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5 Best Sleepover Mats: Snooze-Worthy Mats Your Kids Will Love in 2023

5 Best Sleepover Mats: Snooze-Worthy Mats Your Kids Will Love in 2023

5 Best Sleepover Mats: Snooze-Worthy Mats Your Kids Will Love in 2023

This post contains affiliate links. Read our affiliate disclosure here.

Sleepovers are an exciting childhood tradition. Whether they take place at a friend’s house or in your living room, wonderful memories are bound to be made. Even more, the best sleepover mats can provide a softer and cozier sleeping surface for kids and adults.

What is a Sleepover Mat?

We define a sleepover mat as any portable, padded, and sleepable surface. Some products are specifically marketed as sleepover mats or nap mats. Unfortunately, there’s not a lot of those on the market. Plus, lots of generic sleeping mats contain not-so-healthy materials, including vinyl. Luckily, there are lots of other products available that can be used as a sleepover mat; even if they wern’t designed for that task.

What are the Benefits of Sleepover Mats?

There’s no doubt about it, sleeping on the floor can be rough. Admittedly, rougher on adults rather than kids. The benefits of sleeping on a mat vary greatly between these age groups. None the less, sleepover mats may be beneficial to us all. Giving kids the extra responsibility to set up and put away their nap mat 

Benefits for Kids

Sleepover mats obviously provide a softer sleeping surface for kids than sleeping on the bare floor. At the same time, these mats provide additional benefits you may not have thought about.

Many nap mats contain a waterproof barrier. This is a great feature for a mat when it’s being used by a child who is not fully potty trained. In addition, young kids can acquire a great sense of independence while setting up and putting away their sleepover mats. Specifically, ones that require effort like those with a strap and buckle. This gives kids extra responsibility to prepare their sleeping area and boosts their confidence once they complete the project.

Benefits for Adults

Sleepovers can be hard on a parent’s body. Sleeping on the floor can cause back pain, painful joints, sore muscles, and more. Thus, making your sleepover adventure one you regret rather than treasure. Luckily, sleeping mats for adults may improve this experience. Sleeping on a padded surface may decrease joint pain, achy bones, and sore muscles when you arise the next day. 

The Best Sleepover Mats for Toddlers, Kids and Adults

1. Organic Nap Mat by Lovevery

  • The Organic Nap Mat by Lovevery is recommended for children 18+ months and designed for the average five-year-old maximum height. 
  • It’s a complete, one-piece sleepover set with a pillow, blanket, and carrying case.
  • Even more, this nap mat encourages independence and healthy routines.
  • It’s made with a 100% organic cotton outer with poly filling, plastic buckles, and straps.
  • This mat is great for kids with sensitive skin due to its OEKO-TEX certification. This certification means that it’s been tested for harmful substances and that the article therefore is harmless for human health.
  • Plus, this nap mat helps support the environment by using carbon neutral shipping.
  • Read more about this organic nap mat…

Quick Comparison Guide

Organic Nap Mat by Lovevery

Machine Washable: YES (Remove pillow first) OEKO-TEX Certified: YES
Includes Pillow and Blanket: YES Waterproof: NO
Contains Organic Cotton: YES Approximate Dimensions: 20.5″W x 55″L

Summary: The Organic Nap Mat by Lovevery is the best sleeping mat for kids under 6. It’s easy to use, easy to carry, and encourages your child’s independence. Plus, this OEKO TEX certified nap mat is great for kids with sensitive skin and is delivered to you using carbon neutral shipping.

2. Original Nap Mat with Pillow by Wildkin

  • The Original Nap Mat by Wildkin is a great option for a sleepover mat in the mid-to-low price range. 
  • It’s a one-piece sleepover set that comes with an attached pillow and blanket. 
  • The playfully designed mat features a roll-up design and hook-and-loop elastic straps. 
  • Plus, this mat is hypoallergenic, BPA-free, and phthalate-free.
  • Read more about this sleepover mat…

Quick Comparison Guide

Original Nap Mat with Pillow by Wildkin

Machine Washable: YES Hypoallergenic: YES
Includes Pillow and Blanket: YES Waterproof: NO
Contains Organic Cotton: NO Approximate Dimensions: 20″W x 50″L

Summary: The Wildkin Original Nap Mat is a great option if you are on a tight budget. It features several design aspects that appeal to the health-concious parent but lacks organic material. Furthermore, it’s very lightweight and easy for little ones to carry making this a great mat for home or preschool.

