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Best Kids Trolleys & Children’s Shopping Cart Sets Rated in 2024

last updated Dec 30, 2019

Chances are you’ve had to take your little one shopping with you at some point. Maybe they loved it, maybe they get bored and restless quickly or are easily distracted and difficult to keep on-task. Whatever that outcome, your kids will likely start to imitate your habits soon, and shopping is a favorite role playing game among many children. Help them gear up and get ready to peruse the store with one of these mini trolleys made just for them! Errands might seem like a chore to you, but they’re still a fun game for your kids and they’ll have an even grander adventure with one of our top ten children’s shopping carts!

In a Hurry? The test winner after 23 hrs of research

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Melissa & Doug Sturdy Metal Frame
97.3/100 our score
Physical Development
98
Creativity
96
Design
98
Melissa & Doug Sturdy Metal Frame
Why is it better?

Constructed to be both durable and stable

The basket has a folding seat

Made by a highly reputable company

Features 360 degree wheels

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Melissa & Doug Sturdy Metal Frame
Test Winner: Melissa & Doug Sturdy Metal Frame
Amazon Link
Researched Sources
17
Researched Sources
Hours Researching
23
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
14
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Jessica Mentzer:

Shopping carts and trolleys are an exciting part of childhood memories. As a child, many of us pretended to shop and prepare meals just like our parents. These shopping carts are the best on the market and provide kids with an enriching experience that they will just love. We recently updated the list with two new items and removed two items that were no longer available.

Sorting Options
Physical Development Creativity Design By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97.3
Physical Development
98 %
Creativity
96 %
Design
98 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$47.59
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.7
Physical Development
97 %
Creativity
96 %
Design
97 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$52.28
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
Physical Development
93 %
Creativity
96 %
Design
96 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$24.99
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Physical Development
95 %
Creativity
93 %
Design
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.7
Physical Development
93 %
Creativity
94 %
Design
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$27.99
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
Physical Development
93 %
Creativity
93 %
Design
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.3
Physical Development
92 %
Creativity
92 %
Design
90 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$19.94
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.3
Physical Development
92 %
Creativity
91 %
Design
91 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.7
Physical Development
90 %
Creativity
90 %
Design
89 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$39.99
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.7
Physical Development
89 %
Creativity
89 %
Design
88 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link

10 Best Trolleys & Shopping Carts for Kids Reviewed

1. Melissa & Doug Sturdy Metal Frame

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97.3
Melissa & Doug Sturdy Metal Frame
Amazon Link
Physical Development
98
Creativity
96
Design
98
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$47.59

Constructed to be both durable and stable

The basket has a folding seat

Made by a highly reputable company

Features 360 degree wheels

This product is sold without accessories included

Metal pieces may cause injury to younger children

Not only is this adorable cart a perfect imitation of real carts found in stores, but it also features a basket for your child’s companion.

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Physical Development

Their favorite toy can travel along for the fun and assist children in making the healthiest or most economical choices. There are 360-degree pivoting wheels providing children the most fluid movement possible. The age recommendations are three years to six years of age.

Creativity

Their methods of design provide children with stimulating ergonomics to keep them engaged for hours.

Design

It is important to remember this cart must be used with caution as the metal pieces can cause serious injury. With a stable metal frame and durable construction, this cart is one that will last for years. These days, from puzzles to tables, Melissa and Doug is all over the place. They are well known for creating educational and fun toys for children. The history of the company alongside their goal makes for a high quality and durable product.

2. Little Tikes Yellow/Red

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.7
Little Tikes Yellow/Red
Amazon Link
Physical Development
97
Creativity
96
Design
97
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$52.28

Made with sturdy walls

Features a deep basket for storage

Comes with a storage shelf below

Includes a companion seat

Accessories not included

Wheels do not turn 360 degrees

Little Tikes, similarly to Melissa and Doug, is highly reputable in all things children. Little Tikes has been in business for over twenty years. They have produced children's cars, kitchens, and shopping carts for years so you can rest easy knowing your children’s best interest is at the heart of these designs.

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Physical Development

Due to its sturdy construction, toddlers will get a lot out of this shopping cart as far as exercise goes. It’s great for playtime but will also teach them how to balance and walk with something that also moves.

Creativity

Little Tikes is known for making stellar toddler products and this shopping cart is a great way to encourage imaginative play with yours. It’s sturdy, durable, and will last for years, making it a great playroom addition.

Design

This cart features durable walls for a sturdy construction and a deep basket for more storage. Below the basket is a shelf that is designed to give an extra compartment for storage. Children can easily learn the concept of sorting foods into categories like color or where on the food pyramid they may rank.

