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Best Wood Chips For Playground (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to improve your playground's safety, wood chips may be the solution you need. Wood chips are a popular option for playgrounds due to their shock-absorbing properties, which can reduce the risk of injury in case of falls. However, before buying wood chips, there are some important factors you need to consider.

Firstly, you need to decide on the right type of wood chips for your playground. There are different sizes and textures available, so you need to choose the one that is suitable for your playground's needs. You also need to ensure that the wood chips are from a reputable source, and that they are tested for safety and quality.

Another important factor to consider is the amount of wood chips you need. This depends on the size of your playground, and you need to calculate the number of cubic feet required. You also need to ensure that you have enough space to store the wood chips before use.

Are you tired of worrying about children's safety on the playground? Do you want to ensure that your playground is a safe and fun place for kids to play? If so, wood chips may be the solution you need. But before you buy, consider these important factors. How can you choose the right type of wood chips for your playground? How much do you need? Where can you find a reputable source? By answering these questions, you can ensure that your playground is safe and enjoyable for all.

10 Best Wood Chips For Playground

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for children aged 2 to 8 years who enjoy climbing, swinging, and outdoor play.
2
The wooden swing set with multiple features is ideal for kids who love to play outdoors and enjoy swinging, climbing, and sliding.
3
The product is ideal for outdoor activities and providing a fun play space for children in a backyard or garden.
4
The product is ideal for outdoor play and recreation for children, featuring swings, a slide, sandbox area, and rock wall.
5
Ideal for outdoor play and exercise for children ages 3-10 with features such as a rock wall, slide, climber, and monkey bars.
6
Ideal for landscaping projects as ground cover or weed barrier due to its durable and eco-friendly rubber material.
7
This product is ideal for mulching and improving the quality of soil in gardens and flowerbeds.
8
The product is ideal for outdoor play and entertainment with multiple features including swings, slides, and a climbing wall.
9
The product is ideal for creating a safe and cushioned surface for playgrounds and outdoor play areas.
10
The product is ideal for playgrounds and other outdoor areas where a soft, protective surface is needed.
This product is ideal for children aged 2 to 8 years who enjoy climbing, swinging, and outdoor play.
The wooden swing set with multiple features is ideal for kids who love to play outdoors and enjoy swinging, climbing, and sliding.
The product is ideal for outdoor activities and providing a fun play space for children in a backyard or garden.
The product is ideal for outdoor play and recreation for children, featuring swings, a slide, sandbox area, and rock wall.
Ideal for outdoor play and exercise for children ages 3-10 with features such as a rock wall, slide, climber, and monkey bars.
Ideal for landscaping projects as ground cover or weed barrier due to its durable and eco-friendly rubber material.
This product is ideal for mulching and improving the quality of soil in gardens and flowerbeds.
The product is ideal for outdoor play and entertainment with multiple features including swings, slides, and a climbing wall.
The product is ideal for creating a safe and cushioned surface for playgrounds and outdoor play areas.
The product is ideal for playgrounds and other outdoor areas where a soft, protective surface is needed.

1. Spring Hill Fun Zone Swing Set

The Creative Playthings Playtime Series Spring Hill Wooden Swing Set with Monkey Bars is a perfect addition to any backyard. The playset, which is made in the USA, features a classic design that is guaranteed to look great in any outdoor space. The set is made from Southern Yellow Pine, which is 60% heavier and stronger than the China Fir used in imported playgrounds. The set is also factory-stained with Sherwin Williams exterior stain, a feature that ensures its durability and longevity.

The playset comes with a range of features that are guaranteed to keep kids entertained for hours. These features include two sling swings, a ring trapeze bar, a 10ft wave slide, a built-in picnic table, a climbing wall, and an access ladder leading to a generous play platform covered with a wooden roof. The set also includes monkey bars, a feature that kids are sure to love. The playset is designed for residential use only and is easy to assemble, making it a great gift for your kids. Moreover, it comes with a 10-year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected.

