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During the early stages of your baby’s life, a swing or bouncer is often sufficient to keep them engaged. However, as they transition to sitting up, rolling over, and even crawling, a high-quality playard, commonly referred to as a playpen, becomes an essential asset. These clever contraptions provide a secure and convenient space for your little one to unwind, have fun, and explore, all while allowing you to maintain a watchful eye on them.
The best baby playpens mentioned in our list carve out a secure world for little adventurers to explore. Plus, they have an extra trick up their sleeves:
- Morphing into nifty changing stations
- Mimicking the snug comfort of bassinets
- Transforming into handy portable cribs
So, without any further ado, let’s get to the best baby playpens.
14 Best Playpens for Babies
6 Types of Nipples
1. Graco Pack 'n Play Playard
For generations, this playpen has reigned as the go-to choice. This large playpen for babies is a sturdy contender, equipped with a cozy cradle for fresh arrivals, a changing station, and an infant-suitable bassinet add-on. Not to mention, it flaunts a wipe holder that’s within arm’s reach.
The crib mattress? It’s your everyday, no-frills size, wrapping your little one in a cloud of comfort. It has unmatched durability, a buffet of options to pick from, wallet-friendly sheets that are just the right size, and an unbeatable bang for your buck. Plus, when spills or messes strike, a swift wipe-down is all it takes to restore its glory.
The changeroom is your handy helper, and the bassinet’s dance of lifting in and out is a smooth move. However, be ready for a hefty contender (almost 40 pounds) that plays tough to fold.
Amazon Reviews
We did not put this on our registry and I regret it! If you are going to be traveling at all with baby you are going to need a pack and play! This one is great because it comes with the bassinet portion but not all the unnecessary add-ons that up the price. We use this everyday whether, it’s as a playpen, or diaper changing station, or even a portable napping space. Would I buy it again? Yes!
– Sarah
I bought this for my first grandchild. It’s just as well built, with a few more bells and whistles, as the one I used 25 years ago for my babies.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
2. Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib
Guava is a fresh face in the parenting lineup, dedicated to crafting top-notch, inventive baby gear. They’ve got an added bassinet that piggybacks on the playpen’s base, giving you extra bang for your buck.
Here’s the kicker – it weighs a mere 11 pounds and snugly tucks into a backpack they toss in. In the blink of an eye, it springs open, and its crib sheet size mirrors that of the Björn (which you will read about in a minute). Ground-hugging and steadfast, it’s as reliable as they come. It assembles in a blink of an eye.
While the bassinet isn’t a standard guest, and it’s shy on some of the extras the Graco boasts, it’s a close second. But here’s the plot twist: it’s smoother to set up, it packs a tighter bundle, and it’s a lightweight champ.
Amazon Reviews
I LOVE this pack n play. Someone had gotten us a Graco one before…this is so, so much better. It is super easy to set up, ACTUALLY fits back in the bag (unlike the Graco one we had), and my baby loves it! She slept very well. The mattress feels super comfy and is nicely padded. I also love the backpack feature! It was easy to carry and not heavy. Overall, highly recommend and this will be my first recommendation to new parents!
– Borbs
We had a different travel crib and it was way too heavy for our traveling. We got this one and it’s the perfect size & weight and super easy to set up and disassemble!
– hayz
For more product reviews visit Amazon
3. Regalo My Portable Play Yard
What’s awesome about this playpen is that it is waterproof and you can just hose it down. Another cool thing? The price! It’s budget-friendly and great for keeping at Grandma’s or Auntie’s place as an option. It’s like the perfect backup playpen.
This travel crib is light and simple to open, perfect for rough adventures. It doesn’t lose its color in the sun and can fit a bunch of toddlers inside.
In a nutshell, it’s a basic choice that’s tough and won’t break the bank. Super affordable and built to last!
