Baby Playpen
How to Choose the Perfect Baby Playpen
One of the most fun things about finding out you have a new bundle of joy on the way is picking out all the new things you’ll need, like a baby playpen. Most manufacturers now refer to a baby playpen as either a play yard or a pack ‘n’ play, but no matter what you call it, you’re still looking for the same thing: a safe place to put your baby when your attention needs to be elsewhere (but nearby) for just a few minutes.
One of the first things to consider when you’re choosing a baby playpen is exactly what you’re going to use it for. Some parents let their new baby sleep inside the play yard sometimes, so think about whether this is a possibility. Perhaps you’ll use the play yard for naps and the crib for nighttime sleep to differentiate. You also might want to use the play yard as a portable crib if you plan to take baby on trips. If sleeping in the play yard sounds like it could be a good idea for your plans after baby arrives, then you’ll want to consider one of the pack ‘n’ play products that features a bassinet. In many cases, the bassinet is an added piece which attaches in the top of the play yard. It’s removable and places the infant higher up inside the baby playpen.
Another thing to consider when you’re purchasing a baby playpen is whether you plan to use it for diaper changes. Some of the pack ‘n’ plays come with another attachment that’s specifically for use as a changing table. The only issue with using the playpen as a changing table is that it’s a bit shorter than a standard changing table. You may be more comfortable changing baby on the floor instead, but the changing table attachment is available on many of the baby playpens on the market today.
If you have several small children you need to keep in a confined space, you may want to look into a play yard instead. Play yards are much larger than pack ‘n’ plays, and they can be used after the child is cruising. Most play yards consist of a round, hexagon, or octagon gate you can place anywhere in your house. The play yard then creates a safe arena for children to play, even when you’ve got to step away for a moment to put dinner in the oven.
Another good thing about play yards is that the use of them doesn’t depend on the child’s weight because you set them up right on the floor. Most pack ‘n’ plays have a weight limit in the 30 to 40 pound range for babies, and the weight limit on the bassinet part is usually smaller than that.
No matter what kind of baby playpen you decide to use, just remember that it’s only for your child’s safety. No play yard is designed to babysit your baby for you, and safety should always be in the front of your mind any time you leave your baby alone for a moment.