Playard Buying Guides
Known as playpens in the last generation,
playards are a convenient way to give your baby room to play safely, without giving him or her full reign of the house. You'll feel safe while your baby plays or sleeps in this easy you'll definitely find one that suits your needs! For more detailed useful information on this and other baby items check out
Baby Center's "essentials" page.
Safety
As always, safety comes first. Do your research to make sure you are buying the right piece of equipment for your child. If you're planning on buying a playard online, check out specific models in stores first. That way, you'll know that you're getting exactly what you want. Here's what to check for:
* '''Sturdiness''' constructed. Listen for loose parts and strange rattling noises.
*
What to Look For
With all the buying options available, how do you know where to start? Go through this checklist to make sure all the essential features are covered.
* '''Roominess ''' Your child should have plenty of room to play or sleep without feeling cramped.
* '''Lightweight ''' This is a must for easy transportation. Under 15 pounds is ideal.
* '''Easy to Maintain''' This means a quick and easy clean. As mentioned before, mesh sides are best. A mattress pad with removable, washable sheets will also make cleaning easier.
* '''Portability''' wheels'>wheels. Many playards come with storage bags and shoulder straps for ease of carrying.
* '''Weight Limits ''' To make the most of your playard, find one that will support larger weights. You don't want to have to buy a new one as your baby grows.
* '''Comfort ''' If you are intending to let your baby nap in the playard, read up on reviews about mattress comfort.
Additional Features
* '''
Storage pockets ''' Not a necessity, but it might be good to have if you bring a lot of toys with you for the playard.
* '''
Attached Mobiles''' Some also come with lights and music to further entertain and delight your baby.
* '''
Bottom Line?
A good playard can cost you anywhere between $50 and $150.
Top Brands
* Graco Pack 'n Play
*
Evenflo
'''Another item to consider:'''
Once your child outgrows the playard, you may want to consider a
superyard.
'''Pros:'''
* These gates allow you to designate a certain portion of a room towards play and exploration.
* Generally, these baby gates will provide children with a larger play area than a traditional playard.
* Good for older children or multiple children.
* Kid prevent kids from pinching their little fingers
'''Cons:'''
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* They are not designed for travel or for napping.
* Not ideal for small babies.
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