Are wooden climbers safe for toddlers?

According to Kurr, wooden climbers are safe for toddlers as long as adult supervision is present at all times. You want to make sure to use a structure with sturdy, high-quality wood so that it doesn’t crack or splinter beneath your child’s weight. “Check to make sure the toy has been safety tested,” Kurr advises. Beyond the weight capacity, Kurr believes that the inherent stability of the stairs is the most important component to consider. “If the child happens to climb on it in an unintended way, [you want to make sure] it’s not going to fall over,” she says.

What age is a Pikler Triangle suited for?

In general, Pikler triangles are well-suited for toddlers and preschoolers, with many brands’ age recommendations falling between 6 months old and 5 years old. However, the uses will change as the child gets older. “The Pikler Triangle can be beneficial for kids that are pulling up to stand,” Kurr says, noting that this development typically comes around 8 to 9 months of age. Over time, little ones will focus less on using the triangle for support and more as a climbing toy. “As they’re growing, they’re more focused on climbing to the top and over to the side,” Kurr says. She recommends adult supervision to ensure the child safely climbs on the triangle without stumbling or falling.

The 20 Best Climbing Toys for Toddlers of 2023

The Best Climbing Toys for Toddlers — Verywell Family / Alli Waataja

It doesn’t matter if it’s the couch, the kitchen counter, or the refrigerator: Toddlers will climb on anything. This is because climbing is inherently good for children’s cognitive development, spatial awareness, muscle strengthening, and problem-solving skills (and it’s just plain fun!). Of course, you want to make sure your toddler is exploring these skills safely—that’s where climbing toys come into play.

Climbing toys for toddlers are any type of soft or hard structure designed to give your child a creative and safe space to climb and explore. Choosing the type of climbing toy can be difficult since it’s an individualized decision based on your child’s age, interests, and the space you have in your home.

According to Kimber Kurr, PT, DPT, PCS, a registered physical therapist, pediatric clinical specialist, and clinical assistant professor of physical therapy at Ithaca College, the most important factors to consider are the stability of the climbing toy and its surrounding environment. “Make sure the toy has been safety tested,” Kurr recommends. We evaluated climbing toys that fit these safety parameters, also assessing them on versatility, durability, materials, and size.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Costway Indoor Playground Climbing Gym at Walmart

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Magifire Playtime Inflatable Blocks at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Outdoors:

Step2 Game Time Sports Climber at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Indoors:

Costzon 2-in-1 Wooden Triangle Climber at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Small Spaces:

Labebe Wooden Rainbow Rocker Chair at Amazon

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Best for Montessori:

Wood and Hearts Indoor Climbing Gym at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Pikler Triangle:

Giant Bean Foldable 2-in-1 Pikler Triangle at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Foam:

Best Choice Products 5-Piece Climb and Crawl at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Wood:

Yoleo Kids Arch Rocker at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Multipurpose:

Step2 Clubhouse Climber Playset at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Family

4.8

Walmart

Pros

Multifunctional activities
High maximum weight
Can be used indoors and outdoors

Cons

Costly

Playtime can last for hours with this decked-out climbing gym from Costway. Constructed with an 8-in-1 design, it has a number of fun features, including a slide, two ladders, a swing, a climbing net, an abacus, a drawing board, monkey bars, and a rock wall. It’s recommended for children ages 3 and up, but the variety of activities means older kids can enjoy it too.

Built with birch and beech wood, this sturdy structure can hold up to 110 pounds, which means it’s plenty strong enough to hold your toddler and a friend or two. Plus, the smooth surface protects your kiddo from any accidental scratches, and the edges are rounded for added safety. Since the climbing gym is waterproof, it can be used inside or outside.

Price at time of publication: $430

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 49 x 47 x 54.5 inches | Material: Birch wood and beech wood | Recommended Age Range: 3 years old and up | Weight Limit: 110 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Budget-friendly
Soft enough for younger toddlers
BPA-free plastic

Cons

Not as durable as other constructions

If you’ve got a crawler or early walker in your house, the soft and forgiving nature of these inflatable blocks is your best bet. Since each piece is filled with air, you won’t need to worry about your toddler crashing into sharp edges or exposed nails with this climbing toy.

