Playpen for a child: features of models, materials and additional functions, do-it-yourself playpen

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As soon as the baby begins to roll over onto his tummy, leaving him unattended becomes dangerous. A great solution would be to purchase a playpen bed. A place where the baby can sleep and play at the same time. The bladeless sides will prevent it from falling, and the multifunctional transformers will be a real find for a young mother.

Distinctive features

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

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

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

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

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

Reliable manufacturers

Furniture for children must meet the highest requirements, because the health of the baby directly depends on the safety of the materials and the design itself. Playpen beds from the following manufacturers are popular with parents:

Chicco. The Italian company produces comfortable and safe models. Durable structures are made of metal and covered with textiles, and include viewing inserts in the mesh. The products are great for children under 4 years old.
Graco. High-quality multifunctional playpen beds are durable, comfortable and have a long service life. The two-level product is suitable for newborns. After the child’s weight reaches 6.5 kg, the furniture is transformed into a crib for a baby up to 3 years old.
Geuther. Wooden rectangular models are suitable for children from birth to 3 years old and can withstand a weight of 15 kg. The products are equipped with a “Book” transformation mechanism, three-level bottom adjustment, and wheels for movement. Main advantages: environmental friendliness, safety, ease of maintenance, convenience.
Cam. Reliable models with a metal frame covered with textiles. Two-level playpen beds are equipped with a canopy, pockets for children's accessories, and a side opening. The kit also includes a carrier, toys, a changing table, and a mosquito net.

It is recommended to purchase furniture for children from trusted sellers who provide quality certificates for the goods sold.

Chicco

Graco

Geuther

Cam

Types of construction

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

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

Folding

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

Its advantages:

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

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

Transformer

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

Transformer Light

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

Its features:

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

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

Game

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

For twins

There are different types of such playpens:

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

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

For dolls

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

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

Rating of the 5 best models and their photos

Noony Cubby

There are 2 levels of bottom height adjustment.
Dimensions (LxWxH) -125x65x76 cm.
Pros: light weight, carrying bag, lots of attachments.
Cons – not suitable for a small room.
Price – 5,399 rub.

This model will be an excellent purchase for parents, which will delight them not only with its appearance, but will also become a safe place for the baby to play, sleep and change clothes.

Noony Cubby allows parents to monitor their child from a distance using translucent, breathable side walls.

For newborn babies, a place to sleep is installed on the second level

. To make it easier for the mother to lull the baby to sleep, the developers have provided a vibration-sickness function and a mobile with bright, hanging toys. For older fidgety children there is a side hole.

Happy Baby Martin

The material of manufacture is a frame made of metal and plastic, walls made of textiles.
Dimensions (LxWxH) – 128x71x76 cm.
Pros - maximum weight up to 25 kg, the presence of a second bottom for newborns, rings included.
Cons: heavy to assemble.
Price – 3,899 rub.

A wonderful Happy Baby Martin playpen that easily becomes a cozy and comfortable crib

. Made from modern, lightweight materials. The textile is quite soft and practical to use. The maximum load on the upper level (crib) is 9 kg, on the lower level (playpen) - 25 kg.

Large side walls made of mesh fabric provide sufficient lighting and ventilation for the child, and through them parents can watch the baby while sleeping and awake. With the help of wheels, moving around the room is made easier and more convenient. All dangerous places are covered with overlays.

Noony Friends

The material of manufacture is a frame made of metal and plastic, walls made of textiles.
Dimensions (LxWxH) – 110x76x76 cm.
Pros - thanks to the hard bottom, the child will not have problems with the spine, in addition to everything there is musical accompaniment, vibration and lighting.
Cons: small selection of colors and designs.
Price – 6220 rub.

A universal playpen bed will be the first assistant for a mother in caring for her baby.

It is equipped with a bottom that can change its level as the baby grows. There is a changing table equipped with side skirts, which will allow the mother to change the baby’s clothes without leaving the place where she sleeps. Rocking your baby to sleep will become easier with the vibration rocking function.

And so that the baby does not get bored, he will be amused by a pendant with toys and a musical mobile. Additionally, the Noony Friends playpen has a side door with a zipper, through which the little fidget can independently climb into his cozy relaxation area. The product easily folds like an “umbrella”.

It is convenient to store and transport in a special bag that comes with the kit.

