Kinetic Sand VS Play-Doh: Differences(What’s BETTER?)

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by Basana Saha

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You learn something new every day, but you probably didn’t know that two similar sandbox products are on the market. 

Both are made for kids, and both are a ton of fun! This blog will compare kinetic sand vs Play-Doh and find out which one is better. 

Let’s get started!

Kinetic Sand vs Play-Doh

Kinetic SandPlay-Doh
Ingredients98% sand, 2% polydimethylsiloxane (aka silicone oil)A mixture of water, salt, and flour
CostModerateInexpensive
ToxicityNon-ToxicNon-Toxic
Kids Age3 years and up2 years and up
Cleaning UpEasy To Clean UpIt is difficult to clean and also leaves a residue
Drying outDoes not dry outDries out Fast
Gets MessyNoYes
LifetimeLasts longDoes not last long and grows mold
DIY Ingredients5:3 Sand to Cornstarch and oil(Optional)All Purpose Flour, Salt, Tartar, Water, Vegetable Oil
Kinetic Sand vs Play-Doh

What is Kinetic Sand?

Kinetic sand is a moldable compound that allows you to create sculptures and art without worrying about making a mess.

The mixture is 98% sand and 2% polydimethylsiloxane (aka silicone oil).

It’s designed to never dry out like regular sand, making it perfect for kids of all ages. 

What age is kinetic sand good for?

Kinetic sand is suitable for kids of 3 years and above. It is made of non-toxic materials and is safe for kids.

Just check the ingredients used as specified by the manufacturer and check the safety guidelines.

What is Play-Doh?

Play-Doh is a modeling compound that is popular among children.

It is usually sold in bright plastic containers and can be purchased at almost any toy store.

It is made of flour and salt, with a few other fillers thrown in. 

Play-Doh is non-toxic and is often made to smell like fruit, but it is still not edible and should not be eaten.

It is a popular product that has stood the test of time and is still relatively unchanged, even though there are many knock-offs of Play-Doh. 

Play-Doh is a unique product that can be molded and can be used to create almost any type of creation, including a cake, a truck, and even a turtle. Play-Doh is a popular product among children and is often a favorite in kindergarten classrooms.

What age is Play-Doh good for?

Play-Doh is appropriate for kids who are 2 years and up.

Is Kinetic Sand better than Play-Doh?

Kinetic sand is a newer product in the children’s toy scene, but it’s a lot like Play-Doh. So, is Kinetic Sand better than Play-Doh?

The short answer is yes, but not for the reason you’re probably thinking. 

No, it’s not because it’s made from 98% sand and 2% binding ingredients.

It’s not because it’s “healthy for kids” or because it’s odorless and messy.

The answer is yes because the experience is better. Play-Doh is an enjoyable product, but it’s well it’s a bit of a mess. 

Kids enjoy playing with Play-Doh, but they also get it everywhere, and they can be left with a real mess to deal with after they’re done.

On the other hand, Kinetic sand is mess-free and is safe for kids to use. It’s non-toxic and completely safe.

Does kinetic sand dry out like Play-Doh?

Kinetic sand does not dry out like Play-Doh. Kinetic sand is unique sand made from a mixture of polymers, which are made to keep the sand together.

This makes the sand itself a lot stronger than the traditional Play-Doh. 

This isn’t a huge deal, but it is nice to know that you won’t have to go through the process of making your kinetic sand over and over again.

My View

Choosing between Kinetic sand and Play-Doh is up to the consumer since both products are made with the same basic ingredients and function similarly. 

There are some differences between the two products, though.

Play-Doh is a modeling compound made from flour, salt, water, and food coloring, while kinetic sand is made from non-toxic, odorless materials that are entirely safe for children.

You need to check the ingredients and safety before purchasing.

