Two children enjoy the TP Toys TP Skye Two Storey Wooden Playhouse (FSC® certified); one stands on the balcony while the other slides down the green wavy slide, all set on a grassy lawn with trees in the background.
Two children enjoy the TP Toys TP Skye Two Storey Wooden Playhouse (FSC® certified); one stands on the balcony while the other slides down the green wavy slide, all set on a grassy lawn with trees in the background.
Playhouse Safety Guide

This guide explains how to use a playhouse safely, reduce injury risk, and ensure correct supervision and installation.

It applies to TP Toys wooden and plastic playhouses, including single storey and tower models.

For maintenance guidance, see our Playhouse Aftercare & Maintenance Guide.

If you are choosing a new playhouse model, visit our Playhouse Buying Guide or browse our Playhouse Collection.

Four children enjoy imaginative play in separate TP Toys Lavender Cottage Wooden Playhouses, made from FSC® certified wood, set on a grassy lawn surrounded by trees and greenery on a bright day.

Quick Playhouse Safety Summary

To reduce the risk of injury:

  • Always supervise children during play
  • Install on level ground with appropriate surfacing
  • Ensure adequate clearance around the playhouse
  • Anchor securely to prevent movement
  • Avoid hazardous behaviours (standing on roof, jumping off)
  • Check for hazards before each use

Most playhouse injuries occur from falls, trips, collisions, or misuse.

Setting Up and Installing a Playhouse

A smiling child sits cross-legged on a cushion outside the TP Toys TP Skye Two Storey Wooden Playhouse, made from FSC® certified timber, holding a drink with a straw.

Where should a playhouse be installed?

A playhouse should be installed:

  • On level, stable ground
  • Away from fences, walls, sheds, trees, and hard landscaping
  • With clear space around all sides
  • With ground unaffected by water pooling or erosion

Avoid installing playhouses on slopes or close to hard obstacles.

A child enjoys imaginative play on a sunny lawn in the TP Toys Palplay Grand Villa Plastic Playhouse, surrounded by trees and shrubs.

What surface is safest around a playhouse?

Yes. Impact-absorbing surfaces help reduce injury severity in the event of falls or trips.

Suitable surfaces include:

  • Well-maintained grass
  • Bark or wood chip play surfacing
  • Rubber mulch
  • Specialist safety surfacing
Four children enjoy the TP Toys TP Loft Two Storey Wooden Playhouse – FSC® certified; two are on the balcony (one waving) while others exit and look out, all playing in a grassy yard.

How much space should be around a playhouse?

There should be clear space around the entire structure. Avoid placing playhouses near:

  • Garden furniture
  • Walls
  • Trees
  • Fences
  • Hard objects (pots, tools, bikes)

Adequate clearance reduces collision and fall risk.

A young child smiles while sitting in a TP Toys TP Wooden Tower Playhouse—FSC® certified—next to a green slide on a grassy lawn.

Should playhouses be anchored?

Anchoring improves stability and reduces movement in wind or during use.

Anchors should:

  • Be installed according to instructions
  • Be fully secured in level soil
  • Be checked regularly, especially after storms

Unanchored frames may shift, increasing fall or trip hazards.

What Behaviour Should Be Avoided in a Playhouse?

Should children stand on roofs or benches?

No. Playhouses are not designed for climbing on roofs, benches, window ledges, or raised trim. Standing on these areas increases fall risk.

Should children jump off a playhouse?

No. Jumping off playhouse steps or elevated sections increases the risk of ankle, wrist, or head injuries.

Children should always use proper entry/exit points and step down safely.

Should children push or roughhouse inside a playhouse?

No. Rough play increases collision risk in confined spaces. Children should play calmly and take turns.

How should doors be used safely?

Children should:

  • Open and close doors gently
  • Avoid slamming
  • Check that fingers are clear of hinges and openings

Door hinges and closures should be inspected periodically for alignment and wear.

Hideaway wooden playhouse in the rain AI generated

Weather & Material-Specific Safety

Do plastic playhouses get hot in the sun?

Yes. Plastic surfaces, particularly light colours, may become warm or hot in direct sunlight. Check surface temperature before use in hot weather to prevent discomfort or minor burns.

Can wood playhouses develop splinters?

Timber may develop minor surface cracks or rough patches over time. Regular inspection and light sanding of rough areas can help reduce splinter risk.

Is It Safe to Use a Playhouse in Wet Weather?

Wet surfaces can be slippery. Avoid use during:

  • Heavy rain
  • Frost
  • Icy conditions

Allow surfaces to dry before use.

Can Wind Make a Playhouse Unsafe?

Strong winds can stress playhouse panels, doors, or fixings if not anchored securely. Check anchoring rapidly after winds or storms. Avoid playhouse use during extreme weather.

What Are the Most Common Playhouse Injuries?

Common causes include:

  • Falls from steps or raised areas
  • Trips inside or around the structure
  • Collisions with doors or walls
  • Slips from wet surfaces
  • Contact with hard landscaping

Following supervision, installation, and surfacing guidance significantly reduces these risks.

When Should a Playhouse Not Be Used?

Do not allow playhouse use if:

  • The structure feels unstable
  • Anchors are loose
  • Doors or windows are damaged
  • Surfaces are slippery
  • Weather conditions are unsafe

Inspect before each use and follow maintenance guidance.

Safety and Maintenance Work Together

Safe playhouse use depends on:

  • Correct installation
  • Stable anchoring
  • Active supervision
  • Appropriate surfacing
  • Regular inspection

For inspection guidance, see our Playhouse Aftercare & Maintenance Guide.

To browse current playhouse models, visit our Playhouse Collection.