3. Rest Pad by Naturepedic

  • The Rest Pad by Naturepedic features luxurious GOTS certified organic cotton fabric.
  • Rather than vinly, this mat is treated with a clear food-grade waterproof coating made from non-GMO sugarcane.
  • Perfect for toddlers and kids, this sleepover pad is non-allergenic, easy-to-clean, and stackable.
  • The Naturepedic Rest Pad contains no polyurethane foam, pesticides, glues, adhesives, vinyl, PVC, phthalates, or allergenic materials. 
  • Plus, it meets flammability standards without the use of toxic flame retardants.
  • As a whole, Naturepedic products are FSC certified, Made Safe certified, GOTS certified, and GOLS certified. In addition, they are non-toxic, free from harmful VOCs and known carcinogens.  
  • Naturepedic is a member of 1% for the Planet, which funds eco-friendly organizations working to solve the world’s environmental problems. 
  • Read more about this sleepover mat…

Quick Comparison Guide

Rest Pad by Naturepedic

Machine Washable: NO Greenguard Gold Certified: YES
Includes Pillow and Blanket: NO Waterproof: YES
Contains Organic Cotton: YES Approximate Dimensions: 24″W x 48″L

Summary: You can’t go wrong with the Rest Pad by Naturepedic. It’s the best nap mat for daycare because it’s easy-to-clean and stackable. Preschool and kindergarten classes may also require nap mats and the Rest Pad is likely to be approved by many of these establishments. This is a non-toxic nap mat and free from known carcinogens. In addition, purchasing this eco-friendly nap mat helps fund 1% for the Planet.

4. Organic Cotton Topper by White Lotus Home

  • The Organic Cotton Topper by White Lotus Home is a soft and luxurious option for a sleepover mat.
  • It’s made with a 100% GOTS certified organic cotton cover with an organic cotton interior. As a result, it’s safe for sensitive skin. 
  • No flame retardants are used or sprayed on any of the materials. In addition, it’s pesticide and insecticide free.
  • Plus, the organic cotton used in this eco-friendly sleepover mat takes 91% less water to grow than regular cotton. 
  • Read more about this organic cotton sleepover mat…

Quick Comparison Guide

Organic Cotton Topper by White Lotus Home

Machine Washable: NO Green America Certified: YES
Includes Pillow and Blanket: NO Waterproof: NO
Contains Organic Cotton: YES Approximate Dimensions: Varies by Type

Summary: Who says you can’t use a mattress topper as a portable floor bed? This is a high-quality product that is handmade in the USA. It’s recommended for use on top of a mattress. However, I think sleeping on a mattress topper during a sleepover would be much more comfortable than simply sleeping on the floor. This topper is somewhat heavy so I wouldn’t recommend this for travel. Rather, this is a great option for living room sleepovers at home. It comes in several different sizes and thicknesses making it usable by kids and adults of nearly any body type.

5. Adagio Organic Latex Topper by Naturepedic

  • An organic latex mattress topper makes an extremely cozy sleepover mat for kids and adults.
  • It’s a fantastic alternative if you’re trying to avoid a memory foam sleepover mat.
  • This mattress topper is widely known for its pressure-point relieving qualities.
  • The Adagio topper is approximately 2″ thick. However, there are multiple sizes and thicknesses available. Naturepedic even sells an ultra-cushy EOS 4″ topper.
  • Plus, it’s GOLS certified latex is made from the sap of a rubber tree making it an eco-friendly option.
  • Read more about this organic cotton sleepover mat…

