10 Best Playpens and Play Yards for Babies Reviewed in 2024
As the baby starts to crawl and walk, they’ll want to, metaphorically speaking, run free. (They’ll want to literally run a little later, once they’ve got better coordination and control of movement.) Parents know that while little ones need some space to explore on their own, boundaries are important safety measures. That’s why having a playpen and play yard is such a useful tool while raising a child.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 112 hrs of research
![Summer Infant Pop N' Play](https://borncute.com/wp-content/uploads/bfi_thumb/Screen-Shot-2019-05-05-at-9.23.58-AM-6q1sf9vgkokal1wq3uectzavvq77flznorbq7612k6p.png)
Lightweight
Affordable
Easy to Clean
Freestanding
Foldable
![Summer Infant Pop N' Play](https://borncute.com/wp-content/uploads/bfi_thumb/Screen-Shot-2019-05-05-at-9.23.58-AM-6q1sf9vgkokal1wq3uectzavvq77flznorbq7612k6p.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
10 Best Playpens & Play Yards Reviewed
1. Summer Infant Pop N' Play
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
Lightweight
Affordable
Easy to Clean
Freestanding
Foldable
Canopy (sold separately) doesn’t fit in a travel bag
If you love a play yard that is both sturdy and portable (we know you do!) then this one has your name on it! Built for indoor or outdoor use, this baby play yard has mesh sides for easy visibility and a canvas water resistant floor, great for outdoor use!
Read moreSafety
Not only does the mesh sides increase visibility but they also increase the breathability inside the play pen. While the tall sides are sure to keep your little one inside the pen, the railing is padded just in case they happen to bump against it.
Design
Measuring in at 14 square feet, your baby will have plenty of room to roam, nap, or play. Not only is it lightweight but the entire playpen folds up to make it easy for you to transport it from place to place. In fact, with your purchase, you will receive a storage bag. The bag is equipped with a handle to make carrying and storing the playpen easy peasy. The unisex design makes this great for children of all ages.
Babyproof
The canvas floor will keep your child dry from dewy grass, dirt, and sand. It also makes wiping up any accidents inside the playpen easy. With zero openings around the sides, your baby will not be able to sneak out.
2. Kidzone 8 Panel Safety
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
Durable
Safety Locking Gate
BPA free
No tools required for assembly
Easy to clean
Does not include flooring
Does not come with a case
This playpen is a good time waiting to happen! Brightly colored to stimulate the mind and eyes of your little one, this playpen even comes with an activity board that infants and toddlers will love!
Read moreSafety
This playpen offers a sense of fun without compromising safety. The bright colors and built-in games will encourage play and the use of motor skills, further inspiring learning and exploration. The flexibility to build and shape with addable and subtract-able panels make this unique to any set of needs and many different spaces.
Design
Just add or subtract panels to form different shapes, and you’ve got something that always feels new, or offers the comfort of familiarity, whatever your preference! Great for carpet or a hardwood floor, the suction cups on each panel and safety lock at the gate give you the peace of mind every parent deserves.
Babyproof
Easy to set up, and adjustable in size makes this accommodating to any room. Plus, these playpens have safety locks so little ones can't get out and hurt themselves.
3. Delta Children 36" x 36"
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
Spacious
Travel-ready
Includes mattress and carry case
Eligible for free replacement parts
Unisex
Assembly required
Not recommended for children over 30lbs
With a unisex design and a cozy feel, this is a must for any household. Built for sleep or play, this spacious play yard is sized to do either comfortably, and has mattress flooring!
Read moreSafety
While this best baby play yard does meet all safety standards it is meant to be used by children less than thirty pounds who are unable to climb. With the soft padding around the edge, your child is safe to grab the edges and roam around.
Design
Delta designed this pen to be very kid-friendly. The mesh sides are decorated with adorable animal characters and the top rails are different bright colors. Not only will the fun look have your child excited to play but it will also stimulate their sensory development. The spacious inside makes this great for multiple babies to enjoy at once.
Babyproof
Assembly is required but the step-by-step instructions make it a simple process. If the playpen needs to be moved to another location, you can fold it down and pack it in the included carrying case. The mattress pad on the inside of the pen provides your baby with a comfortable spot to play, sit, and lay. The materials of the matress pad and the play pen allow them to easily be wiped clean.
