Image: MomJunction Design Team
If you are looking for a creative playset that can keep your little one entertained for long, we have created a list of the best Play-Doh sets to help you choose the right one. Play-Doh is a well-known brand that offers modeling compounds that children and adults can use. Popular in schools, these are also suitable for home use. These soft, pliable, and moldable modeling compounds will help your child develop creativity, imagination, and language skills. They also play a crucial role in strengthening hand muscles and improving fine motor skills. These modeling compounds allow your child to create various objects and designs and are available in multiple colors to grab your child’s attention.
However, choosing the right kit may be challenging. So, go through the expert-approved products listed below to find one that suits your child’s interests.
Top Picks
15 Best Play-Doh Sets For Kids
1. Best For Hand-Eye Coordination:Play-Doh Modeling Compound
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 22,463 satisfied customers have left positive reviews about the product on Amazon.
The creative possibilities with this 36-pack modeling compound are infinite. It includes 36 small tubs of dough in assorted colors that allow your kids (2 years and above) to get creative while also helping them improve their hand-eye coordination.
Pros
- Each can consist of 3 ounces of the compound
- Non-toxic, non-irritating, and non-allergenic
- Colored Play-Doh
- Packages are recyclable
- Suitable for adults
Cons
- Not suitable for wheat gluten-allergic children
- Might be a little sticky
"This set with 36 clay packs makes a great gift item. The containers may seem smaller than expected, but the convenience of having a dedicated container for each dough outweighs the minor disappointment."
2. Best Safe:Play-Doh Sweet Shoppe Cookie Creations
Does your child enjoy baking cookies with you? Then let them improve their baking skills with this Sweet Shoppe Cookie Creations set. This quality-tested Play-Doh set includes everything that is needed to create the perfect cake or cookies – from a 2-piece extruder and a cake stand to 4 cookie cutters and cupcake liners. Here’s a video detailing this educational toy.
Pros
- Safe and durable
- Includes 4 cans of modeling compound
- Consists of a textured rolling pin with cute patterns
- Helps you child create a make-believe bakery
- Suitable for children 3 years and older
Cons
- Play-doh might be sticky and a little hard to work with
"I am glad to have bought this cookie-themed Play-Doh set as it not only offers my daughter ample sensory play but also fosters creativity. Also, it works for individual and group play scenarios, so she always has a great time when her play date comes over."
Did You Know?3. Best With Grill:Play-Doh Burger Barbecue Set
Let your hungry tot set up their own burger joint or have a Play-Doh barbeque party at home. This tried-and-tested set of colored Play-Doh includes a grill that helps them create pretend burgers, hot dogs, and more! This review video will help you understand this kids’ toy better.
Pros
- Grill top features molds for onion rings
- Includes 2 plates
- Suitable for sensory play
- Decorating tools can be used to create make-believe fries and condiments
- Includes 5 Play-Doh colors
- Suitable for kids over 3 years old
Cons
- May not contain enough compound
"My toddler is a big foodie, so I had to get this set for her. It keeps her engaged, allowing her to create and serve delicious burgers and barbecue items. It also seems to enhance her fine motor skills while encouraging pretend play. Overall, a good purchase!"
4. Best With Realistic-Looking Oven:Play-Doh Kitchen Creations Magical Oven
Here is another great option if your child loves to bake! This trusted and fun Play-Doh set includes a light-up toy oven that allows your child to see their pretend foods baking. Just place the modeling compound on the baking tray and put it in the oven. Once it’s done baking, the white light changes to red and makes a ‘ding’ sound just like a real oven.
Pros
- The magical oven works on 3 batteries (1.5V AAA)
- 6 cans of Play-Doh brand modeling compound
- Tiny tots will enjoy making make-believe muffins and pizza
- Includes 5 baking trays, plates and utensils
- Comes with instructions and a creation card to inspire children
- Recommended for children 3 years and above
Cons
- Batteries are not included in the set
"What I love the most about this Play-Doh set is that, apart from including well-defined molds, it also features accessories with sound and light. These features have made my child's play sessions more interactive and immersive. My only complaint is that the oven door and lever can be a bit challenging to operate for little hands. Overall, a decent buy."
Quick Fact5. Best For The Future Firefighter:Play-Doh Wheels Firetruck Toy
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 4,516 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
Move over. A fire truck is coming through! This Play-Doh set features a toy fire truck that helps put out make-believe fires by loading the water cannon with Play-Doh water compound. This quality-tested classic compound is made to look like water by using shades of blue, which are swirled together.
