Which playpen is best for a child, rating of models (many photos for parents)

What is a playpen and why is it needed?

First, let's look at the main purpose of the playpen.
This is a device for the safe stay of a child, fenced on all sides. Toys are placed in it and the baby is seated to play. But you must admit, a child can do the same thing in any other place.

The main purpose of the playpen is to ensure the safety of the baby when adults cannot look after him. This safety is achieved by limiting the child’s physical activity. But from now on, let's take a closer look.

Advantages and disadvantages of using playpens

A playpen is a convenient lifesaver for parents, but for a baby it is more like a removable play area or a temporary restriction of his movements. The design was invented so that the mother could leave the child in a safe place for some time until she could look after him herself.

This is where the advantages of playpens come from:

• a safe place while the baby is unattended;
• cozy play area (protection of walls, warm bottom, placement of toys);
• sleeping and changing room option;
• transportable fencing or guest/camping bed for trips to visit/outdoors/to the country.

But for some children, any restriction is a minus. Therefore, playpen structures also have disadvantages:

• the playpen creates the illusion of safety, and a small child without adult supervision can harm himself even with a toy;
• walls create a situation of stress or aggression if the baby is kept inside by force;
• Manege games are suitable only for calm and contemplative children; active ones are enough for a maximum of 5 minutes;
• any model takes up a lot of space and is used for a short time.

As for the advantages and disadvantages of different types of playpens, absolutely all designs have them:

• wooden (eco-friendly, stylish, ideal from the point of view of ophthalmology, but they can be hit hard, do not fold, not for transportation, bulky);
• standard rectangular or triangular with mesh (safe, easy to clean, cheap, folds to the size of a flat bottom, the bottom is not removable, takes up a lot of space, only for stationary use);
• playpen beds (ideal as a multifunctional transformer in a small area, but it’s bad that the place for sleeping and playing is the same, difficult to wash, lightweight, folding, mobile, suitable as a guest and camping option);
• “fences” (suitable for small children up to 6-7 months, a large and adult baby can easily move or knock over a barrier, convenient as a mobile and quick fence for a short time or under close supervision, transportable).

You need to determine for yourself the main task of the fence and base your choice on it.

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.

Classic and original children's beds with drawers, selection criteria

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.

Is it worth purchasing

The main advantage of the playpen:

• safety of the baby;
• the emergence of personal free time for the mother.

The use of a protective structure is more important for the parents than for the child. They leave the baby safe and do household chores. After all, it is not always possible to provide vigilant control to your beloved child.

The disadvantages of using a playpen often include:

• territory limitation;
• decreased baby's mobility.

These disadvantages of the influence of the fence on the physical development of the baby are still controversial. Firstly, during the breaks between sleep, the child will not always be active; he also needs to develop fine motor skills and play with educational toys. The playpen is best suited for these purposes. Secondly, we are not talking about the baby staying in a confined space all day. This is definitely harmful.

But for the time when mom needs, for example, to prepare dinner, it will be very useful. In addition, the structure can be moved to the kitchen and the whole time you can talk to your baby. Of course, the older the child gets, the less time he should spend in the playpen. Due to limited space, the child moves less, which affects the poor development of muscle mass.

Additional items

Most sets of playpen beds include many additional elements:

1. Removable changing table. The accessory is attached to the side walls of furniture and does not take up much space, indispensable in small rooms.
2. Pocket or shelf. Designed for storing children's cosmetics or toys.
3. Mesh window. Once your child learns to walk, he will be able to get in and out of the playpen independently.
4. Carrycot. A convenient accessory that allows you to move your child even while sleeping.
5. Mosquito net. Provides protection for your baby from insects while sleeping and playing outdoors.
6. Audio system. Allows you to record your mother's voice or your child's favorite fairy tales and lullabies.
7. Hood. Protects the baby from direct sunlight.
8. Orthopedic mattress. The anatomical basis allows you to support the child’s spine, promoting the proper development of the musculoskeletal system.
9. Removable wheels. Included in most models, they facilitate transportation of the playpen.
10. Play mat. Additional arches installed on the walls of the bed help the baby quickly learn to roll over and stand on his feet. A toy rack develops fine motor skills.
11. Vibration block. Gently rocking the bed calms the child and helps him quickly relax and fall asleep.

