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Top 14 Best Splash Pads To Buy In 2024

Brandon Forder
  Mar 28, 2024 5:20 PM

Water play in the summer is no longer limited to a hose, an open fire hydrant, or (if you're feeling sophisticated) an oscillating lawn sprinkler. Among the many options available to families today are "splash pads," or areas where water is used for various purposes (such as spraying, bubbling, and spritzing). To save the hassle of packing up the kids and driving to a theme park, parents can now choose from a wide variety of high-quality splash pads for the home, including everything from large, intricate personal water parks with sprayers and slides to advanced, colorful hose attachments. Keep reading for our advice on creating a backyard water park that will keep the kids entertained all summer.


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Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API


Buying Guide

Recommended Age

Splash pads have a wide range of recommended ages. The general consensus is that kids aged 3 and up can safely use them. More often than not, this has less to do with the pad's actual security and more to do with the size of the included accessories.

Once a splash pad is assembled, even the smallest components will be out of reach of toddlers and infants. From here on out, how deep the water gets in the pad is the primary factor in determining the age of use.

Expansible splash pads filled with water from a garden hose can only contain a small amount of water at a time. Ideal for infants and toddlers.

Alternatively, you can obtain a lot of depth with an inflatable splash pad like the Splashie XXL Sprinkler Splash Pool. The pools will keep filling via sprinklers until water is pouring over the side, unlike conventional pools which can be filled to a predetermined level. It's best to bring your older toddler or young child to one of these splash pads.

The safety of your children should always come first, so keep an eye on them as they enjoy their splash pad.

Materials

Splash pads, much like inflatable pools, are commonly constructed from PVC. Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, does not contain bisphenol A or any other compounds that could be harmful to children.

But many flexible PVC items have phthalates added to them, and many phthalates are also thought to be dangerous for children in large amounts.

Splash pads like the SplashEZ 3-in-1 Splash Pad use phthalate-free PVC, so parents can rest easy knowing their children won't be harmed if they come into touch with the water or accidentally drink it.

Size

In general, splash pads range in diameter from 4 to 12 feet. When deciding on a size for your splash pad, think about the space available and the number of people who are likely to utilize it at once.

Features

All splash pads have sprinklers and some form of water pressure regulation (just adjust your hose if no setting on the splash pad directly).

However, there are many others to choose from that include exciting extras like ring tosses, water slides, balls, and a ball run, water blasters, swimming pools of a deeper depth, and basketball hoops.

Set up + storage

You'll need to buy a separate electric pump (or a blower, for the largest models) to inflate and set up most inflatable splash pads. There is a deflate function on the electric pump, making it easier to store away. Even while most splash pads don't come with a carrying case, they fold up easy to fit in a suitcase or other large container.


FAQS

How much does a small splash pad cost?

Affordable and easy-to-install splash pads are available, despite the fact that more elaborate models can break the bank. A common choice is a circular sprinkler mat that can accommodate two or three young children and can be purchased for under $25. Add-ons (such animal-shaped sprayers) and slides further increase the price of a water pad, as does the pad's overall size.

Do splash pads reuse water?

Most backyard splash pads are similar to lawn sprinklers in that they connect to a hose and spray water onto the grass, but they don't recycle water. These water playsets for the backyard often consist of thin plastic sheets perforated with sprinkler holes rather than a more complex design that would allow for the water to be collected and reused. That should be taken into account when determining the length of time kids can spend playing in one.

What do I need for a backyard splash pad?

It is likely that you will need to buy a separate electric pump to inflate your splash pad, unless you are getting a pad designed for use in a backyard water park. Furthermore, some users prefer to add a mat underneath the splash pad if using on a hard deck or to lessen the possibility of puncturing on the grass.

If a hole does appear, the repair kit will allow you to quickly and easily make repairs so that you can get back to having fun.

Does splash pad use a lot of water?

The amount of water needed to fill a splash pad, and how long it is in use, are all variables.

More water will be needed for splash pads with deep bases, like a swimming pool, than for a simple splash mat utilized for only 20 minutes.

In order to save water, you should not fill the base of your splash mat before using it and turn off the sprinkler feature every so often while playing.

Do splash pads reuse water? 

It is possible for splash pads to recycle water, but few residential playgrounds have them. An empty hose is their sole source of energy.

Reduce the water pressure coming out of your hose to help the environment.

How much does a small splash pad cost?

Depending on factors like durability, number of sprinkler heads, seam stitching, added accessories, and famous figures, the cost of a splash pad can range from $7 all the way up to $1,000 or more.


Conclusion

Picking the right splash park means your kids can spend several hot summer hours playing in the water. Try on a variety of looks to see which one works best for your children. Something like a miniature water park in your own yard? A sprinkler pad? Inflatable pool toys at your lodgings? In due time, you'll locate the perfect watering hole for your needs. Then attach the splash pool to the garden hose, activate the spray, and get set to cool off in style.

 


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