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19 Best Car Wash Toys for Kids of All Ages: 2024 Picks

Updated
Forget the bucket and sponge. These car wash toys make cleaning fun!

For budding car enthusiasts, having a car wash might be the perfect addition to an amazing collection of toys. But you want to ensure your car wash is age-appropriate, realistic enough for role-play, and made to endure some crashes and smashes.

We’ve searched high and low to find the best car wash toys for children of all ages, and we’re happy to announce that we’ve found 19 excellent choices!

These car wash sets are affordable, durable, and appeal to kids of all ages. We’ll discuss what to look for in a car wash toy and provide honest, detailed reviews of each of the 19 sets we love. Read on to find the perfect car wash toy your little ones will enjoy for years.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Melissa and Doug
Wooden Toy for Preschoolers
Melissa and Doug
  • Sturdy construction
  • For ages 3 to 6 years
  • Functional elevator
Product Image of the LEGO City Garage
Lego Building Fun
LEGO City Garage
  • Includes 5 minifigures
  • 3-story city garage
  • With LEGO brick separator
Product Image of the Shopkins Cutie Cars
Color-Changing Magic
Shopkins Cutie Cars
  • 2 levels of play
  • Exclusive color-changing car
  • Customizable
Product Image of the Hot Wheels Ultimate
Wash And Race
Hot Wheels Ultimate
  • Impressive large-scale car wash set
  • Includes a manual crank elevator
  • Color-change mystery
Product Image of the Matchbox Mission
Space for All
Matchbox Mission
  • 4 levels of activity
  • Highly affordable
  • One-stop shop for real-world adventures
Product Image of the Scrub It
For Outdoor Role Play
Scrub It
  • Safely clean the family car
  • Easy storage
  • High-quality materials
Product Image of the KidKraft Wooden Car Garage
Wooden Wash
KidKraft Wooden Car Garage
  • 19-piece set
  • Features an elevator
  • Durable construction
Product Image of the Tow and Go Garage
Learn As You Play
Tow and Go Garage
  • Interactive SmartPoints
  • Different sounds and phrases
  • Encourages language development
Product Image of the Car Repair and Wash
For Young Mechanics
Car Repair and Wash
  • Durable plastic materials
  • Great role-play game
  • Car can be dismantled
Product Image of the Bosch Car Park
Fun for Many Ages
Bosch Car Park
  • Hard-wearing plastic materials
  • 5-level parking
  • 33 inches tall


The Best Car Wash Toys of 2024

For budding car enthusiasts, having a car wash might be the perfect addition to a fantastic collection of toys. And hopefully, our quick guide will help you to find the best car wash toy for your child. Keep reading to see our top picks.

Melissa and Doug Service Station

Wooden Toy for Preschoolers

This wooden service station is a great place for the imagination to go wild. It features two levels for your child to navigate their favorite car through.

On the ground level, there’s a drive-through car wash. There’s also a gas pump on the side and a parking lot on the top level. Your child will also get two toy cars to play with. Suitable for ages 3 to 6 years.

User Experience

I'm thrilled with this toy, as it offers a wide range of engaging details and features, like the car lift, car wash, and ramp. My kids, ranging from 2 to 6 years old, all love playing with it and it's easily stored due to its compact size. While I think the price could've been a bit lower, the durable and well-made design from Melissa and Doug makes it a worthy investment for endless entertainment.
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LEGO City Garage

Building Fun

If your child enjoys building and assembling, this car wash set could be a top runner. Once assembled, the Lego playset resembles a garage. A car wash, as well as a gas pump, are on the bottom level. There’s also a repair station.

On the second level, you’ll find a parking area with a working elevator to transport the cars. The set has 933 pieces, including five Lego figures and three cars. It is recommended for children from 6 to 12 years old.