Pros
- Helps your child learn how a fire engine works
- Includes mold to make firefighter badges and fire hydrants
- Non-toxic
- Provides relaxation
- Includes four more Play-Doh colors
- Suitable for children three years and above
Cons
- May have a short shelf life
- Play-Doh tends to get jammed in the toy
"Although the truck is larger than I expected, this dual-purpose toy engages my little ones as they explore multiple molds and mechanisms. The after-play cleanup is sometimes tedious, yet I find it pretty worthwhile."
6. Best For Open-Ended Play:Play-Doh Starter Set
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Join the 3,354 satisfied buyers on Amazon who have said the product meets their needs and expectations.
If your child has never used a Play-Doh before, then this starter set is a perfect choice for them. Recommended for children above three years old, this set of colored Play-Doh includes all the necessary basic set of dough tools required for your child to play and come up with some lovely creations.
Pros
- Comes with nine tools, including kid-safe shape cutters, scissors, and a plastic knife
- Four mini cans of Play-Doh modeling compound
- Includes a reusable storage tote
- Open-ended play
- Improves problem-solving skills
- Tools are small and ideal for little hands
Cons
- The compound may dry up quickly
"I found this starter kit quite appropriate for initiating my little ones into the imaginative world of clay play. The basic clay shaping and sculpting tools are well-designed. The scissors could have been sturdier, but despite this, it's a helpful set for developing fine motor skills."
7. Best For The Frozen Fans:Play-Doh Mysteries Disney Frozen 2 Snow Globe Playset
If you have a 3-year-old who is a huge fan of Frozen 2 and Elsa, this set will make for a great gift option! It includes 1 standard can and 4 small cans of Play-Doh compound that allows your kid to create colorful Frozen characters.
Pros
- Includes new and old Frozen characters in the form of molding tools
- Snow globe makes this set undeniably fascinating
- Colors are non-toxic
Cons
- The molds may not be durable
- Does not include instructions on how to use the set
"Introducing clay play to my little Frozen fan was made easy with this Play-Doh set. It offers a variety of molds to explore and allows my daughter to mix and match and create her own new Frozen creations. I wish the molds were slightly bigger."
CautionEating a small amount of Play-Doh does not usually cause any harm. However, ingesting it in large amounts may cause gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting (2).
8. Best For The Paw Patrol Fans:Play-Doh Paw Patrol Set
Here comes Paw Patrol to the rescue yet again, and this time to save chickaletta who has flown the coop. Most kids know about this popular children’s TV show, and with the help of this yet they can get inspired and enact rescue mission scenes.
Pros
- Easy to create a Play-Doh chickaletta with the stamper
- Mold to create Stamp Chase’s police badge
- Your child can make a variety of shapes with the removable gear on top of the vehicle
- The toy truck’s wheels feature stampers
- 4 colors of Play-Doh
Cons
- Play-Doh tends to get stuck in the corners of the toy
"The Paw Patrol playset has been a unique addition to my child's toy collection. He loves Paw Patrol, so he was delighted to recreate his favorite scenes. It also seems to improve his hand-eye coordination. Moreover, it is easy to store and clean, which is a great plus."
9. Best Recyclable: Play-Doh Ice Pops ‘N Cones
Let your child get imaginative and start her own make-believe ice cream truck with this Ice Pops ‘N Cones pack. It features eight scented Play-Doh ice cream cones and freezer pops made of non-toxic Play-Doh compound.
Pros
- Comes packed in an airtight container
- Encourage imaginative play
- Each Play-Doh container comprises 2 different colors
- Includes built-in molds to create pretend treats
- Reusable and recyclable freezer-like box
- Suitable for kids 2 years and above
Cons
- May have a strong scent
"Much to my delight, the colorful and scrumptious-looking molds of this Play-Doh have managed to keep my active toddler occupied and calm for hours. The set has also made his pretend play sessions more engaging and entertaining."
10. Best Hilarious Set:Play-Doh Poop Troop Set
You and your child will have a fun time playing with this squishy Play-Doh Poop Troop Set. It includes a decorative dough tool and a poo mold that helps you create various hilarious poop monsters or popular emojis.
Pros
- 12 cans of Play-Doh compound
- Suitable for stress relief
- Create over 50 combinations with the silly face features
- Comes with plug-in eyes, arms, mouths, and a hat
- Suitable for kids 3 years and above
Cons
- The containers may be tiny
"This set is a hit with my toddlers. The blend of humor and creativity makes this quirky poop-themed Play-Doh set a delight. Its comic accessories, like plug-in eyes and arms, make playtime more fun and creative."
