How to Remove Rocks From Playground Sand

Rake the playground sand to remove rocks.

Playgrounds typically have sand as a ground cover because it is soft and provides an easier surface to fall on than rocks or similar hard materials. This prevents injury and keeps your child safe in the event of a slip or fall. When rocks are in the playground sand, children can sometimes throw them, leading to another potential injury. If rocks get into playground sand, remove them with a garden sifter.

Things You'll Need

• Rake
• Garden sifter
• Shovel

Instructions

1. Rake the playground to pull loose rocks out of the sand. Use a rake that has teeth close together so you can easily collect the smaller rocks as well.

2. Collect the rocks with the shovel and discard or relocate.

3. Sift the sand as needed with a garden sifter to collect smaller rocks. Collect some of the sand in the sifter and gently shake the sifter from side to side. The sand will fall through the small holes in the sifter but the rocks will not, allowing you to dump the collected rocks elsewhere.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase larger garden sifters at home improvement centers or online.

References

• Stoney Knoll Garden Sifters: Home

Resources

• The Soil Sifter: Before and After