I know first-hand how much thought goes into choosing furniture for our kids. We want what’s safe, strong, beautiful, and let’s be honest, what doesn’t clash with our living room! When it comes to these things, the question I get asked all the time is:
“Should I go with wood or plastic?”
Let’s break it down and look at what’s really best for your child and your home.
Safety First (Always)
One of the biggest concerns as parents is safety, especially with toddlers who like to climb, chew, and test every limit.
Plastic: While some plastics are marketed as “kid-safe,” not all are created equal. Cheaper options can contain harmful chemicals like BPA or phthalates. Plus, plastic can become brittle over time, leading to cracks or sharp edges.
Wood: High-quality wooden playsets are naturally sturdy and durable. Look for non-toxic finishes and smooth edges on wood products, so you can feel confident letting your little one explore safely.
Bottom Line: Wood wins for peace of mind and long-term safety.
Durability That Grows with Your Child
Plastic: Many plastic items are lightweight, which seems like a good thing at first. But that can also make them tip easily or wear out quickly. If you’ve ever bought a plastic toy or stool that cracked within a year, you know what I mean.
Wood: Wooden furniture is built to last. A solid learning tower or educational stool made of wood can support your toddler now and still be going strong when your second or third child is ready to use it.
Bottom Line: Wood is a smart long-term investment.
Aesthetic Appeal (a.k.a. Looks Good in Your Home)
We all want our homes to feel calm and beautiful, even with little ones running around.
Plastic: Often comes in bright, flashy colours that can clash with your decor. And let’s be honest, some plastic options just look... cheap.
Wood: There’s something timeless and cozy, like wooden play furniture, for example. Wood blends beautifully into modern homes. It doesn’t scream “daycare centre”, it says “thoughtful design.”
Bottom Line: If you want a calm and stylish space, wood is the way to go.
Eco-Friendly and Canadian-Made Values
As a Canadian mom, I care deeply about the future of our kids and our planet.
Plastic: Most plastic furniture isn’t recyclable and often ends up in landfills. It’s also usually made overseas, which increases its carbon footprint.
Wood: Responsibly sourced wood is renewable and biodegradable. Many wooden educational furniture pieces are made right here in Canada or by ethical makers who care about sustainability.
Bottom Line: Choosing wood means making a greener choice for our kids’ future.
Encouraging Imaginative Play and Independence
Kids don’t just sit on furniture; they interact with it. That’s why it’s important to choose pieces that encourage development.
Plastic: Some plastic play furniture is designed more for novelty than for function. It may light up or play sounds, but that doesn’t always support creativity.
Wood: Play furniture is often open-ended, which means it lets your child’s imagination run wild. I can be a castle, a pirate ship, or even a rocket to the moon. Your little one can climb, swing, slide, hang, and explore in ways that build strength, balance, and confidence, all while having fun. It’s a whole world of possibilities in one safe, sturdy setup.
Bottom Line: Wooden pieces grow with your child’s imagination.
Real Canadian Winters and Weather
You might be wondering, “What if I want to take my kids’ furniture outdoors sometimes?”
Plastic: It may seem more weather-resistant, but cold Canadian winters can make plastic brittle and more likely to crack. Plus, direct sun can fade colours fast.
Wood: While wood should be protected from the elements for long-term use, it handles temperature changes better when properly cared for. Our wooden pieces are finished to resist daily wear, indoors or out on the patio for a bit of playtime.
Bottom Line: With proper care, wood is more reliable in changing climates.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, choosing wood is a decision that supports your child’s development and reflects your values as a parent. At Mommy’s Little Helper Co., we carefully select and design wooden products that are made with love, tested for safety, and made to last. Because like you, I want only the best for our little ones. Shop our collection of wooden play furniture and learning towers. Visit our online shop today.