Amazon Reviews
We bought this portable playpen for me to have something easy to take along with me from room to room, so that I can get things done while not having to worry about my toddler getting into everything. But we actually took it along with us to the beach for his safe sleep space and it worked perfect. There isn’t any type of mattress on this, just a thin lining, so we put a nice thick blanket underneath of it and that was plenty to keep it soft enough for him to sleep on (resembling the firmness of a crib mattress anyway). I’m happy with the size and the ease of popping it up and down.
– Tiffany
I bought this to use while traveling and it’s perfect. Be sure you are putting it on carpet or you have lots of blankets because even the extra pad is quite thin. The toddlers couldn’t climb out and the baby was very comfortable cruising around. It’s beats the pack n play because there is no wobbly frame to interfere with sleep-transfer. I arrived at 11pm. Opened the Amazon box and set this thing up in 30 seconds. No directions needed.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
4. The California Beach Co. POP’N GO Baby Playpen
For the park goers and beach buffs, this playpen is a great option. A certified UPF 50+ canopy comes standard, guaranteeing sun-free fun in this instant-setup pop-up paradise.
In a mere 60 seconds, you’re all set. And cleaning? Child’s play. A hose-down does the trick, making it an outdoor playpen for babies.
Amazon Reviews
For more product reviews visit Amazon
5. 4moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard
4Moms Breeze is an innovative play yard that sets itself apart by offering one-handed folding convenience, making it one of the best baby playpens.
With user-friendly features, the bassinet and changer effortlessly attach and detach, while the mattress boasts a comfortable and breathable design. Notably, it distinguishes itself with a broader base for enhanced stability, ensuring a secure environment as your little one explores their moves.
The play yard’s frame is entirely clad in an easy-to-clean fabric, complemented by well-cushioned top bars to prioritize your baby’s safety. Accommodating your child’s growth, you can adjust the mattress/base positioning, either in the center or at the base of the playpen. The 4Moms Breeze offers exceptional quality without the premium price tag.
Amazon Reviews
One of the easiest things to assemble and disassemble in our baby gear stash.
I’m using this set in place of a crib and it’s great! Gets the job done. I wish the changing pad was 100% waterproof (the black isn’t waterproof) but otherwise it’s a gray product! Currently still only using the bassinet, able to use the area underneath as storage!
– MBell
For more product reviews visit Amazon
6. BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light
This travel crib weighs a mere 13 pounds, significantly lighter compared to other options in the market. Its compact design is tailored to fit effortlessly into any airline’s baggage compartment.
With a simple one-motion folding and setup mechanism, no loose parts are involved, and the mattress features a sturdy base plate for added stability. The crib’s mesh sides offer great ventilation and visibility for your baby, while both the fabric frame and mattress are machine washable.
Keep in mind that crib sheets need to be purchased separately, and this crib is intended for children up to three years old.
Amazon Reviews
Believe the hype because it’s real. I took this on a trip with my toddler and infant and it was so easy to assemble! I am petite so I try to find lightweight baby gear and this is one of them!
– Monanay
– LaurenG
For more product reviews visit Amazon
7. Century Play On 2-in-1 Playard and Activity Center
Century has truly outdone itself by introducing an activity wall. While the reasoning behind this ingenious move remains a mystery, the outcome is undoubtedly praiseworthy. What’s more, Century doesn’t stop at innovation alone – their play yard boasts a zip-down side, a mattress that can be easily cleaned, and a seamless folding mechanism.
And wait, there’s more to love: a substantial part of this play yard is crafted from recycled materials, aligning with eco-conscious values, all while being incredibly budget-friendly at under $150. As a bonus, they’ve even included a travel bag for your convenience, which makes it one of the best baby playpens out there.
Grandparents take note – this play yard is an appealing addition to your own homes, especially considering its attractive price point.
Amazon Reviews
This was in such good shape in July 2023, after purchasing and using since January 2022 that we were able to pass it along to a friend to use. It served it purpose, and held up to our 4 year old climbing into it from the top when he wanted to play with our baby inside many many times. Eventually we just unzipped the side so that they could both climb in and out that way. Lately it has just been a catch all for toys so it’s time to pass it on. Great product and easy to clean. Does take up a fair bit of real estate though.