Playpen beds made of wood are equipped with several types of swing mechanisms. The most popular of them is the pendulum one, which allows you to swing the bed while the base of the furniture remains stationary. Another option is a spring one, more suitable for children over one year old, since the baby can rock the crib independently during active games.

mosquito net

Baby changing table

Carrycot

Additional pockets

Hood

At what age will it be needed?

If there is a need for a playpen for a baby, then it will be needed from 3-4 months, because later, when independent movement begins, this will be perceived as a restriction of personal freedom and may result in protest. At an earlier age, newborns are much more comfortable in a crib or stroller.

You can use the playpen for up to 1-1.3 years, then the child will be able to get out and the structure will no longer perform its main function - safety.

Each parent decides for himself whether to purchase a playpen or not. All children are different, some can stay in a fenced space for about an hour, playing calmly, others protest from being in it for a minute. Therefore, only personal experience and knowledge of the character of your little one will help you make the right choice.

Meaning of crawling

Is it possible to find a positive aspect in the fact that a child’s freedom of movement is limited? Of course not. There are main stages in a child’s development that he must go through:

1. Sitting.
2. Crawl.
3. Walking.

If you deliberately limit or speed up these stages, then, believe me, this will not lead to anything good. Nature has already thought through everything for us, and we shouldn’t try to change anything on our own.

Everything should happen gradually and in due time. The body must be prepared for walking. This function is performed by crawling, strengthening muscles and ligaments. It develops coordination of movements and a sense of rhythm.

If this stage of development is missed or not fully completed, then problems with the spine may arise in the future.

It is during crawling that the lumbar curve of the spine is formed. It is the lumbar vertebrae that bears the greatest part of the load throughout life.

They cushion the body, withstand the pressure of its upper part and are responsible for all movements - walking, running, jumping.

If this department is not formed correctly, it will lead to chronic diseases and poor posture. To avoid this, the child needs to constantly move and crawl.

How can he do this if he is constantly put in a playpen and limited in movement? No way.

Important! Crawling promotes the full mental development of a child. The brain grows and develops when neural connections are formed and strengthened.

The latter arise and are consolidated during the child’s experience. Moreover, the more times the baby repeats this experience, the better and stronger the neural connection will be.

Therefore, children repeat the same actions several times. If neural connections occur in both hemispheres, they are the strongest. It is crawling that helps synchronize both hemispheres.

The child gains the necessary experience by mastering new skills and subjects. To do this, he needs to move freely.

If the baby is in a limited space, he does not see anything new for himself, except for a couple of familiar toys lying in the playpen. Accordingly, he has no desire to get to an unfamiliar object in order to study it.

We recommend reading: How to choose an envelope for discharge from the maternity hospital for a newborn, types - summer, winter and materials for envelopes

If there is nothing interesting, then there is no need to move around. The child has no incentive to crawl, which, as I said above, is the basis for full physical and mental development.

Important! You should encourage and encourage crawling rather than restrict it, which is what using a playpen does.

Crawling gives the baby confidence in his abilities, develops independence in him - he can get to the right place or object without your help. This type of movement contributes to the correct formation of vision.

In addition, by keeping your child in the playpen, you have less contact with him. It seems to you that you are firmly in control of him. But this is far from true.

You need to start building a relationship with your baby from the very first days of his life. You need to constantly communicate with him, explain everything, and negotiate.

Your child will sooner or later leave the playpen and then it will turn out that he is completely uncontrollable. Your word will not be clear and meaningful to him.

I'm not even talking about the fact that at this age children need increased tactile contact with their mother, which is contrary to and cannot be provided by a playpen.

Conclusion - the child does not need a playpen.

What should a high-quality playpen look like?

