Types of Play Yards and Play Pens

When you set out to buy a play yard or play pen, choose a model that is easy to take down and put back up and under no circumstance will collapse on its own. Look for convenience models that are fool-proof in their set-up, come with their own carrying case and are light enough for you to carry in one hand while you carry baby in the other. Pick a play yard or play pen that has easy to clean fabric such as mesh or vinyl instead of fabric. Larger play yards and play pens will get more use as baby gets older, so keep that in mind when purchasing your play pen so you don’t have to purchase an additional play yard down the road.

 

There are a few different types of play yards and play pens to choose from:

o       Basic Play Yard: The basic play yard is a space for play time that doubles as a portable crib for naps. They can come with several features that make the play yard inviting for baby. Play yards often come with wheels that allow easy maneuverability from room to room. Just be sure that the wheels are locked into place when you settle on the right spot.

o       Bassinet: Some play yards come equipped with a removable bassinet that allows a newborn baby to sleep peacefully in a place other than the crib. The bassinet attaches to the top rails of the play yard so mom does not have to bend too far over when she just gets home from the hospital. 

 

The bassinet area can also serve as a changing station for your baby. They usually come with yet another easy-to-clean piece that attaches to the bassinet that serves as an alternate changing area in your home or on the road.

 

o       Outdoor Play Yards: Some play yards are made especially for the outdoors. They come equipped with canopies that guard baby from the sun, wind and even rain. If you plan on frequently using your play yard outdoors, look for canopies that are coated with SPF to protect your little one. Mesh sides can also come coated with SPF for UV protection. Outdoor play yards are typically made to be more durable, last for longer times and are of course, a little more pricey.