Quick Comparison Guide

Adagio Organic Latex Topper by Naturepedic

Machine Washable: NO GOLS Certified Latex: YES
Includes Pillow and Blanket: NO Waterproof: NO
Contains Organic Cotton: YES Approximate Dimensions: Varies by Type

Summary: The Naturepedic Adagio Organic Latex Topper is a great sleepover mat for adults or kids. Its GOLS certified latex may provide pressure-point relieving support and offers a “smooth as butter” feel. Plus, this topper sleeps cool and is covered with a luxurious stretch-knit organic cotton fabric. Finally, this topper can be stored on top of your mattress between sleepovers for a comfortable sleep every night!

Final Thoughts:

Using one of the best sleepover mats may improve the sleep experience for you and your child. Don’t limit your purchase to something designed specifically as a nap mat. Remember, products like mattress toppers or play couches can also provide cushion and support.

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12 Amazing BPA-Free Toddler Bath Toys: The Best Of 2023

12 Amazing BPA-Free Toddler Bath Toys: The Best Of 2023

12 Amazing BPA-Free Toddler Bath Toys: The Best Of 2023

This post contains affiliate links. Read our affiliate disclosure here.

Toddler bath toys can turn your child’s mundane wash time into a world of imaginative play and exploration.

When to Introduce Bath Toys to Your Toddler

First and foremost, if your toddler is content playing with only a washcloth and their imagination, I applaud them and I think that is absolutely wonderful. If they are not, I think bath toys can start to be introduced around 6 months of age. Before then, your baby should still be very entertained simply by the concept of taking a bath and having cups of water poured over them; and they are simply not ready developmentally. Once children reach 6 months or so, they may need additional stimulation in order to keep them in the bath tub longer; or to get the into the bath tub at all.  

How to Store Your Toddler’s Bath Toys

Bath toys are notorious for harboring mold. Even bath toys without holes can grow mold if you put them in their storage container while they are wet and leave them sit for a long period of time. The best bath toy storage is washable, sturdy, contains holes for air flow, and can collect any dripping water that will leak out of the toys after bath time. Make sure to dry off your toddler’s bath toys as much as you can prior to storage to help deter mold growth. 

Educational Benefits of Bath Toys for Toddlers

Physical Benefits

  • Motor skill development
  • Hand-eye coordination 
  • Hands-on-learning

Cognitive Benefits

  • Teaches STEM properties
  • Imaginative Play
  • Logical thinking

Which Toddler Bath Toys are Best?

When shopping for bath toys, make sure to avoid anything that squirts or contain small holes. Mold can easily harbor inside of damp bath toys creating a toxic environment for your child. You’ll also want to select BPA-free bath toys. BPA is a dangerous industrial chemical used to make certain plastics, including those in some children’s toys. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Exposure to BPA is a concern because of possible health effects of BPA on the brain and prostate gland of fetuses, infants and children. It can also affect children’s behavior. Additional research suggests a possible link between BPA and increased blood pressure.” (1)

1. Toddler Bath Toy Draining Bin

Why you need this bath storage container:

First and foremost, you need to know where to store bath toys. The Ubbi Bath Toy Organizer is the best kids bath toy storage due to its impressive hygienic design. 

  • This bath toy storage container allows you to scoop bath toys up out of the water and lets them air dry safely. 
  • The collector scoop has drainage holes in the bottom which allows most water to retreat into the separated base.
  • All of the pieces are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. 
  • This is by far the best BPA-free bath toys storage container, this bin is also PVC-free, and phthalate-free. 
  • Read more about this bath toy organizer…

2. Bathtub Building Pipes

Why you need these toddler bath toys: 

  • This set of Boon water pipe toys have unique shapes that suction to the wall. 
  • Each pipe provides a unique function when water is poured into them. 
  • These are PVC-free and BPA-free bath toys.
  • This is a great educational bath toy because toddlers can build and create different paths and patterns, and learn principles of physics.
  • Read more about this toddler bath toy…

3. Water Gears Bath Toy

Why you need these toddler bath toys: 

