The Best Sprinklers for Kids in 2024 (My Experience)

If your kids are anything like mine, they’re begging to play outside in the sprinkler five minutes after the snow has melted from the winter season. We have so much fun that even my husband and I will join in from time to time. From a slip n slide to a fire hydrant sprinkler, I think we’ve had them all. Not because I have some weird obsession with sprinklers, but because each one provides its own features and fun. They’re also a great alternative to pools, especially if you live in a city like mine where there isn’t one. I don’t love driving almost an hour away to find a pool, but I also don’t like melting in the heat. So, sprinklers it is.

Most people think you simply attach a garden hose to the sprinkler, it sprays water, your kids run around the sprinkler and that’s it, but there’s actually much more to it. Yes, those are the basics. However, there are sprinklers that spray in different directions, from rainbows to rotating sprays. There are also a variety of designs. You can find them as dinosaurs, fire hydrants, and more.

With so many choices, you may be wondering how to choose the best sprinkler for your little one. Well, that’s where I come in. I’m going to help you decide by sharing my list of the top sprinklers for kids that they’re sure to love, saving you valuable time in the process.

You can continue reading or jump straight to our number #1 pick here.

What Should I Look for in a Kids Sprinkler?

I’ve listed a few criteria for you to consider before purchasing your kids’ sprinkler.

Criteria #1: Recommended Age

The sprinkler should be designed for your child’s specific age group. That’s because different sprinklers work with different water pressures.

Criteria #2: Design and Color

Consider the design and color of the sprinkler. You want to find something that will keep your kids engaged and entertained for more than just a few minutes.

Criteria #3: Materials

Make sure the sprinkler is made of safe and durable materials. They’re usually made of rubberized plastic, but you can also find them in metal. The metal sprinklers may be a bit more dangerous because of the risk of injury.

Criteria #4: Weight of Sprinkler

Factor in the weight of the sprinkler. A lightweight sprinkler may need to be held to the ground with pegs to keep it stable under the water pressure. A heavier sprinkler will be more sturdy.

Here’s How I’ve Determined the Best Sprinkler for Kids

I’ve not only compared the features to the prices, but I’ve also considered the experiences and reviews from other parents.

My Top Picks for the Best Sprinkler for Kids in 2024

#1: Kids Sprinkler Fire Hydrant (Best Value)

Recommended ages: 12 months and up
Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.2 x 4.21 inches

Sprinklers aren’t just for watering your lawn anymore. Your little ones will have a blast playing with this sprinkler in the yard. It’s one of the best sprinklers for your kid. Why? Read on to find out.

It Spins

This fun fire hydrant sprinkler not only sprays water everywhere, but it does it while spinning. Your kids are going to love outdoor playtime with this sprinkler.

It Splashes up to 8 Feet

No one is safe from the water with the Kids Sprinkler Fire Hydrant. That’s because it splashes up to a whopping eight feet!

It Attaches to Any Garden Hose

You don’t have to worry about finding a special hose or attachments with this sprinkler. It simply attaches to any garden hose for worry and fuss-free fun.

Reviews

This is a family favorite. Parents say this is great for kids of all ages because you can control the water flow. Turn the water on just a little for smaller children and higher for older kids for hours of fun.

#2: QPAU Rainbow Sprinkler for Kids (Best Premium)

Recommended ages: 3 months and up
Dimensions: 98 x 66 x 53 inches

Get ready to get wet with these sprinkler toys. The QPAU Rainbow Sprinkler for Kids will have your kids running around playing in the backyard all afternoon.

Family-Sized Height

Standing over five feet tall and eight feet wide, this sprinkler is tall enough and wide enough for both toddlers and bigger kids (and some adults) to run through for hours of yard time.

Top Spray Design

The spray is a water curtain design, meaning it comes from the top. The even spray and rainbow shape make it perfect for outdoor playtime.

Durable

This sprinkler looks just like a rainbow and is made with heavy-duty PVC that has been tested and will stand the test of time. The smooth surfaces help to prevent injuries to your children’s skin.

Reviews

Parents say to buy this product. It’s fun for kids of all ages. The only drawback is setting it up. It doesn’t come with an air pump, so keep that in mind. Also, for best results, you’ll want to make sure you fill it with water before adding air to ensure it’s stable and stands up properly.

