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FAQ about Stapelstein®

Stapelstein® instructions for use
How Stapelstein® elements can be used? Plus

Free play and free movement development are the two main pillars of the pedagogically valuable Pikler philosophy, on which we strongly orient ourselves. Therefore, there are no set instructions. Even the youngest children are invited to try out movement and to have all kinds of experiences with their own bodies in free play. This includes, for example, climbing on the Stapelstein® Original, sitting in the bowl and spinning, holding up the Stapelstein® elements, knocking them over, building new play worlds, turning them over, filling them, carrying them around, and much more. 

Through their imagination, children keep discovering new features of the Stapelstein® Original and the Stapelstein® Board and grow through the challenges. We recommend ages one and older, since even the youngest discover free play and the accompanying free movement without specific instructions.

How many Stapelstein® elements are recommended to start? Plus

This always depends on the age of the child and the desired use. However, our best seller is  Stapelstein® Original rainbow which is great to start with at home. In Stapelstein® Original rainbow you will receive six colorful Stapelstein® Originals, offering you a variety of play options. The Stapelstein® Board can be purchased as set called Stapelstein® Original rainbow Set or it can be purchased as an individual element. With it, there are more great possibilities to use the Stapelstein® Originals, for example as an ergonomic stool for the desk or for particularly challenging balance courses. The more elements the more fun you can have with everyone.

Can the different Stapelstein® products be combined with each other? Plus

All Stapelstein® elements can be combined with each other.

Will the Stapelstein® products also be available in other colors? Plus

Our product portfolio is constantly growing and we can always add more colors to the store. Which color would you like to see? Feel free to send us an email with your feedback and inspiration. Subscribe to our newsletter here to never miss a product launch.

Does the Stapelstein® Original slip? Plus

When developing the Stapelstein® elements, we deliberately decided against slip nubs or similar. These would limit the play ideas and the possible applications. In addition, the recycling process would be limited.  

On slippery floors, the Stapelstein® elements can start to slip. Slipping occurs when the elements are stepped on hastily or on one side. A carpet, a kind of yoga mat or stepping on them from above prevents slipping.

Adult supervision is always recommended, please refer to our safety regulations.

Stapelstein® product information
How are Stapelstein® Originals and Stapelstein® Boards manufactured? Plus

The Stapelstein® Original and the Stapelstein® Board are 100% manufactured in Germany. This allows us to guarantee quality and a environmentally friendly, fair and climate-neutralized production.

What material are Stapelstein® Originals and Stapelstein® Boards made of? Plus

The Stapelstein® Original and Stapelstein® Board are made of resource-saving Expanded Polypropylene (EPP). The plastic is 100% recyclable and also free of blowing agents, plasticizers or other additives. The elements in mint and black contain some recycled material.

What do the elements feel like? Plus

The EPP used has an insulating property. Therefore, it feels warm even in a cold environment.

How can I clean the Stapelstein® Originals and the Stapelstein® Boards? Plus

The Stapelstein® Originals and the Stapelstein® Boards can be used outside in the same way as inside. Coarse dirt can be removed with clear water and a brush. After contact with water, we recommend placing the elements individually so that they can dry. Please note: Especially light colors are more susceptible to dirt, which may be difficult to remove.

Are Stapelstein® Originals and Stapelstein® Boards free of harmful substances? Plus

Yes! Both the Stapelstein® Original and the Stapelstein® Board are pure, food safe and certified. They are free of propellants, plasticizers and any other additives. 

My child bit the Stapelstein® while playing. What now? Plus

We point out in our warnings that pointed and sharp objects can leave permanent marks in the elements. This includes, for example, small, pointed teeth. The Stapelstein® Original and the Stapelstein® Board are free of propellants, plasticizers and any other additives, therefore there is no health risk. These are only small "blemishes". The material retains its stability.

Where can I find inspiration on how to use the elements? Plus

You can find specific game ideas and inspiration in our Stapelstein® Play Cards and in our Stapelstein® App (free for iOS and Android). All details about the basic functions of the Stapelstein® Original can be found here.