We purchased these for travel originally and they were amazing for that, super easy to assemble compared to other pack n plays. And the pad at the bottom is better then most pack n plays although we still bought some square portable mattresses to place inside for additional comfort. They tell you it’s not needed, but if your baby plans on sleeping in this and not just playing, then I highly recommend the portable mattress that unfolds inside of it. It’s sold on Amazon under a different brand.
We got rid of our cribs and have stuck with 2 of these for our 1 year old twins. They are nice and tall so the kids can’t crawl out! Our kids are above average in height, almost 16 months old, and they aren’t even close to being able to climb out, their heads barely hang over the top. The only downfall is that it’s hard to find bedding that is square and that fits the portable mattress we bought for it. The protective sheet and outer sheet are too tight for the portable mattress we got that goes inside, so we decided to cut the corners of the sheets. Anyway, if you don’t buy a mattress to go with it, then this is not something to worry about.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
8. Bugaboo Stardust Portable Indoor and Outdoor Playpen
The Bugaboo Stardust is one of the best playpens for babies as it offers a secure and swift solution for your baby’s comfort and playtime needs. Designed with practicality in mind, it folds effortlessly, even with the mattress inside (excluding the bassinet insert use).
Unfolding takes a second, and folding is a mere three-second task. The mattress, complete with ample padding, ensures a cozy and safe sleeping environment, making it ideal for both home and travel. For added protection, consider adding a separate 100% cotton sheet.
Additionally, the included zip-in bassinet insert makes it suitable from birth, and the mesh panels guarantee optimal airflow for a peaceful sleep.
Amazon Reviews
We bought this as a safe space for our 3 month old to sleep while camping in our rv. Very easy to breakdown and setup. Love that everything fits into the travel bag. It folds flat so it doesn’t take up much space. The mattress is soft and not too thin.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
9. Nuna SENA Aire Crib
The Nuna SENA Aire Travel Crib is a fantastic choice for parents seeking a versatile and comfortable sleeping solution for their baby. Designed with breathability in mind, it features a triple-layered mesh mattress that ensures a safe and cozy sleep environment. Its lightweight and travel-friendly design makes it ideal for families on the move.
Setting up the Nuna SENA Aire is super easy, and its sleek and modern design adds a stylish touch to any setting. It meets rigorous safety standards, giving you peace of mind while your baby rests. With its easy setup, portability, and comfort, the Nuna SENA Aire Travel Crib offers a practical and reliable solution for both home use and travel adventures. Whether you’re visiting relatives, staying at a hotel, or simply enjoying time at home, the Nuna SENA Aire is a perfect indoor and outdoor playpen for babies.
Amazon Reviews
Didn’t purchase it from Amazon because it wasn’t available in the color I wanted it here (grey) but had to write a review to let other parents know what an amazing product this is!
Pros:
Very well built
The mattress is made of many layers of mesh so it’s super breathable
Already comes with one sheet to get you started
The bassinet insert folds with the playard
Super easy to assemble/disassemble it
No chemical smells
Made of baby-safe materials
Comes with a travel bag
Con: a little bit tall when folded so it won’t fit in a large suitcase for air travel
I absolutely LOVE Nuna products!
– B.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
10. Babymoov Naos Travel Playard
The Babymoov Naos Travel Playard offers parents a versatile and user-friendly solution for providing a comfortable and secure space for their baby. Its easy setup makes it a convenient option for busy parents, and its portability ensures that you can create a familiar environment for your baby no matter where you go.
The playard’s modern design has a comfortable mattress and mesh sides that prioritize your baby’s comfort and safety. Whether you’re traveling or simply need a dedicated play and nap area at home, the Babymoov Naos Playard delivers. Its durability and versatile use make it a practical investment for parents and the best baby playpens.
