process.
But keep in mind that overall, this isn’t the most durable table and pieces are known to break off. Because of this, it receives an 8.2 out of 10.
The Good
✅ Easy To Assemble
✅ Cover Included
✅ Easy To Clean Up
✅ Can Use Indoors or Outdoors
✅ Drain Plug For Emptying
As we get lower on our list, you may be thinking that these products are duds and couldn’t possibly offer exceptional benefits or features.
But surprisingly, there are so many awesome water tables for kids on the market that even the lower-ranked water tables are worth looking into.
A few of the things we loved about this water table is that it is very quick and easy to assemble and clean. And to keep things extra clean, Little Tikes has included a cover for the sand area. Simply put the cover on for the evening and get the kids back outside bright and early the next morning.
Many customers have reported using this simple water table inside during stormy or cold days. Keep this in mind for your kids, too!
The Bad
❌ Not Durable
❌ Pieces Can Fall Off Easily
❌ Instructions Aren’t Clear
Any toy that doesn’t come with clear instructions is a pain in the butt if you ask me. Unfortunately, Little Tikes illustrations are difficult to understand.
Luckily, setting up this table is still quite easy, with or without the instructions.
As your children play, be sure to keep an eye on the legs of the table. Other customers have said that the legs can break easily. Although this hasn’t happened to us, we suggest being cautious.
Specs
The Little Tikes Sandy Lagoon Sand & Water Table includes two characters, two inner tubes, a shovel/rake, a cup, and a table cover.
In total, the table weighs 9 pounds.
Buy Here
Although the Little Tikes Sandy Lagoon Sand & Water Table isn’t the most expensive table on our list, we do believe there are better deals when it comes to dual-use (sand and water) tables.
Check prices on Amazon here: Little Tikes Sandy Lagoon Sand & Water Table
Know Before You Buy
? Little Tikes states that this water table is best used by children ages 2 to 6 years old.
? This toy is perfect for many children to enjoy at once.
10. Best Choice Products Kids 3-in-1 Outdoor Wood Activity/Picnic Table
The Best Choice Products Kids 3-In-1 Outdoor Wood Activity/Picnic Table is the only wooden water table on our list. This aesthetically pleasing water table will fit-in perfectly in your backyard.
Get the kids set up and watch as they enjoy this as a water table, sand table, or picnic table all summer long.
Here are a few more things you should know about this water table before purchasing it for your kids:
Overall Score
8.0/10
The Best Choice Products Kids 3-In-1 Outdoor Wood Activity/Picnic Table is much different than other options on this list thanks to its wood design and overall durability.
But, before you purchase this water table for your backyard, understand that the wood is untreated and can easily cause splinters. For little ones, this can be an “owie” waiting to happen.
Considering all of this, it deserves a final score of 8.0 out of 10.
The Good
✅ Sturdy And Durable
✅ Long-Lasting
✅ Multiple Uses
✅ Easy To Assemble
✅ Umbrella Included
✅ High Quality
This 3-in-1 design is extra special because it can be used as a sandbox, a water table, or a picnic table. This kind of versatility is difficult to find elsewhere.
We also love that this water table is exceptionally aesthetically pleasing. The wood is beautiful and will fit right in with your backyard.
The adjustable umbrella also comes in handy to keep the sun out of your kids’ face. Rubbing sunscreen all over them before going out to play can be a pain, but with this included umbrella, you won’t have to worry.
Overall, this is a high-quality product that will last for years if properly taken care of.
The Bad
❌ Untreated Wood
❌ Wood Can Cause Splinters
❌ Umbrella Is Poor Quality
Sure, we love that this water table is made of wood, but there are some downfalls to that.
First, the wood is untreated, which means that you’ll likely have to seal it yourself to preserve it. Also, the wood can easily cause splinters and with little kids, this could cause some tears.
Note: The easiest way to avoid splinters is by sanding it down.
Above, we noted that this is a quality product and while that is true, the umbrella is not very sturdy and seems to be made of cheap materials.
Specs
This wooden water table comes with an umbrella, two play boxes, and a removable table top to turn this water table into a picnic table.
Since this is a wooden play table, you can expect it to weigh a lot more than other water tables. While empty, it weighs approximately 40 pounds.
Buy Here
Expect to pay mid-range prices for this water table; but as one of the only wooden water tables for kids, the higher price is to be expected.
Check prices on Amazon here: Best Choice Products Kids 3-In-1 Outdoor Wood Activity/Picnic Table
Know Before You Buy
? This water table is best used by children ages 3 to 7 years old.
