XXL foam building blocks for children bring building, crawling and climbing together in one play area. They’re a practical choice for families, nurseries, kindergartens and childminders, as the elements can be rearranged to suit your space and require little assembly indoors.
However, soft play sets can vary considerably in their covers, connection systems, delivery condition and contents. A low price alone doesn’t tell you how well a set will stand up to everyday use. Before buying, it’s worth checking for three common pitfalls.
Very soft foam can deform significantly under pressure. As a result, pieces may shift more easily or lose their shape. Ideally, detailed product information should identify the type of foam and explain whether the pieces have a shape-retaining construction.
According to their product descriptions, the products featured here use high-density, high-resilience foam or supportive polyurethane foam. However, always choose a set that’s suitable for the child’s age and weight, and follow the safety advice provided with the product.
At first glance, a soft play climbing set with a ball pit might look like a complete play station. However, check whether play balls are included. The balls are explicitly not included with the BanaSuper Soft Play Set with Ball Pit and must be purchased separately.
You should also check how many pieces are included and what shapes they are. Some listings state the number of pieces but don’t provide a full list of the shapes.
A removable cover is handy for everyday life, both at home and in childcare settings. The key things to check are whether it comes off completely, whether it’s machine washable and whether the zips are out of children’s reach. Foam pieces without a suitable cover can be much harder to clean.
Look for specific references to EN71-1, EN71-2 and EN71-3. These parts of the standard cover areas including mechanical and physical properties, flammability and the migration of certain elements. Stated EN71 compliance doesn’t replace adult supervision and doesn’t indicate any medical or therapeutic benefit.
According to the product information, the BanaSuper sets featured here are described as EN71-certified or compliant with the EN71 parts listed above and the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC. Keep the product information and check the details on the relevant product page before buying.
Two features are particularly important for a crawling and climbing course:
According to their descriptions, the sets in this selection have textured anti-slip surfaces, secure hook-and-loop fastenings and concealed zips, depending on the model. Check your flooring at home, too: smooth tiles, carpets and play mats can all affect how the pieces behave.
A 6-piece set offers different ways to arrange the pieces from a 7-piece set. Before ordering, measure the available space and bear in mind that a climbing arch, ramp or tunnel will need extra room around it.
The products are delivered in compact vacuum packaging. According to the product descriptions, the foam blocks need around 24 to 48 hours after unpacking to regain their intended shape and firmness. Allow for this before using the set regularly. If dimensions aren’t listed, it’s worth contacting the seller through the product page to ask.
Why it suits this profile: This 6-piece set is a good choice for households looking to start with a manageable soft play set that combines climbing, crawling and building.
Instead of relying on vague safety claims, the product description mentions anti-slip surfaces, hook-and-loop fastenings and concealed zips.
6 foam pieces, removable machine-washable covers and information on EN71-1, EN71-2 and EN71-3.
Why it suits this profile: The grey version is a good fit for living spaces where a subtle colour scheme and flexible use are important.
The product information goes beyond calling the pieces ‘soft’, specifying polyurethane foam, an anti-slip base, hook-and-loop straps and washable covers.
7 foam blocks, concealed zips and machine-washable covers, according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: This set is designed for households and childcare settings looking to combine climbing pieces with a separate ball pit area.
The product information clearly states that play balls aren’t included, so you can plan for the extra purchase before you buy.
Combines climbing blocks with a ball pit base; according to the product information, the covers and ball pit lining are removable and machine washable.
Place soft climbing blocks for babies and toddlers on a level, non-slip surface. Keep them well away from furniture edges, radiators and windows. An adult should be present during active play, especially if children are not yet confident sitting, crawling or climbing.
For a longer-lasting set, follow this care routine:
If you’re specifically looking for washable play blocks, Montessori toys for toddlers or a baby soft play set, compare the recommended age, dimensions, returns policy and exact contents as well.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety requirements in force in the EU.
Depending on the product, leave the blocks for around 24 to 48 hours to regain their intended shape and firmness. Check the information on the relevant product page and wait until then before using the set as intended.
Not always. The play balls are explicitly not included with the BanaSuper Soft Play Set with Ball Pit mentioned above. Check this before buying and allow for any additional costs.
According to the product descriptions, the fabric covers on the models featured here can be removed and machine washed. Check the care instructions for the correct washing temperature, programme and drying method. Don’t fully soak the foam itself unless the manufacturer specifically says that it’s safe to do so.