As a longtime fan of the original Nugget Play Couch, I couldn’t wait to test the new Nugget Smore play chair to see if it lived up to the hype. My family has owned the couch for more than seven years, and it’s still one of our most-used toys. So I wondered whether the chair would be just as popular with my kids. Billed as a modular play chair that’s “smore than a chair,” it promises to be equal parts seating and imaginative play.
But with so many kids’ furniture options competing for space in our homes, I wanted to know: Is the Nugget Smore chair actually worth adding to the playroom? So I ordered one and tested it with my three kids. Here is my honest Nugget Smore play chair review!
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Why is Nugget so popular?
If you’re new to the brand, Nugget has earned an almost cult-like following among parents over the past several years—and for good reason. What started as the original Nugget Play Couch has become one of the most beloved playroom staples thanks to its clever modular design that transforms from a comfy couch into forts, obstacle courses, slides, reading nooks, and just about any imaginative creation kids can dream up.
Built with high-quality foam, durable washable covers, and endless open-ended play possibilities, the Nugget has become a favorite for families looking to invest in toys that grow with their children. Its reputation for durability and for encouraging screen-free, creative play has parents eagerly following each new color release and product launch, such as the Nugget Chunk play ottoman in 2024 and the Nugget Smore play chair in 2026.
Quick take: Is the Nugget Smore worth it?
Yes—especially if your child loves imaginative play. After testing the Nugget Smore with my three kids, I found that it works best as a piece of play furniture rather than just a chair. It’s lightweight, easy to clean, grows with kids, and adds even more possibilities when paired with the Nugget Play Couch.
- Best for: Ages 2–8, families who love open-ended play, and existing Nugget owners.
- Skip it if: You’re only looking for a traditional reading chair.
What is the Nugget Smore Chair?
Intended for children ages two and older, the Smore chair is Nugget’s latest invention. It’s a three-piece chair: the frame, elbow, and block.
Those pieces are intentionally designed as an arch, a triangle, and a block, allowing kids to incorporate them into forts, obstacle courses, and any other imaginative play they dream up.
Nugget Smore vs. Nugget Play Couch: What’s the difference?
| Nugget Smore | Nugget Play Couch | |
| Best for: | Younger kids, independent play | Large forts + group play |
| Pieces | 3 pieces | 4 pieces |
| Size | 27″ x 27″ x 21.75″ | Larger footprint |
| Ages | 2+ | 1+ |
| Price | $199-$229 | Higher investment |
The new chair is a standalone product from Nugget, but can be incorporated into the play couch. Like the couch, it’s high-quality and machine-washable. But it’s smaller than the couch, measuring 27 inches wide by 27 inches deep and 21.75 inches high.
When my kids were younger, they sometimes needed my help dragging the Nugget play couch to another play area. But the chair is small and lightweight enough that they can move it themselves for movie night or to take it back into their bedroom with a favorite book.
It’s also a little less expensive. The price tag is $199 to $229, and it comes in a single size that grows with your child.
“When my kids were younger, they sometimes needed my help dragging the Nugget play couch to another play area. But the chair is small and lightweight enough that they can move it themselves.”
Can you use the Smore Chair without a Nugget couch?
Absolutely! It’s a chair all on its own and doesn’t require the couch. It can operate as a tent, a fort, a ramp, a table, a boat, and many more whimsical things.
The main difference my children have noticed is that when it’s converted into a tent or fort, it has a smaller crawl space than the couch does. For that reason, my 3- and 8-year-olds like using it for playtime more than my older kids.
What are the features of the Smore Chair?
It’s easy to clean and keeps the air clean, too
Like the Nugget couch, it’s pretty easy to keep clean, thanks to its removable slipcovers for easy washing. I’ve also been able to use a rag to spot-clean it as needed in small sections. It’s also Greenguard Gold certified, meaning it’s designed to emit lower levels of chemicals and help keep indoor air cleaner.