11. Best For The My Little Pony Fans:Play-Doh My Little Pony
If your child prefers rolled ice cream over an ice cream pop, this set is made for them! Allow them to make their rolled ice cream with this colorful compound. Each roll combines 2 colors to create a whole new color. Trusted for its impeccable quality, the ice cream creation set includes 4 ice cream cups, a spoon, and other tools.
Pros
- Includes roasting cannons to decorate cupcakes
- Features a candy half-mold plate
- Includes cupcake molds and other decorative tools
- 5 cans of Play-Doh modeling compound
- Suitable for children 3 years and above
Cons
- Expensive
"This set is probably the most creative Play-Doh kit I have gotten my daughter. I find the open-ended design charming, and its molds, rollers, doilies, and streamers are impressive. My child loves it, and it helps her stay engaged for long."
12. Best With Decorative Tools:Play-Doh Kitchen Creations Rollzies Rolled Ice Cream Set
If your child prefers rolled ice cream over an ice cream pop, this set is made for them! Allow them to make their rolled ice cream with this colorful compound. Each roll combines 2 colors to create a whole new color. Trusted for its impeccable quality, the set includes 4 ice cream cups, a spoon, and other tools, which make the set complete.
Pros
- Includes 4 Play-Doh color burst cans and 5 cans non-toxic Play-Doh compound
- Comes with a waffle maker
- Includes cupcake molds and other decorative tools
- Comes with 2 creation cards with 4 step-by-step ideas
- Recommended for children 3 years and above
Cons
- Waffle maker may need extra cleaning
"I like this ice cream Play-Doh set's unique range of clay sculpting accessories, setting it apart from other sets that usually only accompany molds. It adds variety to my child's play sessions. I would recommend it!"
13. Best Exciting Set:Play-Doh Animal Crew Cluck-A-Dee Playset
A fun and exciting set, this will keep your kids entertained for hours. Help the bird grow some feathers by filling her neck with the Play-Doh compound. Simply press her head and see the magic happen. Also, every time you push her neck, she creates funny sound effects.
Pros
- Feathers can be created using the feather cutter tool
- Includes a tool to shave her neck
- Battery-operated (2 AAA batteries included)
- Create pretend eggs with egg-shape mold
- 4 non-toxic Play-Doh colors
- Suitable for kids 3 years and up
Cons
- Might be hard to get all the compound out of the neck
"Every time my daughter plays with the set, the squeezable neck and the quirky clucking sound of the chicken lead to endless giggles. Though playing with this set can be messy, the happiness it brings to my little one makes it a worthwhile choice."
14. Best With Multiple Accessories:Play-Doh Stovetop Super Playset
If your child likes to help you out in the kitchen, she will love this Stovetop Super Playset. It includes a stovetop to do some pretend cooking. Also, it comes with a saucepan that allows your child to make some yummy meals.
Pros
- Includes 4 stampers to create entrees
- Includes spatulas, plates, waffle maker and other accessories
- Comes with 4 creation cards
- 6 cans of Play-Doh modeling compound
- 4 non-toxic Play-Doh colors
- Suitable for kids 3 years and above
Cons
- Slightly expensive
"The stovetop Play-Doh set is a delight for budding chefs as it combines the joy of clay molding and kitchen play. Some components could have been sturdier, but what makes this kit special is its interactive elements. The sizzling sound from the stovetop never fails to amuse my children."
15. Best With Multiple Molds: Play-Doh Play ‘n Store Table
This is one of the best Play-Doh sets if you want your kids to engage in art and craft activities. The durable set includes a 21-inch wide table, 8 cans of non-toxic modeling compound, and many accessories.
Pros
- 25 different types of tools
- Includes basic shapes, animal, and ice cream maker molds
- The table comes with built-in molds
- Improves your child’s imagination
- Features hinged doors to store cans and tools
- Ideal for kids 3 years and above
Cons
- Expensive
"This Play-Doh table toy is a hit with my children for its wide array of easy-to-use molds. The activity table doubling as a storage box is a feature I cherish, as it makes stashing the set more convenient when not in use. Highly recommended!"
How To Choose The Right Play Doh Sets?
Here are some points you should consider when choosing the best Play-Doh set for children.
