Best Budget
#1
Perfect for small-family patios or supervised kids' outdoor play
10 Best Patio Heaters For Kids of 2026
Best for Families
#2
Ideal for families who prioritize child locks and outdoor durability
Best Coverage
#3
Great for larger patios needing wide, adjustable heat coverage
#4
Good budget option for supervised outdoor family use
Best Overall
#5
Best for families wanting premium, adjustable, and safe patio warmth
Buying Guide
Safety features
For families with children, safety is the top priority. Look for heaters with cool-touch housings or protective grills, tip‑over or wall‑mount options to prevent knocks, and overheat cut‑outs to reduce burn and fire risks.
Heat type and surface temperature
Infrared (electric) heaters warm people and surfaces directly and typically have lower external temperatures than open-flame gas units, making them a better choice around kids. Check manufacturer data for surface temperatures and choose models with enclosed elements or diffusers to reduce accidental contact burns.
Installation and placement
Fixed wall or ceiling-mounted units keep the heater out of reach and are generally safer than freestanding mushroom-style gas heaters. Ensure sufficient clearance from play areas and follow the manufacturer’s installation guidance or use a qualified installer if required.
Weatherproofing and durability
Outdoor heaters should have an IP (ingress protection) rating—IPX4 (splash-proof) or higher is preferable for UK gardens and patios. Durable, rust‑resistant materials and a good warranty are important for long-term reliability in British weather.
Controls, efficiency and running costs
Look for adjustable heat settings, thermostats, and timers so you can limit output and running costs when children are present. Electric infrared heaters tend to be more energy efficient for short bursts of use, while gas heaters can be more costly to run and pose more safety concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best patio heater for kids in 2026?
In 2026, the best choice for families is generally a wall or ceiling-mounted electric infrared heater with an enclosed element, cool-touch housing, IP44 weatherproofing and an adjustable thermostat. These units keep heat out of reach, have lower external surface temperatures than gas mushroom heaters, and are widely available from UK retailers.
Is a patio heater worth buying in the UK if you have young children?
Yes — if you want to extend outdoor time through chilly evenings, a safe electric infrared heater is worth it, especially for small patios or covered areas. Choose a model designed for family use (cool-touch, mounted out of reach) to reduce risk and running costs.
Which patio heater offers the best value for money for families?
Electric wall- or ceiling-mounted infrared heaters usually offer the best balance of safety, running costs and longevity for families. They are typically cheaper to run for short periods than gas heaters and avoid exposed flames and very hot surfaces.
Are gas mushroom heaters safe around children?
Freestanding gas 'mushroom' heaters are not ideal around young children due to very hot surfaces, exposed heat sources and the risk of being knocked over. If you do use one, keep children well supervised and maintain a clear perimeter as recommended by the manufacturer.
Heatstrip vs Dimplex — which should I buy?
Heatstrip tends to offer premium-design infrared units with slim profiles and higher-end finishes, while Dimplex has more budget-friendly electric heaters widely stocked in the UK. Choose Heatstrip if you want designer aesthetics and robustness; choose Dimplex for accessible pricing and good availability.
Where can I buy child‑safe patio heaters in the UK?
Major UK retailers such as John Lewis, B&Q, Argos, Screwfix and Amazon UK stock a range of electric infrared and designer units. Buy from reputable sellers, check warranties, and ensure the product has CE/UKCA marking and an appropriate IP rating for outdoor use.
Do I need a Gas Safe engineer to install an outdoor patio heater?
If you are connecting a heater to a permanent gas supply or carrying out any gas work, you must use a Gas Safe registered engineer. Portable LPG patio heaters that are used as supplied usually don’t require Gas Safe installation, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
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