How resilient are the Stapelstein® elements? Plus

The Stapelstein® Original is 6,34 oz light and can withstand up to 396 lbs. The Stapelstein® Board is 9,45 oz light and can withstand up to 264 lbs.

How long do Stapelstein® Originals and Stapelstein® Boards last? Plus

All elements are water repellent and weather resistant. The material was tested on 60 sunny summer days at an air temperature of 77°F and humidity of 50%. Due to UV resistance, the color remains after exposure to the sun.  

EPP is a living material. Nevertheless, we advise not to store the Stapelstein® Originals as well as the Stapelstein® Boards permanently outdoors or wet areas for several years. After playing outdoors, we recommend placing them individually so they can dry completely. Whether indoor or outdoor, Stapelstein® brings movement into your life at any time of the year.

Stapelstein® Account
Where can I create a Stapelstein® account? Plus

Here you can create a new account or click on the small figure in the upper right corner. To sign up for an Account, all you need is an email address. 

As soon as you have placed an order your account will be created automatically. You can log in anytime by using the access code, that you received via e-mail.

Where can I log in with my account? Plus

To sign up for an Account, all you need is an email address. 

To register in the store, click on the small figure in the upper right corner. A window will open where you can enter your email address. You will then receive an access code from us by mail, which you need to log in and you can see all your orders at a glance.

Shipping and returns
Where is my package? Plus

As soon as your order has been processed, we will send you an email. You will receive the shipment notification with the tracking link from us. 

How much are the shipping costs? Plus

Within the US we ship free of charge from a purchase value of $200. For orders up to $100 we charge $4.75 shipping cost. For orders up to $200 we charge $9.75 shipping. You can find an overview of all other shipping costs here: Shipping costs

Why is there a Holiday Shipping Surcharge? Plus

The holiday shipping surcharge is applied by our carriers to help manage the increased demand and ensure timely deliveries during the busy holiday season. This adjustment allows them to provide extra resources, like additional staffing and logistics, to meet the high volume of shipments during this period. We’re committed to making sure your orders arrive as smoothly and quickly as possible, and we appreciate your understanding and support!

How long does the Holiday Shipping Surcharge Last? Plus

The holiday shipping surcharge will be in effect from October 30 to January 31. Starting February 1, regular shipping charges will resume. This temporary adjustment helps ensure timely deliveries during the busy holiday season. Thank you for your understanding and support!

How long are the delivery times? Plus

The estimated delivery time (within the US) is 4-5 days and can also be found in the product description. 

As soon as your package leaves our warehouse, you will receive an email with a tracking number.

I have a return. Where should I send it? Plus

To start a return you will need to contact our Customer Support team via email at info@stapelstein.com. Please send your order number and a reason for a return and they will email you a return label. For more information visit our Refund policy page.

As soon as we receive the return, we will refund your money. In order to further improve our product, we would be pleased to hear from you why you would like to return the Stapelstein® product.

Canada conditions
Important Shipping Update November 29, 2024 Plus

Starting November 29, 2024, USPS will temporarily pause sending international mail to Canada. This is due to the ongoing national strike by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, which has made it difficult for Canada’s postal system to process or deliver international mail.

If you’ve already sent mail to Canada, please note that you may experience delays in delivery. We appreciate your patience and understanding and will keep you updated as the situation evolves!

Will I have to pay customs separately? Plus

Customs are included in the cost of shipping.

Is the price in USD or CAD? Plus

Our pricing is in USD.

Can I pay in USD?  Plus

Checkout will prompt you to check pay in USD and a conversion will be associated once you have paid. 

Do you have a store in CAD?   Plus

No at the moment.

Where is it shipping from?  Plus

Our products are shipped from Germany to the US. For the US we can ship within the US, Alaska, Hawaii and Canada.

You have more questions?

Feel free to write us anytime about our chat function.