  • These Boon water gears are cool bath toys that stick to the wall. The gears can be used with the above Building Bath Pipes or as a stand alone set.
  • The toy gears suction to the wall and can link together to create a water-powered chain.
  • BPA-free and comes in multiple color options when available. 
  • Read more about this toddler bath toy…

4. Origami Boat Bath Toy

Why you need this toddler bath toy: 

  • This unique bath toy by Oli & Carol contains no holes to help alleviate mold formation.
  • This origami bath boat is non-toxic, BPA-free, phthalate-free, and PVC-free making it safe for babies and toddlers.
  • Easy to grasp and safe to chew.
  • Multiple colors available – all of which have no holes making them hygienic, mold-free bath toys if stored properly.
  • Read more about this toddler bath toy…

5. Chomping Whale Toddler Bath Toy

Why you need this toddler bath toy: 

  • This adorable Chomp Hungry Whale bath toy by Boon has flexible wide jaws to catch small bath toys floating around the tub.
  • Encourages hand-eye coordination and imaginative play.
  • This is a PVC-free, phthalate-free, and BPA-free bath toy.
  • Read more about this toddler bath toy…

6. Beeswax Bath Crayons

Why you need these toddler bath toys: 

  • These artistic bathtub crayons by Honeysticks are handmade in New Zealand with 100% pure New Zealand beeswax, soy wax, food grade non-toxic pigments, and a plant based non-carcinogenic emulsifier.
  • Beeswax and soy wax are farmed from completely renewable and sustainably sourced resources.
  • Perfect sized crayons help develop dexterity and grip.
  • Though advertised as an “easy cleanup”, many users report these bath crayons are very messy and difficult to clean off their bathtub surface.
  • Read more about this toddler bath toy…

7. Toddler Stacking Cups with Holes

Why you need these toddler bath toys: 

  • These 8 stackable cups by Mushie have distinctive and fun holes on the bottom for bath and water play. 
  • The basic skills learned from stackable cups become the foundation for more complex tasks like using a writing instrument.
  • These are PVC-free, phthalate-free, and BPA-free bath toys.
  • One of the best bath toys for toddlers due to its simple, easy-to-use design.
  • Aligned with both Waldorf and Montessori principles.
  • Read more about this toddler bath toy…

8. Stacking Bathtub Boats

Why you need these toddler bath toys: 

  • These bath toy stacking boats by Boon are designed with wide decks for scooping and pouring water.
  • The drainage holes allow for a fun rain effect.
  • PVC-free, phthalate-free, and BPA-free bath toys.
  • These are simple and fun to use, making them one of the best bath toys for babies and toddlers.
  • Read more about this toddler bath toy…

9. Ocean Octopus Rattle Bath Toy

Why you need this toddler bath toy:

 

  • This non-toxic bath toy by Tikiri is made from pure natural latex and shaped for little hands to grip.
  • Non-toxic, BPA-free, phthalate-free, and PVC-free. 
  • Contains no holes to help alleviate mold formation.
  • Available in OctopusCrab, or Seahorse; these are all safe bath toys for babies and toddlers starting at birth.
  • Read more about this toddler bath toy…

10. Suction Cup Sensory Bath Toys

Why you need these toddler bath toys: 

  • These educational bath toys by Boon teach children the principles of balance and suction.
  • Suction cups attach to the bath tub, wall or each other. 
  • Stacks to create cool forms and structures.
  • Multiple color oprions available.
  • BPA-free
  • Read more about this toddler bath toy…

11. Submarine Made From Recycled Milk Jugs

Why you need this toddler bath toy: 

  • This submarine bath toy is made using 100% recycled plastic milk containers.
  • BPA-free, phthalate-free, and eco-friendly.
  • The cabin of the submarine can be opened for easy cleaning, plus it’s dishwasher safe.
  • It’s cute packaging is made with recycled materials and is printed with soy ink.
  • Read more about this toddler bath toy…

12. Toddler Bath Toy Fishing Set

Why you need this toddler bath toy: 

  • This bath toy fishing set by Boon has a weighted hook that submerges in water.
  • Encourages hand-eye coordination and imaginative play.
  • The fishing rod and sea creatures are BPA-free and PVC-free.
  • Read more about this toddler bath toy…

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Top 4 Organic Chest Rubs for Babies: Best of 2023

Top 4 Organic Chest Rubs for Babies: Best of 2023

Top 4 Organic Chest Rubs for Babies: Best of 2023

This post contains affiliate links. Read our affiliate disclosure here.