4. Graco Pack 'n Play Change 'N Carry
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
Easy to fold
Built on sturdy wheels
Comes with full-sized, removable bassinet
Includes changing area
Mesh walls keep baby ventilated
Baby will be too heavy for bassinet after the first few months; 15-pound weight limit
The mattress is thin and very firm
The Graco Pack N’ Play is your at-home and away go-to. This play yard features a removable, full-size bassinet in case baby needs to snag a quick nap. The playpen’s changing station can be used with or without the changing pad for added comfort.
Read moreSafety
Built for baby to nap, play, or fuss their way through changing, this baby play yard has it all. It’s easy to fold and carry with you so you won’t need multiple playpens to accommodate travel. The mesh fabric keeps it airy so baby will be comfortable for hours to come.
Design
With wipe-clean fabric, you won’t have to worry about spending hours trying to keep the baby’s space tidy. Airy mesh surrounds all sides of the pen, making it breathable and comfortably ventilated. Featuring wheels for convenient mobility, this playpen is ideal for anyone who might need to pack it up and take it on the go with them.
Babyproof
The frame is durable but easy to break down, with quick-folding action that renders the play yard compact and movable. Equipped with a carrying bag, the Graco Pack N’ Play truly lives up to its name and the company’s lauded reputation.
5. Evenflo Versatile Play Space
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
Easy to set up
Versatile use
Great for infants
Won’t scratch floors
Could be used for pets
Not suited to toddlers due to lightweight design
This lavishly spacious play space is ideal for indoor or outdoor use. Uniquely designed with reversible legs means that this play space has stakes for lawn stability, and otherwise floor pads to prevent scratching for any indoor setting.
Read moreSafety
Weather-resistant and easy to set up, make this excellent for blocking off potentially dangerous areas (fireplace, etc) but also perfect for keeping your little one and all of their favorite things in one place. With attaching and detaching panels, the size and uses are totally up to you!
Design
This product offers a great way to bring your little one outside without worrying about what they can get into. By picking the best space and setting up this play space, you get to pick their exploration range. Great for indoor use as well, especially with some favorite toys. Overall this is a great space for any baby to explore the outdoors or indoors!
Babyproof
The opportunity to include the little one in some outdoor activities is an invaluable tool for development, and due to the weather resistance and (built in) stakes for stability, this has so much to offer families who love some adventure.
6. Gupamiga Classic Set 14 Panel
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
Easy to clean
Good for indoor/outdoor use
Easy to construct
Lightweight
Spacious
Does not come with padding
Not tall enough to keep pets out
This durable playpen is excellent for your curious little one. Vibrant with colors and built-in activities, it promises to captivate their interest time and time again.
Read moreSafety
Germs can be placed at the back of your mind as the plastic material makes it easy for you to wipe each panel clean after every playdate. With each panel being equipped with an anti-clip safeguard, you won’t have to worry about your child’s limbs, fingers, etc getting stuck. The safety lock will keep your little one in. The panels are composed of a non-toxic BPA free material. Entirely odorless, your little one is free to safely play inside the pen.
Design
Each panel is brightly colored to stimulate your child’s sensory development. The variety of colors will have your child excited to play while also providing them with a feeling of security. One of the panels is designed with several fun activities that will provide your child with the mental stimulation they need to increase their development. Turning the knobs and wheels will increase their fine motor skills as well as their hand-eye coordination. Each panel is designed with a handle that makes moving and carrying the pen easy. Whether you're moving one piece of the entire pen you will be able to do it with ease. With the play area being so large your child can enjoy this safe space with their siblings or friends. Start marking your calendar because mommy’s need playdates too.
Babyproof
You won’t have to worry about any panels sliding around or falling on your baby as the entire play pen is designed with rubber feet on the bottom. The rubber provides the pen with a high level of stability and traction. Children will not be able to push or drag the material.
7. Regalo Portable Aqua 6-Panel
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
Machine washable
Foldable
Easy to set up
Comes with carrying case
Easy to store or transport
Not suited to children over 2 years old
This foldable, washable, water resistant and easy to clean play yard gate is every parent’s dream. Not only is it great for your little one by offering a safe place to play with a sturdy frame and a soft nylon bottom to sit or rest on, but it's also easy to use and easy to maintain.