Amazon Reviews
In respect to the baby’s needs: The mattress it comes with is more comfortable than the pack n’ play’s. And if you’re wondering about the “black-out” part of the crib, it’s actually a very breathable material.
So far its portability, setup and break-down and comfort seem like advantages over the pack n’ play.
We used this as our toddlers bed while traveling overseas. It fit in our large suitcase without the cover, which was extremely convenient. Be gentle with the velcro, however… we used ours so much that when I pulled on the bottom pad, the fabric tore a bit. It took a long time to tear, but if you can hold the bottom each time, I think you can avoid this.
This is way easier to set up than the classic pack n play, which we also own. I’m so glad I got this one!
For more product reviews visit Amazon
11. CHICCO Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard
The Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard is a feather-light solution designed for hassle-free overnight trips. With its zippered carry bag and quick snap-open setup, this playard makes on-the-go parenting a breeze. Plus, it’s GREENGUARD Gold Certified, ensuring low chemical emissions and healthier air quality for your baby.
The Alfa Lite boasts a compact fold that effortlessly transforms into a spacious, padded sleeping area for infants and toddlers up to 35” tall. Thanks to the zip-open side panel, you can gently place and comfort younger babies, while older ones can easily crawl in and out.
Enhancing convenience, the Alfa Lite includes a waterproof mattress with a bonus fitted sheet. What’s more, the playard fabrics are easily removable and machine washable, simplifying cleanup and maintenance.
Amazon Reviews
I really like this product. I had a traditional pack n play before and I will never go back! So easy to set up. Literally seconds. Feels sturdy and quality. I like that the mattress lays on the floor so I don’t worry about bowing. My 7 mo adjusted great. Also very lightweight and easy to carey
– Userell
I have two of these – one for home/travel and one for my office (my daughter regularly comes to work with me). It is genuinely easy to set up and take up – set-up takes me 30 seconds, take-down 1-2 minutes. Very light, but it feels sturdy when set up and my daughter is a rambunctious one. I would suggest putting a blanket or crib cover over the mattress as it does attract lint, but this isn’t a deal-breaker for me.
– Mac3
For more product reviews visit Amazon
12. UPPABABY REMI Travel Crib & Playard
REMI is UPPAbaby’s debut portable playard. Compact and feather-light, it boasts a triple-layer air mesh mattress that creates a breathable and cozy sleeping environment. REMI proudly wears the GREENGUARD Gold Certification badge, vouching for its stringent tests and science-backed promise of minimal chemical emissions.
A standout feature? The fold. Effortless, single-handed, and mere seconds – it tucks away snugly into the provided bag (and if you’re jetting off, the optional padded Travel Bag is a smart add-on).
REMI’s thoughtful design reveals a side zip panel for quick parental access during soothing moments. Encompassed by mesh panels on all sides, the extra breathability and unobstructed view make it more appealing. And if that’s not enough, there’s a removable bassinet catering to newborns up to 20 lbs.
Amazon Reviews
I love the breathable mattress. Unfortunstely can’t use sheets on it when it’s set up as bassinet- for safety (and also there are none that fit those dime toons). But it is nice to know it’s safe and breathable. My daughter likes it. Baby was able to roll on her side – and she’s less than a week old. Possibly it was the way she was swaddled. We’ll heve to continue to watch this
I was gifted this, as I just had my first baby and we’re still in a one bedroom apartment. It is perfect for us! Takes up minimum space while giving the baby enough room to sleep in, easily moved and put away when needed and comes with the travel bag. The only downside is my son has spit up on it a lot and I don’t think the mesh is washable but I’ll have to check. Otherwise, 10/10 purchase. Will get this for other years to come.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
13. BABY DELIGHT Go With Me Eclipse Portable Playard With Canopy
The Go With Me Eclipse Portable Playard is like a room with a view, all meshy and breezy that promote airflow and provide your child with a clear view of the world around them. Setting up and taking down this playard is easy.