- Ease of cleaning: Ensure the set is easy to clean and non-sticky. The Play-Doh should not stick to any surface, clothes, or hands and leave a residue.
- Ease of use: Choose a Play-Doh set that is easy to set up without parental assistance. It should have simple instructions that children can easily follow.
- Quantity: Select a Play-Doh kit with four or more cans of product and reusable molds to help your child express their creativity without running out of the modeling compound.
- Theme: The sets have different themes like baking, ice cream, barbeque, etc. Choose a set based on your child’s interests to keep them engaged.
- Safety: Ensure the kit is non-toxic and non-allergic for your child’s safety. Check the recommended age group before buying.
- Age: When buying a Play-Doh set ensure that it is suitable for your child. Sometimes the set may include small pieces which may be a choking hazard for small children.
- Longevity: You need to make sure that the set you buy keeps your child interested for a long period so that it can be used during the growing years as well.
- Child’s interest: Play-Doh sets are mainly created for entertainment. So whatever you buy has to pique your child’s interests. For instance, if your child likes to bake with you, give them a complete baking set. This will allow them to further explore their interest in that field.
- Accessories: The more accessories a set contains, there is more scope for creativity. By accessories we mean molds, stamps, squeezers, scissors, and many others.
Points To Consider When Purchasing Play-Doh Sets
Age:
When buying a Play-Doh set ensure that it is suitable for your child. Sometimes the set may include small pieces which may be a choking hazard for small children.
Longevity: You need to make sure that the set you buy keeps your child interested for a long period so that it can be used during th growing years as well.
Child’s interest: Play-Doh sets are mainly created for entertainment. So whatever you buy has to pique your child’s interests. For instance, if your child likes to bake with you, give them a complete baking set. This will allow them to further explore their interest in that field.
Accessories: The more accessories a set contains, there is more scope for creativity. By accessories, we mean mini molds, stamps, squeezers, scissors, and many others.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Play-Doh safe for children to play with?
Yes, the Play-Doh modeling compound is non-toxic and safe for children. Just make sure your child is old enough and meets the age requirements mentioned by the brand.
2. What is the right age to play with Play-Doh?
The recommended age is two years and above.
3. How should I keep Play-Doh from drying out?
The best way to keep Play-Doh from drying out is to enclose it in an airtight container as soon as playtime is over.
4. Is it possible to preserve my child’s Play-Doh creation permanently?
The following method can help preserve your child’s Play-Doh creation for a long time:
- Let the artifact air-dry for about one to three days. Make sure it doesn’t dry up to the point of cracking up.
- Seal it with a sealant, school glue and water mixture, transparent nail polish, or polyester resin
5. How should I get Play-Doh out of upholstery or carpet?
You can remove Play-Doh off upholstery or carpet by following the below-mentioned steps:
- Use a vacuum cleaner on the spot as far as possible
- Cover the site for an hour with a cloth dampened with hot water
- Remove the cloth and the loosened dough
- If tiny bits of dough persist, let the patch dry and scrub them off with a stiff brush
Why Trust MomJunction?
Priti Bose writes about fun and useful age-appropriate toys and gifts for children. Here, she has curated a list of the best Play-Doh sets and listed the pros and cons of each product to help you pick the right set. The products on this list are non-toxic and safe for children of all ages. Moreover, she has also selected those products that come with accessories to help your children get the most out of these toy sets.
The Bottom Line
Play-Doh sets help develop your children’s imaginative and creative skills and hand-eye coordination. Playing with these fun Play-Doh sets allows you to spend quality time with your children and strengthen your bond. Also,when you invest in a set with many features and an assortment of colors, your child will find greater scope for creative play. Our top picks include the versatile Play-Doh Modeling Compound for endless creative possibilities and the Play-Doh Sweet Shoppe Cookie Creations that lets you create pretty designs. The Play-Doh Wheels Firetruck Toy is another trusted choice, encouraging imaginative play and learning. When buying a set for your child, make sure it is appropriate for their age, as it may come with small pieces that may cause choking hazards.
Infographic: Buying Guide For Play-Doh Sets
Besides purchasing child-friendly and high-grade Play-Doh sets, keeping certain other criteria in mind before finalizing your choice is also crucial. So, check out the following infographic to learn the factors to consider when buying the right Play-Doh set. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Who Invented Playdough?
https://wonderopolis.org/wonder/Who-Invented-Playdough - My Child Ate Play-Doh.
https://www.illinoispoisoncenter.org/my-child-ate/play-doh
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