The 7 Best Cardboard Toys for Kids

Eco-friendly toys for kids!

It's an irony most parents have experienced at least once: They buy their kids the latest and greatest bells-and-whistles toy, only to find them playing for hours with … the cardboard box the toy came in. What's so great about cardboard? For one thing, it requires no batteries. And another thing: Using toys made of cardboard is good for the environment and is a great way to teach your kids to be more socially responsible and ecologically aware at a young age! And just one more perk of using cardboard toys: It leaves plenty of room for kids' imaginations. So in honor of the humble box, we've rounded up 7 amazing, eco-friendly cardboard toys your kids are sure to love.

Space Shuttle

1. Space Shuttle
This Shuttle Imagination will take your child on a new adventure every day. Besides, who doesn't want to be an astronaut when they grow up?
Buy this cardboard space shuttle

Storage and Play Boxes

2. Storage and Play Boxes
These storage boxes double as seats and can also be used for educational play - teaching your little one letters, shapes, and numbers.
Buy these storage and play boxes

Related: 10 simple changes you can make to go green in 2012

Washing Machine and Stove

3. Washing Machine and Stove
You can let your kids "do the laundry" and "cook" to their heart's content with these fun cardboard toys!
Buy this washing machine and stove

Cardboard Box Gas Pump

4. Cardboard Box Gas Pump
The best part about this cute cardboard gas pump? Every fill-up is free!
Make this cardboard box gas pump

Cardboard Guitar

5. Cardboard Guitar
Do you have a future musician in your family? Let them strum to their heart's desire with this handmade guitar they can decorate all on their own!
Make this cardboard guitar

Related: Eco-friendly products for kids - green toys, reusable snack bags, and more!

Casa Cabana by Kidsonroof

6. Nature-Inspired Playhouse
We love this super-fun playhouse, whether the kids transform it into their treehouse, mansion, or hiding shed.
Buy this nature-inspired playhouse

Creation Cottage Craft Model

7. Cardboard Cottage
The sturdy, white exterior of this little cottage gives your child a blank canvas to decorate however he or she wishes!
Buy this cardboard cottage

- By Rachelle Wilde

For 3 more eco-friendly cardboard toys for kids, visit Babble!

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