Pro Tip

Top 5 Ways to Use Sakrete Play Sand (And 2 Ways Not To!)

We often gets asked the question “Is Sakrete Play Sand safe for my kid(s)?”
Not only is our play as safe as a day on the beach, it’s handy for pro contractors too. Here are the top five ways to use Sakrete Play Sand (and two ways not to use it!)

1. Ballast

Keep a few bags on hand to help when you need to weigh down anything from signs and fences to basketball poles, truck beds, and more.

2. Landscaping

Mix in sand to improve drainage in areas of dense soil where water tends to collect and pool.

3. Traction

Sprinkle over icy steps and walks in the winter. It adds traction and is much better for the concrete and the environment. Sand can also be mixed with paint to create non-skid paint for porches, stairs, basement floors and other surfaces. (Aim for four parts paint to one part sand.)

4. Pavers

Use sand to create a setting bed for pavers. It can also be used to fill the joints between pavers when the joints are at least 1/8” in width.

5. Play—of course!

Sakrete Natural Play Sand has the same mineral make-up as any beach sand. It’s true that when used in industrial settings such as sand blasting, the silica in sand can be broken up into very fine particles that, if one is exposed to and inhaled for a period of time, may cause health problems. We do not recommend kids using our Play Sand for sand blasting (and adults who do that kind of work should always wear appropriate PPE.)

For those still a little concerned, keeping the sand slightly moist can help keep from flying up into children’s faces. (This still doesn’t stop my neighbor’s kids from eating it, but that’s whole different story.)

Two Places Not to Use Sakrete Play Sand

1. Aquariums

A Sakrete Natural Play Sand is not recommended for fish aquariums. Instead, look for a sand that is specially manufactured to not affect the pH level of the water in the tank.

2. Pool Filters

Typically, pool filters require sand of a certain size and coarseness to work as intended. Natural Play Sand doesn’t meet those specific size requirements and should not be used as filter sand.