When your baby is feeling ill, the only thing you want to do is help them feel better. Chest rubs and vapor rubs are a common tool which may help soothe your baby and help them sleep. The best organic chest rub for babies features a light blend of herbs and oils to soothe your baby. Plus, it should contain a natural base to help nourish their delicate skin. Some people swear by chest rubs. On the other hand, some reports claim that the cooling sensation produces a placebo effect. If you’re thinking about using a chest rub on your baby, discuss it with your child’s pediatrition prior to use. 

Organic Chest Rub For Babies: Which to Buy and Which to Avoid

All baby chest rubs are not created equal. For example, many popular chest rubs contain potentially dangerous ingredients. These ingredients may include petrolatum and synthetic fragrance. Petrolatum is a product of crude oil distillation. (1) When it has an incomplete refining history, petrolatum may be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The National Toxicology Program considers these hydrocarbons a potential carcinogen. (2) In addition, fragrance can be used as a blanket term for a hypothetical witches’ brew of toxic chemicals. To illustrate, the FDA does not require manufacturers to disclose the specific ingredients in a fragrance. They can simply use the term “fragrance” which can include synthetic chemicals, solvents, and fixatives. (3) Plus, many synthetic fragrances are linked to cancer, birth defects, central nervous system disorders, and allergic reactions. (4

Luckily, there is a growing demand for natural and non-toxic products. You now have more buying options than ever for safer personal care products, including organic chest rub for babies. Take a peek at our top choices below. 

1. Tubby Todd Bath Co. Organic Chest Rub

  • Key ingredients in this chest rub include coconut oil, shea butter, lavender oil, and eucalyptus oil.
  • It’s easily spreadable and a little bit goes a long way!
  • This organic chest rub for babies is gluten-free, dairy-free, and good for sensitive skin.
  • In addition, it’s cruelty free and made in the USA. 
  • Do not use this chest rub on babies under 3 months of age.
  • Read more about this baby chest rub…

2. Little Innoscents Organic Baby Skincare Winter Blues Balm

  • Key ingredients in this chest rub include sunflower seed oil, shea butter, jojoba oil, and spearmint oil.
  • It’s cruelty free and gentle enough for most newborns and infants.
  • Some users report that the scent of the essential oils is not very strong. Subsequently, this is one of the few chest rubs the manufacturer approves for use on infants.
  • Read more about this baby chest rub…

3. Wellements Organic Chest & Foot Rub

  • Key ingredients in this chest rub include sunflower seed oil, extra virgin olive oil, cranberry seed oil, and tamanu oil.
  • This balm is USDA certified organic and bottled in a glass jar.
  • Most importantly, it’s free from gluten, dairy, soy, dyes, parabens, alcohol, and unnecessary preservatives.
  • Do not use this chest rub on babies under 3 months of age.
  • Read more about this organic chest rub for babies…

4. Nature’s Baby Organics Ah-Choo! Chest Rub

  • Key ingredients in this chest rub include beeswax, olive oil, lavender oil, and tea tree oil.
  • This chest rub contains no synthetic chemicals, it’s gluten-free, paraben-free, and hypoallergenic.
  • Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and USDA certified organic.
  • Do not use this chest rub on babies under 6 months of age.
  • Read more about this baby chest rub…