? Up to 4 children can play with this water table at once.
11. ECR4Kids Sand and Water Adjustable Activity Play Table Center
Rounding off our list is the ECRKids Sand And Water Adjustable Activity Play Table Center. Unlike other models, this activity center features two separate tables for ultimate fun.
As one of the most affordable options on our list, it is a great solution for parents looking to stay on a budget this summer.
But, as the last option on our list of best water tables for kids, I highly suggest reading through our review to see if this is the right fit for you and your family.
Overall Score
7.7/10
The ECR4KIDS Sand & Water Adjustable Activity Play Table Center may not be our first choice, but it is well worth mentioning thanks to its many convenient features.
When weighing the pros and cons, the negatives typically outweigh the positives, which helped us land on an accurate overall score of 7.7 out of 10.
The Good
✅ Durable And Sturdy
✅ Easy To Clean
✅ Can Use Indoors or Outdoors
✅ Adjustable To Match Child’s Height
✅ Covers Included
✅ Affordable
The ECR4KIDS Sand & Water Adjustable Activity Play Table Center is an affordable and simple water table.
Customers love that this table is adjustable to meet the height of your young children. The best part is that you can change the height as your kids grow.
Unlike other water tables, this model doesn’t have drain plugs because the basins are easy to take out and empty. This will help to avoid leaking problems.
It is also a great water table option for older kids, which can be difficult to find. Most tables are designed for toddlers or young children.
Overall, this is a sturdy table that can hold up to daily use.
The Bad
❌ Difficult To Assemble
❌ Not Very Big
The biggest issue with this table is the assembly process. This is one of the most difficult water tables to assemble and it will leave your kids anxious to play.
It should also be noted that this water table is much smaller than it appears. If you’re looking for a good solution for many children, this might not be your best option.
Specs
This is a simple design that includes the stands and water basins. It is made of steel and plastic and weighs approximately 20 pounds.
The water basin stands are adjustable and can be 20 inches, 22.5 inches, and 26 inches in height.
Buy Here
The ECRKids Sand And Water Table is one of the cheapest water tables for kids, however, as our final selection, we don’t necessarily believe this table offers the best bang for your buck.
Check prices on Amazon here: ECRKids Sand And Water Adjustable Activity Play Table Center
Know Before You Buy
? The ECRKids Sand And Water Adjustable Activity Play Table is best for children ages 3 to 6 years old.
How To Clean Your Water Table
Keeping your water table clean is the best way to prolong its lifespan. Your goal will be to keep it from molding, breaking, and cracking, so how is that possible?
We highly recommend cleaning out your water table between each use if you don’t have a protective cover. If you do have a protective cover, we recommend draining it and cleaning it once per week.
To thoroughly clean your water table, use disinfectant wipes or all-purpose cleaner from around the house.
Once you’ve cleaned it out and dried it completely, store your table in a climate controlled area to avoid mold.
Note: We don’t suggest leaving your table outside during harsh weather or during winter months.
Water Tables For Kids: FAQs
By this point, you’ve learned a lot about different water table options for kids, but you might have a few questions still left unanswered.
Here are the most frequently asked questions related to water tables:
1. What Ages Are Water Tables For?
Typically, water tables are designed for toddlers and children ages 1-5 years old. With that said, there are several water table that can be used by older children, too.
Most water tables have an average age range, but we find that it’s easier to determine if a table is right for your child based on the table’s height.
2. How To Make Water Tables More Fun: What Else Can I Put In My Water Table?
The cool thing about water tables is that they don’t REQUIRE water to have fun. There are plenty of other items and materials that you can add to your table for entertainment.
Here are a few additional things you can put in your water table for added fun:
✔ Playdough
✔ Bubbles
✔ Snow
✔ Marbles
✔ Cream (Shaving Cream or Whipping Cream)
✔ Rice or Dried Pasta
✔ Beads
✔ Blocks
All of these materials will add to the sensory component of your table and will keep your kids interested in this toy far longer than expected.
Note: To make things extra special, you can create different themes with your water table. Each week you can set up a new theme, whether it’s a shark theme with wter, monster truck theme (with mud), a Christmas theme with snow, etc.
A Final Note: 11 Creative Water Tables For Kids
Water tables are an excellent way to get your kids excited about going outside to play this summer.
If you are thinking about getting a water table for your kids, don’t think twice. With plenty of educational benefits, you can feel comfortable purchasing this toy for your little ones.
Overall, we believe that the Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table is the top choice on the market thanks to its sturdiness, ease of use, and design.
We hope you enjoy your summer of fun with your new water table.