This $34 Collapsible Slide Is the Best Toy I’ve Bought For My Kids Lately

For the past five years, my husband and I have been living with three kids in New York City apartments. Space has always been somewhat tight, and, especially with little ones, all the stuff can quickly accumulate. Because we have limited storage (and no basement or playroom) we’ve taught ourselves how to be intentional and selective with the gear and toys we allow into our home. Playthings can’t be too big, and they must be well-loved. If something doesn’t get used enough or takes up too much floor space, it has to go. 

Some time ago, I discovered a toy on Amazon that checked all the boxes: a collapsible slide made of thick, reinforced cardboard that amazingly folds totally flat, making it easy to store under a bed or couch or even behind a dresser or cabinet (which is where I keep it in my own home!). It’s actually one of Cubby’s favorite gifts for a 1-year-old!

A cardboard slide, really? I know it sounds like this should be flimsy, but hours of play later have proved otherwise.

Considering it’s made of cardboard, but I was pleasantly surprised by the slide’s sturdiness in withstanding the weight of all of my kids (ages 7, 5, and 2) for months. In fact, according to the Amazon listing, it can support up to 50 pounds. Once fully constructed, which takes just minutes, the slide measures 24 inches tall and 59 inches long. Plus, on top of the rainbow style that my family owns, you can choose from Hot Wheels (which currently sells for the even cheaper price of $22) or CocoMelon-themed designs based on your kids’ preferences, too.

Trust me: The Pop2Play indoor slide is an absolute game-changer for parents living in small homes or apartments — especially on rainy or cold days. I love the fact that it folds completely flat for discrete storage, but I also love how quick and simple it is to re-assemble. Because it’s cardboard, you can also recycle the entire toy once your littles outgrow it (or donate it to another small-space-dwelling family). This Amazon find has been a lot of fun without taking up a ton of square footage or dominating our decor, and I can confidently say it’s the best kids’ purchase I’ve made in a long time.

Buy: Pop2Play Foldable Slide, $34.99

This post was originally published on Apartment Therapy. Read it there: This $32 Small-Space-Friendly Amazon Toy Is My Best Recent Kids’ Purchase