The best water tables for toddlers and kids

The super popular Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table is one of our top water toy picks given its sturdy construction and engaging design. (Non-walking baby leans? No problem.) More than any other option, this one promotes all kinds of STEM learning with a top basin that creates an endlessly entertaining waterfall effect and removable spinners and tunnels to customize a cascade of water. Another reason we love it? (Well, besides its #1 best-seller status on Amazon!) The unique oblong shape which is fantastic for multi-kid playtime, easily allowing up to four toddlers to comfortably play at once. And if you’re looking for a cover, this one fits perfectly.

A favorite among reviewers for its durability and easy set up, the Little Tikes Spiralin’ Seas Waterpark table gets high marks for kid engagement as well. Little ones as young as 12 months (or younger if they are comfortable on their feet!) can play for hours dropping balls down the spiral, spinning the ferris wheel and pouring water through the funnel to spin the gears below. It also boasts tons of reviews from parents with older kiddos, noting it’s one of the few toys that lasts through toddlerhood into the preschool stages. As a bonus, it comes equipped with a water cup and five squirting characters, but it’s important to note that they can become slimy with mold pretty quickly. (We recommend sealing them with hot glue to keep water out.)

We absolutely love the innovation of this versatile design from Simplay3. Unlike every other option on our list, it features the option to attach a garden hose for continuous water flow and fill-and-spill play. Two tipping buckets and flowing channels encourage “cause-and-effect play”, which splashes the water down all three levels, pushing waves and boats down to the next level. With plenty of space, and nine accessories included, it’s a great option for siblings to play side-by-side. The tiered set up is also easy to assemble and conveniently stacks for storage.

At under $50, the Little Tikes Fish n’ Splash Water Table is hard to beat in the dollars to fun ratio. Like the above option it’s easy to assemble and drain when they’re done and entertains kiddos from 12 months on up. Fun features like a tipping fish bowl, launcher and spinning lily pad give them plenty of play options while the included fishing pole, scoops and floating critters help them work their fine motor skills. We appreciate that it comes with just enough toys to keep them busy without overwhelming!

Want to double down on the sensory play? The Splash n’ Scoop Sand and Water Table from Step2 is designed to accommodate sand and water side-by-side. Two distinct zones make it a great option for multi-kid play but if mixing the two causes messes you’d rather not deal with, just pop the cover on one side to take it out of commission. It comes with several super cool accessories, including a shark scoop and water tower and has a spot in the center for an umbrella (sold separately).

​Sometimes, simple is the way to go. If you’re short on space or don’t want to commit to a bigger spend (or more clean up😉), the Kidoozie Sand ‘n Splash Activity Table gives little ones all they need to splash and explore. The compact design comes with removable legs, so it can easily be set up directly on the ground if you’d prefer, while the divided play area can be filled with water, sand, rice, etc. It also comes with a bucket, shovel, rake, boat, and crab mold to add to the fun!

Stoop, scoop, dump, repeat! Little ones love this water table alternative which has two sides of fun. (And I mean, how could they not? Even I want to play with this thing.) The moveable water maze pieces promote experimentation as they figure out which combos bring water from the top to the bottom. And, given the wide variety of ways to play, reviewers say that even their older kids can’t resist getting in on the action. Even better? Colder temps don’t necessarily put it out of commission. One clever reviewer set it up in her shower to bring the fun inside, mess-free.

One of the tallest and largest sensory tables on the market, the Step2 Naturally Playful Sand and Water Activity Center is a top choice for parents of multiples and older kids who’ve outgrown the other versions. The two zones can be filled with sand or water, allowing a full menu of sensory exploration while the included umbrella keeps everyone shaded and cool, no matter how sunny your yard might be. When playtime is over, just secure the lid (which features convenient tie-downs) and everything will be clean and ready when they come back. (Sorry, neighborhood cats. You’re not invited.)

And now for something completely different (and 100% brilliant)! The Step2 Car Wash Splash Center Water Table offers an endlessly engaging alternative to traditional water tables in the form of an action-packed car. With tons of accessories like a spray bottle and rag, pretend gas can and moveable water maze pieces, they can brush up on their car washing skills while reaping the STEM benefits of water play. Best of all, they won’t have to scratch your ride in the process. 😉