If you are new to the world of Play-Doh, you know how hard it can be to find the perfect set for your child. It is not because good options do not exist. The problem is there are so many amazing Play-Doh sets that it is hard to know which one is best.
We (and our kids who love sensory play) put these sets to the test to see which ones offer the most creative potential. We also relied on feedback from thousands of other parents.
We have compiled the ultimate list of the best Play-Doh sets any little one would be thrilled to receive. We will also explain exactly what to look for when choosing the perfect kit for your kids.
- High-quality set
- With rolling, cutting and molding tools
- Realistic-looking frosting details
- Mega-sized playmat
- Over 40 tools included
- 10 2-ounce cans of Play-Doh
- Make-believe toppings
- Fun noodle machine
- 4 noodle shapes
- Includes stand for displaying creations
- Feature step-by-step how-tos
- Budget-friendly
- Fun and interactive play
- Helps reduce dentist-visit anxiety
- Unique design
- Baking-themed accessory tools
- Irresistibly imaginative
- Makes a variety of desserts
Why Choose Play-Doh?
Play-Doh (also known as play dough or playdough) is an iconic childhood sensory activity. The smell and squishy texture are classic hallmarks of growing up. Beyond nostalgia, it encourages creativity and inspires open-ended play.
It does more than just provide fun. Manipulating the dough improves hand-eye coordination and helps your child develop fine motor control.
Taking a small amount of dough and sculpting it into a finished product exercises the small muscles in the hand. This strength is invaluable when it comes time to learn how to write.
Play-Doh is also an activity that encourages social behavior. Sitting around a table with friends or siblings can accelerate language development and teach essential skills like sharing.
How to Pick a Play-Doh Set
There are countless themes and sizes available. Here is what you should look for while shopping:
- How old is the child? Ensure the set is appropriate for your child’s age. Complex extruders or kits with tiny molds might frustrate younger toddlers or pose a choking hazard.
- Does it have replay value? Choose a theme that aligns with your child’s current obsession (like dinosaurs or cooking) to ensure it does not end up sitting unused on a shelf.
- Is it versatile? Look for sets with tools that can be used with any future jars of dough you buy. Cutters, rollers, and stampers usually last longer than complex mechanical presses that might jam.
Please remember when choosing a Play-Doh set that most commercial Play-Doh is non-toxic and does not irritate the skin. It should not cause problems with allergies, except for those who are sensitive or allergic to wheat gluten. When in doubt, always read the Play-Doh package carefully to ensure it is safe for your little ones.
Editor's Note:
Jennifer Schlette, MSN, RNProduct Reviews
Here are our top picks for Play-Doh sets. We selected these because they cover a wide range of interests, include durable tools, and offer great value for creative play.
Play-Doh Sweet Shoppe Cookie Creations
Best for Budding Bakers
If you have a child who loves to bake, this Sweet Shoppe set is a fantastic choice. It is simple, durable, and encourages imaginative role-play without overcomplicating things.
It comes with a variety of fun accessories, including embossed rolling pins and cookie cutters. Your child will love how realistic the process feels. It even includes a baking sheet and a spatula, so your little baker can serve you dozens of decorated “cookies.” It is suitable for children ages 3 years old and up.
Play-Doh Arts and Crafts Set
Most Versatile Play-Doh Set
This is the ultimate starter pack for any child’s collection. Whether it is your first set or an expansion pack, it covers all the bases. It features classic cookie cutters, rolling tools, and cutting implements. It also includes number forms, a press, and 10 generous cans of Play-Doh.
We love that this set comes with playmats. These help define the play space and keep the mess off your dining table. It is designed for children aged 3 years old and up.
Play-Doh Noodle Mania Set
Most Realistic Food Press
This set is equipped to make pasta meals so deliciously realistic you may need to remind your child not to eat them. They will be able to crank out spaghetti, bowtie pasta, ravioli, and lasagna shells. They can even top their dishes with molded mushrooms, shrimp, and lettuce.
The included compound colors are perfect for accurate food representation. Your child will have a bustling Italian bistro running in no time. It is great for kids 3 and up who love playing restaurant.
Play-Doh Basic Fun Factory
Best Budget Buy
You do not need to spend a fortune to get a great toy. The Basic Fun Factory is a classic for a reason. It provides hours of squeezing fun without breaking the bank.
The set includes the standard press and interchangeable rails that allow you to extrude up to 10 different spaghetti-like shapes. This tool works with any standard Play-Doh compound and is compatible with other accessories. It is best suited for children 3 years old and up.
Play-Doh Kitchen Creations
Summer Fun Play-Doh Set
Nothing says summer quite like ice cream. Now your child can recreate the fun of an ice cream truck year-round with this Kitchen Creations set.
Children can make fun sprinkles, ice cream sandwiches, and ice pops. It includes multiple molds, sticks, and a whipped cream tool that is surprisingly satisfying to use. It comes with seven different colors to mix and match. This set is recommended for children 3 years old and up.