Pros

  • Made from Southern Yellow Pine, which is stronger and heavier than China Fir
  • Features a range of activities to keep kids entertained
  • Designed for residential use only
  • Easy to assemble
  • Comes with a 10-year limited warranty
  • Factory-stained with Sherwin Williams exterior stain for durability

Cons

  • – May be too large for some backyards
  • – May require professional installation

2. Knightsbridge Deluxe Wood Swing Set With Slides & Picnic Table.

The play set has an assembled dimension of 16'3"l x 13'8"w x 10'3"h. It includes all the necessary hardware, wood, and fully illustrated instructions to assemble it. Your child will have a blast with its two slides, each backed by a lifetime warranty against cracks and breaks. The set also has a climbing rock wall with six colorful rock holds to help build strength and confidence. Moreover, the play set features an architectural wooden roof with a sunburst gable design for added beauty and protection against the sun and rain.

Pros

  • Comes with all necessary hardware and fully illustrated instructions for easy assembly
  • Two slides backed by a lifetime warranty against cracks and breaks
  • Climbing rock wall with six colorful rock holds to help build strength and confidence
  • Architectural wooden roof with a sunburst gable design for added beauty and protection against the sun and rain

3. Beach Front All Cedar Wooden Swing Set

Bring the joy of the outdoors to your children with the Beachfront All Cedar Wooden Swing Set. This sturdy and supportive playscape features many exciting features that will keep your kids entertained for hours on end. Made from durable cedar wood, this swing set is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for families who live in damp climates.

The upper play area features a tree house-style covered deck that is perfect for imaginative play, exploring heights, or taking a break from the sun. Your children will love the steering wheel and play telescope, which add to the fun of this swing set. The Beachfront also features a 5-foot tall climbing wall with hand and foot grips that will help to develop your child's balance and motor skills.

With two heavy-duty belt swings with coated chains, acrobat bar, and monkey bars, this swing set offers high-flying fun that will keep your child engaged in continuous play and imaginative pretending. Additionally, the Beachfront features a sandbox, snack bench with awning, and an 8-foot super speedy slide, making it the perfect choice for families who want a swing set with loads of features.

Assembly is easy with the step-by-step instructions provided by our interactive BILT app. The wood is pre-cut, pre-drilled, and pre-stained for your convenience.

Backed by over 35 years of experience in offering ready-to-assemble outdoor play sets and patio structures, our team of backyard experts is dedicated to bringing joy to children and adults alike. From swing sets and playhouses to wooden and metal pergolas, cabanas, and gazebos, we have something for everyone.

Pros

  • Made from durable cedar wood that is resistant to rot from the elements
  • Features many exciting features that will keep your children entertained for hours
  • Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for families who live in damp climates
  • Easy to assemble with the interactive BILT app
  • Backed by over 35 years of experience in offering ready-to-assemble outdoor play sets

4. Nantucket Ii Wood Swing Set – Redwood

The playset comes in a ready-to-assemble format with all the necessary hardware and a step-by-step assembly manual. The lumber is pre-cut and pre-sanded at the factory, and the main beams are pre-drilled, which reduces the time required for assembly. The premium cedar tongue and groove wood roof offer protection against weather elements, ensuring that the playset lasts longer.

This playset is recommended for children between the ages of 3 and 11 years. The solid 4 in. x 4 in. wood framing and 4 in. x 6 in. swing beam can accommodate up to 800 lbs. of weight. The swing chains have a soft rubber grippy plastic coating that helps prevent pinches, and the recessed bolts prevent snagging. The 3-stations provide enough space for belt swings and a trapeze bar, and any standard size swing component can fit in the stations, allowing for multiple playset configurations.

The playset has dimensions of 15'6" W x 13' D x 10'6" H, a 3 x 3 Cedar Wood Framing, 4 x 6 3-Position Swing Beam, and a 4' High Play Deck, providing enough space for children to play comfortably.

Pros

  • Easy to assemble with step-by-step instructions and pre-cut lumber.
  • Premium cedar tongue and groove wood roof protects the playset from weather elements.
  • Can accommodate 800 lbs. of weight, ensuring that multiple children can play at once.
  • Soft rubber grippy plastic coating on swing chains helps prevent pinches, ensuring children's safety.
  • Recessed bolts prevent snagging, preventing any accidents.

Cons

  • – The playset may take up a considerable amount of space in the backyard.

5. Mckinley Cedar Swing Set: All-Age Playground

The Double Rock Wall Climber is the perfect addition to any backyard, offering twice the space and full width to accommodate up to 2 children to use at the same time. This playground set includes a climbing rope, providing endless fun for kids while also keeping them healthy and fit. The full width climbing rock wall and 6.5 ft rope ladder extend higher than normal rope ladders, making them a great way for kids to exercise and stay active.

