Embrace the thrill of winter by exploring creative alternatives to traditional sleds! When snow blankets the ground, there’s no need to fret if you don’t have a sled on hand. Everyday items can transform your sledding experience into an exciting adventure.
If you’re in the South where snow is a rarity, or you’ve been caught unprepared for an early season snow, you may find yourself in a conundrum when the white stuff starts pouring down. Lots of snow, no sled. Maybe you’re one of the lucky few with a store-bought sled. You’ll be the envy of the sledding hill crowd this snow day. But if not, don’t despair.
There’s a long tradition in the South of makeshift homemade sleds. In fact, I’d argue that snow sleds repurposed or created from household materials are the traditional sleds for snow days in the South.
I can easily teach you how to make a sled from items found around your house, but I can’t vouch for the effectiveness or safety of these techniques. Use your judgment. DIY sleds can be simple to make, but make sure that you’re being safe!
Make sure to check out this list of Snow Day Activities for Kids for more fun ideas!
Photo: Deposit Photos
Imagine the exhilarating ride on a trash can lid, or the unexpected fun of gliding down a hill atop an inflatable pool toy. Even a simple cardboard box can become a makeshift sleigh, offering a unique twist to your winter escapades.
These inventive and resourceful options not only add a dash of excitement to your snowy day but also give you a chance to make unforgettable memories with friends and family. So, grab what you can find and hit the slopes for a day of imaginative, icy fun! Let’s talk about what to use as a sled!
Next time you’re scratching your head and asking “what can i use as a sled?”, remember this list of homemade sled ideas!
What to use as a sled for snow day fun
Keep in mind that anything you repurpose for a makeshift sled will probably get ruined and no longer be able to serve its original purpose. But it’s worth it, right? Also, make sure you’re sledding on a hill that’s not crowded, and without obstacles like trees and rocks. Homemade sleds can’t be steered so safety is key!
How to make a sled
Here are 17 items you can repurpose into a DIY snow sled You might be surprised to learn that there are quite a few things to use as a sled!
- Fast constructed sled: This Instructables page shows how to make a fast sled from a cardboard box, a garbage bag and (of course) duct tape.
- Cookie sheet: Sneak a sturdy cookie sheet from the kitchen for a sledding adventure. Just don’t expect cocoa and cookies when you come back inside all wet and cold.
- Lid from plastic storage container: Got one of those Rubbermaid large storage containers or sweater boxes? Lift the lid for fun riding down snowy hills. Talk about a fast home made sled!
- Boogie board: It’s meant for the sea, but you can use it on the snow, too!
- Baby tub: If your tush is small enough, you can use a baby bathtub as a homemade snow sled. Better if it’s the tub that’s gathering dust in the basement, not the one your baby sister will need for bathtime that evening.
- Cushion from outdoor furniture: No one’s eating dinner outdoors tonight, so borrow cushions from your patio set to hit the slopes.
- Tarp: DIY sleds made from tarps work especially well if the snow is icy and hard.
- Inner tube: Do you have an inner tube left over from pool season? Blow it back up for an awesome snowy ride.
- Dog bed: Ask your dog first, and then wrap it in a trash bag with duct tape. (The dog bed, not the dog.)
- Shower curtain: Again, mom would prefer if you find an old one folded up in a closet, rather than taking the shower curtain that’s currently hanging in the bathroom.
- Trash can lids: Do not damage the roll-out trash cans provided by your county or trash company. The round metal or plastic lids that come completely off the can are your best bets.
- Cafeteria tray: The cafeteria tray is the old standby, although you might not have one in your house. (If you do, we won’t ask how you got it.)
- Trash bags: Learn how to make a sled out of a trash bag and maybe a piece of cardboard. (Note to self: Bring spares.) This is a fast and easy makeshift sled for the kids!
- Inflatable baby pool: Another summer toy you can repurpose into a homemade sled is the inflatable baby pool.
- Sleeping bag: Your camping trip just got way more fun.
- Air mattress: Below you’ll see a video of some people who made a sled from an air mattress and pantyhose.
- Yoga mat: It brings new meaning to downward-facing dog when you slide headfirst down a snowy hill on a yoga mat.
Laundry Basket: A sturdy plastic laundry basket can be used as a sled, especially for smaller children.
Plastic Tablecloth: A thick plastic tablecloth can be folded and used as a lightweight sled.
Kayak or Canoe: If you have access to a kayak or canoe, they can be used for a unique sledding experience.
Plastic Kiddie Pool: A small plastic kiddie pool can be used as a sled for a fun group ride.
Plastic Sign: Repurpose a large plastic sign or billboard material for a slick sled surface.
- Toilet Lid Cover: Perfect for a quick and easy solution!
As you can see, most things that have a smooth surface can work! Just remember that you can’t steer these, so you have to be extra careful with these options. Never put yourself in a situation near trees or other areas that could cause harm.
Parental supervision is advised for kids using any makeshift sleds. Be there with them – and have fun sledding, too!
What is a DIY sledge?
Have you ever heard someone refer to making your own sledge for snow fun? In case you’re curious, here is what a sledge actually is!
A DIY sledge is a makeshift sled that you can create using materials you have around the house. It’s a fun and cost-effective way to enjoy sledding without needing to buy a traditional sled.
The more you know!
This post originally appeared on Charlotte on the Cheap.
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