Here are some of the Kinetic Sand choices:

Bestseller No. 1
Kinetic Sand, 3.25lbs Beach Sand in Resealable Bag, Moldable Play Sand Sensory Toys, Christmas Gifts for Kids Ages 3+
  • ONE & ONLY KINETIC SAND: The original magical...
  • 3.25LBS KINETIC BEACH SAND: This bag of bulk...
  • SPARKS CREATIVITY: Encourage pretend play and fine...
Bestseller No. 2
Kinetic Sand Ultimate Sandisfying Set, 2lb of Pink, Yellow & Teal Play Sand, 10 Molds & Tools, Sensory Toys, Christmas Gifts for Kids Ages 7+
  • ONE & ONLY KINETIC SAND: The original magical...
  • 2LBS COLORED SAND & 10 TOOLS: Unlock a world of...
  • MIX, MOLD & CREATE: Experiment with the three...
Bestseller No. 3
Carolart Pirate Stretchy Cloud Sand,Blue & Green & Yellow Play Sand,Treasure Chest with Sensory Sand,Stretchable,Moldable,Expandable Cloud Slime,Tactile Fun Sensory Kit, Sensory Toys for Kids Ages 3+
  • NEW STRETCH SAND AND NO MESS: Squish, mix, mold,...
  • PIRATE CHEST PLAYSET: Includes Reusable golden...
  • LEARN MORE SKILLS: The Sensory connect sand offer...
Bestseller No. 4
Kinetic Sand, SquishMotion Playset with 1lb Pink, Yellow, Blue Play Sand, Stamper, 5 Tools & Storage, Sensory Toys, Christmas Gifts for Kids Ages 3+
  • MOVES LIKE MAGIC: Kinetic Sand comes alive on...
  • LOAD, LAYER & SQUISH: Load the stamper, layer...
  • 1LB SAND, 5 TOOLS & CONTAINED PLAY: Includes pink,...

Here are some of the excellent Play-Doh options:

Bestseller No. 1
Play-Doh Bulk 10-Pack Case of Assorted Colors, Christmas Stocking Stuffers, Party Favors for Girls & Boys, Kids Arts & Crafts, Preschool Toys, Ages 2+ (Amazon Exclusive)
  • GREAT REFILL OR STARTER PLAY-DOH SET: Whether your...
  • SHAPING IMAGINATION: From building their own...
  • 10 PLAY-DOH CANS: This Play-Doh set includes...
Bestseller No. 2
Play-Doh Jewel Colors Bulk 12-Pack of 4-Ounce Cans, Christmas Stocking Stuffers for Girls & Boys, Party Favors, Kids Arts & Crafts, Preschool Toys, Ages 2+
  • WINTER WONDERS: This festive winter Play-Doh...
  • BULK PLAY-DOH CANS: This Play-Doh 12-pack includes...
  • CREATIVE TOYS FOR KIDS: Boys and girls 2 years and...
Bestseller No. 3
Play-Doh Marvel Black Panther Cutting Claws with Bendy Action Figure, Imagination Toys for 4 Year Old Boys and Girls and Up
  • SUPER BENDY BLACK PANTHER: Creative power is in...
  • SLICING ACTION WITH THE CUTTING CLAWS: Attach the...
  • CREATE PLAY-DOH POWERUPS: Use the book-mold and 2...
Bestseller No. 4
Play-Doh Starter Set 9-Piece Kit with Storage Tote & 4 Modeling Compound Cans, Arts and Crafts Toys for Kids 3 Years & Up, Preschool Toys
  • IT ALL STARTS WITH IMAGINATION: Preschool toys...
  • REUSABLE VINYL STORAGE BAG: For families on the...
  • 9 EASY TO USE TOOLS: Classic Play-Doh accessories...

Conclusion

Let’s conclude the post!

I hope you enjoyed this post on Kinetic Sand vs Play-Doh. It’s always great to find a new activity to help keep the kids entertained.

There is another type of sand known as Moon Sand. You can check the comparison of Kinetic Sand vs Moon Sand here.

So if you’re looking for a new way to keep the kids entertained, you should check out Kinetic Sand! 

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Analyzed By Basana Saha

Basana Saha has expertise working for more than 25 years as a beautician. She has expertise in choosing the right accessories and gears for your baby. Being a mom she knows the problems new moms face. She would like to help with Parenting to new moms with her expertise in raising a child. Learn More About Basana Saha.