Plus, the colorful blocks are patterned after sweet treats—birthday cake, candy bar, egg roll cake, cheese block, and matcha cake—so it makes an adorable addition to the playroom. The plastic material may not last as long as a wooden structure, but it is BPA-free. Bonus: The blocks can be deflated for easy storage when not in use.

Price at time of publication: $77

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: Varies depending on arrangement | Material: BPA-free plastic | Recommended Age Range: 9 months to 3 years old | Weight Limit: Not listed}

Amazon

Pros

Double-walled construction
Basketball hoop

Cons

Low maximum weight

Host your toddler’s next playdate at your house with this sturdy sports-themed climber from Step2. The plastic gym is double-walled—meaning it’s less likely to snap or crack in colder weather—to keep your kiddo safe while climbing up the ladder or scooting down the slide. Sporty kiddos will enjoy the basketball hoop and crawl-through tunnel, which can double as a soccer goal. Since the maximum weight is fairly low at 44 pounds, it’s best for younger or smaller toddlers.

Price at time of publication: $150

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 30 x 62 x 42 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age Range: 2 to 6 years old | Weight Limit: 44 pounds}

Costzon

Pros

High maximum weight
Adjustability for older children

Cons

Detailed assembly

Specialists like Kurr encourage free play, which kiddos can explore with this triangle climber. Younger toddlers can work on the basics: climbing the ladder and sliding down. For older children, the ladder and slide can be adjusted to make the slide steeper or to create more space to build a fort. The birch wood material and wide base are stable enough to prevent rocking and can hold up to 132 pounds.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 48 x 28 x 44 inches | Material: Birch wood | Recommended Age Range: 6 months to 6 years old | Weight Limit: 132 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Fits in smaller corners
Encourages free play

Cons

Costly for its size

Parents looking for a smaller climbing toy to fit in their child’s bedroom will love the adorable, compact Rainbow Rocker by Labebe. It’s made from solid hardwood, so it’s built to last even with small toddlers climbing all over it. Plus, the smooth surface makes this toy easy to clean: Simply grab a rag and wipe it down to keep public areas looking tidy.

There are lots of options for imaginative play thanks to the double-sided design: Children can flip it onto one side to turn it into a rocking horse and then the other to morph into a climbing structure, chair, or imaginary playhouse.

Price at time of publication: $110

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 29 x 15 x 14 inches | Material: Hardwood | Recommended Age Range: 1 to 3 years old | Weight Limit: Not listed}

Amazon

Pros

Birch-wood construction for durability
Nontoxic with environmentally-friendly materials

Cons

Delivery may take awhile

Montessori learning encourages child-directed play and independence, and this indoor climbing gym allows them to explore and guide their own play. The climbing set includes three features for free play versatility: an arch, a ramp, and a triangle climber that can be folded up when not in use. Each part can be played with on its own or children can mix and match them to create new challenges.

Plus, this climber is made from durable birch wood with a water-based, environmentally-friendly varnish, so it doesn’t emit odors and is safe for little ones.

Price at time of publication: $167

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: Varies based on configuration | Material: Hardwood | Recommended Age Range: 3 to 8 years old | Weight Limit: 132 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Folds flat for storage
Double-sided ramp

Cons

Fewer features than other climbers

This Pikler Triangle is a good match for parents who don’t want to leave it in the living room all day. Once your kiddo is done climbing, the toy folds flat for easy storage inside a closet or beneath a bed, and a locking mechanism keeps it securely shut. And since it’s relatively lightweight, you can even pack it inside the car for a holiday road trip. The climber also comes with a double-sided ramp that functions as a slide and a rock wall.

