If you are choosing a cubby house for the first time, it is easy to get stuck on the fun stuff and forget the practical bits like space, height, assembly, and what your kids will actually use after the first week.
This guide walks you through the main cubby styles, what to measure, what to consider for different ages, and which features are worth it. If you want to shop while you read, you can jump straight to our collection here: Browse all cubby houses.
How to choose the right cubby house
Why a cubby house?
Kids do not need four walls and a screen to have fun. They need a hideout, a pirate ship, a fairy castle, a backyard cafe, or a place to run “very important kid business”. A cubby house gives them a space that is theirs, and once it is there, imagination tends to take over quickly.
Cubby houses also support independence and confidence, and they encourage active outdoor play. They often become instant social hubs too, which means practicing sharing, cooperating, and negotiating who is running the snack shop today.
At what age is a cubby house best for?
Younger kids (around 3 to 4 years)
For younger kids, simple is best. Look for cubbies that sit low to the ground and are easy to get in and out of. Wide doorways, open windows, gentle ramps, and no tricky climbing usually prove the most usable day to day. If you are buying for this age, always check the recommended age range and weight limit on the product page.
Older kids (5 years and up)
As kids grow, their play gets bigger and bolder. This is where larger timber cubbies shine, especially styles with slides, climbing elements, ladders, or slightly raised platforms. These setups suit active play and bigger imaginations. Again, check the recommended age range and weight limit so it stays safe and enjoyable over the long run.
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 comes down to your space, your kids, and how they like to play.
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Plastic cubby houses
Great for younger kids. Lightweight, easy to move around, and typically low to the ground with simple layouts.
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Wooden cubby houses
A classic for a reason. Many families prefer wood because it suits outdoor spaces well and often includes details like verandas, opening windows, and practical extras such as flower boxes.
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Elevated cubby houses
More adventurous. Stairs, ladders, or climbing elements add height and movement, and they can feel like a mini treehouse.
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Combo cubbies (slides, swings, monkey bars, and more)
If you want a proper play zone, combo cubbies bundle multiple activities into one setup, which keeps kids moving and gives more ways to play.
Size and space: what will fit in my backyard?
Measuring up
Before you fall in love with a cubby house, check your space. Measure the width and depth of the area where it will sit, and also check the height if you are looking at an elevated design. Make sure the ground is flat and stable, and keep clear of fences, pools, and low-hanging branches. Also, think about access through gates or side paths.
Allow for clearance
Aim to leave roughly one to two metres of clear space around the cubby house. This gives kids room to move and play freely, and it helps reduce bumps during energetic play.
Small yard? No worries
Smaller backyards, courtyards, and townhouse spaces can still work well. Compact wooden cubbies and plastic cubbies are often the easiest fit. If you are unsure, start with your available footprint and work backwards from there.
Want to browse options by size and style? Shop cubby houses here.
Do I need council approval?
In many parts of Australia, cubby houses do not need council approval, particularly when they are under around three metres high and not fixed as a permanent structure. That said, rules can vary between councils, so it is worth checking if you are looking at an elevated cubby, you live in a heritage area, or your property has planning restrictions.
Height limits, distance from boundaries, and whether the cubby is considered temporary or permanent are usually the main factors. When in doubt, check your local council website or give them a quick call.
Assembly: DIY or let us take care of it?
Most cubby houses are more manageable to assemble than they look. Many arrive with larger sections already built, such as wall panels and roof sections, so assembly is often about lining things up and fixing them in place rather than building from scratch.
DIY
A cordless drill, time, and ideally another set of hands are helpful, especially for larger or elevated cubbies.
Prefer to skip the tools?
We can help. We offer cubby house assembly across Australia, including metro and many regional areas, so your cubby can be set up and ready for play without you sacrificing your weekend. If you want an assembly quote: Get an assembly quote.
What comes pre-built?
It varies by model, but many cubbies include pre-assembled sections like side walls, floors, or roof panels. Check the product page details, and if you are unsure, contact us, and we will talk you through what to expect.
Fun features to consider
A cubby can be much more than four walls and a roof. Slides add excitement, swings invite longer play, verandas create shady spots for quiet play, and sandpits add hands-on fun that suits a wide range of ages.
The best approach is to match features to your kids. When the setup suits how they like to play, the cubby quickly becomes the place everyone wants to be.
Maintenance tips: keep your cubby looking fresh
Cubby houses are made for everyday play. With basic upkeep, they can stay safe and looking good for years. Most maintenance is simple and only needs to be done occasionally.
For wooden cubby houses
- Protect the timber: Apply a weather-resistant sealant or outdoor paint to help protect against sun and rain.
- Touch-ups: If paint fades or chips, a quick touch-up helps prevent moisture from getting into the timber.
- Wet weather care: 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: Warm soapy water and a sponge are usually enough. Rinse and let it dry naturally.
- Limit harsh sun: 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 climbing elements.
- Keep the area clear: Remove rocks and sharp objects and keep the ground around the cubby tidy to reduce trips and falls.
Cubby house FAQs
Is a cubby house safe for toddlers?
Yes, when you choose the right style. Low, simple cubbies designed for younger kids are generally the best fit. Always check the recommended age range and weight limit, and place the cubby on grass or another softer surface where possible.
Can I move the cubby later?
It depends. Plastic cubbies are easy to move. Wooden cubbies are heavier and typically more fixed once assembled. Smaller models may be moved with extra hands, while larger cubbies often need partial disassembly and reassembly if you plan to relocate them.
Do cubby houses come with flooring?
Some do, and some do not. Many wooden cubbies include timber flooring, while others are designed to sit directly on grass, soil, or a suitable base. Flooring details are always listed on the individual product pages.
Time to find the right one
Ready to choose your little one’s new favourite backyard spot? Whether you want a simple starter cubby or a full play zone with slides and extras, you can browse the full range here: Browse our full range of cubby houses.