Advantages of playpen beds, review of popular models for sleeping and playing

Icer August 3, 2018Specialization: master in the construction of plasterboard structures, finishing work and laying floor coverings. Installation of door and window units, finishing of facades, installation of electrical, plumbing and heating - I can give detailed advice on all types of work.

A sleeping place for a child should be selected very carefully to ensure convenience and comfort of sleep. And if previously separate beds were installed, now universal solutions that combine both a sleeping place and a playpen are gaining popularity. We will analyze this option in the review and tell you about all its features.

The compact design of the crib is great for children

Distinctive features

There are a huge number of types of playpens. There are models that are created only for play. For example, a mesh playpen is a lightweight, portable option, the walls of which are made of mesh and the bottom is covered with oilcloth. Game models can be different in shape, material and design. But these species are not intended for sleeping.

The playpen bed is much stronger and more comfortable. The baby can play and sleep in them. The most common models are similar to children's beds with a side, usually multifunctional, and have two levels. The top one is for newborns, the bottom one is for older babies who are already starting to stand on their feet.

Compared to conventional cribs, playpens have a number of advantages:

1. The playpens are functional. You can immediately purchase a changing table, a cradle for a newborn, a pendant, and later, the transformers can be converted into a desk, a cabinet, and some models also into chairs;
2. It is safer, high sides will prevent the baby from falling out;
3. Bottom height is adjustable;
4. Lightweight and mobile version on wheels, easily moves around the room;
5. If you need to take it outside or go on a trip, folding and then unfolding the playpen will not be difficult.

Despite the safety of such furniture, the baby should not be left unattended for a long time.

Benefit or harm

To tell the truth, the situation with our current issue is ambiguous. The thing is that the playpen bed gets “average” reviews from doctors. That is, someone assures that you should not buy such furniture, and someone, on the contrary, advises using only this “designer”.

For newborns you can buy absolutely any crib. One that you will be comfortable handling. But the kids are growing up fast. And over time, they will need a place to play. Additional furniture will have to be provided. But not always. After all, a playpen bed comes to the rescue. Reviews from pediatricians about this headset, as already mentioned, are ambiguous.

It all depends on the capabilities of the parents and the characteristics of each child. However, in most cases, you can buy such furniture for personal convenience. And select a mattress separately, and then a pillow. This is the only way to ensure complete safety and comfort for the baby. If you act this way, you will notice that pediatricians have nothing against playpen beds.

Types of construction

There is a huge variety of playpens, differing in type of design and functionality.

There are simpler models that have two levels of bottom height. They have one side wall that goes down and up, and can be removed if necessary. This is convenient when the child grows up and no longer needs the bumpers; he will climb into the crib on his own.

Folding

This model is designed for families with small children who like to travel frequently. With such a crib, you don’t have to worry that you will have to put your baby only on an adult bed and worry about him not falling off, covering him with pillows. The folding playpen bed is easy to unfold and assemble.

Its advantages:

1. No additional tools are needed for assembly;
2. No need to worry about how to disassemble it, just take it out of your bag and it will automatically decompose. The mattress is laid and the baby’s sleeping place is ready;
3. Has a solid base;
4. The baby will sleep in his usual place, he will not have to get used to the new environment;
5. Mesh walls through which parents can clearly see the child;
6. Easy to care for. The cover is removable and machine washable.

This bed will easily fit into any room and can always be taken with you on a trip. The compact transformer does not take up much space when disassembled, folds into a special bag, and weighs only 5–6 kg. This travel playpen bed will be a real find for families who like to go out of town to the country, breathe fresh air and take a break from the bustle of the city.

Transformer

Multifunctional design, which provides everything necessary for the convenience of mother and child. There are models that have a changing table, linen drawers, and pockets for necessary things that should be at hand during changing and daily care of the baby.

Transformer Light

This is a universal model designed for children from 0 to 12 years old. It will be relevant for an infant and you will not have to change the furniture until the child turns 12 years old.

Its features:

1. There is a rectangular cradle with two levels and a pendulum mechanism;
2. Orthopedic base, which has a positive effect on the development of correct posture;
3. Changing table-bedside table for things that can be rearranged;
4. Under the bottom there are drawers for storing linen;
5. Further, it can be reformatted into a desk, cabinet and children's bed;
6. The design has rounded corners;
7. Made from hypoallergenic materials.

This transformable playpen for a child and a young mother will be an excellent gift; it is practical and convenient, as well as compact and will fit even in a small room and save some space.

Game

A popular model that transforms from a crib into a playhouse. Convenient, especially when the family has small children of different ages.