Babies are very vulnerable, so playpens must meet a number of requirements:

• rollover resistance;
• the height of the sides does not allow the baby to get out of the fence on his own;
• absence of protruding sharp parts, corners and locks that could cause injury to the child;
• the presence of a soft bottom and upholstery to prevent injury from falling;
• rare arrangement of longitudinal and vertical slats;
• environmentally friendly bottom and fencing material;
• reliable mechanism for fixing the fence.

Also, when purchasing a playpen, pay attention to the presence of a quality certificate

Which playpen to choose?

In general, we have made an important conclusion that your baby does not need a playpen on an ongoing basis. This item may be useful and temporarily help only you.

Situations when a mother needs to leave for a short time, and there is no one to look after the baby, are not uncommon: the doorbell rang, borscht is boiling, laundry needs to be hung out, etc.

In these cases, nothing bad will happen if you place the child in the playpen. But, I repeat, do not abuse this, and use it only as a forced short-term measure of control over the baby.

Accordingly, for such situations, if you decide to purchase a playpen, then let's look at its main types and their characteristics.

All playpens can be divided into two main types: transforming playpens and enclosure playpens.

Transforming playpens

Such models are small in size - from 60 to 80 cm in height. Transformable playpens come in different shapes: square, round, rectangular. They fold up compactly. This playpen is convenient to transport and store.

One of the varieties of transformer models is the playpen bed. Your baby can not only play in it, but also sleep.

This bed additionally has wheels for moving from place to place. It also has a changing table and a side door with a zipper. When your child grows up, he can use this playpen as a playhouse.

Playpen-fencing

This model of a playpen for a child up to one year is a structure consisting of several sections that can be disassembled and assembled.

The dimensions of such fences are often larger, which is a clear advantage of this model. In such a design, although limited, the baby can crawl.

This possibility is completely eliminated by small playpens. It is comfortable for your child to stand up in them, which is what he will do. And this is extremely undesirable: as I said above, before getting up and walking, the child must necessarily go through the crawling stage.

Whatever model of playpen you choose for your child, remember:

• Do not keep your baby in the playpen for a long time - a maximum of half an hour.
• Place your child in the playpen only when he is calm and not fussy. Otherwise, the place to play will turn into a punishment area for him.
• Place the playpen so that the child can see you at all times, and do not leave him alone.

Now you know how to choose a playpen. Use it only in extreme cases when you absolutely cannot do without it. The rest of the time, motivate and teach your baby to crawl. Then your child will develop harmoniously and fully.

Modern models

Products are available in various sizes and designs. Today there are no restrictions on the dimensions of products: the area of ​​arenas varies from 1 to 10 m² and even more.

1. Gaming . Designed for short-term isolation of a child. The products carry the maximum amount of meaning and allow children to spend time interestingly, with benefits for motor and mental function. As a rule, they are made in a folding version.

2. Combined . Such products represent a comprehensive combination of areas for entertainment and relaxation. In one part of the device there is a play area, in the other there is a crib. After the game, the child can lie down to rest, or his parents will put him to bed. An excellent option for small apartments, combining both sleeping and play areas.

3. Screens . A good solution for houses and apartments with a large area. Screens are designed to cover areas that are dangerous for children, such as stairs, stoves, windows and fireplaces. The child has virtually no restrictions on freedom of movement, being completely safe. Screens can be given any shape.

4. Inflatable . As a rule, they are used as a fence when going out into nature, to the country house or on a hike. But they can also be used at home - for example, in the form of a dry pool.

Playpens are made from rubber, wood, steel and plastic mesh. The shape of these structures can be almost any: round, square or polygonal.

The size of the products may also vary. But the more spacious the playpen, the better for the baby.

Inflatable playpen

It is often used in the warm season, because a baby in such an inflatable “house” can even take a walk outside. Some models are even designed for use as a swimming pool. In this case, the height of the playpen should be high, since it can be used by the child as a trampoline and it is important to observe safety measures.

Advantages of the inflatable model:

• affordable price;
• ease and ease of care;
• compactness (when deflated, it can easily fit into a handbag);
• safety.

The disadvantages include a short service life and the inflatable version can be punctured by a sharp object due to negligence.

