Wooden Cubby House: A Classic and Durable Playhouse for Kids
A wooden cubby house is a timeless and sturdy play structure designed to spark imagination and outdoor fun. Unlike plastic alternatives, wooden cubbies offer a natural look, strong build quality, and the option for customization—making them a favourite among Australian families who want a long-lasting backyard feature for their children.
What Is a Wooden Cubby House?
A Wooden Cubby House is a miniature playhouse made from timber, designed for children to play in and around. It often includes doors, windows, verandas, or even built-in slides and climbing frames. These cubbies can be simple or elaborate, depending on your budget and available space.
Why Choose a Wooden Cubby House?
1. Built to Last
Wooden cubbies are made from strong, weather-resistant timber, designed to withstand years of outdoor use—even in tough Australian weather.
2. Aesthetic Appeal
Their natural timber look blends beautifully into gardens, unlike brightly coloured plastic versions. Many models can be painted to match your house or garden theme.
3. Customisable
You can paint, decorate, or even build a wooden cubby from scratch to suit your child’s personality and your backyard design.
4. Spacious and Versatile
Wooden cubbies often come in larger sizes, making them ideal for multiple children, parties, or even adding furniture and toys inside.
Types of Wooden Cubby Houses
1. Ground-Level Wooden Cubby House
Perfect for toddlers or smaller children. Safe, simple, and easy to access.
2. Elevated Wooden Cubby House
Raised off the ground with ladders or stairs—these often include slides, climbing walls, or sandpits underneath.
3. Custom-Built Wooden Cubby
Designed from scratch or assembled from kits. These are ideal if you want full control over layout, size, colours, and features.
Key Features to Look For
- Pressure-Treated Timber for durability and resistance to rot/insects
- UV-Protected Roofing for sun safety
- Openable Windows & Doors for airflow and realism
- Safety Rails if elevated
- Veranda or Porch for extra play space
- Add-ons like slides, climbing nets, or picnic benches
Benefits for Children
- Imagination & Creativity: Turns into a castle, shop, kitchen, or secret hideout
- Outdoor Activity: Encourages screen-free, physical play
- Social Skills: Great for group play, cooperation, and shared games
- Safe Space: Kids love having a “home” of their own to decorate and manage
Maintenance Tips
- Apply a timber sealer or paint yearly to protect against the weather
- Keep the area around the cubby clear of moisture and overgrowth
- Regularly check for loose screws or splinters
- Sweep and clean the inside to prevent buildup of dirt or insects
Where to Buy a Wooden Cubby House
- Lifespan Kids – Excellent range of wooden cubbies with modern features
- My Cubby – Australian-made, customizable wooden cubby houses
- Bunnings Warehouse – DIY kits and affordable timber cubbies
- Vuly Play – High-end cubbies with premium add-ons
- Backyard Discovery (via Amazon AU) – Sturdy wooden playhouses with detailed designs
Price Range in Australia
- Basic Ground-Level Models: $500 – $1,000
- Elevated or Mid-Range Models: $1,000 – $2,500
- Custom or Large Builds: $2,500 – $5,000+
Final Thoughts
A wooden cubby house is more than just a backyard feature—it’s a space where kids create, explore, and grow. With its classic design, long lifespan, and endless customization options, it offers unbeatable value for families who want a meaningful and lasting play space.
Whether you're buying a ready-made model or building your own, a wooden cubby house is a smart investment in your child’s outdoor play and development.