Price at time of publication: $190

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 36 x 24 x 27 inches | Material: Birch plywood and beech | Recommended Age Range: 1 to 6 years old | Weight Limit: 200 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Easy-to-clean vinyl
Individual pieces for unlimited configurations

Cons

Seams may wear after repeated use

This five-piece climbing kit fits the bill for babies who are just starting to toddle around. Made from vinyl-wrapped foam, the blocks are shaped like a small rectangle, cylinder, triangle, large rectangle, and half moon. Caregivers can move and adjust each piece to accommodate a new challenge for their growing child. The foam is soft enough to cushion falls, but keep in mind that the vinyl covers may wear faster than traditional wooden options.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: Varies | Material: Foam, vinyl | Recommended Age Range: 1 year old and up | Weight Limit: N/A}

Amazon

Pros

High-quality wood construction
Smooth, splinter-free surface

Cons

Paint may chip

If you prefer the design of a wooden climber, opt for this high-quality birch wood arch rocker. The smooth surface is a double win: Not only is it easy to clean with a sponge, but it also prohibits any splinters from finding their way into little hands. The colorful paint is made from nontoxic ingredients, though it may occasionally chip.

Still, the base on this rocker is quite stable and can support up to 110 pounds no matter the configuration, whether your kiddo is using it as a rocker, climber, bridge, or otherwise. Helpfully, the structure has several strategically-placed grips for kids to grasp.

Price at time of publication: $120

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 20 x 29 x 19 inches | Material: Birch wood | Recommended Age Range: 2 to 8 years old | Weight Limit: 110 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Large enough for multiple kids
Versatile features
Easy to clean

Cons

Costly
Assembly required

Forget the park—this Step2 Clubhouse Climber Playset brings all of the fun of the playground to your own backyard. It has ample features: two slides, a bridge, a steering wheel, a crawl-through tunnel, and a skylight. Kids can also get creative by turning the lower section into a secluded fort or a lair for hide-and-seek. The Clubhouse boasts a hefty weight limit, making it great for playdates or playing with siblings, and the plastic is easy to wipe down if snacks get spilled. Note that assembly is required.

Price at time of publication: $1,100

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 70 x 137 x 92 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age Range: 2 to 6 years old | Weight Limit: 240 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Has a climbing wall and a ramp
10 configurations

Cons

Heavy

Made from smooth, polished wood, this climber features a 47-inch slide with guard rails to prevent tumbles and an adjustable connection point so you can make the angle steeper or more gradual, depending on your child’s age and height. When your kid is tired of sliding, simply flip it over to find a climbing wall with eight handholds of varying shapes and sizes. Even better: The Pikler Triangle is adjustable and can be reconfigured in up to 10 different forms, including a house and a cube. While the structure is foldable, it is heavy, so it’s not the most portable option.

Price at time of publication: $360

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: Not listed | Material: Hardwood | Recommended Age Range: 3 to 8 years old | Weight Limit: 260 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Can accomodate several kids at once
Plastic material won’t rust

Cons

Large

Once your kiddo is ready to move beyond a basic ladder climber, an outdoor dome climber is an exciting next step. This climber can hold up to 150 pounds so multiple kiddos can play together, and since it’s made from plastic, it won’t corrode, fade, or rust. On top of the 5.5-foot dome are tubes that can be used as monkey bars for older kids that want to put their agility to the test.

To assemble, simply pop the plastic tubes and connectors together. Each connector has double self-locking springs, so you can rest assured it’ll stay in place. Plus, thanks to the wide, no-tip base, no anchors are necessary.

Price at time of publication: $190

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 70 x 66 x 47 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age Range: 3 to 8 years old | Weight Limit: 150 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Variable terrain for mental stimulation
Fits several children at one time

Cons

Low maximum weight capacity

This Climber Play Tent pulls double duty as a climbing wall and a playhouse. On the outside, one wall features a handful of climbing holds so children can strategize new routes on the way to the summit. Once they’re done scaling the walls, kids can duck beneath the triangle as it morphs into a cozy and private playhouse, fit for friendly chats or quiet time with a book. The second triangle wall even boasts a window to inspire imaginative play.

Price at time of publication: $180

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 45 x 30 x 39 inches | Material: Natural fir | Recommended Age Range: 3 to 8 years old | Weight Limit: 66 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Easy to clean
Versatility in configurations

Cons

Lightweight and easily moveable

Open-ended play just got even better for babes who are still crawling. This kit comes with five polyurethane foam shapes that parents can move, tilt, or remove depending on their needs and the child’s interest. Each block is covered with a phthalate-free vinyl and the foam has met several industry safety standards, so they’re safe for kiddos to play on.