For twins

There are different types of such playpens:

• Some cradles are located across the bed, but the main part is solid, separated by a partition or bolster;
• 2 separate beds, separated by a changing table. In the process they can be moved and arranged;
• Two-tier, solid and retractable;
• Oval playpen for twins.

When choosing a joint playpen for twins, it is important to ensure that the sides drop down on both sides. This is convenient when feeding. Access to children must be free.

For dolls

There are toy designs designed for children. The playpen bed for dolls is very similar to the natural model, only much smaller in size. The kit may include a pendant, a pillow, a blanket, and a cover for assembly.

Models can be made in the style of a lullaby, a cradle with a canopy. Huge variety, just like real models. A playpen bed for dolls is a good start in raising young mothers; in the process of playing, they learn the skills of daily baby care, develop independence, attentiveness, a sense of love and affection for children.

Types of models

Today, children's furniture manufacturers produce many modifications of cribs, differing in design elements and functionality.

Folding

Folding playpen beds are designed for frequently traveling families with babies. The safe design can be easily transformed for transportation and also has a number of advantages:

• does not require tools for assembly;
• the child will not have to get used to the new sleeping place during the trip;
• solid foundation;
• walls made of mesh allow you to watch your baby without interrupting your work;
• easy care - removable covers are machine washable.

Such products take up little space and weigh little. Before disassembling the furniture, you need to remove it from the cover, after which the playpen will automatically unfold, and parents will only have to put the mattress in place. Some models are additionally equipped with wheels, making it easier to move the crib around the room.

Gaming

A popular crib that easily transforms into a playhouse. The design provides:

• two levels of bottom height;
• spacious play area;
• a window in the mesh so that the baby can get out of the playpen independently.

Gaming models are usually large in size.

Transformer

A multifunctional product that has everything for the convenience of the child and mother. The design is equipped with a changing table, pockets for storing toys and children's cosmetics, and drawers for linen. The models are developed for children from 0 to 12 years old, which is very convenient: parents do not have to purchase new furniture as the baby grows up. Manufacturers produce several transformable modifications with a wooden or metal frame. Moreover, each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Models and designs of children's beds with soft backs, popular brands

The advantages of structures made of natural wood include:

• orthopedic base that ensures the anatomically correct position of the spine during sleep and rest;
• rectangular cradle for newborns with a pendulum mechanism;
• mobile table-cabinet for changing and storing clothes;
• spacious drawers under the bed.

Solid wood is an environmentally friendly material, but furniture made from it is quite heavy and costs an order of magnitude more than its analogues.

A transformable playpen bed with a metal frame and fabric sides also has a number of advantages:

• a light weight;
• mobility;
• compact dimensions;
• original design.

A transformer with a metal frame is practical and convenient, but is not equipped with a storage system. Another disadvantage of such models is that they can only be used until the child reaches 3–4 years of age.

For twins

Manufacturers also offer several types of comfortable playpen beds for twins. Main characteristics of such models:

1. Sleeping places for children are located across the structure, attached to one base, but separated using a bolster or partition.
2. The cots are placed on both sides of the changing table.
3. Two-tier mobile or stationary structures are compact in size, but are not suitable for newborns.

Playpen beds for twins should provide easy access to both babies - it is advisable that the folding sides be located on both sides of the furniture.

For dolls

Doll playpens are similar to real ones, but are smaller in size. The range of such toy furniture is huge: cribs in the form of a cradle, with a changing table, a canopy, a cradle. The kit may also include:

• pillow;
• blanket;
• suspension;
• bag-case.

Girls play with great pleasure with a playpen bed for dolls, developing a sense of responsibility, independence, and attentiveness.

Form

The most common rectangular shapes, they are almost the same in appearance and size as a children's bed. The advantage of the playpen is that it is intended not only for sleeping, but also for games. There are models of square shapes (sizes 80/80 or 100/100 cm), but they are more used for games. Oval types are also popular among consumers. The advantages are the safety of the design, they have no corners.

For example, the oval transformer includes round and oval cradles with a changing table and a playpen. When the child grows up, you can fold down a sofa, 2 chairs and a table, and a side bed. The mattress is also transformable. A wonderful multifunctional model that any mother will love.

Oval transformable crib Rastishka is a very convenient and compact model:

1. For a baby it is used as a cradle complete with a changing pad;
2. Afterwards it is converted into a crib, a playpen;
3. Further, as the baby grows up and is able to climb onto the bed on his own, it folds out into a sofa on which the child can sleep up to 10 years old;
4. If desired, the structure can be assembled into two chairs and a table.

In Europe, popular hexagonal and square shapes made of wood.

The playpen should be comfortable for the baby; it is not advisable to buy small playpens. First of all, take care of the comfort of your little miracle and try to choose a comfortable model for both yourself and your baby.

