Sand and water trays for messy play with sand, water, paint or jelly, at home, nursery or school. Buy a tray on its own or as a set with a stand or lids, in sizes from compact desktop trays to full-size 110cm trays.
Sand and water trays: your questions answered
Choosing a water tray for your little one? Every sand and water tray here works with water, sand, paint or jelly, so here is how to pick the right size, stand and accessories for home, nursery or school.
Which size water tray should I buy?
It depends on your space and how many children will play.
Table or floor at home: the Translucent Desktop Water Tray, 70 x 50cm and 14.8cm deep.
Little ones and small spaces: the Fun2 Play Tray, 50 x 50cm.
Group play: the Sand and Water Tray is 110 x 60.5cm, and the Circular Sand and Water Tray is 75cm across.
Can I buy a water tray with a stand?
Yes. The Sand and Water Tray comes with a powder-coated steel frame and stands 58cm high. For a desktop tray, the Desktop Water Tray & Stand Bundle includes a folding steel stand with a nylon shelf and two casters, or add the Desktop Water Tray Stand to a tray you already have.
Which water tray is best for toddlers?
The Sand and Water Tray (40cm) is suitable from 18 months and stands 40cm high, the perfect height for toddlers to reach in and play. The Premium Water Tray No Lid is also from 18 months, and the Fun2 Play Tray from 12 months.
Is there a water tray with a lid?
Yes. The Premium Water Tray with Lids has a clear tray and two black lids that double as separate play trays for 2 to 4 children. The lids also make it easy to store and move, and it suits both indoor and outdoor sensory play.
How do I empty a water tray? Is there a plug?
The Sand and Water Tray, Sand and Water Tray (40cm), Premium Water Tray No Lid and Premium Water Tray with Lids all have a plug release, so they are quick to drain and clean. If you need a spare, the Plug for Water Tray comes as a pack of 2 and only fits Edx Education water trays.
Can a water tray be used outdoors?
Yes. The Translucent Desktop Water Tray, Sand and Water Tray, Circular Sand and Water Tray and Fun2 Play Tray can all be used indoors or out in the garden. For eco-minded families, the Green-n-Play® Desk Top Water Trays are made from recycled plastic and nest for storage.
What water play accessories do I need?
Sand & Water Activity Set: a funnel, pipettes, spray and pump bottles, hoses, jugs, spoons and cups.
Sand and Water Play Jugs: 3 nesting jugs (250ml, 500ml and 1000ml) with large handles.
Water Play Funnel: an easy-grip handle sized for little hands.
Water Play Fun Accessory Bundle: 21 pieces for pouring, measuring and squirting.
What are good water play ideas for EYFS?
Try these simple ideas in any tray:
Float or sink: guess first, then test small toys.
Pouring and measuring: compare amounts with the Nesting Measuring Bottles, from 200ml to 3000ml.
Colour mixing: add a drop of food colouring to a clear tray and watch it spread.
Sand shapes: press out castles and numbers with the Green-n-Play® Sand Molds Set, winner of the City Kids The Green Award 2025.