Thanks to the foam, each piece is super lightweight, making it easy for toddlers to practice fine and gross motor skills like stacking and carrying. However, since they are so lightweight, they may still slide around despite the nonslip material on the bottom.

Price at time of publication: $180

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: Varies depending on configuration | Material: Foam | Recommended Age Range: 9 months to 3 years old | Weight Limit: N/A}

Amazon

Pros

Environmentally-friendly foam
Colorful

Cons

Less interesting for children over 1 year old

Babies can’t walk, but crawling over foam structures is like climbing for toddlers: mentally stimulating and physically strengthening. Covered with leather-like polyurethane material, these blocks are stuffed with safe, low-emission foam. There are six pieces in this set—a square, half moon, arch, cylinder, triangle, and foldable circle—available in several colorful packs. Each piece can be rearranged to accommodate a new pattern for your baby to enjoy.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: Varies depending on configuration | Material: Foam and polyurethane | Recommended Age Range: 9 months to 2 years old | Weight Limit: N/A}

Amazon

Pros

Unique safari-themed design
Fits multiple children
Fun design inspires imaginative play

Cons

Parts come in separate boxes

Kids can go on a safari from the comfort of their own backyard with this unique climber. The shape of this outdoor structure itself inspires imaginative play as kids turn the steering wheel, peer through the swiveling pretend binoculars, and clamber about the truck creating fantasy worlds and adventures. Thanks to oversized tires and three entry points into the truck, there are multiple routes to climb, and a fun slide makes exiting the truck exciting.

The top platform can handle up to three children—with a maximum weight of 60 pounds each—and there’s ample room to crawl under the truck, too. Assembly is required and the truck comes in multiple boxes, so prepare for some work.

Price at time of publication: $446

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 42 x 85 x 61 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age Range: 2 to 6 years old | Weight Limit: 180 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Can be combined with additional playsets
Made and manufactured in the USA

Cons

Crawl-through tunnels are small

For outdoor climbing fun, you’ll need a structure that can stand up to the elements. The Simplay 3 Young Explorers Adventure Climber is made with double-wall plastic construction that’s durable enough to withstand inclement weather, yet it’s light enough that adults can easily move it around as needed. The playset includes a wide slide, various climbing walls, and a series of crawl-through tunnels that run beneath the toy. (The tunnels are a bit narrow, so they may be a bit tough for older kiddos to shimmy through.)

Price at time of publication: $300

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 70 x 28 x 50 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age Range: 18 months to 6 years old | Weight Limit: 180 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Can hold multiple kids at once
Safe blower

Cons

May need additional anchor points

There are few things kids love more than a bouncy house. Anchored to the ground with stakes, the Little Tikes Jump ‘n Slide offers just over 100 square feet of bouncing area, plenty of space for three kiddos to enjoy at the same time. Mesh walls keep the bouncing kids safely contained, and there’s a storage area on the side for shoes. The heavy-duty blower comes with a fault interrupter outlet to prevent shocks and electrical shortages. Bonus: The entire house inflates and deflates in a matter of minutes.

Price at time of publication: $310

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 84 x 84 x 48 inches | Material: Polyester | Recommended Age Range: 3 to 8 years old | Weight Limit: 250 pounds}

Walmart

Pros

Lots of features
Made from industrial grade pine wood

Cons

Costly

An indoor jungle gym is a great solution for getting little ones’ wiggles out when it’s rainy or chilly outside. Constructed from industrial-grade pine wood, the Avenlur Indoor Playground Jungle Gym has lots of fun features, including a mini rock climbing wall, adjustable slide, monkey bars, rope ladder, swing, and a wooden ladder. It’s designed for toddlers as young as 2 and kiddos up to 6 years old. The gym does take up a lot of space and weighs close to 100 pounds, so plan accordingly.

