Mud Kitchens Buying Guide

Quick Answer: How do I choose the right mud kitchen?

To choose the best outdoor mud kitchen, you must consider three factors: Space (measure for fully extended sliding worktops), Height (the worktop should be just above your child's elbow), and Capacity (how many children will play at once).

Quick Comparison: Single vs. Double vs. Triple

There are three main categories of Big Game Hunters mud kitchen, which increase in size, features, and price. Use this table to find your best fit:

Feature Single Mud Kitchen Double Mud Kitchen Triple Mud Kitchen
Best For Toddlers & Small Patios Siblings (Ages 2–5) Playdates & Schools (Ages 3–7)
Dimensions (Closed) 69.5 x 63 x 37.5cm 87.5 x 80 x 45cm 110.5 x 90.5 x 43cm
Play Surface Height 50cm 50cm 55cm (Taller)
Extending Worktop? No Yes (Check space!) Yes (Check space!)
Storage Style Hangers/Hooks Shelving Cupboards with Doors
Water Features Tap + Dispenser Tap + Dispenser Tap + Dispenser
Chalkboard? Yes Yes Yes

1. What is a mud kitchen and why do you need one?

A children’s mud kitchen is effectively a wooden mock-up of a real kitchen, designed for the garden. It features hobs, a mud kitchen sink, taps, and prep surfaces.

While they are famous for messy play, you don’t need to worry if you dislike the idea of your kids getting super muddy. They work just as well with sand, water, leaves, or even dry sensory materials.

The Developmental Benefits:

  • Problem Solving & Self-Regulation: Mud kitchen toys help children navigate social situations. For example, deciding who cooks and who washes up teaches turn-taking.
  • Creativity: It fosters imaginative play, allowing children to act out real-life scenarios like running a café.

2. Choosing the Right Size (Crucial Advice)

Buying the right size is the most important step. Don't just guess by age—measure by height.

The Elbow Rule: A suitable playing surface height is just above their elbow. This allows room to grow. If you have siblings of different heights, aim for a height that accommodates the taller child so they don't have to hunch.

Measure your garden space: Our wooden mud kitchens are designed to go flat against a wall, but Double and Triple models feature sliding worktops. Ensure there is plenty of room for these surfaces to slide out fully.

3. Choosing Features & Areas

Water Features: Our quality garden mud kitchens come with a working tap that connects directly to your garden hosepipe. Tip: Ideally, look for taps made of brass or durable materials to withstand outdoor use.

Cooking & Prep Areas: The "hob" area is where the magic happens. Single/Double models have two-ring hobs, while the Triple features four rings and turning knobs.

Cupboards and Storage: The Triple Mud Kitchen features cupboards with closing doors, encouraging children to pack away their accessories after play.

Sliding Surfaces: The sliding draining board/lid extends the play area for multiple children and retracts to keep the unit compact when playtime is over.

4. Decorating Your Kitchen (DIY vs. Buy)

Buying a pre-made kitchen offers a safer, smoother base than building from pallets. Our kitchens are made from premium heat-treated Fir wood, serving as a perfect blank canvas.

  • Protection: We highly recommend painting or varnishing the wood with a preservative before assembly.
  • Customisation: Paint it in your child's favorite colors or add personalized name plaques.

Which model should you choose?

Choose the Single Mud Kitchen if: You have a small patio, a single toddler (age 9mo+), or are just starting with sensory play.

Choose the Double Mud Kitchen if: You have two children (ages 2-5), want the sliding worktop feature, but need a compact footprint.

Choose the Triple Mud Kitchen if: You have space for the extended 143cm width, want cupboards to hide the mess, or are buying for schools/playgroups.

Ready to get messy? Click here to explore the full range. [Shop All Mud Kitchens]

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do all Big Game Hunters mud kitchens work with a hosepipe?
Yes. Every kitchen features a standard connection point for a garden hose for continuous running water. They also include a separate manual water dispenser.

2. How long does assembly take?
The Double Mud Kitchen typically takes 30–60 minutes, while the larger Triple Mud Kitchen can take 1–4 hours depending on experience.

3. Do I need to treat the wood?
Yes. To guarantee longevity and prevent warping, we highly recommend painting or varnishing the wood with an outdoor preservative before or immediately after assembly.

4. Are they suitable for schools and nurseries?
Absolutely. The Triple Mud Kitchen is particularly popular for schools because of its large size and durability, allowing 3+ children to play simultaneously.

5. What is the difference between the age recommendations?
Single is ideal for early walkers (9 months+), Double for ages 2–5, and Triple for ages 3–7 due to the taller worktop and more complex features.

6. Can I leave the mud kitchen outside all year?
Yes, but we recommend using a breathable cover during harsh winter months and applying a regular treatment once a year to keep the wood in top condition.