3. Battat Deluxe Toy Shopping Cart with Pretend Play Food Accessories

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
Battat Deluxe Toy Shopping Cart with Pretend Play Food Accessories
Amazon Link
Physical Development
93
Creativity
96
Design
96
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$24.99

Sturdy Shopping cart with extra-large capacity

Features accessory set with 23 pieces of pretend food

Stable design with smooth large molded wheels

Easy to push design with a handle to grasp

Promotes creativity and expands imaginations

Does not work well on hard surfaces, wheels go very fast

Pretend food boxes are poorly designed

Let the little ones shop the afternoon away with this shopping cart and accessory set. It features an extra-large capacity shopping cart with a large section of food just for your little one to choose from. The cart offers just the right amount of space for all their supplies and the set comes with everything that they see you buying in the store on one of your grocery trips. The set will provide hours of shopping fun right from your living room or playroom.

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Physical Development

Walking behind a shopping cart provides kids with stuff a fun experience while really giving their gross motor skills a workout that will keep them active. As they push the cart with their arms grasping the handle then when selecting the supplies they are able to reach out and place the items in the cart. This is a great way to also provide them with an activity to work on their hand eye coordination.

Creativity

As they pretend to shop and look for the items that would be needed to prepare a meal these skills allow their imagination to go wild. They can pretend to go shopping collecting items for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Then as they pack up the items and bring them into the home they can prepare a meal that is fun and exciting for everyone. Shopping carts are a way to provide and encourage your little one to pretend to shop for food and items that are necessary around the house. This encourages an active and healthy lifestyle.

Design

This shopping cart is designed to be easy to push and stable for those early walkers. It features molded wheels that are large and roll very smoothly providing the little ones with a safe and easy to push a shopping cart. The set comes with over 23 pieces of pretend food items that fill that shopping cart right up. It has dairy items, pasta boxes, and even some cute molded fruits and vegetables. It is best designed for little ones that are over the age of 3 year old because of the food accessory package.

4. Step2 Little Helpers

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Step2 Little Helpers
Amazon Link
Physical Development
95
Creativity
93
Design
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Lightweight construction

Features a bottom shelf for additional storage space

Wheels are designed with a durable construction

The cart is easy to clean and sanitize

Wheels do not pivot in a 360-degree motion

The Step 2 Helpers Kids Shopping Cart has wheels that are designed to provide children with a smooth ride and fluid motion. It’s made of soft plastic materials that are safe for the occasionally unavoidable bonk on the head.

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Physical Development

Should you notice your child has a hard time gaining stability there is a hole in the bottom that can be filled with sand. Adding this sand can create extra weight and give children a more sturdy toy to lean on. This particular cart offers some headache free features beneficial to adults.

Creativity

Learning to walk can take time, patience and quite frankly the willpower to succeed. Babies find themselves leaning on tables or knees for support.

Design

Assembly is minimal and so easy to do. To take it one step further, this cart is made with materials that are easy to clean and sanitize so children can share the fun, without sharing the germs. This lightweight cart is designed to be easy to maneuver for smaller children and toddlers learning to walk.

5. Melissa & Doug Fill & Roll Basket Play Set

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.7
Melissa & Doug Fill & Roll Basket Play Set
Amazon Link
Physical Development
93
Creativity
94
Design
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$27.99

Shopping basket design that can be pushed, pulled, or carried along

Features 11 fun filled accessories with the set

All items created from high material durable materials

Wheels designed for easy rolling

Best suited for children over the age of three years old

Pretend food items are designed with cardboard boxes

Features cans are not made of durable materials

This is such a fun design of a shopping cart. It is a grocery basket with wheels and an adjustable handle. The handle is expandable making it easy to either; push, pull, or carry. The set comes with the shopping cart plus 11 play pieces of pretend food items. It even includes a shopping list that has a checklist and a pencil that can be stored right on the side of the basket. It is a cute set that will provide the kids with hours of pretend shopping fun.

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Physical Development

Rolling this basket along provides the kids with an experience that promotes hand eye coordination. The set comes with three boxes of labeled food items, cans that have pop off lids, and a shopping list that is double sided. Each of these items along with the shopping basket provides an excellent way to promote the hand eye coordination that is needed to be successful in many developmental milestones.

Creativity

The fill and roll design of this shopping basket set gives children that are over the age of three years old an opportunity to expand their creativity and encourage social interactions. The stacking, sorting, and movement of the shopping basket is a multiple step process and design that allows kids to use their imaginations while also providing them with a hands on activity that is engaging.

Design

When children’s toys like this shopping basket are designed they are designed to provide children with an experience that encourages interactions and inspires. This allows children to connect with other children and also allows parents to interact with their parents in a positive enriching activity. From pulling the shopping basket to discussing what is needed for the dinner they are preparing together this shopping cart is designed to inspire a truly unstructured playtime activity.

