Foam building blocks for children are suitable for nurseries, bedrooms and play areas where little ones can build, climb and balance. Before you buy, though, it’s worth taking a closer look at the materials, construction and care requirements. Large product images and terms such as “XXL” or “Montessori” don’t tell you whether a set will suit your available space, your child’s age or how you plan to use it.
XXL soft play blocks take up considerably more floor space than traditional interlocking blocks. If you combine several pieces to create an obstacle course, you’ll also need to allow extra room around it. Before ordering, measure the available space and check that there’s enough clearance around doors, furniture and radiators.
A fabric cover may feel pleasant to touch, but that doesn’t automatically make it easy to keep clean. Look for removable covers, zips and clear information about machine washing. If the blocks will be used frequently at home, in a nursery or in a childcare setting, washable covers are far more practical than covers sewn permanently in place.
Terms such as “safe”, “child-friendly” or “Montessori building toy” are no substitute for specific product information. Important details include concealed zips, secure connections, a non-slip base and the stated age range. If a product claims to meet EN71, check that the relevant parts of the standard are listed, such as EN71-1, EN71-2 and EN71-3. According to the product information, certain BanaSuper sets meet these parts of the standard as well as the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC. Even so, check the details directly on the product page before buying.
Foam climbing sets are often described as being made from EPE foam, polyurethane foam or high-density foam. The material name isn’t the only thing that matters: check whether the manufacturer gives details about density, weight capacity or how well the foam returns to its original shape. For vacuum-packed products, it’s also important to know how long they take to fully expand.
The BanaSuper sets described here are said to need 24 to 48 hours to expand. Don’t use the blocks for climbing during this time. Place them on a flat surface, then check that all the pieces have expanded evenly.
Large building blocks for children can shift when climbed on or pushed. A non-slip base is therefore a useful feature. Hook-and-loop fastenings can also help secure several pieces together to create a more stable structure. However, they’re no substitute for supervision and won’t make an unsuitable surface safe.
For indoor toys for toddlers, a flat, dry floor is best. On smooth tiles, an additional play mat may be useful. Before each use, check that the connections are secure and that the cover and foam are undamaged.
Washable blocks are especially useful for families with young children and settings where different children use the equipment. Check whether you can clean just the covers or individual pieces too. Also look at the dimensions of each block, not just the total number of pieces.
A six-piece set may be enough for a smaller child’s bedroom. Seven-piece sets offer more ways to build, but they also need more storage space. If the set will be used daily in a nursery, consider durable covers, concealed fastenings and a clear cleaning routine when making your choice.
Why it suits this profile: This six-piece set includes a range of soft shapes for climbing, crawling and building indoors at home or in smaller play areas.
According to the product information, the set has a non-slip base, concealed zips and removable covers. This makes the details about stability and care easy to check.
Six blocks, high-density foam according to the product description, and machine-washable covers.
Why it suits this profile: This seven-piece set is designed for versatile builds, such as obstacle courses, tunnels and climbing structures, and is suited to larger indoor spaces.
The product information lists EN71-1, EN71-2 and EN71-3, concealed zips, hook-and-loop fastenings and a non-slip base. You can check these details before buying.
Seven pieces, removable machine-washable covers and several safety features listed in the product description.
Why it suits this profile: The colourful version may appeal to families, childminders or pre-school groups where the blocks are regularly rearranged and used together.
The product description lists washable covers and vacuum packaging, with an expansion time of up to 48 hours. This makes it easier to plan for cleaning and set-up.
Six-piece set, colourful design, hook-and-loop fastenings and machine-washable covers according to the product information.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations in force in the EU.
It depends on the shape, size and construction, as well as the manufacturer’s guidance. For babies, make sure there are no small detachable parts. With climbing blocks, also consider whether children can sit or move safely, and supervise them during use. Always follow the age guidance on the relevant product page.
The BanaSuper sets mentioned here are said to take 24 to 48 hours. Check the blocks’ shape before using them for the first time. If a piece looks noticeably different from the shape described, don’t use it for climbing or stacking yet.
Models with removable, machine-washable covers are the most practical. Remove the cover as instructed, wash it on the recommended programme and let it dry completely. You should also check the surfaces regularly for tears and dirt.