How deep should sandbox sand be?

4-6 inches of play sand is ideal. This provides enough depth for digging while keeping the total sand weight manageable.

Is pressure-treated wood safe for a sandbox?

No, do not use pressure-treated lumber for sandboxes or any children's play equipment. Use untreated cedar, redwood, or other naturally rot-resistant species.

How do I keep a sandbox clean?

Use a tight-fitting lid when not in use to keep out animals and debris. Replace sand annually, and let it dry completely between uses to prevent mold.

How to Build a Children's Sandbox: Complete DIY Guide | Lumberama

beginner

3-5 hours

$75 - $200

How to Build a Children's Sandbox (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Projects Team

|Last updated May 26, 2026|Sources & methodology

A sandbox provides hours of creative outdoor play for children and is one of the easiest projects a beginner can build. Using naturally rot-resistant cedar and a clever fold-down lid that converts to bench seating, you can build a sandbox that's fun, safe, and keeps the sand clean when not in use.

Key Takeaways

A sandbox provides hours of creative outdoor play for children and is one of the easiest projects a beginner can build.
Using naturally rot-resistant cedar and a clever fold-down lid that converts to bench seating, you can build a sandbox that's fun, safe, and keeps the sand clean when not in use.
Always use untreated cedar or redwood for children's play structures — avoid pressure-treated or painted wood.
The fold-up lid design keeps cats and debris out of the sand.
Place the sandbox in a partially shaded spot to keep sand cool on hot days.

Tools Needed

Drill/driver, circular saw, tape measure, speed square, sanding block, level, safety glasses

Materials List

2x6 or 2x10 cedar boards for sides, 1x6 cedar boards for lid/bench, 2x2 cedar cleats, landscape fabric, galvanized hinges, exterior wood screws, play sand (20-30 bags)

Recommended Species

Western Red Cedar, Redwood (never use pressure-treated lumber for children's play equipment)

Recommended Sizes

2x10x8 side boards, 1x6x8 lid boards, 2x2x8 cleats

Pro Tips

Always use untreated cedar or redwood for children's play structures — avoid pressure-treated or painted wood. The fold-up lid design keeps cats and debris out of the sand. Place the sandbox in a partially shaded spot to keep sand cool on hot days. Replace the sand every 1-2 years for hygiene.