Read moreSafety
This portable playard is plenty accommodating for your little one and hisbooks, toys, or friends! A great learning environment because of the comfortability and ease it brings to the lives of parents and children, this playard is a must.
Design
Let yourself have some luxuries in life with this playard, an excellent addition to any home or yard, great for camping and easy to take on the go. With mesh sides, your baby and keep you in their sights which frees them up to learn and play.
Babyproof
This is an ideal space for little ones. By being such an easy to use and easy to maintain product, the convenience this offers can’t be beat. When so much of life is about hustle and bustle, convenience means more time to be with the ones we love.
8. BABYSEATER Pack and Play Portable
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
Easy to clean
Comfortable flooring
Sturdy
Indoor or outdoor use
Zippered door
Tall sides can be difficult for some
An excellent way to get the family out and exploring, this playpen for babies offers peace of mind that there is somewhere the baby can play, learn, and rest while the other members are doing the same.
Read moreSafety
This playpen is basically a ticket to explore because it makes taking the baby places easier. New places, smells, and textures are crucial to your little one's development, and with this, travel just got easier. So why not? Additionally, a safe environment is crucial to being able to learn, and as its easy to clean as well... This is everything your little one needs to be equipped for many new learning experiences.
Design
Great for indoor or outdoor use, this portable playpen even features a zippered door to let the baby crawl in or out, or to keep baby in, whatever your need is. With an extra cushion in the flooring, this is a place your baby will want to spend their time. Machine washable and with mesh sides, so your baby can have a great view, this is a must for the family with a sense of adventure.
Babyproof
A quality product that suits most scenarios is ideal for babies and their families. Excellent for staying in sight and sound, with a zippered door that (if unzipped) baby can roam in and out of making this your child’s first-ever favorite place.
9. Baby Care Vivid
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
No tools necessary for assembly/disassembly
Free of nasty chemicals
31.6 square feet of enclosed space
Bold, bright, color options
No sharp edges for baby to injure themselves on
Mat must be purchased separately
With no tools needed for assembly, your child is free to safely roam almost immediately after you receive it. With 31.6 square feet, your child will have plenty of space to experience the adventures of childhood.
Read moreSafety
Free from BPA, phthalates, lead, latex, formaldehyde, and EVA, this robust plastic structure gives your baby room to explore and play, while ensuring they do it in a safe, contained the area. The set comes with ten panels total, but it can be combined with other Baby Care pens to create a larger space if you so desire.
Design
No tools are necessary for assembly or take-down, and the stability clamps that secure and connect the tops of the panels are rounded to prevent snagging or pinching little fingers. The playpen baby is waterproof and comes in a variety of color choices: gray, blue and white, pink and white, or vivid (yellow, blue, and red). Grab a Baby Care mat for cushioning, and your family is all set for playtime.
Babyproof
These playpens offerssafe, regulated playtime by providing enough room for children to crawl, run, wiggle, and explore, while still giving parents full control over just how far their infant can go. Baby won’t feel confined or trapped, and Mom and/or Dad can go about their business with peace of mind.
10. North States Superyard Colorplay
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
![Amazon Link](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/inc/post-data/site/images/stores_logos/amazon_store.png)
Bright primary colors
Encompasses up to 34.4 feet
Can be adjusted for smaller areas
Easy to fold
Panels click to let you know when they’ve locked into place
Free-standing; you may need a mat if you don’t want your little one directly on the floor
Won’t collapse, but will move under too much of baby’s weight
Lightweight, colorful, and adjustable, this eight-panel North States play yard is a bright, beautiful option! Free-standing, you can assemble this play yard in as little as a few seconds, and it can be used indoors or outdoors.
Read moreSafety
Safe, durable, and meant for longevity, it’s no wonder North States is so confident in their products. This adjustable play yard can be used inside or outside and the size can be adjusted depending on how many panels you choose to use. It truly can fit in any space and in any room.
Design
The panels are plastic and easy to fold for storage. Non-slip pads keep the playpen in one place and promise not to mar elegant hardwood floors. Self-locking positioning clicks into place with each panel so you know when you’ve got it at the right angle.