Measuring 16 feet of space, this playground set is large enough to allow up to 6 kids to fit nicely. The large open-air canopy fort includes a car wheel and telescope playscape, making it the ideal spot for kids to swing, climb, and play for hours on end. With features like wall climbers, a wave slide, sandbox, fort, steering wheel, and telescope, this set is sure to be a fan favorite.

Safety is a top priority, which is why this playset comes with a flat step ladder that provides a safe and easy entry point for all kids, regardless of their abilities. The wave slide has higher rails than the competitors, providing additional safety while sliding down. Helpful app guides are also available for this product through the free BILT app, offering 3D interactive assembly instructions for both Android and iPhone users.

Made with 100% Cedar wood and including a chemical-free stain, this playground set is safe for children and animals. It also comes with a full 1-year and 5-year pro-rated warranty on the wood, giving parents peace of mind. With over 35 years of experience in offering ready-to-assemble outdoor play and patio structures, this backyard expert company has been bringing joy to children and adults alike with their swing sets, playhouses, wooden and metal pergolas, cabanas, and gazebos.

Pros

  • Twice the space and full width to accommodate up to 2 children at the same time
  • Includes a climbing rope and a 6.5 ft rope ladder that extends higher than normal rope ladders to keep kids healthy and fit
  • Provides plenty of space for up to 6 kids with a large open-air canopy fort that includes a car wheel and telescope playscape
  • Features wall climbers, a wave slide, sandbox, fort, steering wheel, and telescope, ensuring hours of playtime for kids
  • Comes with a flat step ladder for safe and easy entry for all kids, regardless of their abilities
  • Includes a chemical-free stain that is safe for children and animals
  • Comes with a full 1-year and 5-year pro-rated warranty on the wood

6. Nuplay Rubber Mulch Landscaping Bark – Rubber Nugget Weed Barrier Garden Ground Cover, 4 Pack, Black

Looking for a long-lasting landscaping solution? Look no further than these rubber nuggets! With a 12-year color guarantee, you can trust that the color won't rub off or fade. Plus, their weight keeps them in place, even in windy conditions. Best of all, you won't need to replace them annually like you would with wood chip mulch.

These nuggets are certified as 99.9% wire-free recycled rubber and ASTM F3012 tested. They're impervious to both cold and heat, and won't absorb water and freeze like wood chips. Plus, they're non-flammable for added safety.

While these premium nuggets may cost more than wood chips, they're the gold standard in recycled rubber mulch. Made from 100% recycled rubber, they won't fade, rot, compress, or lose their beauty over time. Plus, they'll save you time with their 12-year color guarantee.

Not only are these nuggets eco-friendly, made from 100% recycled waste tires, they're also non-toxic and safe for children, pets, and animals. They won't attract insects, rodents, or develop fungus or slime. Plus, they're splinter-free and act as a weed barrier. With five attractive colors to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect fit for your landscaping needs.

Each bag contains 1.5 cubic feet of rubber nuggets, weighing approximately 40 pounds. For residential playgrounds, a recommended depth of 3-4 inches is suggested. Based on a 3-inch depth, you can expect 5 bags to cover a 5' x 5' area, 20 bags for a 10' x 10' area, 45 bags for a 15' x 15' area, and 80 bags for a 20' x 20' area.

Pros

  • 12-year color guarantee
  • Won't rub off or fade
  • Weight keeps them in place
  • No need to replace annually
  • Certified as 99.9% wire-free recycled rubber
  • Impervious to cold and heat
  • Non-flammable
  • Made from 100% recycled rubber
  • Won't fade, rot, compress, or lose beauty
  • Eco-friendly and non-toxic
  • Safe for children, pets, and animals
  • Won't attract insects, rodents, or develop fungus or slime
  • Splinter-free and acts as a weed barrier
  • Five attractive colors to choose from

Cons

  • – More expensive than wood chips

7. Mighty109 Cedar Wood Chip Mulch (42 Quarts)

Enhance the look and health of your garden with MIGHTY109 Cedar Wood Chip Mulch. This 42 quart bag of natural cedar wood chips is free from any added chemicals or additives. It is great for use in gardens, landscapes, around plants, and more.