Price at time of publication: $549

^{Key Specs:
Size: 58 x 47 x 56 inches | Material: Pine wood | Recommended Age Range: 2 to 6 years old | Weight Limit: 460 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Multiple configurations
Easy to assemble

Cons

Low weight capacity

Meet Gus, the colorful plastic caterpillar designed to get toddlers crawling and exploring through tunnels. The 7-foot-long caterpillar can be used indoors or outdoors and the eight colorful pieces can be clicked together in a variety of ways, so you can configure the toy to your space. The bright colors and caterpillar design are engaging for kiddos, but be aware of the overall weight limit—it’s rather low, especially if you plan on using this toy with multiple children. The edges of the weather-resistant plastic are rounded for safety, and the structure has passed high standards for healthy indoor air quality.

Price at time of publication: $400

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 86 x 42 x 40 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age Range: 3 to 8 years old | Weight Limit: 44 pounds}

How We Selected the Best Climbing Toys for Toddlers

When choosing a climbing toy for your toddler, there are a number of factors to consider. In order to find the best options, we researched dozens of climbing toys sold online and at a variety of retailers. We compared their materials, safety features, size, and overall versatility. We also consulted with Kurr and Jill Moore, an inclusive play specialist for Landscape Structures Inc., about the importance of climbing for cognitive and physical development, as well as what parents should look for in a climbing toy.

What to Look for in Climbing Toys for Toddlers

Safety

Both Kurr and Moore agree that versatility and a variety of features are the best ways to encourage your child’s growth and development. However, it’s essential to keep your kiddo safe while they explore and learn. Kurr recommends ensuring that all climbers are safety-tested and stable, as well as evaluating the area you choose to place them in within your home. “Pay attention to where you place the toy,” she says. “Recognize a space around the toy and have a safe place to put the climbing object.”

It’s also a good idea to ensure that the toys are used as intended. Don’t allow a younger toddler to climb on a structure designed for an older child, and make sure to note the weight limit. And, of course, always have an adult nearby for supervision.

Materials

Most climbing toys are constructed out of wood or plastic, though the softer crawl-and-climbs designed for babies are typically made with foam. According to Kurr, none of these materials is necessarily better than others. “It really depends on [your intended] use,” she says. For example, plastic is typically a great option for outdoor use, and foam play areas should only be used indoors. Kurr does note that plastic structures are the most versatile since they can handle indoor and outdoor environments.

Size

Climbing toys come in a variety of sizes, from small indoor climbers to outdoor rock walls. The best size for your kid depends on the space you have, the age and weight limits of the climber you’re considering, and the features the kiddo is developmentally ready for. As your child grows, Moore suggests presenting them with “graduated levels of challenge,” such as upgrading to a bigger climbing toy or adding features to the one you already have. She explains that a feature like solid stairs “requires a completely different skill level and knowledge base” than a feature such as a cargo net. Having multiple options allows your child the freedom to grow and develop.

Before making your purchase, be sure to evaluate the space you want to put the climbing toy in—it doesn’t matter if the structure is packed with features if it doesn’t fit in your basement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are wooden climbers safe for toddlers?

According to Kurr, wooden climbers are safe for toddlers as long as adult supervision is present at all times. You want to make sure to use a structure with sturdy, high-quality wood so that it doesn’t crack or splinter beneath your child’s weight. “Check to make sure the toy has been safety tested,” Kurr advises.
Beyond the weight capacity, Kurr believes that the inherent stability of the stairs is the most important component to consider. “If the child happens to climb on it in an unintended way, [you want to make sure] it’s not going to fall over,” she says.
What age is a Pikler Triangle suited for?

In general, Pikler triangles are well-suited for toddlers and preschoolers, with many brands’ age recommendations falling between 6 months old and 5 years old. However, the uses will change as the child gets older. “The Pikler Triangle can be beneficial for kids that are pulling up to stand,” Kurr says, noting that this development typically comes around 8 to 9 months of age.
Over time, little ones will focus less on using the triangle for support and more as a climbing toy. “As they’re growing, they’re more focused on climbing to the top and over to the side,” Kurr says. She recommends adult supervision to ensure the child safely climbs on the triangle without stumbling or falling.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Heather Balogh Rochfort is a freelance writer specializing in parenting, fitness, travel, and the outdoors. In 2017, she became a mother and immediately found herself entrenched in the beautiful-yet-demanding world of parenting. Since then, she has broadened her scope to include the gear, products, and experiences that go hand-in-hand with motherhood. She has written for The Washington Post, Outside, Parents, and more.