The new mummy hack: Your treasure basket

To a baby, almost anything is a toy. We all know how much little ones love exploring everyday objects—things like the TV remote or a baby wipe packet are fascinating to them. A treasure basket takes that natural curiosity and turns it into a beneficial sensory play experience. Today I am going to show you what I put into my treasure basket.

What is a treasure basket?

You can use any box or basket that you have at home and fill it with household objects that vary in shape, texture, weight, size, and sound. Infants learn about the world by touching, smelling, mouthing (safely), and manipulating real objects with their hands. What age is it suitable for? Treasure baskets can be introduced from around 4–5 months, or when your baby can sit up unaided. They can also be enjoyed well beyond the baby stage into toddlerhood. Close supervision is essential at all times.

What are the benefits?

• Stimulates all five senses

• Promotes independent play

• Builds fine motor, gross motor, and hand-eye coordination

• Nurtures curiosity and concentration

• Develops confidence and a sense of achievement

Let's talk about what to put IN the treasure basket. You may have some of the things on this list already at home.

Wooden & natural items

• Wooden clothes pegs (dolly pegs)

• Wooden spoons

• Pinecones (check for sharp points)

• Smooth river stone (too large to swallow)

• Natural cork

• Wooden curtain rings

• Small wooden bowls or egg cups

• Sanded birch log slice
  

Metal items

• Spoons

• Measuring spoons on a ring

• Funnels

• Pastry brush

• Tea strainer (ball type on a chain)

• Jingle bell
  

Fabric & soft textures

• Velvet or grosgrain ribbon (

• Small faux fur or leather swatch

• Felt ball

• Clean terry cloth washcloth (rolled or flat)
  

Household & kitchen (clean and safe)

• Empty spice jar filled with dried beans or rice (lid glued shut)

• Silicone muffin cups

• Lemon squeezer (plastic or metal, no sharp edges)

• Unused dish brush with natural bristles

• Egg separator
  

Reflective & sound-making

• Unbreakable safety mirror (acrylic or mylar)

• Disposable aluminum pie plate (edges folded over twice)

• Small maraca (sealed spice jar)

• Old keys on a large wooden ring
  

Everyday items you may already have

• Whisk

• Sponge

• Shower pouffe

• Sieve

• Nailbrush (soft, unused)

• Unused makeup brush

• Bangles

• Toothbrush

Toy rotation

Let's keep things interesting and rotate the items. Keep only 5–7 objects in the basket at a time, and swap them weekly to maintain curiosity. Watch what your baby returns to again and again—that's their authentic learning in action. You can also buy our newborn sensory kit that includes items that are beneficial for your baby's development. Our entire taste-safe range is suitable for children from 6 months and you can find them here.

Safety information

• No choking hazards: Every item should be too large to fit through the opening of a standard toilet paper roll.

• No button batteries, magnets, or small detachable parts.

• No glass, sharp edges, or easily splintered wood.

• Check items regularly for wear, cracks, or loose pieces.

• Stay within arm's reach while your baby plays. Treasure baskets are not for cribs or unsupervised time.