Round

Rectangular

Hexagonal

Why does it serve?

The playpen bed is beginning to collect reviews on modern review sites regarding many parameters. But before we start studying them, let's try to understand why children need such furniture in general. And is it really necessary?

The thing is that kids always need somewhere to sleep or play. At the same time, modern apartments in most cases do not allow you to “go big” and install children’s sets in the premises. Therefore, we have to look for some “constructors”.

And the playpen bed, which we will learn about a little later, is an excellent solution for providing sleeping and play space in the apartment. Such furniture can often be easily and simply taken with you on a trip, and you don’t even have to worry about the space it takes up. Many parents choose this option. But what reviews does the playpen bed get from doctors? And what exactly do buyers think?

Bead material

A playpen bed made from environmentally friendly materials, for example, solid birch, ash, and oak, is highly valued. Wooden models are not cheap. When choosing, it is very important to pay attention to the manufacturer and its reputation, so as not to purchase a fake. Properly treated wood is coated with a special varnish or paint that is harmless to children. This design will last for more than one generation.

Advantages of wooden playpens:

• There is no strain on the eyes, the sides are made of slats, there is a good view;
• Durable construction;
• Stable, you don’t have to worry about turning over with your baby.

Minuses:

• Heavy construction, difficult to move to another place;
• Usually take up a lot of space;
• If a child falls, he may hit the slats;
• Inconvenient to care for. Each rail must be wiped clean of dust daily;
• High price.

But, despite all the disadvantages, it is a strong, durable design and, most importantly, environmentally friendly. The option with side walls covered with material and mesh is not as durable. Service life 3–5 years.

Pros:

• Lightweight design, easy to move around the room;
• The frame is rigid, with fixed corners;
• Safe, if a child falls, he will not be injured, the side walls are covered with material;
• It’s okay if it gets dirty, the material can be easily removed and machine washed;
• You can decorate it brightly - flowers or a boat made of bright fabric will definitely please your child.

Minuses:

• Bright colors have a bad effect on a child’s sleep; such playpens are good for playing and staying awake;
• The child, lying in the playpen, constantly watches those around him through the net, his eyes strain;
• Dust collects quickly.

For prevention, it is necessary to wash the material frequently.

Tips for choosing an option for a nursery

Playpen cribs for newborns must be reliable , so you need to choose them carefully.

1. Initially, you need to pay attention to the stability of the model. After all, the baby will rock the product, but it must withstand everything.
2. It is also worth paying attention when choosing nets; if you take the classic one, then the child will be able to climb on it independently; sometimes a small Euro net is also included in the kit.
3. It is important to choose environmentally friendly material, because we are talking about the baby’s health. You need to pay special attention to the type of folding; it should be “umbrella” or “book”.
4. And, as practice has shown, the issue of shape is also of great importance when choosing, but this is everyone’s personal wish. Rectangular playpen beds are better suited to the space-saving criterion. Their height ranges from seventy to one hundred and ten centimeters, with an average height of eighty centimeters; it perfectly allows you to see the child and is more reliable.
5. It is also important to pay attention to the weight of the product. If the family has a car and the rule is to go with the baby to nature or to visit, then it would be more rational to purchase a lighter one, five to seven kilograms, it is not so difficult to transport.

According to developers and models, the following attributes can be attached to playpen cribs :

• changing table;
• musical accompaniment;
• night light;
• mosquito net;
• roof;
• shelves for children's little things;
• canopy and rocking mechanism;
• arc with toys, etc.

to contents

The basis

The bottom of wooden structures is strong and level. It is advisable to purchase an orthopedic mattress for the correct formation of posture in a child. In models with fabric walls, it is important to ensure that there is a strong bottom. Usually it is made of multi-layer fabric with moisture-resistant impregnation, in cheaper versions - with oilcloth. There are models in which the base is made of plastic. This option is easy to clean, but requires additional equipment in the form of a blanket or mattress.

It is advisable to purchase an orthopedic mattress for the playpen bed. Especially if the design is designed not only for games, but also for the child’s sleep.

Manufacturing materials

Most often, the furniture frame is made of natural wood. Expensive species include beech, oak, and cherry; for budget models, spruce, birch, and pine are used. The material is environmentally friendly and does not cause allergic reactions in children. The wooden frame is durable, will last a long time, and looks great in any room interior. The disadvantages of the array include heavy weight and high cost.

Unpainted wood must be processed with high quality: there should be no defects in the form of nicks or roughness on the surface. The compositions used to coat the timber should not have a pronounced odor, and also meet all the requirements of current GOSTs.

