How to Keep a Sandbox Clean

Girl playing with dolls in front of dollhouse

If you have a kids sandbox or are thinking of getting one for your backyard, you may be overwhelmed with the thought of cleaning it. You may even be wondering: How do you even keep a sandbox clean? How often should it be cleaned? Do sandboxes really need to be cleaned?

We’ve got the answers to these questions and are here to reassure you that keeping a sandbox clean is nowhere near as time-consuming or complicated as you may think. It’s actually quite simple!

Why It's Important to Keep Kids' Sandboxes Clean

Maintaining a clean kids sandbox isn't just about aesthetics; it's important for warding off bacterial growth and creating a healthy play space for your little ones. Dirty sandboxes can become breeding grounds for bacteria and bugs, posing some health risks. But regular upkeep is easy and will give you peace of mind knowing your kids can play happily for hours in a safe, healthy sandbox.

How to Keep a Sandbox Clean

Maintaining a clean kids sandbox will extend the life of the sandbox and ensure it remains a safe place for play. While it takes some extra time and attention to maintain a clean sandbox, none of the tips below are difficult or extremely time-consuming – and they’re well worth the little bit of extra effort.
From keeping sand fresh to using a protective sandbox cover, every step below contributes to lasting fun and hygiene.

  • Use a Sandbox Cover
  • A sandbox cover will keep unwanted critters out and keep debris from getting inside, while helping to preserve the sand’s integrity. But the best thing about getting a cover for your sandbox is that it will drastically cut down on cleaning time!

    Choosing a sandbox cover that's durable and can withstand the elements will make a world of difference.

  • Keep Sand Fresh
  • Refreshing the sand in your kids' sandbox periodically is important, as it prevents the sand from compacting and becoming contaminated. At a minimum, the sand should be changed once a year, but how often you change it will depend on how often it's used and how much outdoor exposure it gets. In between changes, keep it pristine by using the best sandbox cleaners that won't harm its quality.

  • Have Kids Wash Hands Before Using Sandbox
  • Making sure kids wash their hands before diving into play can dramatically reduce the number of germs that get into the sandbox. If feasible, think about setting up a handwashing station nearby.

  • Check Toys Weekly and Remove Broken and Unused Ones
  • ake doing a regular check on toys in the sandbox part of your weekly routine. Remove any broken items to avoid potential injuries and declutter the sandbox by removing toys that don’t get used often or at all.

    This task will help catch any damage or uncleanliness that could compromise the sand's purity.

  • Use a Natural Pesticide
  • This will ward off pesky bugs that love making homes in kids' play areas while keeping the sandbox a safe environment to play in.

  • Laying a Weed Barrier
  • Putting a weed barrier under your sandbox will block unwelcome growths from underneath.

  • Teach Your Kids
  • Educate your kids on the essentials of sandbox cleanliness. One of the best ways they can help is to not bring food or drinks into the sandbox, as these will attract unwanted guests.

Take these steps to keep your sandbox clean and you’ll benefit from the longevity of your sandbox and your kids will enjoy wholesome fun for years to come.

Shop sandboxes at KidKraft today to add this classic outdoor toy to your backyard.