[Alone Time!] The Best Baby Play Yards of 2022

Moms are busy. Sometimes, the baby just needs to be put down, somewhere safe where they can play quietly. Baby play yards are essential for working moms because they let your baby play in a safe environment as you do other chores.

Some play yards are designed to sit directly on the floor, while others are slightly raised. They also come with mesh sides for easier visibility and breathability. Some play yards have additional features such as bassinets, changing tables, music, and even a storage area.

Most mothers prefer playpens over Playmats and baby gates because they are easier to travel with and are portable. They are mainly designed to be used up to three years old. We’re going to review some things that you should consider before you buy a Playard for your baby, and then we’ll review the best baby play yards of 2021.

How to Choose Play yards

• Safety: When buying a play yard, it’s good to know if it’s safe for your baby. It should be made from durable materials.
• Space: Play yards come in different sizes and shapes. Regardless of the shape you choose, ensure it has enough playing space.
• Duration of use: Before purchasing a play yard, determine how long you intend to use it. Some play yards can accommodate toddlers up to three years.
• Durability: Ensure you select a play yard made from durable materials. Most moms prefer buying wooden play yards because they are durable. Choose a play yard whose aesthetics blends with the interior of the room.
• Features: Consider buying a play yard with easy-to-use features such as a detachable lid, canopy, and flexible wheels. Also, you can get one with extra features such as changing table, bassinet, music, toys, and even those with a rocking attachment.
• Affordability: Before you select any play yard, consider your budget first.

Best Play Yard Review

Graco Pack and Play Day2Dream Bassinet Playard

Are you looking for a versatile playpen? Graco is your best option because it can be used for different purposes. It comes with a fold-flat bassinet ideal for traveling, a sleeping/playing space, and a changing station. The breathable mesh sides allow easier breathability and visibility.

Graco pack also comes with two carry bags and a storage area to put some toys and diapers. This play yard is suitable for babies less than 35 inches tall.

Pros

• It comes with additional features such changing station, and a storage area
• Has breathable mesh sides
• It comes with a travel bassinet
• Machine washable

Cons

• Pricy thus not ideal for moms on a budget
• Heavy

Babybjorn BABYBJORN Travel Crib

Babybjorn travel crib is ideal for a mom who travels a lot. This ultra-light play yard is easy to set up, and you can easily move it from one room to another. It has meshed sides so that you can watch as your baby plays and allow air circulation.

The best part is both the play yard and its mattress are machine-washable. This travel crib can be used by newborns and toddlers under three years.

Pros

• Ultralight
• Easy to set up as well as break down
• Machine washable
• Has breathable mesh sides

Cons

• Expensive, and you also need to buy sheets separately

See also: Our Favorite Baby Bouncers and Baby Swings

4moms Breeze Plus Play Yard

If you’re a busy mother and don’t have time to set up play yards, 4moms Breeze is your best choice as it’s easier to set up. All you need to do is push the center button to open it. The same applies when you want to close it as you pull up the central hub, and it will fold.

It also comes with additional features such as changing station and a removable bassinet.

Pros

• Affordable
• Easy to set up
• Elegant, modern design
• It comes with a changing station and bassinet

Cons

• Bulky

Graco Pack and Play On The Go Playard 

Graco Pack ‘n Play is an affordable play yard that not only provides a safe place where your baby can play but also sleep. This play yard has a push-button to press, and it will be set within seconds.

It comes with a removable full-size bassinet insert, so you can use it before your baby is big enough to play in the bottom section. The folding feet save space so that you can conveniently travel with them. It has meshed sides so that you can watch as your baby plays.

Pros

• Perfect play yard to carry along at the grandparents’ house
• Affordable
• Breathable mesh sides
• Bassinet insert included
• Easier to set up
• Ideal for moms who travels a lot.

Con

• No fancy features like music and changing station

See also: Our Top Baby Monitors Currently on the Market

Chicco Lullaby Zip All-in-One Playard

Chicco Lullaby Playard comes with tones of beautiful features that every mom would like. It comes with a full-size bassinet, sound-producing toys, and a detachable changing station.

The play yard is made of washable mesh fabric and is light in weight. It has rubber wheels so that you can easily move the playard from one place to another.

Pros

• It comes with additional features such as a bassinet and a changing station
• Easier to wash
• Easy to set up
• Breathable mesh sides

Cons

• Heavy
• Expensive thus not ideal for moms on a budget

Baby Delight Go With Me Eclipse Portable Playard

Getting out with your baby is a good idea, especially if you want your baby to get some fresh air. Baby Delight Go is an excellent choice since it can be used indoors and outdoors.

This Play yard comprises a washable nylon floor and a removable sun canopy to make your baby comfortable when out. It’s made of breathable mesh sides, so you can watch as your little one plays. The best thing about this play yard is lightweight, and it’s easier to set it up.

Pros

• Light in weight
• It has a removable sun canopy
• Ideal for outdoor use

Cons

• It doesn’t come with a mattress, so you need to buy one if you intend to make your baby comfortable when sleeping.

See also: 20 Tips For BreastFeeding Newborn

Bugaboo Stardust Playard

Are you a minimalist and want a small Playard for your little one? Bugaboo is made of breathable mesh sides and is made of lightweight materials.

Not only does it open easily, but it also folds like an accordion so you can store it standing upright. It also includes a bassinet insert where your baby can sleep.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Saves space
• Includes a bassinet

Cons

• Pricey
• Has no additional features

Guava Family Lotus Play Yard

The Lotus Playard is made of ultra-light materials, making it an easier option if you travel a lot. Apart from folding into a backpack, it also has zippered side doors so you can lay down a little bit and cuddle your little one.

You can also close the zipper so that your little one won’t escape when you’re taking a shower.

Pros

• Ultralight
• Easy to fold up into a backpack
• Zippered side doors

Cons

• The mattress is relatively thin, and your baby may be uncomfortable

Joovy Room2 Playard

Are you looking for a spacious play yard where twins can play all day? Joovy Room 2 will sort you out. This Playard is not only spacious but also has mesh windows for visibility and breathability.

It also has a fitted cotton sheet to ensure your baby is comfortable when playing.

Pros

• Spacious thus an excellent option for moms with twins
• Large footprint
• Breathable mesh sides

Cons

• It takes some time to set up
• Bulky because of its size

FAQ

Do I need a play yard?

Yes, a play yard is essential because it provides a safe environment where your baby can play when you’re doing other chores.

What should I look for when buying a play yard?

Before you choose a play yard, ensure it’s made of durable material, it’s spacious, and meets the required safety standards.

Can a newborn sleep in a play yard?

Yes, your baby can sleep in a play yard. However, ensure the play yard you choose meets all the safety requirements to avoid accidents.

See also: Best Mini Fridges for Breast Milk

Conclusion

There are numerous play yards in the market today, and choosing the right one can be quite hectic. If your baby’s comfort and safety are your utmost priority, choose one made of durable materials and one that has breathable mesh sides.

If you’re working and don’t have time to struggle setting up the yard, select the one that is easier to set up. You can also choose one with additional features like a bassinet, changing station, and storage area to save on costs.