Honorable Mention: Marie’s Original All-Natural Baby Respiratory Rub

  • Technically, this baby chest rub is not organic but it’s included in this list because of its fantastic formulation. It’s based on traditional methods of homeopathic healing and formulated with delicate skin in mind.
  • Key ingredients include yellow sweet clover, chilli seed, juniper oil, and peppermint oil.
  • It contains no harsh chemicals, petroleum, parabens, GMO’s, SLS, petroleum, phthalates, gluten, artificial dyes, or fragrances.
  • There is no age restriction listed on the website. I have a request into the company for an answer but have not heard back yet. I will update this article once I have an answer.
  • Read more about this baby chest rub…

Sources:

(1) https://www.encyclopedia.com/science-and-technology/chemistry/organic-chemistry/petrolatum

(2) http://www.safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/chemicals-of-concern/petrolatum/

(3) https://www.webmd.com/allergies/fragrances

(4) https://draxe.com/health/dangers-synthetic-scents/

The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products on this page are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any type of disease or medical condition. The Smartest Sprout does not make any claims in regards to chest rubs. All information presented is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. We recommend that you consult with your child’s pediatrician for approval before using any type of chest rub. Any opinions written are solely the thoughts of the author.

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Wooden Rainbow Stacker Comparison: Which Brand is Best in 2023?

Wooden Rainbow Stacker Comparison: Which Brand is Best in 2023?

Wooden Rainbow Stacker Comparison: Which Brand is Best in 2023?

This post contains affiliate links. Read our affiliate disclosure here.

With the popularity of wooden toys surging around the country, the number one most coveted item may be the illustrious wooden rainbow stacker. Whether kids love it more for its creative open-ended play, or moms love it more for its beauty, it is showing up in countless homes across the United States and around the world.

Below, we will specifically compare the Grimm’s and Ocamora rainbow stackers. When you’re done, make sure to read our post comparing the Top 10 Wooden Rainbow Stackers for Every Budget!

Wooden Rainbow Stacker Comparison: Grimm's vs. Ocamora, Which is Best?

Why a Wooden Rainbow Stacker is Better Than Plastic

​Wooden toys are far superior to plastic toys for many reasons. They are extremely durable, more eco-friendly than plastic, and can have a very long life span allowing them to be passed from generation to generation. In addition, a good quality wooden toy is non-toxic and does not contain harmful hormone disrupting chemicals like its plastic counterpart. (1) Wooden rainbow stackers even stack better than plastic ones. For example, wood pieces balancing on wood pieces can secure a better grip than the slick surface of plastic on plastic.

Popular Wooden Rainbow Stacker Designers

Grimm’s Spiel und Holz Design has been a staple in the wooden toy industry for years. But with the growing popularity in Montessori and Waldorf education, and so many parents swapping their plastic toys for wood, new players have been able to enter game; Ocamora being one of them. Grimm’s and Ocamora are very similar companies. They are both family owned, and while handcrafting their toys they use certified sustainable wood and color their toys with non-toxic water-based dyes.  

Grimm’s vs. Ocamora: A Thorough Product Comparison

If you’re wondering which wooden rainbow stacker is the best for your child, you have come to the right place. For this product comparison, we are examining the Grimm’s 6-piece rainbow stacker and the Ocamora 6-piece rainbow stacker (colors in link may vary). I chose to review the 6-piece sets because one has a much larger price tag than the other. Because of the price jump, a lot of moms want to know what the difference is.

1. Packaging Comparison

  • Both the Ocamora and Grimm’s wooden rainbow stackers came neatly packaged in very different ways. 
  • The Ocamora rainbow came in an Ocamora branded cardboard box with kraft crinkle paper cushioning.
  • ​The Grimm’s rainbow came shrink-wrapped with a large informational sticker portraying different rainbow designs. 
Ocamora Wooden Rainbow Stacker Packaging Comparison
Grimms Wooden Rainbow Stacker Toy Packaging Comparison

2. Smell Comparison

  • One thing that many people love about a wooden rainbow stacker toy is the smell. 
  • The Ocamora wooden rainbow stacker did not release any noticeable scent.
  • The Grimm’s wooden rainbow stacker gave off a pleasant aroma of cut wood.
Side by side comparison of Grimms vs Ocamora Wooden Rainbow Stacker Toy