Play-Doh Doctor Drill 'n Fill Set
Best Food-Alternative Play-Doh Set
Tired of pretend meals? The Dentist Drill ‘n Fill Set is a hilarious classic that offers a completely different play experience.
We love this set because it helps normalize the dentist experience. It allows kids to “play doctor” and understand oral hygiene in a low-stress environment.
It comes with vibrant silver, white, and red dough, plus a toothbrush, molds for making teeth (and braces), and a battery-operated drill. The drill even buzzes like the real thing to tackle those Play-Doh cavities. It is recommended for children 3 years old and up.
Play-Doh Playful Pies
Most Tempting Play-Doh Set
This baking-themed set focuses specifically on pies. It comes with tins, plates, forks, and tools designed to create woven crusts and whipped toppings.
The set includes a fruit basket and molds for popular fillings like strawberries and apples. It is a great addition to a play kitchen setup. Suitable for children 3 years and older.
Play-Doh My Little Pony Make 'n Style Ponies
TV-Inspired Play-Doh Set
If your child loves “My Little Pony,” this set is a winner. The adorable palette and accessories allow your child to sculpt ponies from the show and customize them with rainbow manes and tails.
Little ones enjoy the “cutie mark” molds they can use to decorate the ponies. It is a fun way to bring a favorite TV show into the 3D world. Designed for children 3 years old and up.
Play-Doh Rex the Chomper
Best Animal Play-Doh Set
Dinosaurs never go out of style. This set combines two childhood favorites: squishy dough and T-Rexes.
Rex the Chomper is an adorable dinosaur tool that can sprout Play-Doh spikes and tongues. The set also includes a volcano that erupts fiery strands of dough. Your little one can complete their prehistoric landscape by using the molds embedded in Rex’s body to make fossils and bugs. For children ages 3 and up.
Play-Doh Mickey Mouse Toolset
Best for Toddlers
Your toddler will instantly recognize Mickey Mouse in this starter set. It is simple to use, featuring a press-style cutter in the iconic shape of Mickey ears. It comes with two cans of compound.
While the theme is toddler-friendly, standard Play-Doh warnings apply. It is not recommended for children under 3 due to small parts and the risk of ingestion.
Play-Doh Barber Shop Toy
Great for Future Barbers and Beauticians
This styling set is perfect for kids who love hair play. You place the character in the chair, turn the crank, and watch the dough hair grow. Then your child can use the scissors and buzzers to trim and style it.
It is hilarious and encourages creativity as kids come up with wild new looks. Note that the buzzer requires two AAA batteries (not included). Recommended for ages 3 and older.
Play-Doh Fundamental Letters
Most Educational Play-Doh Set
This set is a hands-on way to introduce the alphabet. It comes with 26 letter stampers and a stylus.
You can reinforce what your child is learning in preschool by helping them stamp out their name or simple words. The sensory feedback helps with memory retention. This unit comes with six different colors and is rated for ages 3 and up.
Play-Doh FAQs
What Age is Appropriate For Play Dough?
Play-Doh is typically appropriate for children aged two and up. However, standard Play-Doh is usually recommended for ages three and up because younger children may try to eat it or choke on small accessories. Always supervise toddlers during play.
Is it Cheaper to Buy or Make Play Dough?
It is generally cheaper to make play dough, especially if you use it frequently. Homemade playdough uses common pantry staples like flour, salt, and water. However, buying it saves time and provides consistent texture and vibrant colors.
What is an Alternative to Play Dough That Doesn’t Dry Out?
Kinetic sand or oil-based modeling clays are good alternatives that do not dry out easily. These materials maintain their texture over time and provide a similar sensory experience without the “crumbly” mess of dried dough.
Is Kinetic Sand Better Than Play Dough?
Neither is strictly better; they just offer different sensory inputs. Kinetic sand flows through fingers and is great for calming sensory play. Play-Doh is firmer and better for building structures, using intricate molds, and holding specific shapes.
How Often Should You Replace Play Dough?
You should replace play dough when it becomes hard, crumbly, or collects too much debris (like pet hair or floor dust). If kept sealed in airtight containers, store-bought Play-Doh can last for months.
How Do You Make Play Dough Last Longer?
To extend the life of your dough, always put it back in the can immediately after play and seal the lid tight. If it starts to dry out, you can knead in a drop or two of water to revive the texture.
How Do You Get Play-Doh Out of Carpet?
Do not use hot water or cleaning chemicals initially, as this can turn the dough into a paste that dyes the fibers. Allow the Play-Doh to dry completely, then stiffen the fibers with a brush and vacuum up the loose crumbs. Use cold water and soap for any remaining stain.
Is Play-Doh Toxic to Dogs?
Play-Doh is non-toxic but contains a very high amount of salt. If a dog eats a large quantity, it can cause salt poisoning, which is dangerous. Keep your creations and cans out of reach of curious pets.