In addition to wood, plastic can be used to make playpen cribs. The models look stylish, they are light, comfortable and budget-friendly. Cheaper materials are laminated chipboard or MDF. Such products are inexpensive, but short-lived.

The frame of the product can also be made of metal. In this case, the structure is equipped with fabric sides, which must be made from natural materials, since the baby learns about the world around him through taste, and synthetics contain tiny substances harmful to the body. Compositions for coloring must be natural based.

The bottom of the crib is made in two versions: solid or made of slats. Typically, parents prefer cribs with the first type of base because they are stronger and more reliable. However, the lamellas provide an orthopedic effect and allow you to relieve stress from the spine during sleep, which is simply necessary for actively growing fidgets.

Which car bed to choose for boys and girls, tips

Tree

Plastic frame

Metal carcass

laminated chipboard

Solid base

Lamels

Folding type

The folding model can be easily transformed into a working position and assembled. No tools are required, just take it out of the case. Next, you need to straighten each handrail on the sides. Then press on the middle. Disassembly also occurs, only in the reverse order. First you need to lift the bottom, and then, pressing on the side rails, fold the structure. When choosing such models, be sure to check the condition of the latches that prevent unexpected folding of the structure, as well as the presence of latches on the wheels.

Mesh models are often equipped with a folding mechanism that works like a “book”. If you need to fold such a playpen, you will need a number of actions:

• Remove the mattress or development mat from the bottom;
• We remove all hanging toys, pockets, mobiles;
• Open the latches of the side pillars;
• Fold the body and bottom;
• We snap the latches.

Assembling a wooden model will take longer. You will need tools (wrench, screwdrivers, hexagons). For complex structures, such as transformers, instructions are required with a step-by-step description of the actions. Each model has different stages of work. It is important to check at the end of the work that all fasteners are securely fixed.

Equipment options

Each model has its own set of components; the mattress is not always included in this list. Bed linen, pillows, and mattress pads are purchased separately, usually in the same store where the playpens are sold.

Modern playpen beds for children are available with various additions:

• A toy pendant will calm your baby. Helps in developing attention, but provided that the toys are no closer than 40 cm from the eyes;
• The changing table, which is attached to the side walls, is very convenient and does not take up extra space in the room;
• There are models with a sun canopy and arches for toys;
• A special container for necessary things during daily care of the baby is attached to the side wall. A very convenient device for mother; everything necessary for hygiene and feeding will always be at hand;
• The mosquito net will protect the baby from annoying insects;
• Some playpens have an audio system with recorded lullabies and soothing melodies. There are models with a recording function, mommy can record her voice, and the baby will fall asleep to familiar sounds;
• Special rings and belts installed on the side walls will help the baby learn to roll over, sit down and rise to his feet on his own;
• It is important to monitor the quality of fastening to protect the baby. Such playpen accessories can be purchased separately;
• Another useful device is the side mesh with zipper. When the baby learns to walk, he will be able to climb independently through a special hole in the mesh;
• A crib equipped with a vibration unit will help your baby fall asleep. But mother’s warm hands, gentle voice and native heartbeat cannot be replaced by any mechanics. Don't get used to such innovations.

When choosing a model, think carefully about what is really needed. The presence of such devices requires additional expenses. Many of the items listed can be purchased separately.

Age restrictions

Usually the manufacturer indicates the age category, sometimes weight restrictions. The carrycot and top base are designed for children from birth. In the future, you should pay attention to the weight category. All children are different and at 3-4 years old you can outgrow the acceptable weight. Durable designs with fabric sides allow up to 13-15 kg.

A playpen bed made of wood is more durable. And models that can be converted into a children's bed are designed for children 12-13 years old.

No matter how modern the playpen is, you should not leave your baby alone for a long time. Communicate with him more, play, pay maximum attention and the baby will always be satisfied and truly happy.

0 to 5

From 0 to 12

From 0 to 3

From 0 to 1.5 years

Design and color

Modern children's furniture is offered in a variety of designs. Thanks to the huge selection of colors and modifications, playpen beds can be easily matched to any style of children's room:

1. Models in milky, light gray, peach, mint shades will harmoniously fit into interiors decorated in styles such as Provence, shabby chic, and classic.
2. Furniture in white and blue colors is suitable for marine and Scandinavian styles.
3. Beds in light brown and beige colors harmoniously combine with country style.

How to make a bed for a doll yourself, decorating tips

To decorate the facade of children's furniture, you can choose prints with animals, plants, geometric shapes, and cartoon characters.

When looking at bright colors for a long time, a child’s eyes get tired quite quickly, and the nervous system is in constant tension, which negatively affects falling asleep and the quality of sleep. That is why bright shades of walls, ceilings, furniture, and decorative elements are contraindicated for a children's room.

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