3. Pigment and Craftsmanship Comparison

  • The Ocamora wooden rainbow stacker had a noticeably lighter and brighter color.
  • On the other hand, the Grimm’s wooden rainbow stacker had a deeper, more saturated color.
  • The craftsmanship of both rainbow toys was equally durable and charming. I could sense the care, thoughtfulness, and love that went into handcrafting each individual piece.
Ocamora vs Grimms Side by Side Pigment and Craftsmanship Comparison

4. Size Comparison

  • As noted above, these are both 6-piece wooden rainbow stackers.
  • The size of the largest Ocamora rainbow piece I received measured 9 1/4″ wide2 1/2″ deep, and the length of the curvature face measured 14 5/8″.
  • The size of the largest Grimm’s rainbow piece I received measured 6 11/16″ wide, 2 5/8″ deep and the length of the curvature face measured 11 1/4″.
Grimms vs Ocamora Wooden Rainbow Stacker Toy Length Comparison
Ocamora vs Grimms Side by Side Wooden Rainbow Stacker Width Comparison

5. Price Comparison

  • When I purchased these wooden rainbow stacking toys, I paid $36.00 for the Grimm’s 6-piece rainbow stacker and $64.00 for the Ocamora 6-piece rainbow stacker.
  • The Grimm’s rainbow weighed 14.6 ounces and the Ocamora rainbow weighed 22.2 ounces.
  • When calculating the price per ounce not including tax or shipping charges, The Grimm’s rainbow stacker cost $2.47 per ounce and the Ocamora rainbow stacker cost $2.88 per ounce.
  • Prices subject to change. 

Final Thoughts:

  • Realistically, you cannot go wrong with either option. Decide which wooden rainbow stacking toy suits your style more and go with your gut. 
  • A high-quality wooden rainbow toy is an investment which I believe is worth every penny. My children have an Ocamora wooden rainbow stacker and it is by far their favorite creative toy. Creativity and confidence flow out of them when they play with it. They use it as a standalone toy to make beautiful structures, designs, and shapes; and in conjunction with vehicle and people toys to make tunnels, rooms, bridges, and everything else their developing minds can imagine. 
  • I would like to encourage every parent to invest in a wooden rainbow stacker for their child. Though most are not inexpensive, you are purchasing a very high-quality toy that can be passed down as an heirloom from generation to generation. The 9-piece and 12-piece wooden rainbow stackers are much larger and have more pieces than the ones we examined today. This will allow for even more creativity and building potential. 

See the latest exciting releases from Grimm’s and Ocamora:

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14 Fantastic Children’s Wooden Building Blocks Sets: Best of 2023

14 Fantastic Children’s Wooden Building Blocks Sets: Best of 2023

14 Fantastic Children’s Wooden Building Blocks Sets: Best of 2023

This post contains affiliate links. Read our affiliate disclosure here.

Children’s wooden building blocks are an excellent way for a kids to build fine motor skills, learn about balance, and explore imaginative play.

Which Children’s Wooden Building Blocks to Buy and Which to Avoid

Building blocks are an excellent way for a child to build fine motor skills, learn about balance, and explore imaginative play. Although banned in the U.S., lead paint can be found on consumer products made in other countries and then imported. It can also be found on toys produced in the U.S. years ago and passed down through generations (cdc.gov). You can assume at one point or another, a few blocks may end up in your little one’s mouth. For your piece of mind, we have specifically selected block sets which have been colored with non-toxic or water-based paints, stains, or finishes.  