The best classic playpens

Classic – time-tested materials and folding system options, but in a modern design.

Baby Care Cubo – with zippered side opening

The playpen from Chinese manufacturers under the auspices of the Polish brand has a square shape and a metal frame covered with soft material with mesh windows. One of them doubles as a hole if you unzip the zipper. Then the playpen turns into a playhouse for older children.

The corners of the fence are protected by plastic covers, and the top of the sides is made of soft material. Stable legs ensure safety, as does a special locking lock that prevents the device from folding spontaneously.

Advantages:

• bright design;
• easy to fold;
• special carrying bag included;
• safety and ease of use;
• 4 plastic rings for learning to walk.

Flaws:

• no wheels.

Even a newborn can be placed in such a playpen, but it is no longer suitable for babies over 2 years old.

We recommend reading: Which wheels are better for a stroller: inflatable, rubber and gel: pros and cons

Lorelli Play Station

Comfortable and reliable almost square playpen (90x100 cm) from a Bulgarian manufacturer. The main advantage is the strength of the metal frame (suitable for children up to 15 kg) and the quality of all materials. Soft sides and streamlined plastic corner covers make the design completely safe. The height of 75 cm is perfect for older children. The colors are very pleasant, soft, and the size of the mesh cells does not tire the eyes. There is a convenient gate with a durable zipper, 3 handles for standing up and support. Folds like an umbrella and is transported in a case.

Advantages:

• safe and sustainable;
• high;
• easily folds and transports in a protective case;
• discreet neutral colors;
• excellent quality of design, materials and assembly;
• all the details are thought out;
• affordable price.

Flaws:

• too heavy for frequent transportation;
• lack of wheels (not always a minus, for many it is additional safety).

Chicco Open Box

The Italian brand is famous for its decent product quality and thoughtfulness of details. Open Box playpens are widely sold everywhere, so they are very popular on the Russian market. This square model is more suitable for a guest/camping option, because... It has a convenient umbrella fold and a carrying case. In the play area, the manufacturer has provided a removable washing mat, a window with a zipper and several toys that are attractive to the baby. But everything is ruined by 2 details: the zipper is too fragile and the lack of handles for standing up and support, although their presence is indicated in the instructions and is in the photo of the product.

Advantages:

• convenient for transportation;
• compact square shape;
• stable;
• there are toys and a rug inside;
• there is a hole with a zipper;
• large selection of colors;
• high-quality assembly.

Flaws:

• no handles for standing up or support;
• flimsy zipper;
• some colors are too bright;
• will not be of interest to older children.

"Fairy" Book

Standard design on a metal frame with a “book” folding mechanism, mesh walls, plywood bottom with oilcloth surface. Soft sides made of oilcloth, distance from the metal frame, square shape - all this provides a safe fence. But there are significant disadvantages that can be explained by the more than affordable price. The manufacturer saved on materials for the sake of cost.

Advantages:

• cheap;
• folding;
• spacious;
• high;
• sustainable and safe;
• There are handles for standing up and support.

Flaws:

• poor quality oilcloth, which children easily bite through, and foam rubber underneath;
• something additional needs to be laid on the hard bottom;
• heavy;
• unreliable folding mechanisms;
• no manhole;
• only stationary.

Polini Basic - compact, inexpensive model

The small size of the playpen (107x73x77 cm) when disassembled does not mean that the baby will be uncomfortable in it.

Manufacturers tried to do everything to make the child feel comfortable, and at the same time took care of his safety by making smooth corners, a soft covering of the side and a thick transparent mesh.

All this is made from absolutely safe materials. To prevent the playpen from slipping, special pads are placed on its stable legs. The baby will be able to learn to stand and walk here, holding on to special ring-shaped plastic handles.

Advantages:

• easy to unfold;
• safe and convenient;
• low price;
• easy to clean.

Flaws:

• small sizes.

The model is suitable for children from six months to 3 years. The playpen is designed for weights up to 18 kg.

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.

Features and types of children's corner beds, their dimensions

Tree

Plastic frame

Metal carcass

laminated chipboard

Solid base

Lamels

The best children's playpen beds

These are the most convenient and multifunctional devices in which a child can not only sleep, but also play.