The wood chips are sourced from cedar trees, and have a natural aroma that adds a pleasant scent to your garden. Moreover, the mulch acts as a natural insect repellent, keeping pests away from your plants.

MIGHTY109 Cedar Wood Chip Mulch also helps to retain moisture in the soil, keeping your plants hydrated for longer periods of time. It also regulates soil temperature, keeping it cool during hot summer months and warm during colder temperatures.

This mulch is easy to use and spread, making it a great addition to any gardening toolkit. It is also an eco-friendly option, as it decomposes gradually and enriches the soil with essential nutrients.

Overall, MIGHTY109 Cedar Wood Chip Mulch is a great choice for gardeners looking for a natural and effective way to enhance the look and health of their plants.

Pros

  • Free from any added chemicals or additives
  • Acts as a natural insect repellent
  • Helps retain moisture in the soil
  • Regulates soil temperature
  • Easy to use and spread
  • Eco-friendly option

8. Redwood Swing Set With Dual Slides & Climbing Wall

The premium cedar used in this playset is redwood stained and has superior resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage, ensuring that it will last for years to come. The compact design of the playset makes it perfect for small yards, and it comes with all the hardware and lumber needed for assembly, along with detailed step-by-step instructions. The playset features two wave slides that run side-by-side, providing maximum excitement as children race to the finish line. The heavy-duty vinyl canopy offers protection from the sun and keeps the playset cool, making it perfect for hot summer days.

Pros

  • Superior resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage
  • Compact design fits in small yards
  • Comes with all required hardware and lumber
  • Two side-by-side wave slides for maximum excitement
  • Heavy-duty vinyl canopy offers sun protection and cooler temperatures

9. Kidwise Swing Set Playground Rubber Mulch 75 Cu.ft. Pallet-Chocolate Brown

Looking for a safer and cleaner surface for your children's play area? Look no further than the Loose Fill Rubber Surfacing! This product is rated for almost twice the fall height when compared to other loose fill materials, ensuring maximum safety for your little ones. Made of recycled rubber, it is an eco-friendly option that comes in a wide range of colors to suit your preferences. The surface is free of steel and contains some nylon threads, making it 99.9% steel-free. This product complies with ASTM 1292.99 guidelines for safety surfacing guidelines, ensuring that it meets the highest safety standards.

In addition to its excellent safety features, the Loose Fill Rubber Surfacing is also easy to install. Each pallet will cover approximately 300 square feet, with a depth of 3 inches. This product is also much cleaner than traditional wood chips, providing a hygienic and splinter-free surface for your children to play on.

Please note that this product is shipped via curbside, liftgate freight delivery. A valid phone number is required for delivery appointment, typically with a 4-hour window.

Pros

  • Rated for almost twice the fall height compared to other loose fill materials
  • Cleaner area of play than wood chips
  • Splinter-free surface for play
  • Contains some nylon threads and is 99.9% steel-free
  • Made of recycled rubber
  • Available in a wide variety of colors
  • Each pallet covers approximately 300 square feet
  • Complies with ASTM 1292.99 guidelines for safety surfacing guidelines

Cons

  • – Shipped via curbside, liftgate freight delivery, which may require a 4-hour delivery appointment window

10. Kidwise Playground Rubber Mulch 75 Cu.ft. Pallet-Blue – Mulch Only

Looking for a safe and durable surfacing material for your playground? Look no further than loose fill rubber surfacing! This material is rated for almost twice the fall height when compared to other loose fill materials, making it an excellent choice for playgrounds and other play areas. Not only is it safe, but it also provides a clean area of play when compared to wood chips and other materials. Say goodbye to splinters and hello to a comfortable and safe surface for children to play on.

Made from recycled rubber, this surfacing material is an eco-friendly choice that also comes in a wide variety of colors to fit your specific needs. And with its expected lifespan of 5-8 years, you can rest assured that your playground will remain safe and vibrant for years to come. Each pallet will cover approximately 300 square feet when laid 3 inches deep, making it an affordable and practical option for any playground.

In addition to its safety and durability, loose fill rubber surfacing also complies with ASTM 1292.99 guidelines for safety surfacing guidelines, ensuring that your playground meets all necessary safety standards. So why wait? Choose loose fill rubber surfacing for your playground today and provide a safe, comfortable, and eco-friendly play area for children of all ages!