6. Bright Starts Giggling Gourmet

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
Bright Starts Giggling Gourmet
Amazon Link
Physical Development
93
Creativity
93
Design
93
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Encourages imaginative play

Gets kids active

Great for toddlers

Fully interactive with real sounds and lights

Features a shape-sorter

It can become overwhelming to some kids with so many features

If your kids are going to help you shop then they should learn to cook too, right? This shopping cart is a three-in-one that will help them learn to “cook”, “shop”, and sort with the shape-sorter located in the base of the cart.

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Physical Development

This cart does offer a lot in the way of play time, but we really like that it’s all conducive to a child’s skill set. Whether they’re playing with the shape-sorter or learning how to walk around with a moving object, they’re still improving coordination and mental capacity.

Creativity

This shopping cart will get kids up and moving around but also improve their creativity through imaginative play. The shape-sorter on the bottom only adds to the fun and will teach them the basics of geometry when they’ve finally settled down.

Design

The popcorn-popper makes a realistic popping sound when pushed around and also lights up to simulate real stovetop cooking. It’s fully interactive and when kids aren’t pushing it around, they can play with the shape-sorter on the bottom when the cart is stationary.

7. Battat Play Circle 30-piece

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.3
Battat Play Circle 30-piece
Amazon Link
Physical Development
92
Creativity
92
Design
90
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$19.94

Comes with 29 food items in the set

Wheels are designed for durability

Comes with an adjustable handle

Features a large basket with ample room

The wheels may have a hard time moving smoothly over carpet floors or rugs

This whole set comes with thirty pieces including 29 groceries and 1 cart. These foods can help children with color recognition and sorting skills.

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Physical Development

Children develop and grow at different rates, they have varying heights and weights so it can be hard to find a toy that will work for every child in your home. The base of this is our bone structure, usually hereditary. Because of this toddler's hands vary in size and grow rapidly. In order to keep up with the needs of children, this cart has an adjustable handle that provides the most in ergonomics and can aid in keeping this toy relevant to child’s play for years to come.

Creativity

Among these items commonly found at the grocery store are nutritional foods like fruits and vegetables to help reinforce to children the importance of healthy eating. The large spacious basket can hold a large number of toys thereby allowing children to get the most out of their imaginary shopping experience.

Design

Children are rambunctious and can cause a lot of destruction. This cart is designed with smooth rolling wheels that won’t damage floors.

8. Step2 Little Helper's

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.3
Step2 Little Helper's
Amazon Link
Physical Development
92
Creativity
91
Design
91
best offer for today
Amazon Link

No assembly required

Made with low walls for ease of toy access

Features a lower shelf for extra space

No grate basket design for more security

Features a wide stance for more stability while in motion

May tip over easily as children grow heavier

No assembly required is one of the best things to hear because it usually means instant gratification. This cart comes fully assembled so keep in mind the shipping size will be much larger than other carts on this list, however, it does offer you a hassle-free alternative.

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Physical Development

Step2 Little Helpers is a great selection for smaller children who are learning to walk. The lightweight construction makes it easy to maneuver and control. Featuring a wide stance this cart provides a more stable foundation for children to lean on in the midst of achieving balance.

Creativity

One of the best things about this cart is its great design. This means there are no little holes or crevices for toys or pretend keys to fall down or get stuck in. Great for imaginative play!

Design

Children can easily move about with these smoothly gliding wheels and the extra support offered by this great first shopping cart. The lower shelf space gives children more room to store their things and separate sections to help them stay organized.

9. Toysmith Miniature

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.7
Toysmith Miniature
Amazon Link
Physical Development
90
Creativity
90
Design
89
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$39.99

Fully functional and made to scale shopping cart for kids

Durable and sturdy wheels on the bottom of the cart

Constructed from heavy duty metal wire

Great for indoor and outdoor play

Encourages motor developmental skills

Basket part comes away from the frame easily

Assembly does take some time and patience

Functional, fun, and great for kids who want to pretend to shop. This miniature shopping cart is a fully functional cart that looks and feels like the ones at the store but is just the right size for the little ones in your life.

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Physical Development

Shopping carts for kids are a wonderful way to keep them active and playing while also building their motor developmental skills. These skills are most often best practiced and built upon during playtime activities. This shopping cart along with some pretend shopping in and around the house is a great activity for the little ones.

Creativity

When received the shopping cart does require some assembly. If you are looking to expand their imagination, build their motor skills, and keep them active this miniature shopping cart is just for your little one.

Design

It has sturdy and durable wheels on the bottom, and the cart part has been made from metal wire that is heavy and tough. The shopping cart is great for being used inside, but it can also be taken outside to be enjoyed as well. It has been created and is best-suited for children that are over the age of three years old.