Personal Perspective

I've had a fantastic experience with this LEGO City Garage set, as it not only offered a fun and engaging build, but also provided an opportunity for developing reading skills and following directions. The set includes five minifigures and four vehicles, allowing for plenty of imaginative play after assembly. Additionally, the working movable parts in the garage make it a sturdy and versatile addition to any LEGO collection.

Shopkins Cutie Cars Spa Wash

Color-Changing Magic

The Spa Wash set has two levels that the Cutie Cars have to drive through to get clean. There’s also an elevator, a decoration station, and a dry and scent station.

Fill the container at the top with icy water, and the cars will change color as they are exposed. After the wash, your child can take the car to the decoration station. Here, they use a special brush to decorate the car as they like. This Shopkins set is recommended for ages 5 and over.

Community Feedback

My experience with this car wash toy has been nothing short of delightful, as it keeps my kids entertained and promotes small motor activity. The color-changing feature is a huge hit and adds to the excitement; however, I would recommend playing with it on a towel or drying mat to prevent water from getting everywhere. One downside is that the water container needs to be emptied frequently, but overall, the toy is a fun and interactive addition to our playtime.

Hot Wheels Ultimate Car Wash

Wash and Race

On this track, your child has to get their car through the wash as quickly as possible. Just after the wash, an alligator is waiting, hungry for automobiles.

This toy set from Hot Wheels also features an elevator that will take the cars to the starting line. Your little car enthusiast will also get one color-changing car. The car changes color as it is exposed to water. Ages 4 and up.

First-Hand Impression

My three-year-old son and I have had a blast playing with this Hot Wheels set. The color-shifting cars are an impressive feature, but make sure to use ice water and very warm water for the best results. While assembling the set, we found it easy to put together, but initially had some difficulty placing the lower jaw in the shark. Thankfully, we found a helpful video online that resolved our issue. One downside to note is the paint on the cars can chip easily, especially if your child is rough with them. Additionally, the variety of color-changing cars could be better, as we received the same set twice when ordering multiple packs.

Matchbox Mission Garage Playset

Space for All

This four-level garage features a spiral-like ramp the cars have to drive down to get to the different levels.

The top level is where the cars enter through the working elevator. Next, they drive down the ramp into the car wash so their car can get clean before it heads to the repair station.

At the bottom, you’ll find the gas pump to fill up the cars before playing. The set includes a tow truck. Recommended age range is 3 to 10 years.

User Experience

For me, assembling this toy was quite an experience with a multitude of stickers to place, but the end result was a durable and engaging playset. My child was instantly drawn to the elevator, car wash, and ramps, keeping them entertained for hours. Despite the initial challenges with decal placement, the toy is definitely worth the effort as it offers longevity in terms of play value.

Scrub It Kids Car Wash Kit

Great Choice for Outdoor Role Play

Who says car washing can only be done by adults? With this activity kit, you can turn car washing into a bonding activity with your little one instead of a mundane task.

The seven-piece set consists of a wheel brush, a microfiber mitt, a folding bucket, cleaning cloths, and an expendable squeegee. You’ll get everything you need in this set, and the best thing is that doesn’t break the bank. Let your children have fun cleaning your family vehicle and learn to feel the satisfaction of a job well done. For ages 5 years and over.

Personal Perspective

This car wash kit has brought so much joy to my grandson, who loves washing his toy cars alongside me as I wash the real ones. The kit is well thought out, compact, and seems durable enough to withstand the rough handling kids often put their toys through. The bucket is the perfect size for him to carry without being too big and bulky, making it even more enjoyable for him. Although the kit doesn't come with soap, it still provides a fun and engaging experience for my little one.

KidKraft Wash n Go Wooden Car Garage

Wooden Wash

This playset looks like a regular drive-through car wash, except that the cars are made of durable wooden construction. It features 19 pieces of accessories ready to assemble, which you can easily follow through with the included step-by-step instruction.

This car wash toy is kid-friendly, featuring three floors ready to be explored. Your child can use it for solo play or with friends. For ages 6 and over.