Pros

  • Rated for almost twice the fall height compared to other loose fill materials
  • Provides a clean area of play without the risk of splinters
  • Made of recycled rubber, an eco-friendly choice
  • Available in a wide variety of colors
  • Expected to last 5-8 years of use
  • Complies with ASTM 1292.99 guidelines for safety surfacing guidelines

Best Wood Chips For Playground FAQs

Are there any safety concerns associated with using wood chips for playground surfaces?

Yes, there are safety concerns associated with using wood chips for playground surfaces. While wood chips may seem like a cost-effective and natural option for playground surfacing, they can pose several hazards. One of the main concerns with wood chips is that they can create a tripping hazard. Kids may trip and fall over the uneven surface, leading to injuries. Wood chips can also be sharp and splinter, causing cuts and abrasions. Additionally, wood chips can harbor bacteria and insects, which can be harmful to children's health. Finally, wood chips may also be a fire hazard, especially in hot and dry weather conditions. Therefore, it's essential to choose a playground surfacing material that is safe and suitable for children. Other options include rubber mulch, poured-in-place rubber, and artificial turf, which are all safer and more durable alternatives to wood chips.

How much wood chips are needed to cover a playground area?

The amount of wood chips needed to cover a playground area depends on the size of the area to be covered. Generally, it is recommended to have a depth of at least 12 inches of wood chips to ensure adequate cushioning and safety for children playing on the playground. To calculate the amount of wood chips needed, you will need to measure the length and width of the playground area in feet and then multiply the two numbers together to get the square footage. Once you have the square footage, you can then use a wood chip calculator to determine the amount of wood chips needed based on the desired depth. It's important to note that it's better to have too many wood chips than too few, as insufficient coverage can lead to injuries. Overall, it's best to consult with a professional playground installer or supplier to ensure you have the correct amount of wood chips for your specific playground.

How often should wood chips be replaced in a playground?

The frequency at which wood chips should be replaced in a playground depends on various factors such as the amount of traffic the area receives, the climate, and the type of wood chips being used. Generally, it is recommended that wood chips are replaced every 1-3 years, as they tend to decompose over time and lose their shock-absorbing qualities. However, if the playground is heavily used or experiences extreme weather conditions, the wood chips may need to be replaced more frequently. It is essential to inspect the playground regularly to ensure the wood chips are still providing adequate cushioning and to replace any areas that have become compacted or worn down. Additionally, it is important to only use high-quality wood chips that meet safety standards to ensure the playground is safe for children to play on. Overall, replacing wood chips in a playground is an important aspect of playground maintenance and should be done as needed to ensure the safety and well-being of children.

What are the benefits of using wood chips for playground surfaces?

There are several benefits to using wood chips as a playground surface. Firstly, they provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing look to the play area. Secondly, wood chips are a cost-effective option as they are readily available and easy to install. They also require minimal maintenance and can last for years with proper care.

Another significant benefit of using wood chips is that they offer excellent shock absorption, which helps to reduce the impact of falls and prevent injuries. The cushioning effect of the wood chips makes it an ideal surface for children to play on, especially in high-risk areas such as swings and climbing frames.

Wood chips are also an eco-friendly option as they are made from natural materials and can be recycled or composted at the end of their life. They are free from harmful chemicals and do not contain any artificial additives, making them a safe and healthy choice for children.

In summary, using wood chips as a playground surface offers numerous benefits, including cost-effectiveness, low maintenance, natural aesthetics, safety, and environmental sustainability.

What types of wood are best for playground wood chips?

When it comes to choosing the best type of wood for playground wood chips, safety should be the top priority. The ideal wood should be durable, non-toxic, and able to absorb shock well. The most commonly used types of wood for playground wood chips are cedar, cypress, and pine. Cedar is the most popular choice due to its natural resistance to decay and insect damage, which makes it a long-lasting option. Cypress is also a great choice, as it is naturally resistant to rot and decay. Pine is a more affordable option, but it requires regular maintenance to avoid decay and insect damage. Other types of wood, such as hardwood, are not recommended for playground use as they are too hard and can cause injuries. Ultimately, the choice of wood will depend on your budget, location, and personal preferences. However, always make sure to choose a safe and non-toxic option to ensure the safety of children using the playground.

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