I'coo Starlight – with two levels

A multifunctional model made in China, released under the control of the German brand I'coo, is of high quality.

The soft inner surface made of safe textiles does not pose any risk of injury. And thanks to the mesh sides, air access to the crib is unlimited.

While the child is small, the bottom can be raised higher, and when he grows up, he can lower it. The playpen-cot has two wheels and a pair of stable legs.

The structure is easy to move, but it itself will not go anywhere, no matter how much the baby jumps in it. If necessary, a portable changing table can be attached to the crib.

Advantages:

• easy to fold and transport;
• there is a pocket and organizer for baby care items;
• crib frame made of durable aluminum;
• wheeled bag included.

Flaws:

• There is no side hole and ring holders.

The I'coo Starlight model is suitable for children from birth to 2 years old and will allow you to do without purchasing the first cradle.

Noony Cubby

Multifunctional children's corner for reasonable money: a bed on the upper level for up to 5-6 months (hereinafter referred to as a hammock), a bed below, but you need to buy a standard mattress 120x60 cm, a playpen, a maneuverable fence (2 wheels for moving), a folding “umbrella” mechanism and a case for easy transportation, a changing bag, an organizer for baby hygiene and small items, a pocket for toys, a zippered access hole, a mechanical mobile with 3 toys and a lamp with a sound function (melodies of the forest and water) and vibration. Reviews from mothers are only the most positive, because this is a full-fledged stationary bed with a rich set of equipment and a convenient option for traveling.

Advantages:

• safe, stable and durable;
• very rich equipment;
• thought out to the smallest detail;
• good build quality and materials;
• durable (often inherited from older children and used ones look like new);
• nice design and colors;
• suitable for transportation;
• fully replaces a sleeping place.

Flaws:

• bad sound;
• you need to buy an additional mattress.

Parusok KK-612

The playpen of the Russian brand is similar to previous models. Good quality design, assembly and materials. The affordability of the price did not affect the safety of the model. Everything is reliable, simple and thought out. Many people use the upper level as a bed only until 5-6 months, and then rock the child there like in a hammock. Downstairs you need an additional standard mattress with a standard size of 120x60 cm. It can be folded and transported in a carrier.

Advantages:

• inexpensive;
• safe and sustainable;
• there is a hole with a zipper;
• folds like an umbrella;
• there is a cover;
• there is an upper level for sleeping space;
• neutral pleasant colors;
• standard size.

Flaws:

• baby weight up to 15 kg;
• the upper level is used very briefly;
• mattress required;
• inconvenient to fold and unfold.

4moms Breeze Classic – comfort and quality

The USA-made model is the embodiment of all the best that can be in modern furniture for kids.

The thoughtful, laconic design will be appreciated by parents, and children will be comfortable in a crib with transparent, breathable mesh walls.

The metal parts of the structure cannot harm the baby - they are reliably protected by fabric covers. And an additional support leg in the center provides even greater stability.

Advantages:

• folds in one motion;
• reliable fixation mechanism;
• sustainability;
• Includes changing table, upper hanging level and bag for transportation;
• all materials are hypoallergenic.

Flaws:

• high price.

In a hanging cradle, a baby can sleep from birth until he gains 8 kg, and will sleep and play below for up to a year and a half - the bottom can withstand 14 kg.

We recommend reading: Mattress for a stroller for newborns

Geuther Lucilee 2263

Expensive wooden playpen from a European brand. Its design resembles a standard wooden crib, but with different dimensions. High wooden bars (102 cm) ensure that the baby will not get out and drop the furniture. Durable wooden base with soft, washable padding, adjustable to 3 height levels. In order for the furniture to serve as a sleeping place, it is better to lay an additional mattress inside and buy/sew warm sides. Rides on 4 wheels.

Advantages:

• environmentally friendly;
• premium quality;
• durable;
• reliable safe design;
• folds;
• high maneuverability due to 4 wheels;
• easy to clean;
• retains its presentation for a long time;
• does not tire the eyes;
• good review.

