Play yards come in all shapes and sizes, some with only slight differences, Consumer Reports states. In its most basic form, a play yard is a metal-framed, fabric-covered, rectangle-shaped “baby container” whose four sides can be dropped so it can be folded and stashed in a carry case for easy transport. Many come with a full-sized bassinet feature, which is a secured hanging mesh attachment that uses the removable play yard floor as the mattress. This bassinet attachment can be removed and the mattress dropped to the bottom, allowing the play yard to be used with older babies or even young toddlers. Other optional attachments often include detachable toy bars, changing tables, diaper storage, and light/sound/vibration functions. Most play yards come with two wheels on one of the narrow ends so they can be tilted and easily rolled around the house. For our purposes, we only looked at foldable play yards (also called playards, playpens and pack and plays), not baby pens or gates that serve a completely different function, such as creating a barrier between baby and dangerous spots like stairs and fireplaces.
The simplest form of play yards are ones designed primarily to keep baby safe while mom and dad get a momentary break. In some cases, they offer ample space for toddlers to play safely, and in other cases, they are smaller areas more suitable for infants. They come with or without bassinets and rarely include many accessories and attachments. The parents we spoke to say they love using these playpens when they’re out and about — to the beach, to the park, to grandmas — as well as at home. When you’re on the go, these stripped-down models are perfect because they’re lightweight and simple. The smaller ones are less expensive ($100 or less), while the roomier versions can top out at nearly $200. The simplest form of play yards are ones designed primarily to keep baby safe while mom and dad get a momentary break. On the other end of the spectrum are dazzling deluxe models, with built-in shelves and electronic features that include music, vibration and nightlights.
Many have extensive toy bars, removable toy mats and even remote controls. All that’s missing are the steering wheel and brakes. These are perfect for the few parents out there who want to use a play yard instead of a crib. Often they are less expensive than a typical crib ($250 versus $500) and are easily folded and stowed away when baby is ready for a big-kid bed. However, most of the deluxe play yards are heavy (more than 30 pounds) and can’t be easily moved (some don’t even have wheels or fit through standard doorways). These features are important to point out because most parents buy play yards because they are lightweight and can be transported easily. We’d hate to see you invest a bundle in a souped-up model only to find down the road that it doesn’t suit some of the simplest needs. Of all of the advertised features that manufacturers say are important in a play yard, there are four specific ones that we think all play yards must possess no matter what: Back when a lot of us were kids, play yards weren’t necessarily the safest spot for tots (think wedged heads and pinched toes).
But thanks to increased federal oversight of design, construction and safety regulations, today’s play yards are safer than ever. For the purpose of this buying guide, we only considered models that meet the latest rules (enacted in February 2013) by the Consumer Product Safety Commission that state that play yards: It’s important to note that these federal regulations don’t have much teeth: Older play yards manufactured before February 2013 are still on the market so watch out and check the manufacture date. Also, we know it’s tempting to accept that hand-me-down play yard from your neighbor, but we suggest you politely pass and invest in a new one that meets the new safety regulations or put it on your registry. (Fortunately, our pick isn’t a budget-buster.) It’s also important that the mattress is firm and not too soft or overly padded. There may be a temptation to add an extra pillow or blanket to soften up the mattress, but don’t do it. Experts say these added items can only help to suffocate a child.
On a similar note, play yards must also have good air circulation. Enclosed play yards are downright dangerous. They must have breathable mesh walls. Don’t ever put bumpers in a play yard or a crib, as they add to the threat of suffocation. The JPMA also recommends that parents look for the JPMA Certification Seal, which ensures the product is tested annually to high safety standards. Also make sure you read and follow the product’s instructions. Play yards were originally designed as a portable area for baby to sleep and play. And we still think that’s an important feature. The best play yards are lightweight (less than 25 pounds), have wheels and can be easily maneuvered through a standard interior door when fully opened. Many of the upgraded play yard models are made wider than the basic models, making them more difficult to move through the house. Some of these models can weigh as much as 30 or more pounds. Also, many of the extras found on these deluxe models don’t fit into the travel bags, so you have to lug them in addition to the play yard.
Most parents who buy a play yard want (or will realize down the road that they want) one that’s compact and folds easily – trust us on this. Think overnights with Auntie and yoga in the living room with mom. Two words: spit-up and blowout. Your play yard should be easy to clean, and ideally, completely washable. Sure this seems superficial, but would you put a purple-orange couch in your red living room? We’d have to look at the couch.) Most of you would say no—so we looked at the various color schemes offered and picked a model with offerings for almost every taste, including bright colors for more daring decorators.. There are also other touches that push a play yard from good to great. They’re not mandatory but are certainly nice: On the flip side, some things are flat-out deal-breakers: And then there are the unnecessary features that some parents might be drawn to but mostly won’t need:In many cases, these storage spaces are small and difficult to access.