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#3: Inflatable Sprinkler Splash Pad (Best Splash Pad)

Recommended ages: 3 years and up
Dimensions: 68 inches in diameter

You get three-in-one with this sprinkler. Use it as a splash play mat, a sprinkler, or as a kiddie pool. Or all three at once for even more fun. These splash pads are perfect for younger kids.

Splash Pad

At 68 inches in diameter, this splash play mat is so much fun your kids will never want to get out. The thickness of the PVC mat won’t tear easily and provides comfort for everyone using it. It’s also a great way to keep the water contained.

Doubles as a Kiddie Pool

As long as you’re keeping the water contained, you may as well use it as a kiddie pool. This feature is what makes it so great for the little ones.

Sprinklers

The water sprinklers on the Inflatable Sprinkler Splash Pad provide a good time for all the kids (and adults) involved. This is sure to be a hit with the entire family.

Reviews

Parents say these splash pads are great for toddlers and younger kids. Their little ones love this sprinkler and splash pad set up. It’s definitely a must-have for the summer season.

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#4: B. toys by Battat B. Toys – Whirly Whale Sprinkler (Best for Toddlers)

Recommended ages: 24 months to 8 years old
Dimensions: 9.6 x 8.4 x 8.2 inches

The B. toys by Battat B. Toys – Whirly Whale Sprinkler is great for toddlers. They’ll love this whale sprinkler with the spinning fish. Your kids are going to have fun running around in the backyard with this sprinkler and you’re going to love the price.

Spins and Splashes

Similar to the Kids Sprinkler Fire Hydrant, this water sprinkler spins and splashes for all kinds of fun for your little one. The eight fish spin around while the whale squirts and splashes water.

Works with Standard Hoses

Also like the Kids Sprinkler Fire Hydrant, this works with a standard hose, making it quick and easy to set up.

Comes with Adaptors

Just in case you don’t have a standard water hose, this sprinkler also comes with three easy-to-connect adaptors so you’ll never have to worry about outdoor fun.

Reviews

This is a great sprinkler toy for kids to play in. It’s cute and kids love it. Parents recommend taking your time setting up the water sprinkler or watching a how-to video or two as it can be a bit confusing. But they also say, once the sprinkler is put together properly, it works like a charm and your kid will waste no time enjoying water play.

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#5: Little Tikes Beach Ball Sprinkler (Best Beach Ball Sprinkler)

Recommended ages: 18 months for 4 years old
Dimensions: 88 inches in circumference

Little Tikes never disappoints with their toys. Their sprinklers are no exception. Every little girl and boy will love this beach ball sprinkler toy. Simply hook it up to the garden hose and watch your children roll the beach ball around while they stay cool in the summer heat. Your child or children are going to have a splashing good time.

Beach Ball Action

Once you connect this beach ball to the water hose, the backyard fun really begins. The fast and fun activity of this beach ball will keep your kids entertained for hours.

Parents’ Choice Award

These are the only water sprinklers to have won the Parents’ Choice Award by the Parents’ Choice Foundation.

Reviews

Kids everywhere get a kick out of these water sprinklers. The Little Tikes Beach Ball Sprinkler is made of high-quality materials, making it durable and able to withstand even the most rambunctious children. These water toys are a huge hit for birthday parties or any outdoor summer events. Parents agree that this product is a great buy and worth the money.

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#6: Prextex 2 in 1 Dinosaur Water Sprinkler and Ring Toss Combo Inflatable Water Toy (Best Combo Sprinkler)

Recommended ages: 3 years and up
Dimensions: 22 x 42 inches

If you’re looking for a cool kids sprinkler, look no further than this Prextex 2 in 1 Dinosaur Water Sprinkler and Ring Toss Combo Inflatable Water Toy. At just under two feet tall, this provides all kinds of backyard water play and fun.

Ring Toss

Not only is this a great inflatable sprinkler, but your kids can play ring toss in the water for even more good times.

Sand Weights

The feet are weighted with sand so you don’t have to worry about it blowing away in the wind.

Comes with Air Pump

Similar to the QPAU Rainbow Sprinkler for Kids, this is an inflatable, but this one, thankfully, comes with an air pump.

Water Shoots Up To 10 Feet

This dinosaur sprinkler shoots water 10 feet high into the air. Adjust the water pressure for a higher or lower water spray height.

