I have acquired a sandbox for my 2 1/2 year old son, but I am confused about what type of sand I should purchase to use with the sandbox. I have read on the web about health concerns related to sand commerically sold for sandboxes. The "safe sand" advertised is expensive, I presume in part due to the shipping costs for such a heavy item. I saw a website that mentioning that washed and dust free pea gravel was a less expensive alternative. I have found a place in Rockville, MD that sells washed pea gravel, but it is not dust free. Does anyone have any advice about good products and/or vendors in the surburban MD area? Am I making a big deal over nothing? Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
Try Home Depot. The people who work in these stores are quite helpful. I got my kid's sandbox sand at Hechingers, which is no longer in business, but the folks who work at Home Depot seem to know as much if not more!
Toys R Us sells playground sand. If you think of all the things that eventually get into it (leaves, bugs, rain, dirt, mulch, etc) I think it is safe unless your child has a skin allergy or something.
The moisture in DC air usually helps cut down on the dust and if you are worried about it, you can wet it down with a quick sprinkle from the hose. The wet sand holds shapes better, in sand toys too.
Sorry F., I don't have any actual advice, but "Safe" sand!? Oh brother. I may be wrong but it sounds a whole lot like someone trying to get you to buy something you don't need.
How can sand or gravel be dust free? Just curious! I grew up with all kinds of dirt (6 yrs of my childhood was spent in a log house in Fairfax, VA). I survived! So did my brothers. We climbed trees, played in creeks, swam in ponds, splashed in mud puddles and made mud pies….
My personal belief is that while of course you don't want them playing in filth, a little dirt never hurt anybody. Now, if you have a sandbox with a cover, that's better, other wise any animal can use it for a toilet and that's not healthy! Other that that I wouldn't worry. Are the chemicals /Is the process used to make gravel dust free safe? That's what I would ask first!
OK! Rant over!
I have a friend staying with me who used to run a daycare. I’ll ask if she has any advice and edit later if so.
-S
I don't know... I think dirt is dirt and sand is sand.... kids play in it, dig in it, eat it... whether it is in your sand box or your flower beds...
Trust your gut though and do whatever you feel most comfortable with!
One thought though... is there one type that is easier to clean... or that slides off clothing and skin more easily? That way, there may be less that is accidentily ingested... and it is easier for you to clean him when he comes in. The sand at our playground sandbox feels exceptionally sticky to me. It is a 15 minute walk home... and there is still sand/dirt to wipe off before coming in the house. I often just end up stripping my child in the hall before coming in.... and straight to the bath.
