Childminding brings a unique set of challenges. Your setting is also your home, you look after mixed ages at once, and everything needs to be cleaned and often packed away at the end of the day. The right soft play makes all of that easier while giving children a safe space to climb, crawl and burn off energy.
What childminders need from soft play
- Mixed-age play: pieces that work for a crawling baby and a busy three-year-old at the same time.
- Easy cleaning: wipe-clean or machine-washable covers.
- Modular pieces: blocks that rearrange, stack and store neatly.
- Durability: high-density foam that keeps its shape through daily use.
- A look you can live with: neutral colours that sit well in a family home.
Best sets for babies
- Mini Climbie Set: a first climbing set from 6 months.
- Little Crawler Set: soft shapes for babies on the move.
- Velvet play mats: a soft base for tummy time.
Best sets for toddlers and pre-schoolers
- Adventurer Set, 10 pieces: climbing and sliding for ages 6 months to 5.
- Creativity Set, 11 pieces: dens, castles and obstacle courses.
- Stacking Block Set, 45 pieces: building and group play.
- Step and Slide Set: a classic for confident climbers.
Seating for story time and snacks
Child-sized seating helps with routines. The Hexagon Bench Play Pouf seats several children for circle time, while the Quilted Eco Leather Kids Chairs wipe clean after lunch.
Choosing fabrics for a childcare setting
Eco leather wipes clean in seconds, which helps between children and after meals. Machine-washable covers are a good alternative for sets that need a deeper clean. Compare options in our soft play fabrics guide, and set a routine using our soft play cleaning guide.
Small space? Plan for pack-away
- Choose block sets that stack into a tidy tower or corner.
- Pick one statement piece plus modular blocks rather than lots of single items.
- Measure your floor space and allow a clear area around climbing pieces.
The Cube Set of 4 and Mini Castle Set are designed with smaller rooms in mind.
Safety and supervision
Check your own setting's requirements and keep your risk assessment up to date. Inspect covers, zips and foam regularly, and supervise play at all times. Our soft play safety guide covers what to look for.
Related guides
- Soft play equipment for nurseries and schools
- What age is soft play for?
- How to set up a soft play area at home
Shop for your setting
Browse all soft play sets and kids' foam furniture with free UK delivery (delivery information).