Top Rated Children’s Wooden Building Blocks Sets

1. The Best Overall Wooden Building Blocks Set for Children

  • 70 heirloom quality pieces that work with each other in more than 20 stage-based activities
  • Solid wood blocks made of sustainably harvested FSC-certified wood
  • Water-based and non-toxic paint and finishes
  • Comes with a wooden storage box and shape sorting lid
  • The best overall children’s wooden building blocks set
  • Read more about this building block set…

2. The Best Periodic Table of Elements Wooden Building Blocks Set

  • This 20-piece wooden block set by Uncle Goose represents the entire periodic table of elements.
  • Crafted from sustainable Michigan grown basswood.
  • Encourages educational and developmental play, and helps develop fine motor skills. 
  • Printed with non-toxic, lead-free, and child-safe inks. 
  • Made in the USA
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

3. The Best Water-Filled Wooden Building Blocks Set

  • Made from rubberwood that is organic, recycled, and sustainable.
  • Enhances fine motor skills and spatial sense.
  • Filled with non-toxic dye, these blocks help teach primary color mixing when overlapped.
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

4. The Best Magnetic Wooden Building Blocks Set

  • 42-piece set incorporates 9 unique shapes including magnetic wheels.
  • Built from wood, this is an heirloom quality toy can be passed down from generation to generation.
  • Non-toxic, water-based lacquer finish
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

5. The Best Solar System Wooden Building Blocks Set

  • These handcrafted building blocks feature beautiful artwork of planets and other elements of the solar system.
  • Built using sustainable Michigan Basswood.
  • Printed using non-toxic, child-safe inks.
  • Made in the USA
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

6. The Best Medieval Wooden Building Blocks

  • Children can build a creative castle with this unique 60-piece block set.
  • Encourages imaginative pretend play and helps develop fine motor skills. 
  • Sustainably crafted from rubberwood trees, formaldehyde-free glues, and non-toxic finishes.
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

7. The Best Wooden Rock Balancing Blocks

  • This beautiful set of wooden blocks from several sustainably harvested wood species.
  • No paints, stains, or dyes. All blocks are the natural color of the individual wood species and finished with organic jojoba oil and beeswax.
  • Comes with an organic linen drawstring storage bag.
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

8. The Best Classic Wooden Alphabet Blocks

  • This beautiful set as an old school blocks charm and features letters, numbers, and animal images.
  • Handcrafted with sustainable basswood from Michigan.
  • Printed with non-toxic, child-safe inks.
  • Made in the USA
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

9. The Best Garden Themed Wooden Building Blocks Set

  • This beginner building block set is great for children 18 months of age. 
  • Good for stacking and balancing.
  • Made from eco-friendly sustainable rubberwood.
  • Formaldehyde-free and colored with non-toxic paint. Meets European, American, and Australian toy safety standards.
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

10. The Best Miniature Wooden Building Blocks

  • This mini wooden building block set features small blocks with grey, black, and natural tones. 
  • Made with water-based dyes and organic pigments.
  • Built with sustainably sourced rubberwood and crafted in a factory that utilizes solar energy. 
  • As noted above, these are very small building blocks. It’s a great set for traveling or if your child likes miniatures, but may not be ideal if you are looking for a standard-sized block set. 
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

11. The Best Castle Wooden Blocks Set

  • Made from solid wood, this castle themed block set by FAO Schwarz will spark your child’s imagination and creativity.
  • Helps develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and spatial skills.
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

12. The Best Rainbow Colored Wooden Building Blocks Set

  • This beautiful 70-piece block set includes 5 wooden stacking trays, each holding a different geometric form: triangles, cubes, dominoes, cylinders, & stepped blocks.
  • Built from high-quality FSC certified linden wood from European forests.
  • Painted with non-toxic, water-based color stains.
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

13. The Best Ocean Themed Wooden Building Blocks Set

  • This adorable wooden block set features adorable “under the sea” creatures, along with water and seaweed designs. 
  • Encourages imaginative play, balancing skills, and creativity.
  • Non-toxic and build with FSC certified wood. 
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

14. The Best Extra Large Wooden Building Blocks Set

  • These large wooden building blocks feature hollow shapes with which children can build castles, bridges, ramps, and more.  
  • Teaches children math concepts, spatial reasoning, balance, and helps develop gross motor skills.
  • Durable and lightweight.
  • Read more about this wooden building block set…

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