Keep the bugs out: How to maintain a clean sandpit for your kids
Keep the bugs out: How to maintain a clean sandpit for your kids
There’s something timeless about kids playing in the sand: digging, building, imagining. A backyard sandpit offers hours of outdoor fun, and at fatmoose, we love seeing gardens turn into playful spaces. But sometimes, ants, sand fleas, woodlice, and other small bugs sneak in, especially when it’s warm. So how do you keep the sandpit fun for your kids - and only your kids? And what if the bugs are already there? Let’s dig into some easy ways to keep your sandbox clean and critter-free.
There are already bugs in the sandpit: What to do?
Already spotting bugs in the sandpit? Don’t worry: it happens, especially in warmer months. To get rid of ants, try clearing away any crumbs or organic debris. Sprinkling some child-safe remedies like cinnamon can help to keep them away. Sand fleas love dampness, so turn the sand regularly and let the sun dry it out. If they stick around, replacing the top layer of sand can help. Woodlice? Clear out wet leaves or rotting materials nearby, and make sure your sandbox stays dry and well-ventilated.
How to keep insects out of your sandpit
Prevention is better than cure. Once your sandpit is clean and bug-free, keeping it that way is easier than you think. Here are four simple ways to make sure the only ones playing in your sandpit are your kids:
1. Keep it tidy
Just like any outdoor space, sandpits need a little upkeep. Leaves, food crumbs, or damp spots can all attract insects. Taking a few minutes now and then to remove debris and smooth out the surface helps keep the sand fresh and well-aired. Some families also choose to change out the sand every so often, depending on usage and weather. A clean sandpit is not only more enjoyable to play in, it’s also possible that it will less likely become a bug hangout.
2. Stay consistent with maintenance
It’s a good habit to check the sandpit regularly, especially if your child plays in it often. A quick look once a week can help you spot anything that needs cleaning or adjusting. Removing old toys, rinsing out buckets, and giving everything a bit of attention helps keep the space inviting and comfortable for your kids, and not for small ants, sand fleas or woodlice.
3. Cover it when not in use
One of the most effective things you can do is to cover the sandpit when your child isn’t using it. A well-fitted, breathable cover helps keep out rain, animals, and falling leaves—three things that can create a more insect-friendly environment. Covers that are easy to take on and off make it more likely you’ll use them daily, which can go a long way in keeping the space tidy between play sessions. Or, for example, for various sandpits we have a handy sandpit cover, just like the BuddyBox Sandpit cover with handles, to keep your laboriously created sand worlds safe. Not just from wind and bad weather, but also from animals!
4. Choose a sunny spot
If you’re setting up your sandpit for the first time, or thinking of moving it, pick a spot with plenty of sunlight. Dry, warm sand is much less appealing to insects like sand fleas and woodlice than damp, shaded areas. Of course, on hot days, don’t forget to set up a parasol and use sunscreen so your little explorers can play comfortably and safely.
Creating a safe and fun outdoor space
At the end of the day, sandpits are all about fun. With just a bit of regular care and attention, you can keep yours clean and ready for adventure - whether that’s building a fortress, cooking up a pretend meal, or just feeling the sand between your fingers. If you don’t have a sandpit yet and are thinking about adding one to your garden, fatmoose has a wide range of durable and fun sandpits, or you can check out our playsets with integrated sandpits. Take a look at our collection and discover the perfect fit for your backyard explorers! Explore fatmoose's sandpits here!