Community Feedback

This play set has been a hit with my kids, who enjoy playing with the car wash and other features. However, assembling it took quite a bit of time and patience, as there were many small pieces and the instructions weren't always clear. Once assembled, the toy is very sturdy and can withstand rough play from my children. Some parts, like the railings, seemed a bit flimsy, but overall the play set has held up well. Just be prepared to spend some time putting it together and possibly making minor adjustments along the way.

Tow and Go Garage

Learn as You Play

The Tow and Go Garage playset includes a tow truck, but it’s not like any other truck. This one will actually respond to specific points around the garage. It will reward your child with fun sounds and educational phrases when placed correctly.

It might also sing a little tune, which could be a song your child already knows. The garage also features an elevator, a repair station, a helipad, a gas pump, and of course, a fantastic car wash. Suitable for ages 1 to 5 years.

First-Hand Impression

From personal experience, this Go Go Garage has been both entertaining and durable for my four young children, despite some minor wear and tear after six months of use. The assembly process was a bit tedious due to numerous stickers and small pieces, but the result was a well-functioning toy that has provided hours of fun. Although not as sturdy as Fisher Price toys, this garage has proven to be a worthwhile addition to our collection, and my kids really enjoy playing with it alongside their singing cars.

Car Repair and Wash

Go-To for Young Mechanics

With this playset, your child gets to become a mechanic. The set comes with a white convertible car and a screwdriver.

Your child can use their mechanic skills and handy screwdriver to take the car apart, change the tires, and put it back together. This is an excellent way for children to develop their fine motor and problem-solving skills. And when your child feels it’s time for a wash, they can drive the car into the car wash.

This set is recommended for children aged 3 to 8 years.

User Experience

Got this toy service station for my little one and they absolutely love it! I have to admit, assembly was a bit challenging with many parts to put together and the instructions resembling those of Lego or Ikea furniture. However, once it was assembled, it became a source of endless imaginative play. My child particularly enjoys raising the car in the air to replace tires or pretend to change the oil. The ramps and car wash doors could be better secured, but overall, the toy is sturdy and well-made. Despite the initial assembly struggle, the joy it brings to my child makes it all worth it.

Theo Klein Bosch Car Park

Mega Fun for Many Ages

This car park with five levels from Theo Klein is officially authorized and licensed by Bosch. It has lots of fun features for kids to explore. It is 33 inches tall with two exit ramps. It takes about 30 minutes to assemble this set before your child can start playing, but it’s well worth the wait.

Along with the parking lot, this set includes a gliding elevator, filling pump, and car wash. It also comes with two cars, all ready to race. For ages 3 years and above.

Personal Perspective

My experience with this car park toy has been a mix of fun and minor frustrations. The assembly was easy and my kids absolutely love playing with it, racing their cars from the top, even after having it for a few years. However, there are a ton of stickers to apply, which can be time-consuming, and the track doesn't always line up perfectly, causing cars to get stuck sometimes. Despite these issues, the car park is still a hit when other kids come over and provides hours of entertainment.

Disney Car Wash Playset

For Disney Fans

Toddlers are constantly testing out stuff to get a reaction. This car wash allows them to explore just a little more.

Drive a dirty Lightning McQueen into the car wash, and watch what happens as the car turns from black to shiny blue. The whole set provides an interactive play for your little kiddo. Recommended for ages 4 and older.

Community Feedback

Definitely a fun and engaging toy for kids who love Disney's Cars series, this car wash playset provides hours of entertainment. It was easy to assemble and comes with color-changing cars, adding to the excitement. However, be prepared for some water leakage and the need for a towel underneath the play area. Despite the small water bins and slightly flimsy entrance and exit pieces, this car wash playset continues to be a hit with children and encourages their imagination.

Hot Wheels Mega Car Wash

Sensory Playtime

Watch as the cars change color through the different stages of this car wash toy from Hot Wheels. The first part of the wash is filled with warm water. As you squeeze the water onto the car, the car’s color will change before your eyes.