Flaws:

• very expensive;
• the child may hit wooden bars and handrails;
• non-standard size for the bed (mattress and linen only to order).

The best children's screen playpens

Such models are convenient because they can be installed anywhere. The assembly method itself is akin to a children's construction set, and it is very easy to implement. Screen playpens are large in size and do not restrict the baby’s freedom too much.

Leco-IT Home 250x250 cm L-shaped – with mesh fencing

The model of the Russian manufacturer has a large area and a non-standard L-shape. It is easy to assemble - there are no fastening elements, the tubes are simply inserted into each other and snapped into place.

The mesh fence reliably protects the baby and allows adults to monitor him. The frame material is durable, protected by safe plastic tubes. The height of the sides of 75 cm will prevent the baby from falling out, and it will be convenient for parents to get it out.

Advantages:

• big size;
• ease of assembly;
• low price.

Flaws:

• large mesh sizes;
• no mat included.

The Leco-IT Home model is intended for children from six months of age.

IFam Lemon large W2 – plastic fencing with a bright design

Made in South Korea, this model has 5 sections made of durable and safe PE/ABS plastic, as well as a lockable door.

The sections are securely connected with corners and will not fall on the baby even during active games. And the height of 71 cm will not allow the child to accidentally fall out.

Advantages:

• anti-slip feet;
• large size – 2.2x1.34 m;
• Hygiene - plastic is easy to clean with soap.

Flaws:

• few holes in the side walls.

In this playpen, children from 6 months can play in any room.

Comparative characteristics

So that you can choose the right product, we have provided you with comparative characteristics of all models from the rating.

Table 1. Comparative characteristics of models

The best playpens

Happy Baby Alex Home

The Happy Baby Alex Home playpen in the form of a bright house with doors and windows will become a cozy personal space for the child. A convenient play hole can be closed with a zipper, and a removable roof turns the area into an entertainment area. Inside there are pockets for toys and books. The square-shaped playpen with a hard bottom is illuminated by an LED light bulb. The walls are made of transparent material so that parents can see their children. The set includes removable ring-shaped handles and a carrying bag.

Advantages:

• Durable and stable design;
• Availability of wheels for moving the arena;
• Quick and easy to assemble;
• Equipped with a soft mattress.

Flaws:

• It is difficult to find a mattress of this size on sale;
• Due to the folding bottom, a mound is formed.

This best baby playpen is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The roof allows you to hide from the sun better. The design can be folded into a case with handles and used for carrying.

Chicco Open Sea

Chicco Open Sea is the optimal solution both in terms of quality and price. The high-quality, pleasant-to-touch fabric with which the metal frame is trimmed will allow you not to regret purchasing it. 4 high legs provide stability to the structure. The bottom is soft, reinforced with wooden beams, so it does not sag. Adults can watch the baby through a mesh-shaped wall, one of which has a side hole. The structure folds up like an umbrella. It is very convenient that the kit includes a carrying bag and a mattress.

Advantages:

• Small sizes (94x94x76 cm);
• Average weight (11 kg);
• Two types of colors, green and blue;
• A carrying bag is included.

Flaws:

• There could have been more handles;
• High price.

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.

Criteria for choosing a mattress for a children's bed, tips for parents

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.

The best playpen on the train

Manuni M-002

If you need a playpen for a child on a train, you should buy Manuni M-002 . This model with a curtain is intended for children over three years old. It closes the space on three sides and ensures the safety of the baby while traveling in a passenger car. The railway playpen folds up and is placed in a small bag. If the product gets dirty, you can wipe it with a cloth or wash it. The convenient design protects against drafts, creates a cozy hidden area and allows children to sleep on the bottom bunk without parental supervision.

Advantages:

• Securely attaches to the shelf;
• Children like bright colors;
• Convenient to carry;
• It weighs little.

Flaws:

• Stainless fabric base.

The choice of such products is small, so this model is most often purchased for trips. The manufacturer has provided a durable mesh and breathable fabric, so the child can sleep and play comfortably inside the structure. A light curtain protects from light and drafts.