Safety for playhouses & play frames

Playhouse, playground sports equipment and climbing frames – For children a place full of adventure, for parents a question of safety. To ensure that the fun in the garden remains carefree, a safe structure and regular checks are crucial.

But what does „safe“ really mean? In this guide, you'll find out what you should look out for in playhouses and the like: from choosing the right location to caring for the material. Simply explained, with practical tips.

The right location: more than just "beautiful in the garden"

Before the playhouse is built, you should think about it: Where is it really safe?

✅ Leven and stable: The surface must be firm, level and stable. Gravel, grass or special fall protection slabs are ideal.

✅ Enough space: Children need room to run and play. Allow at least 1.5 meters distance from fences, walls and other obstacles.

✅ Shade & visibility: A place in partial shade protects against overheating. You should also have a good view of the playhouse from the house.

Playhouse on the ground or on stilts? Safety decides!

Depending on the age and temperament of your child, the question arises: floor or height?

Floor playhouses: Ideal for toddlers – safe access without the risk of falling.
Stilt walker: Perfect for adventurous climbers – but please only with safe ladders, railings and, if available: a soft fall zone underneath.

➔ Tip: From around 3–4 years of age, children can make good use of stilts if they can already climb safely.

Materials & workmanship: what you should look out for

Not every playhouse is equally safe – the material makes all the difference.

✅ Solid wood, preferably cedar wood: Robust, weatherproof and durable.

✅ Treatment with child-safe stain: Protection against moisture, mold & splinters.

✅ Stable construction: No wobbly screws, no sharp edges, no open nägel.

✅ Roof with bitumen coating: Protects against rain and also prevents wood rot in the interior.

Materialien, Zertifikate und Gütesiegel von Holz Spielhäusern

Certificates & standards: Pay attention to quality seals

Seals are not a decorative accessory - they give you peace of mind

TÜV tested & GS mark: These seals guarantee that the product has been tested for safety.
EN 71 standard (European toy standard): Particularly important for wooden playhouses.
CE marking: Indicates compliance with EU directives.

Safety in detail: small things with a big impact

Sometimes little things determine safety or risk:

Guides & handles: Indispensable for raised platforms.
Rounded corners & edges: No risk of injury when bumping into them.
Slide protection: The slide must be securely anchored and non-slip.
Window stoppers: Prevent trapped fingers.

Extensions such as attachments, slides or sandboxes must be installed just as securely:

Fixed connections: No improvised fastenings.
Consistent design: Combine accessories that match the main playhouse visually and in terms of safety.
Pay attention to fall protection: Also under extensions or play tables.

Care & maintenance: How to keep the playhouse safe

A playhouse is not a „build it and forget it“project. Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safety.

Refresh water-based stain every 2 years: protection against moisture & wear and tear.
Regular check for loose screws, splinters & weather spots.
Dark stains? Treat immediately with a dry cloth or soft soap before wood rot spreads.

➔ Tip: Check particularly thoroughly after heavy rain or in spring.

Promoting - and safeguarding - age-appropriate play

Small children: Flat entrances, no steep ladders.
Older children: More climbing facilities, slides, maybe even a climbing wall.
Multifunctional elements: Tables, sandboxes & Co. provide variety and should be just as safe.

Safety = relaxed gaming fun

Playgrounds, play towers and climbing frames offer your children hours of adventure right in the garden. But only if safety is a top priority. With the right location, high-quality materials, tested products and regular maintenance, you are on the safe side. This way, the kids can climb, play and romp around - and you can stay completely relaxed

Find the perfect playhouse for your active kids now!