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10 Best Playpens and Play Yards for Babies Reviewed in 2024

last updated Jul 27, 2019

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

icon
Summer Infant Pop N' Play
98/100 our score
Safety
98
Design
98
Babyproof
98
Summer Infant Pop N' Play
Why is it better?

Lightweight

Affordable

Easy to Clean

Freestanding

Foldable

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Summer Infant Pop N' Play
Test Winner: Summer Infant Pop N' Play
Amazon Link
Researched Sources
23
Researched Sources
Hours Researching
112
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
15
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Cassie Sheets:

Give your baby their own safe place to play and make parenting a little bit easier with a play pen or play yard from our list. We recently updated this guide by switching to a new format to enhance each product’s readability. All of the products on our list have positive reviews and are loved by parents everywhere.

Sorting Options
Safety Design Babyproof By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98
Safety
98 %
Design
98 %
Babyproof
98 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (20.04.24)
Amazon Link
$66.20
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.3
Safety
97 %
Design
96 %
Babyproof
96 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (20.04.24)
Amazon Link
$149.96
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95.3
Safety
96 %
Design
96 %
Babyproof
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (20.04.24)
Amazon Link
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
Safety
95 %
Design
95 %
Babyproof
95 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (20.04.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
Safety
93 %
Design
93 %
Babyproof
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (20.04.24)
Amazon Link
$67.99
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
Safety
92 %
Design
93 %
Babyproof
91 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (20.04.24)
Amazon Link
$149.99
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.3
Safety
91 %
Design
91 %
Babyproof
92 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (20.04.24)
Amazon Link
$44.88
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.7
Safety
90 %
Design
90 %
Babyproof
89 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (20.04.24)
Amazon Link
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.3
Safety
89 %
Design
88 %
Babyproof
88 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (20.04.24)
Amazon Link
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.3
Safety
88 %
Design
88 %
Babyproof
86 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (20.04.24)
Amazon Link
$89.99

10 Best Playpens & Play Yards Reviewed

1. Summer Infant Pop N' Play

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98
Summer Infant Pop N' Play
Amazon Link
Safety
98
Design
98
Babyproof
98
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$66.20

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!

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Safety

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

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.3
Kidzone 8 Panel Safety baby playpen
Amazon Link
Safety
97
Design
96
Babyproof
96
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$149.96

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!

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Safety

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"

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95.3
Delta Children play yard
Amazon Link
Safety
96
Design
96
Babyproof
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link

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!

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Safety

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

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
Graco Pack 'n Play Change 'N Carry play yard
Amazon Link
Safety
95
Design
95
Babyproof
95
best offer for today
Amazon Link

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.

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Safety

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

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
Evenflo Versatile Play Space
Amazon Link
Safety
93
Design
93
Babyproof
93
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$67.99

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.

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Safety

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

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
Gupamiga Classic Set 14 Panel playpen
Amazon Link
Safety
92
Design
93
Babyproof
91
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$149.99

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.

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Safety

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

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.3
Regalo Portable playard
Amazon Link
Safety
91
Design
91
Babyproof
92
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$44.88

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.

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Safety

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

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.7
BABYSEATER Pack and Play Portable playpen
Amazon Link
Safety
90
Design
90
Babyproof
89
best offer for today
Amazon Link

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.

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Safety

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

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.3
Baby Care Vivid playpen
Amazon Link
Safety
89
Design
88
Babyproof
88
best offer for today
Amazon Link

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.

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Safety

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

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.3
North States Superyard Colorplay play yard
Amazon Link
Safety
88
Design
88
Babyproof
86
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$89.99

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.

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Safety

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

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.

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.

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.

Most Important Criteria (According to our experts opinion)
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#1
Safety
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#2
Design
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#3
Babyproof
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Parents, did you know?

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

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?

a:

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?

a:

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?

a:

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?

a:

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?

a:

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?

a:

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

  1. Deborah Braud, Real Benefits of Having a Baby Playard, Blog Article
  2. Healh and Parenting Staff, Does My Baby Really Need a Playpen?, Informative Article
  3. Katherine Lee , Why Babies Need Downtime, Online Article
  4. Michelle Anthony, PhD , Activities That Explore Touch for 0-2 Year Olds, Parent Resource Article
  5. Admin, Ages 0-2: Developmental Overview, Informational Article