Fill the dunk tank with cold water, submerge the car, and it will change back to its original color. This set comes with an automatic conveyor belt, making it extra fun for the kids. And we especially appreciate its spill-proof design. For ages 4 and older.

First-Hand Impression

I'm really enjoying the high quality material of this car wash, making it a great addition to our Hot Wheels City collection. While it can get a bit messy with water splashing around, my 3-year-old doesn't seem to mind at all. One downside is that the color-changing car that came with it doesn't actually change colors, so I had to purchase additional ones. Setting it up where water leakage won't cause damage is essential for the best play experience. Although the conveyor belt feature can be a bit finicky and the brushes don't always reach the car, my kids still find hours of entertainment with this toy.

Matchbox Hydro Car Wash Vehicle

For Everyday Heroes

This utility truck lifts cars and dumps them into the dunk tank for a fun car wash experience. Here, the cars will get a nice scrub down. Once done, lift the orange lever and let the car ride down the ramp.

The set includes a mud pit to get the fun started. Fill it with cold water to change the color of the included car. This toy lets your youngsters practice their helping skills by using the truck to save the car from the pit. For kids aged 3 to 7 years.

User Experience

I'm impressed by how much my five-year-old grandson and four-year-old granddaughter enjoyed this car wash toy, as they found various ways to play with it, such as washing their little toys in the tank. The color-changing feature of the car is a delightful touch, but it's worth noting that the toy is best suited for outdoor or bathtub play due to the water usage. While it may not hold every child's attention for long periods and can be tricky for the car to navigate through the truck easily, it still offers a reasonable amount of entertainment for the price.

Step2 Car Wash Splash Center

Learn Cleaning Skills

This car wash splash center will help teach your child cleaning skills while they have fun. It has various stations so they can play for hours either by themselves or with a sibling. They can wash the car itself, or they can play with their other toys within the car.

It also allows them to explore sensory skills since they are hands-on with the water, gas tank, windshield wiper, and other pouring features.

Personal Perspective

This water table car is a cute and entertaining toy for kids, but it does have a few flaws. Assembly was a bit challenging, as some parts didn't have holes, and the instructions were not easy to follow. Despite this, the car is sturdy and has many fun features like windshield wipers that little ones enjoy. My 16-month-old granddaughter loves it, though it might be a bit small for older kids around 4 years old. It would have been helpful to have clearer instructions and recommend using a power drill for assembly, as manually screwing in bolts was quite difficult.

HABA Kullerbu Parking Garage

One-Stop Wash-Up Shop

With this playset, your little one can practice some fine motor skills while exploring the three-level garage.

All three levels offer different spaces and activities for parking. As the car heads over the ramp, there’s a movable gate to slow down the moving cars. Aside from the parking garage, the set includes two ramps, a speedster, and a green ball.


Wooden Playset with Car Wash

Great for Young Toddlers

This wooden car wash toy from Imagination Generation is a great fix for your future mechanic. It’s made from wooden material. Therefore, it should last you a lifetime.

Measuring over 11 inches high, your little one can share this toy with siblings or friends. You can also use this play set with other Imaginative Generation toy sets. This set contains small parts, so it’s not recommended for young children who may put pieces in their mouths.

First-Hand Impression

Great toy for kids who love car washes! My children enjoyed playing with this car wash, and it even helped my grandson overcome his fear of going through one. However, we did experience an issue with the knob that turns the top brush coming loose and falling off. Despite this minor inconvenience, the toy is well-made, durable, and has become a favorite in our play area.

Micro Machines Car Wash

Expand Your Play Area

Does your child enjoy play sets you can expand upon? Then this set from Micro Machines will have a soft spot in your heart because it is compatible with other Micro Machine sets, allowing your child to build their own Micro City.

The set includes a ramp, two washing bays, a drying station with an exit ramp, a themed vehicle, and cute graphics. It is suited for kids ages 4 years and above.