It’s a modern design
I love that this product has clean, straight lines for a modern feel that matches many decor styles. And the color choices are neutral enough for many interior spaces, too, ranging from blush pink to dark-wash denim.
You can personalize it
This might be the best part. For the first time, a Nugget product can be personalized with a child’s name in a variety of fonts. Now your child can feel extra special in their favorite new chair.
The Smore inspires play
My children are truly inspired to play more with their Nugget couch, and the chair is the same. Fresh out of the box, my children started constructing new play inventions. It combines engineering with imagination, and I feel strongly that it’s benefiting their development.
Nugget Smore vs Pottery Barn Anywhere Chair
If your main buying intention is for a kiddie chair, the Smore has a competitor: Pottery Barn’s trademarked Anywhere Chair. Here’s a quick comparison of the two:
| Nugget Smore | Anywhere Chair | |
| Price | $199-$229 | $129-$219 |
| Best for: | Play + seating | Reading/lounging |
| Ages | 2+ | 1+ (multiple sizes) |
| Design | Modern | Traditional |
| Washable? | Yes | Yes |
| Personalization? | Yes | Yes |
| Greenguard Gold Certified | Yes | Yes |
| One Size | Yes | 3 sizes |
| Colors/Patterns | 10 solid colors | 30+ colors/patterns/fabrics |
I’d also say both chairs are aesthetically attractive. The Pottery Barn may have the edge thanks to its extensive selection of fabrics and patterns, including plaids, ruffles, florals, Sherpa, and cotton twill. It has a more classic, upholstered-armchair look with rounded arms. But if a clean, modern look is more your style, then the Smore will likely win out. It’s also good to know that both chairs can be personalized.
Choose the Pottery Barn Anywhere Chair if…
- You want a traditional children’s armchair that matches your home’s decor perfectly.
- You love having lots of fabric and pattern options.
- You’re shopping for a very young toddler and prefer a chair sized perfectly for that stage.
Choose the Nugget Smore if…
- You want furniture that doubles as a toy.
- You already own a Nugget Play Couch and want pieces that work together.
- You’re looking for a chair your child can continue using as they grow.
- You like the idea of supporting a business committed to American manufacturing.
Is the Nugget Smore chair worth the price tag?
My kids have owned their Nugget Smore chair for a few weeks now, and it’s blending seamlessly into playtime as an additional support to their Nugget Play Couch, allowing them to build bigger, more intricate forts.
“My kids have owned their Nugget Smore chair for a few weeks now, and it’s blending seamlessly into playtime as an additional support to their Nugget Play Couch, allowing them to build bigger, more intricate forts.”
Overall, the biggest lover of this chair is my three-year-old. He’s the perfect size to crawl under the arch portion, and he’s found all sorts of ways to configure it. My older kids, ages eight and 13, also like the Smore, but feel it’s better as an additional piece to their couch than by itself, since it’s not big enough to build the monstrous-sized forts they prefer.
For us, the chair is worth the investment because it adds to the fun of playtime.
FAQs about the Nugget play chair
What age is the Nugget Smore for?
The Nugget Smore is designed for children ages 2 and older.
Is the Nugget Smore worth it if you already own a Nugget Couch?
Yes. The Smore works as an extension of the Nugget Couch, allowing kids to create larger builds and new configurations.
Can the Nugget Smore replace a kids chair?
It depends. It works well as both seating and a play piece, but families looking for a traditional reading chair may prefer the Pottery Barn Anywhere Chair.
Does the Nugget Smore need the Nugget Couch?
No. The Smore works independently as a standalone chair and play structure.
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Kris Ann Valdez, Contributing Writer
Kris Ann Valdez is a mom and freelance journalist who covers parenting, lifestyle, and science-based topics. Beyond The Everymom, Kris Ann contributes to national outlets such as Good Housekeeping, Parents, and Scary Mommy. She’s also the creator of “The Guide Girl,” a Substack dedicated to inspiring writers to pursue publication.
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