Reviews

This is such a fun toy for all kids involved. Parents say if you’re on the fence about buying one, you should definitely go for it. This is because not only is the Prextex 2 in 1 Dinosaur Water Sprinkler and Ring Toss Combo Inflatable Water Toy a great sprinkler to help keep your children cool, but it also comes with additional fun activities such as a ring toss game.

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#7. JOYIN Inflatable Unicorn Yard Sprinkler (Best Inflatable)

Recommended ages: 3 years and up
Dimensions: 63.6 inches tall

If your kids are into unicorns, they’ll love this one. The JOYIN Inflatable Unicorn Yard Sprinkler is seriously cute. Perfect for little ones and adults, this thing will bring tons of water fun to your lawn.

Tall

Similar to the QPAU Rainbow Sprinkler for Kids, this inflatable stands at just over five feet tall. Your kids are going to love the fact that the water is sprayed out of the unicorn’s horn.

Easy to Use

This one also connects to any garden hose. Simply inflate it, and it’s ready to go.

High Quality

The JOYIN Inflatable Unicorn Yard Sprinkler is made with thick, high-quality material, making it strong and durable.

Reviews

Reviews say this is a fun inflatable unicorn that kids love. It’s a great way to stay cool in the summer heat. It’s made of high-quality materials, ensuring the longevity of the water sprinkler. This is the perfect water sprinkler for unicorn lovers of all ages.

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Safety Tips

Always Have Adult Supervision

Never, ever leave your children unattended . . . even for a minute, regardless of their age. Your child could easily be injured or drown in just a few short seconds. An adult must be always watching your kids when they are in or near water, even if it is just a sprinkler.

Protect Your Baby

Always stay within arms reach of a newborn or baby. This way you can quickly grab them if they roll over or crawl toward the water. Your baby is going to be too young to know not to go near water.

Protect Your Toddler

Similar to the rule for protecting your new baby, you’ll want to stay close to your curious toddler. They’re known for exploring new things, and water is no exception. They may know that water can be dangerous, but they’re bound to test their limits anyway. That’s what toddlers do.

Consider Swimming Lessons

Consider swimming lessons at an early age. This is especially important if you’re going to be around a body of water often, like a pool or lake, during the summer months.

Could I Just Use a Regular Sprinkler?

Yes, you can. But you may not want to. Many people think they can use a regular sprinkler for their kids to play in, but in all honesty, it’s not recommended. This is because the water pressure for a regular sprinkler might be harder than that of a sprinkler toy and could cause injury to your child’s soft skin.

Plus, sprinklers for kids are relatively inexpensive and are a good investment. And, you get to choose from rainbows, unicorns, dinosaurs, and so much more, which is so much more fun for your kids to play with. They’ll have more fun playing with a fire hydrant that spins and splashes rather than Mom and Dad’s old sprinkler that only goes in one boring direction.

Verdict: Your Best Sprinkler for Kids 

Just in case you skipped to the bottom of this article, here are my top picks just for you. No matter which sprinkler you choose, your little one is bound to have tons of backyard fun.

If you want the best value for the money, pick the Kids Sprinkler Fire Hydrant.

If you’re looking for the best premium sprinklers for kids, choose the QPAU Rainbow Sprinkler for Kids.

If you’re wanting the best splash mat, choose the Inflatable Sprinkler Splash Pad.

If you want the best sprinkler for toddlers, pick the B. toys by B. toys by Battat B. Toys – Whirly Whale Sprinkler.

If you want beach fun, choose the Little Tikes Beach Ball Sprinkler.

If you’re looking for one in the shape of a dinosaur, pick the Prextex 2 in 1 Dinosaur Water Sprinkler and Ring Toss Combo Inflatable Water Toy.

Whether you live in the city or the country, sometimes finding local pools can be rather difficult. A sprinkler may be just the answer you’re looking for. Not only do they water your lawn, but your kid can get some relief from the summer heat.

There are many options for sprinklers. Just remember to consider your child’s age and to always supervise them when they’re in the backyard playing. Whether you’re looking for a splash mat or a specific sprinkler shape, compare the prices of the different items.

Also factor in your yard and where you plan to place the sprinklers for kids. Keep the sprinkler a safe distance from roadways, sidewalks, and driveways. You may also consider the distance to the flower garden as well. Regardless of the options you choose, remember to have fun!