Choosing a Cubby House This Summer: What Australian Families Should Know During Bushfire Season

Australia’s summers are getting hotter, drier, and more unpredictable — and for many families, that means thinking more carefully about outdoor play equipment, including cubby houses. While cubbies remain one of the best ways to encourage imaginative play and get kids outside, it’s worth considering how to choose, position, and maintain a cubby house in a way that suits today’s summer conditions.

This guide walks through the key things Australian parents should keep in mind when selecting a cubby house during a season where heatwaves and bushfire risks are top of mind.

🌡️ 1. Material Matters: Wood vs Plastic in Hot, Dry Conditions

Both wooden and plastic cubby houses can thrive in Australian backyards, but each behaves differently in extreme heat.

Wooden Cubby Houses

Naturally insulating

Sturdy and long‑lasting

Can be maintained with weather‑resistant coatings

Less prone to warping when properly sealed

Plastic Cubby Houses

Lightweight and easy to move

Low maintenance

Can heat up faster in direct sun

Best placed in shaded areas

Families in hotter regions often prefer wooden cubbies for their durability and temperature stability, especially when summer temperatures climb.

🔥 2. Choosing a Safe Location in Bushfire‑Prone Areas

Many Australian suburbs — even those not traditionally considered “rural” — now experience elevated fire danger days. While a cubby house is not a fire‑rated structure, thoughtful placement can reduce general risk.

General considerations include:

Positioning the cubby away from dense shrubs, dry grass, or leaf build‑up

Keeping the surrounding area clear and well‑maintained

Avoiding placement under large overhanging branches

Ensuring the cubby is easily accessible for quick checks and maintenance

These are simple, common‑sense steps that help keep your backyard tidy and reduce general hazards during summer.

🌬️ 3. Ventilation and Shade Are More Important Than Ever

With hotter summers, kids need outdoor spaces that stay comfortable.

Look for cubby houses with:

Multiple windows

Cross‑ventilation

Shade options (built‑in verandas, roof overhangs, or nearby trees)

Space for a small fan or cooling accessories if needed

Adding a shade sail or positioning the cubby under partial shade can make a huge difference in comfort.

🧽 4. Summer Maintenance Checklist

A quick seasonal check helps keep your cubby house in great condition:

Remove leaves and debris from around the base

Check for loose screws or hinges after heat expansion

Re‑seal wooden panels if needed

Clean windows and vents for better airflow

Inspect the roof for wear after storms

These small tasks extend the life of your cubby and keep it looking great year‑round.

🌱 5. Encourage Safe Outdoor Play During Hot Weather

Kids love their cubby houses, but summer play needs a little planning.

General tips many families follow include:

Using the cubby during cooler parts of the day

Keeping water bottles nearby

Adding soft mats or rugs inside to reduce heat transfer

Ensuring the cubby has shade and airflow

This helps create a safe, enjoyable play environment even on warmer days.

🏡 6. Why a Cubby House Is Still One of the Best Summer Investments

Despite hotter summers, cubby houses remain one of the most loved backyard additions for Australian families. They encourage:

Imaginative play

Outdoor time

Independence

Social interaction

Reduced screen time

With thoughtful placement and simple maintenance, a cubby house can be a safe, fun, and long‑lasting part of your backyard — even during Australia’s changing summer conditions.