Thanks to its sturdy nylon floor, cleaning up crumbs and spills is a snap, while also keeping your baby dry on damp surfaces. And for those messier moments, the fabric portion is removable and machine-washable for a thorough cleanse.
The Eclipse is a large playpen for babies and it adapts to your needs, offering the choice to use it with or without the sun canopy, which attaches swiftly and easily. The UPF 50+ coated canopy shields against 98% of UVA and UVB rays, ensuring your child’s protection. When it’s time to move, both the playard and canopy fold neatly into a convenient carry bag, ready to accompany you on your next exciting adventure.
Amazon Reviews
I need this to place two babies in during outdoor time. I don’t know what I expected, but I didn’t expect it to be super simple to open and set up as well as tear down. I didn’t expect as much roominess as there was (enough for two babies. I’m very happy with this purchase.
I absolutely love this thing. It’s so easy to set up and the canopy is great because my yard doesn’t have any shade. It makes taking my twins outside soooo much easier. However, I left it out for a day and it got sun bleached so now the color is off 🥲 completely my fault but wanted to put a warning out there!
For more product reviews visit Amazon
14. JOOVY Room2 Portable Playard
Joovy’s Room 2 (Room Squared) offers nearly 50 percent more room than typical versions – a sprawling ten square feet of play area. This extra space means your baby can enjoy the playard for a longer stretch, a huge perk for families with twins. However, it’s worth noting that Room 2 is bulkier and heavier than its more compact counterparts, making it slightly less travel-friendly.
Loaded with features, Room 2 boasts edge-to-edge mesh windows, ensuring excellent airflow and clear sightlines for both you and your little one. A slim, firm mattress is secured with a Velcro strap for added safety, and a fitted cotton sheet comes included. While the mattress is elevated for cleanliness, the low center of gravity ensures stability. Setting up and folding Room 2 is a breeze. But Room2 doesn’t just stand out in size – its design is simple and modern, shying away from the vibrant colors and patterns seen in other models.
Amazon Reviews
Larger than a normal playpen. I put two mattress pads on to make it a little softer. My Grandbaby sleeps well in it. I use it as a second baby bed at my house. He is a larger two year old and is confortable. Good buy!!!
So a few years back I was in search for a spacious playpen. When I seen this one it checked every box for me , style , the mesh sides that I can see baby easy , the comfort. So I brought it and oh my goodness it was so sturdy, comfortable, came with a sheet as well . It was easy to set up and store away . Mt other kids would go play in there with the baby as well and it stood up to all the wildness!!! If your thinking of getting this playpen you will not be disappointed!
I’m buying it again for sure !!!
For more product reviews visit Amazon
Final Thoughts on Best Baby Playpens
So there you have it – playards are like your trusty sidekick in the world of baby stuff. They give your little one a cozy spot to play and snooze while you do your thing. From classic ones to cool new styles like Joovy’s Room 2, playards are always there for you. Just remember, when your kiddo starts climbing, it’s time to say goodbye to the playard and move on to the next adventure. Cheers to playards, making parenting a breeze!
I cannot praise the POP ‘N GO Premium Indoor and Outdoor Baby Playpen enough! This playpen has been a lifesaver for our family. The portability and lightweight design make it incredibly convenient to set up both indoors and outdoors. Whether we’re at the park, beach, or visiting friends, it’s the perfect play yard for our toddler.
The pop-up feature is a game-changer! It takes seconds to assemble and collapse, and the included travel bag makes transportation a breeze. The grey color looks sleek and modern, blending seamlessly with any setting.
The added canopy is a fantastic touch! It provides ample shade during sunny days, ensuring our little one can play comfortably while protected from the sun’s rays.
The playpen is well-made and sturdy, providing a safe space for our child to play. It gives us peace of mind, knowing our toddler is secure and happy.
I highly recommend the POP ‘N GO Premium Indoor and Outdoor Baby Playpen to any parent or caregiver looking for a reliable, versatile, and easy-to-use play yard for their little one. It’s truly a must-have baby gear!