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Not sure what to put inside a playhouse? Think less clutter, more purpose. It’s meant to be fun, but also something they’ll your little ones will use, not a dumping ground for random toys. Let’s run through some ideas below.
Kid-Friendly Playhouse Furniture
It’s hard to beat beanbags for a playhouse: they’re light, compact, and easy to move around. Sizes can vary, but compact beanbags are best for small playhouses like a Wendy house—two could fit in. Feel free to opt for large or extra-large if the space allows.
Pair the beanbags with plastic chairs, which are still lightweight and safe. A matching table would also be lovely for a little dining area for hosting a tea party with friends or soft toys.
Look for plastic kids’ chairs that meet BS EN71-1. This standard ensures the furniture is safe for children’s use. You may also want to consider placing seat cushions for added comfort.
You also might want to add a mattress, especially in a 2 storey playhouse with a bunk – a fun and practical upgrade kids will love. Foam or foldable memory foam will do, even in tight spaces. As simple as this may be, it can give your little ones a nap spot—even better, it can double as a cushioned surface.
Fun and Interactive Toys
There’s no need to load the playhouse with everything; only bring in toys they use. Start with pretend play sets to give kids a setup for role-playing, such as:
- Pretend kitchens: The miniature versions of mum and dad’s kitchen. Despite the size matching a little one’s, they feel like a full-fledged cook or baker in their own space.
- Toy music instruments: Often come with tambourines, mini keyboards, and even small drums. Some might include one or two, so kids can set them up however they like. If it’s a tower playhouse, the platform can double as a stage, with the audience watching from the lawn.
- Pretend grocery store: The set can include toy food items, baskets, and counters. But what your kids will really enjoy is a toy cash register that makes the experience realistic.
Soft toys and dolls are easy to add and help make the space feel familiar. You only need a few favourites, like a teddy, a doll with clothes, or a soft animal they sleep with.
Add a few books, like short stories, to give them something to look at when things wind down. Store them in a box or on a low shelf at their level. For loose toys like LEGO, cars, or action figures, store them in lidded tubs or baskets.
Floor Mats for Play
Like furniture pieces, mats, such as play or puzzle mats, must meet EN71 safety standards. They’re softer underfoot, non-toxic, and less likely to contain harmful materials.
Washable rugs (with good backing grips) are a good alternative. Things get messy with kids, and these are easy to clean and put back.
Besides the added comfort and safety, play mats also help with insulation. Foam mats, in particular, are thick enough to block cold from timber floorboards. This keeps the surface warmer and more comfortable for sitting and crawling.
Decor and Extras for Finishing Touches
Bring the playhouse to life with a few small touches. Bunting is lightweight, easy to hang, and adds colour to the space. Battery-powered fairy lights are magical – just keep the wires tucked away.
Give your little ones a chalkboard for a proper place to draw, rather than scribbling on walls or floors. You could also add name signs, posters, or drawings they’ve made. Use adhesive strips instead of nails, and avoid anything heavy or breakable.
Don’t forget about wall hooks for dress-up clothes or a mat by the door for muddy shoes—less mess for you to deal with later.
What to Put Inside a Playhouse: Round-up
Toys your children love to play with and a setup that’s safe and comfortable—that’s all it takes! Choose what works, leave out the rest, and let them enjoy it.
Speaking of comfort, get more tips here: Outdoor Playhouse Too Hot? How to Prevent Overheating
