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How to build a mudpit for kids play?

Hey,

I want to build a mudpit (no too muddy) in the backyard. I want it to be levelled with the soil and will put large rocks around the boarder. As the mudpit will be level, what type of sleepers or other non toxic material should I use for it? Haven't completed decided on the size but will be around 2mx1.5m.

I have some aqua boxes I bought intending to create a waterfall but don't think I will. Could I use those for underneath for drainage or it's not necessary?

For the mud inside, I will need to use clean soil. I read loam is a bit less messy than other soil. I this true for Sydney weather? Do I fill the whole 2x1.5 with Loam? Any recommendations for brands I can use?

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Comments

MitchellMc

Hi @Kathy88,

Building a mud pit in your backyard sounds like a fun project Since you want it level with the soil and bordered with large rocks, it's important to choose materials that are durable and safe for outdoor use. For the border, timber sleepers that are treated with ACQ instead of CCA are a great option. You could also use natural stone or composite sleepers, which are both sturdy and long-lasting. Just ensure that whatever material you choose is free from toxins, especially since you’ll be dealing with soil that could be in contact with children or pets.

Regarding drainage, I'm not familiar with what aqua boxes are, so if you could provide further information, that could assist me in answering your question about them. If you’re in an area that experiences heavy rain or your pit needs to drain excess moisture, some form of drainage should be considered.

For the mud inside, clean loam is a great choice for a less messy, smoother texture. Loam holds moisture better than sandy soils, making it less likely to dry out and create dust. It’s also better at providing a consistent texture for mud play. Since Sydney can be hot and dry at times, loam is ideal, as it retains water while still draining well. As for filling the entire 2x1.5m area, it really depends on how deep you want your mud pit. If you're aiming for a good depth, you could go with a mix of loam and some sand for added texture and drainage. You might like to speak with our team in-store at the Special Order desk to see if we could order you some bulk loam.

Could I ask what this mud pit is for as I'm sure our members will be interested.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

Kathy88

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/48203#Comment_48203

Thank you for your reply. I want the mudpit for my toddler to play in. I'll be adding a mud kitchen and a play table.

I've added a pic of the aqua block but I think it's a bit excessive for a sandpit.

Thank you. I will definitely ask the front desk about the bulk loam.

I'm a bit worried about mosquitos and other bugs. We also have a stray cat strolling around at times. Does anyone have ideas of what to add to the soil to repell bugs and the cat pooping in it? Was thinking adding bulk salt and eucalyptus oil or something. Has anyone experimented with this?

Dave-1

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/86166#Comment_86166

Evening @Kathy88

I think your project sounds pretty interesting, I remember playing in my sandpits (mudpits) and I was happy as a pig in mud especially when I was allowed to use the hose and make dams! The dirt piles were either a trailer load of soil in the corner of the yard or I was allowed to play in just an old raised garden bed (that was better as it kept my water for dams in it easier)

As to the question of keeping cats away I would suggest a tarp that you peg down when the pit isnt being used. Maybe even have the tarp on a roll (around a brrom handle say) so you can roll it up while the mudpit is being used? 🙂 Cats love sandpits so something that dosnt let liquid through is what I would suggest. I would also suggest a light rake that you use once you lift the tarp, something that you do as a reflex to make sure nothing has crawled under the tarp overnight.

Would love to see a pic of the mudpit once done btw

Dave

MitchellMc

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/86166#Comment_86166

Hi @Kathy88,

I'd agree with @Dave-1 that a physical cover would be the best way to deter cats. Or you could use a cat-repellant spray. The cover will likely help avoid some bugs.

The Aquablock does look a bit excessive for a mud pit.

Mitchell

Kathy88

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/108405#Comment_108405

Lol that's pretty funny. It made me happier of my decision to make to mudpit.

Really good suggestions there, thank you.

For a less permanent solution, like 3 years, would I be able to skip the sleepers and just add garden liner to seperate the loam from to garden soil? I want the shape to be a bit organic and curvy and I'm finding it had to imagine how to do that with the sleepers. My sone is almost 2 so I doubt he will be digging too far deep to cut the liner.

I want something like this but a mixture of rocks and logs if I can find some. I don't think it'll look that great but I'll try 😉

Kathy88

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/108407#Comment_108407

Thank you Michell. I'll go for the physical barrier then 🙂

Dave-1

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/121495#Comment_121495

Evening @Kathy88

I like the idea of a hard edge, it deliminates the "play area" and stops it being expanded beyond the mudpit, with a liner for the soil, I dont like adding liners, its soil and will be better to drain especially with added water.

Dave

Kathy88

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/129712#Comment_129712

I thought liners provide drainage as well. What of the eco friendley ones in bunnings? Like the Pillar 0.9 x 10m Natural Coco Weed Control Mat.

I want there to be a separation between the mud pit and the soil so bugs and worms don't go through either.

Are there any other material you suggest other than bulky sleepers which are hard to shape?

Dave-1

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/134896#Comment_134896

Morning @Kathy88

I am unsure of the eco friendly ones of liners. But bugs and worms will naturally turn up in the mudpit, may not survive depending on how much digging will be done 🙂 Or they may avoid the area because its being played in constantly.

Dave

JacobZ

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/134896#Comment_134896

Hi @Kathy88,

You are correct that the Pillar 0.9 x 10m Natural Coco Weed Control Mat will work to separate the outside soil and still allow for drainage, but I'm more inclined to recommend GRUNT 1 x 10m Non Woven Geotextile Membrane Drain Mat Fabric for this application.

Either will help separate the outside soil from the inside soil, but I doubt anything will keep the bugs out. It is certainly worth adding, but I would still expect bugs to get in.

They can't act as a retaining wall in the same way timber sleepers will, but this Rola Pak 200mm x 2.8m (approx) Treated Pine Ezy Edge Garden Edging could be a good option that can be shaped more organically than sleepers.

Let me know what you think and if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

Kathy88

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/138302#Comment_138302

Thank you Jacob, this was great info. I will use the liner you mentioned.

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