A wooden mud kitchen is one of the best ways to encourage imaginative outdoor sensory play — and the good news is, getting started is easier than you might think! Whether you’ve just brought home one of our handcrafted kitchens or you’re preparing your yard for play, here’s a simple guide to setting things up without the overwhelm.
1. Pick the Perfect Spot
Start by choosing a good location. Look for:
- A shaded or partially shaded area to keep kids cool.
- Flat ground so the kitchen sits evenly.
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Easy access to dirt and water — this is a mud kitchen, after all!
Backyards, patios, side yards, or even garden nooks work great.
2. Bring on the Water and Dirt
Water is where the fun begins! You can:
- Use a garden hose or a bucket filled from the tap.
- Fill a tub or bin the kids can scoop from.
- Or, if your kitchen has a working faucet feature, it likely runs using a simple bucket-and-pump setup (no plumbing needed).
For dirt, any patch of backyard earth will do. Just give your kids a shovel or some scoops and they’ll take it from there.
3. Add Play Accessories
Your mud kitchen is ready to go as-is, but adding a few extras can spark creativity:
- Old pots, pans, muffin tins, and mixing bowls.
- Wooden spoons, measuring cups, or ladles.
- Natural materials like leaves, flowers, pebbles, and sticks.
No need to buy new — your kitchen cabinets or a thrift store have all the treasures you need.
4. Set Expectations (and Embrace the Mess)
Let your kids know it’s okay to get dirty — that’s the whole idea! Mud kitchens are about creative, sensory, outdoor fun. You can set up a towel or wash bucket nearby for easy cleanup.
Pro tip: Have a “mud kitchen outfit” or apron so you don’t stress about stains.
5. Make It Theirs
Encourage your child to decorate their space. Chalkboard signs, hand-painted rocks, or a small potted herb garden help make the kitchen feel like their own little world.
That’s It — You’re Ready!
Setting up your mud kitchen doesn’t have to be complicated. Keep it simple, let the kids lead the way, and enjoy watching their creativity bloom.
Want inspiration? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook and tag @rbjwoodworks — we love seeing how families bring their kitchens to life!