Backyard Play Equipment: What to Look for and What to Avoid

If your little ones are climbing the furniture, bouncing off the walls, and begging for something ‘fun’ to do, you might be thinking it’s time to upgrade the backyard. Choosing the right play setup is a big decision—it’s not just about keeping them busy, but creating a space that sparks imagination, encourages movement, and stands the test of time.

With so many options on the market (from budget buys to backyard playgrounds), it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What actually matters? What features are worth investing in? And what should you avoid?

Here’s your go-to guide to shopping smart—and skipping the stress.

Start with the Backbone: Materials That Last

Don’t let bright colours or flashy accessories distract you. The real test lies beneath the surface. You want something that holds up under pressure, in all weather, and through every growth spurt.

Galvanised steel is one of the toughest materials available. It won’t rust, warp, or splinter—even in coastal or humid climates. By contrast, low-grade timber often breaks down with age, and plastic can become brittle or fade under the sun.

If you want something that lasts, focus on what manufacturers use to build it.

Think Beyond Now: Equipment That Grows With Your Kids

Kids don’t stay little for long, and what keeps a four-year-old entertained may bore them a year later. Instead of outgrowing your gear, choose equipment that adapts.

That’s where customisable systems shine. With the right setup, you can start with the basics—like a swing or ladder—and gradually add more challenges: monkey bars, firefighter’s poles, or even a netball hoop. It’s a smart way to extend the life of your investment while keeping play exciting.

The best designs offer flexibility, not a fixed layout. Because your kids won’t stay the same, and neither should their play space.

Safety Isn’t Optional

A great play area should inspire confidence, not worry. And safety isn’t just about padding and supervision. Designers and builders embed it into every aspect of the design and construction.

• Here’s what to look out for: Smooth edges and welds to avoid scrapes and pinches
• Sturdy frames that hold strong under pressure
• Certified to Australian safety standards
• Anchoring systems that keep everything firmly in place 

Flimsy materials, loose bolts, and vague instructions are red flags. Your peace of mind starts with solid construction and clear safety credentials.

Low Maintenance = More Play

Let’s face it—weekends are for relaxing, not repainting timber or replacing bolts. Great outdoor play gear should be as low-fuss as possible.

Prioritise:

• Rust-resistant finishes (galvanised or powder-coated steel tops the list)
• Simple surfaces to wipe or hose down
• Minimal moving parts to maintain 

The less time you spend fixing it, the more time your kids get to enjoy it. And that’s the whole point, right?

Tailored to Fit: Play Equipment That Matches Your Life

Every family is different—and so is every yard. Whether you’ve got a sprawling lawn or a compact courtyard, your play space should suit your home and your child’s personality.

That’s why customisation matters. The right system gives you choices:

• Layouts that suit large or small spaces
• Add-ons and attachments to match your child’s style of play
• Room to grow over time—without starting from scratch 

Some kids want to climb. Others want to swing, hang, or pretend they’re on a pirate ship. The best setups let you build something that feels just right for your crew. 

Play Value: Keep the Fun Going for Years

A single slide or swing might keep kids entertained for a few weeks, but what about next year? The best backyard play equipment keeps things fresh and challenging over time.

What to look for:

• A variety of play styles: climbing, swinging, hanging, and imaginative play 
• Equipment that encourages movement and creativity
• Opportunities for social play with siblings, friends, or cousins 

When kids have more to explore, they’ll stay engaged longer, and that means better value for your family.

What to Avoid: Common Pitfalls

Not all play equipment is created equal. Here are a few red flags to steer clear of:

• Too-good-to-be-true pricing: Low-cost options often cut corners on materials and safety.
• Fixed, non-expandable designs: What works for a 4-year-old may bore an 8-year-old.
• Complicated assembly: If it takes two days and an engineering degree to set up, it’s probably not worth it.
• Imported knock-offs: These often don’t meet Australian safety standards and may be hard to maintain or repair. 

Choosing the right play equipment isn’t just about what looks fun—it’s about smart design, safe materials, and a setup that stands the test of time.

Made for Aussie Families (and Aussie Weather)

One final tip? Shop local. Australian makers design play equipment not just to support our economy, but to suit our climate and meet local safety regulations. We provide better support, deliver faster, and build products specifically for Aussie backyards.

At Funky Monkey Bars, we design every piece of equipment with families in mind. We build our modular frames from galvanised Australian steel, design them to last for years, and craft them to grow with your kids. Whether you’ve got space to spare or a tight urban block, we’ve got a setup to suit you—and the expertise to help you choose. 

Ready to Build a Backyard They’ll Never Want to Leave?

Choosing outdoor play gear isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about unlocking a world of movement, adventure, and imagination. And when you pick the right setup, you’re not just buying a product. You’re creating the backdrop for years of laughter, growth, and unforgettable family moments.

At Funky Monkey Bars, we make that easy. Explore our range of monkey bar sets online, have a chat with our friendly team, or pop by our Perth showroom to see it all in action.

Let’s build something epic—for your kids, your family, and your home.