User Experience

Love that this Micro Machines playset brings back nostalgic memories for adults while also providing enjoyment for children. The construction site design is detailed, with fun features like hills and tracks, though the crane could use some improvements and the vehicle quality doesn't quite match the vintage models. Despite some minor flaws, such as the difficulty in operating the elevator and assembling the set, the overall sturdiness and entertainment value make this playset a worthwhile addition to any toy collection.

Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage Playset

Great for Friendly Play

Let your child engage in hours of imaginary play with this 4-foot tall car garage from Hot Wheels. It features a spiral elevator that the car has to get through without disturbing the gorilla.

Drive down the first ramp to enter the repair station, where you’ll find the car wash. The whole garage set can transport 23 cars at a time. It can also hold more than 140 cars for easy storage. For ages 5 to 9 years.

Personal Perspective

Best large-scale garage for Hot Wheels enthusiasts! This garage boasts 170 parking spots and was a breeze to assemble. The spiral elevator and ramps provide endless fun, although some cars may get stuck occasionally. Keep in mind that it requires a considerable amount of space and 4 D-size batteries, but it's an excellent storage solution and play area for an extensive Hot Wheels collection.

Fisher-Price Mini Garage

Go-To for the Youngest Car Enthusiast

No doubt Fisher-Price is a leading brand. Watch as your little one turns the crank to get this car wash moving. The ramp will even go up and down as your child becomes a super mechanic.

The set includes two characters, a dog, a tow truck, and a traffic light. Suitable for kids from age 12 months.

Community Feedback

Excellent toy for kids who love water play and vehicles! I bought this set for my son, and he enjoys washing the cars in a large plastic tub with water. The tow truck is a favorite, as it tows other Little People cars. The included clay-motion DVD is cute, but the real highlight is the hours of creative and imaginative play this toy provides.

How to Choose a Car Wash Toy

Before you buy a car wash toy for your child, there are a few things to look for. You want to ensure you get the best toy set that’s safe, fun, and can last as long as possible.

Material

Most car wash toys are made of plastic. But there are a few toys on the market that are made of wood. For younger toddlers and babies, a wooden car wash toy may be best as these usually have bigger, more durable parts.

Plastic is the way to go if your child wants to use water to make the car wash come to life. Wood or wood-like material will most likely become damaged when exposed to water.

Always make sure the product is made with non-toxic materials. Choose something that doesn’t contain any chemicals, such as phthalates or lead (1).

Age Appropriate

You want to buy a toy that your child will enjoy, so it’s important to choose the right one for your child’s age. Here are a few tips:

  • Babies: For the youngest family member, look for playsets that aren’t too overwhelming in terms of design. Additionally, it has to be safe and durable and not contain any small or loose parts. Babies love to explore with their mouths (2).
  • Toddlers: Try to find something that’s open-ended and encourages pretend play — maybe some features such as lights and sounds. It should be sturdy since toddlers can play rough sometimes. I would also try to avoid small parts with toddlers since children in this age group sometimes still put things in their mouths.
  • Older children: Bigger children might prefer something that’s more close to reality. They’ll probably also like a few action features, such as working parts and color-changing cars.

Type of Car Wash

There’s a range of car wash toys available on the market. Some resemble a gas station with an added car wash. Others are bigger and include a race track.

Again, it’s important to consider your child’s age. For instance, a young toddler might make a huge mess when playing with water. It might be a better option to choose something simple where they get to use their imagination.

The bigger toys often require a bit of assembly, so you might need to help out. For older children, there are car wash toys with added effects that younger kids may not be able to use or won’t appreciate.


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Headshot of Jennifer Schlette, MSN, RN

Reviewed by

Jennifer Schlette, MSN, RN

Jennifer Schlette MSN, RN, is a pediatric intensive care nurse at Children's Hospital of New York for the past 14 years. Jennifer also has extensive experience teaching Maternity and Obstetric Nursing, as well as Pediatrics Nursing.