Cubby House Buying Guide 2026

What Age Is a Cubby House Best For?

Types of Cubby Houses

Not all cubby houses are the same. Some are simple and cosy, others feel more like a full backyard adventure. The right choice really comes down to your space, your kids, and how they like to play. Here is a rundown of the main cubby styles you will come across, and yes, we stock all of them.

Plastic Cubby Houses

Plastic cubbies are a great starting point for younger kids. They are lightweight, easy to move around, and usually come in bright colours that kids love. Because they sit low to the ground and have simple layouts, they are ideal for supervised backyard play and easy day to day use.

Wooden Cubby Houses

Wooden cubby houses are a classic for a reason. They look great in the backyard and tend to last well over time. Many designs include details like verandas, opening windows, and little extras such as flower boxes, which make them feel more like a real house and less like a toy.

Elevated Cubby Houses

Elevated cubbies are where play starts to feel a bit more adventurous. With stairs, ladders, or climbing walls, these designs add height and movement to playtime. They often feel like a mini treehouse and are a great option for kids who love to climb, explore, and burn off energy.

Cubby Houses with Slides, Swings and Monkey Bars

If you want to turn your backyard into a proper play zone, combo cubbies are hard to beat. These setups combine a cubby house with extras like slides, swings, monkey bars, and sometimes sandpits. They keep kids active, give them lots of play options, and tend to grow with them over time.

Size and Space What Will Fit in My Backyard?

Measuring Up

Before you fall in love with a dream cubby house, it is worth checking the space first. No one wants to be the parent who orders a backyard favourite only to realise it will not fit through the gate.

Grab a tape measure and check the area where the cubby will sit. Look for ground that is flat and stable, and keep clear of fences, pools, or low hanging branches. Measure the width and depth carefully, and do not forget to check the height, especially if you are looking at an elevated cubby.

Allow for Clearance

It is a good idea to leave around one to two metres of clear space around the cubby house. This gives kids room to move, climb, and play freely, and it also helps reduce bumps and scrapes during energetic play.

Small Yard No Worries

Smaller backyards, courtyards, and townhouse spaces can still work well. Compact wooden cubbies and plastic cubbies are great space friendly options, and some designs include practical extras like built in storage or seating that folds away when not in use.

At All Things For Kids, we stock cubby houses for all kinds of spaces, big and small. You can filter by size online or reach out to our team and we will help you find something that fits comfortably in your backyard.

Assembly DIY or Let Us Take Care of It for You?

Let us be honest. Not everyone wants to spend their weekend with a drill in hand and instructions spread across the lawn. The good news is that most cubby houses are designed to be far more manageable than they look. Many families put them together without too much drama. And if DIY really is not your thing, you have another option.

Can You Do It Yourself?

In most cases, yes. Many cubby houses arrive with large sections already put together, such as wall panels and roof sections. Assembly is usually more about lining things up and fixing them in place rather than building from scratch. You will need a cordless drill, a bit of time, and ideally another set of hands, especially for larger or elevated cubbies. If you want a clearer idea of what is involved, our Cubby House Assembly Guide walks through it step by step.

Prefer to Skip the Tools?

This is where we can really help. Unlike most retailers, we offer cubby house assembly across Australia. Whether you are in a city, a regional area, or somewhere in between, we can arrange for your cubby to be assembled and ready for play without you lifting a finger.

What Comes Pre Built?

It depends on the model, but many cubbies include pre assembled sections like side walls, floors, or roof panels. This keeps assembly straightforward and avoids fiddly jobs like lining up dozens of individual timber pieces. The product page will always outline what is included, and if you are unsure, our team is happy to talk you through it before you order.

Maintenance Tips Keep Your Cubby Looking Fresh

Cubby houses are made for everyday play, and with a bit of regular care they can stay safe and looking good for years. Most maintenance is simple and only needs to be done occasionally, but it makes a big difference over time.

For Wooden Cubby Houses

• Protect the timber Applying a weather resistant sealant or outdoor paint helps protect the wood from sun, rain, and changing conditions.
• Touch ups when needed If you notice paint fading or small chips, a quick touch up helps prevent moisture getting into the timber.
• Extra care in wet weather In colder or wetter areas, covering the cubby during heavy rain or long wet periods can help extend its life.

For Plastic Cubby Houses

• Simple cleaning A bucket of warm soapy water and a sponge is usually all you need. Rinse it off and let it dry naturally.
• Limit sun exposure If possible, placing plastic cubbies in a partly shaded spot can help slow colour fading over time.

General Maintenance

• Check fixings Every few months, tighten bolts and screws and check moving parts like doors, ladders, or monkey bars.
• Keep the area clear Make sure the ground around the cubby stays free from rocks, sharp objects, or anything that could cause a trip or fall.

A small amount of upkeep goes a long way. It helps keep the cubby safe, extends its lifespan, and means more uninterrupted play time.

Cubby House FAQs

Is a cubby house safe for toddlers?

Yes, when you choose the right style. Plastic cubbies and low wooden cubby houses designed for younger kids are generally a good fit. Always check the recommended age range and weight limit, and place the cubby on grass or another soft surface where possible to reduce bumps and tumbles.

Can I move the cubby later?

That depends on the type of cubby. Plastic cubbies are easy to move and can usually be relocated without much effort. Wooden cubbies are heavier and more fixed once assembled. Smaller models may be moved with a few extra hands, but larger cubbies often need to be taken apart and reassembled if you plan to relocate them.

Do cubby houses come with flooring?

Some do and some do not. Many wooden cubby houses include timber flooring, while others are designed to sit directly on grass, soil, or a concrete base. Flooring details are always listed on the individual product pages at All Things For Kids. If you are unsure, just ask and we can point you in the right direction.