Start by choosing a ball pit to suit the space at home and what the package includes. A ball pit without balls and a complete set can look almost identical in photos, but require different purchases. The four MeowBaby variants we compare below all come without balls.
Ball pit with or without balls: what is included?
A ball pit without balls is relevant if you want to choose balls separately or already have balls that the manufacturer specifies as suitable for the pit. If you are starting from scratch, you will need both a pit and balls. The product photo should therefore not be your only guide to what to buy.
A ball pit with balls brings the two parts together in one set. One example is the PlushNest round corduroy ball pit with 200 balls. The pit is listed as Ø 90 × H 30 cm, and both the pit and 200 balls are included. The colour of the pit and the mix of ball colours depend on the variant selected.
In the range of ball pits and balls, you can compare pits without balls, separate balls and sets with balls. Always read the contents listed for the exact item you choose.
Compare four MeowBaby ball pits without balls
Here are four specific MeowBaby variants. They have the same stated outer diameter, height and material; the differences in this comparison are shape and colour.
| Model and colour | Diameter × height | Balls included |
|---|---|---|
| MeowBaby whale – cream | 90 × 30 cm | No |
| MeowBaby whale – oat beige | 90 × 30 cm | No |
| MeowBaby turtle – dusty ice blue | 90 × 30 cm | No |
| MeowBaby turtle – cream beige | 90 × 30 cm | No |
All four have bouclé covers made from recycled polyester and polyurethane foam filling. None of the four is listed as larger than the others, and balls shown in the photos are not included with these items. Choose between the whale and turtle according to the look you prefer, and plan to buy balls separately.
Which balls can you buy separately?
MeowBaby's set of 200 balls in beige, mint, white and pastel pink contains 200 flexible plastic balls with a diameter of 7 cm. The ball pit is not included. Here, the colour name describes the balls, whereas the colour name of a complete set may also describe the pit itself.
If you already have balls, their size and suitability must match the manufacturer's instructions for the new pit. The number 200 describes the contents of the ball set mentioned; it is not a general recommendation for how many balls every pit should be filled with. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and filling.
Measure more than the pit itself
Measure the floor space and leave clear access to reach the child and pick up balls. Avoid arranging the room so tightly that doors or drawers can only be opened after moving the pit. Compare the stated external dimensions, rather than relying only on the model name or a lifestyle photo.
Use the pit under adult supervision. A ball pit is intended for the play described and must not be used as a bed or a pool filled with water.
Covers and washing: what information is provided?
The materials listed for the four MeowBaby variants are recycled polyester and polyurethane foam. Their product pages do not specify a washing temperature or state whether the covers are removable. These points therefore cannot be used as a documented difference between the four variants.
There is no single washing instruction for all fabrics. Bouclé, velvet and other surfaces may need different care. Follow the care label supplied, and clarify how to wash the cover and clean the foam before buying if this is important to your choice.
Three things to clarify before choosing
- Do you need a pit, balls or both? The four MeowBaby variants above come without balls; the PlushNest example includes 200 balls.
- Will the dimensions fit the room? Compare diameter and height, and allow free space around the pit.
- Will the care requirements suit everyday life? Look for the specific care instructions for your chosen variant.
See all ball pits and balls, and choose the package contents first, followed by shape, colour and materials.
Prepared by Theo & Sally. Product information checked on 8 November 2026 on the linked product pages. The descriptions on MeowBaby.uk of the Shelly whale and Shelly turtle were used to cross-check the stated dimensions. The linked sets on MeowBaby.uk include balls; the MeowBaby variants in the table are sold without them. This guide compares selection criteria and is not a test of the products' safety or durability.