When assembled with all eight panels, the playpen encompasses a space of up to 34.4 square feet (roughly seven feet across) and rises to 26 inches in height. If you want a smaller area for baby to roam, simply take out the desired amount of panels during assembly and leave them on the sidelines.
Babyproof
This is a basic, easy-to-use free-standing best baby play yard. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something that can withstand some wear and tear, and it’s easy to clean, given that it’s constructed from quality plastics.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
![](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/images/guide-template/criterias/safety.png)
Safety
Safety is always a key priority because with infants and toddlers there are already plenty of fears that keep parents up at night. That’s why in our research we sought out the steadiest, sturdiest, and sometimes even securable playpens around.
Offering family years of fun and freedom isn’t anything without some ensured peace of mind. We wanted to showcase products that are not only safe for any of your little one’s experimentation, but also for any accidents or mishaps.
![](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/images/guide-template/criterias/design.png)
Design
We sought out those spaces that would be comfortable for their bodies, gentle if they were to fall, but sturdy enough to handle a restless little one. We confidently offer all of those powerful attributes in several of the above products because we know that the little one in your life deserves more than just a spot to crash.
![](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/images/guide-template/criterias/babyproof.png)
Babyproof
In order to properly assess the most worthwhile play space investments for families, we took into account three needs all infants and toddlers have. Those needs are the need to play, to rest, and to be safe during both. All playpens listed above have adequately met those needs plus some.
The features of each product as well as the age range for each product, is also detailed. The need for play is integral to development. Children learn through play, with the only variation being the type of play they enact, and that type of play is normally correlated with age and developmental stage.
![](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/images/guide-template/expert-tips-icon.png)
How can you let yourself do the dishes or take a shower if you can’t be sure that your little one won’t be hurt if they fall, or could get their hand or foot stuck somewhere? We considered things of this nature very carefully to make sure that a solid selection was available for any loved one of an infant or toddler, who is having a hard time knowing just what they want or need, and what’s available to them.
Other Factors to Consider
![](https://borncute.com/wp-content/themes/Newspaper/images/guide-template/factors/sensory-stimulation.png)
Sensory Stimulation
All varieties of play contribute to intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development so we value them all equally. Making the proper space to do these things encourages the child naturally to observe and experiment with what is in their space and what they’re observing outside of it.
We favored in this list, play yards that infants and toddlers could see out of, so they can see you, observe tasks being completed, or be in the outdoors in a risk-free environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Is it ok to bring a playpen for a baby to sleep in on vacation?
Yes, though a crib is recommended for long-term use, there is nothing wrong with using a playpen for short-term use so long as it is built with some padded flooring. Additionally, portable play yards are much easier to travel with than a full-sized crib.
q: Is a playpen really necessary?
Though some people consider them a luxury, they are totally worth it. If space is a concern, you can get one that folds up and fits in a closet or under a bed or baby crib. They are excellent for travel and some outings, and even just to keep baby in a safe place while you get a few things done around the house.
q: My baby doesn’t want me to leave her sight; is there anything I can do?
Excellent question! It is so crucial to be sensitive to your child’s needs and cries, and this is a scenario where a play yard can help as long as you select one with transparent (or mostly see-through) sides. That may help you put a little space between you and your little one for short periods of time so that you can get things done, but they can still see you and be comforted.
q: I’m planning to use this outside, will that ruin it?
It is highly dependent on the product that you choose, but there are many waterproof, easy-to-clean, weather-resistant options available above.
q: Will this attach to the wall?
None of these attach to walls specifically, but many are shapable to fit various rooms, or corners in rooms so there is much flexibility still in functionality.
q: Will this still stand if my 8-month-old pulls himself up with it?
Although most of these play yards and playpens have additional safety mechanisms, for stability to hold up to such force, check products individually for what will best suit your needs.
Sources
- Real Benefits of Having a Baby Playard, Blog Article ,
- Does My Baby Really Need a Playpen?, Informative Article ,
- Why Babies Need Downtime, Online Article ,
- Activities That Explore Touch for 0-2 Year Olds, Parent Resource Article ,
- Ages 0-2: Developmental Overview, Informational Article ,