10. Little Tikes Shop 'N Learn

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.7
Little Tikes Shop 'N Learn
Amazon Link
Physical Development
89
Creativity
89
Design
88
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Two-tier shopping cart

Removable basket

Eight interactive food items

Scanner is compatible with all Shop N’ Learn foods

Free play and game mode

The cart itself is a little flimsy so make sure your child is a steady walker

Little Tikes is at it again with their Shop N’ Learn Smartcart. This cart is equipped with two play modes: free play and game mode. Free play allows children to role play a shopping trip all their own.

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Physical Development

Game mode asks children to identify and scan the right items, as well as scanning different amounts of items and other activities that help to build basic skills. A removable basket on the bottom allows more than one child to play at a time, and the smart scanner is compatible with all Little Tikes Shop N’ Learn packages and toys.

Creativity

Free mode allows kids to enjoy creative role-playing while the game mode asks them to identify and scan specific food items, as well as count a certain number of items, and other educational activities. If you want to challenge your child, expand their collection with more Little Tikes Shop N’ Learn foods.

Design

They can learn about the foods they’re browsing with the scanner. The basic Smartcart comes with a baguette, a pizza, a bundle of asparagus, a can of mac and cheese, a juice box, a carton of strawberries, a tomato, and a muffin. You can also upgrade to the SmartCart with Three Meals, which includes three packages full of interactive foods to make breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Physical Development

It is not guaranteed that babies will never fall down even with this support so always remember it is not recommended that babies learning to walk be exposed to the metal carts. These can cause serious damage or injury to your baby’s mouth and face. There are soft plastic options that are great for babies learning to walk. This can help to improve coordination and balance. Additionally, through the actions of wrapping little hands and fingers around their toys and filling and emptying their carts, toddlers are given ample opportunity to improve their fine-motor skills.

Creativity

By improving these skills, neurological pathways in the brain are stimulated and thereby strengthened to improve memory and cognitive abilities. There are endless possibilities to enhance creative play and foster brain development.

Design

Undoubtedly, durability and strength coincide with quality. These carts are made of high-quality materials that are meant to last and provide children with hours of fun. The age recommendations for these toys range from 2 or 3 and up. Keep in mind the age recommendation is put in place to ensure children’s safety. The metal carts may cause injury to small children and the plastic carts may be too small for children ages 4 or 5. It is important to know your child’s limitations and capabilities while deciding which of these is right for them.

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Parents, did you know?

Children can make long-lasting memories with their friends or family by playing store and engaging in a number of other fun and imaginative games. Expose them to the concept of gender fluidity by encouraging them to swap gender roles and let little boys make a pretend run to the store. This action will encourage men and women to feel adequate to each other and to appreciate the hard work cultivated by one another. From happy memories to the aid of healthy brain, function these toys are a wonderful option in providing so much joy to children.

Parents, did you know?

With these carts, children can help make things just a bit easier for you while simultaneously learning what it means to shop for the most nutritional food, how to stay on budget and even the concept of patiently waiting in line until it’s their turn to go through the checkout stand. Shopping carts that are designed for toddlers offer a wide range of benefits to brain function and muscle development. All babies must fall a few times in the process of learning to walk. This can often lead to frustration but these carts provide toddlers with a mobile walker to offer them extra support and something solid to hold during this process.

Other Factors to Consider

Safety

As production has shifted from man to the machine, we are often left feeling unsure about the chemical compounds we expose our children to but when we see or hear about companies that are highly reputable we are given some peace of mind. The companies that distribute the items on this list are well-known for producing toys for children that are safe and nontoxic. Many of these companies are operated and owned by parents who hope to bring a wholesome toy to children in a world that has quickly become overwhelming and chaotic with products that are manufactured by the masses.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Can the wheels turn 360 degrees?

a:

This list consists of options that do have 360-degree spinning wheels. However, most, have wheels that can only go front to back.

q: Can these carts be used at the store?

a:

Yes! These carts are miniature so they aren’t meant to support a load of groceries. However, if you feel like taking the cart with you, children can participate in the shopping experience by placing a few lightweight items in their cart. Keep in mind that some grocery stores already have children’s shopping carts available.

q: What are the recommended ages?

a:

The age recommendations range from 2 to 6 years old. For example, the metal cart is suited for children a bit older than a toddler. The metal frame may cause injury without proper care.

q: How can I find replacement parts?

a:

Each manufacturer for most products has a page on their site that explains how you can find replacement parts.

q: Do these carts come fully assembled?

a:

These products come with some adult assembly required. This makes them easier to package and ship. They come with step-by-step instructions for assembly.

q: What are some benefits to simulating a shopping cart for toddlers?

a:

Not only are they really helpful for improving skills like balance, but these shopping carts are also a great way to keep your kids engaged and even occupied while you are at the store.

q: Where are these toys made? What are they made of?

a:

Most are made and distributed in the U.S. or Canada and a few are comprised of materials from China. All the carts on this list are plastic or metal. There is one wood option if you are looking to find a chemical-free alternative.