Happy Baby Lagoon

The material of manufacture is a frame made of metal and plastic, walls made of textiles.
Dimensions (LxWxH) – 110x80x85 cm.
Pros: the set includes toys and is easy to move around the apartment.
Cons: no changing table.
Price – 7100 rub.

This is a 3 in 1 playpen model

, playpen-bed with a second bottom, rocking chair, playpen. The second bottom is easily attached to the playpen using a zipper, which allows you to turn the place for games into a cozy and comfortable crib.

Two easily removable arches will help the mother rock the baby, which are located on the sides of the playpen; they are protected with silicone pads, which makes rocking quieter and softer. An arc with toys will help entertain your little one, which can be easily removed, allowing you to wash the toys or hang new ones.

Capella Sweet Time

The material of manufacture is a frame made of metal and plastic, walls made of textiles.
Dimensions (LxWxH) -126x66x62 cm.
Pros: comfortable, pleasant appearance and multifunctional, comes complete with a mattress, convenient pockets, and toys.
Cons – the floor is not soft enough.
Price – 3,730 rub.

The Capella Sweet Time baby playpen bed is the best, compact and reliable assistant for parents. A safe place for your child to sleep and rest, made of high-quality material and with a bright design.

Its side walls are made of mesh that allows air to pass through

, and through which mother and baby will see each other perfectly.

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We learned from the mothers of our site what is better and more effective for the safety of the child: a crib or a playpen. What did moms use and what was their experience?

With each new stage in the baby’s development, more and more attention is required from the mother. If the baby’s lifestyle gives the mother the opportunity to do household chores, then once the baby develops the skill of crawling, moving away from him becomes problematic. It is in such situations that it is recommended to use a playpen for the safety of the child.

Can a playpen be replaced with a crib?

Firstly, in terms of safety, the crib is much inferior to the playpen. The fact is that a baby who can jump can swing it too much and simply fall out. Not to mention the rocking bed option - this is extremely unsafe.

Secondly, the size of the crib is usually much smaller than the playpen. This means that the baby has less space to actively crawl, play, practice standing up and walking.

The playpen, although often short, is wide - a convenient field for children’s activities.

04/12/2014 shnurok

All advice from moms

Thirdly, it is not recommended to let your baby play in the crib. After all, the bed is intended strictly for sleeping - that is, the child should associate it with rest, and not with games and fun. This makes it easier to form a full-fledged routine and teach the baby to fall asleep in the crib.

As for falling asleep in a playpen, many mothers complain about the inconvenience of this option. The sides are high, the bottom is low, which makes it difficult to lower and raise a sleeping child from the depths of the playpen.

04/10/2014 shnurok

04/12/2014 Ashatan_Natasha

All advice from moms

In general, we can conclude that it is possible to replace one with another, but it is undesirable and inconvenient. The playpen is for games, the crib is for sleeping.

By the way, for those who spend time outside the city at the dacha, the option with a playpen is especially convenient. You can put it right outside (the main thing is in the shade), and let the baby have fun in it and breathe fresh air at the same time. At the same time, a huge plus for the mother is that the baby is supervised and safe.

Manege - not for everyone?

There is one more nuance regarding the child’s time spent in the playpen. The fact is that not all children have a positive attitude towards him. One child will demand to be released from this “cage” in just a minute, while the other will enthusiastically play with toys and not cause any trouble. How the baby will behave in the playpen largely depends on the parents. The mother needs to introduce the baby to the playpen gradually. Even before he started crawling, sitting down and standing up. Place the child in the playpen, and place familiar toys nearby. Let him get comfortable in his new space. And under no circumstances leave your baby alone, stay close. The baby must understand that this is a safe place - his own territory and a small world. When the child gets used to it, do not leave him alone for a long time. The baby should know that you are nearby: you went to the kitchen for ten minutes and came back, left and came back. These 10-minute periods of time are enough to cook pasta, put chicken in the oven, or wash vegetables for a salad.

And if the size of the kitchen allows, then you can place the playpen nearby. And the baby is not bored, and the mother is busy. Just don’t forget about the safety rules - place the playpen away from the stove, hot dishes and sharp objects.

In favor of the playpen

The main advantage is, of course, the opportunity for the mother to step away from the child for a few minutes, leaving him alone in the room and without fear for his safety. The playpen also teaches the child to occupy himself with toys and helps develop the skills of getting up and walking.

agucha

All advice from moms

When choosing a playpen for your baby, pay attention to the following:

A large playpen is good for a child, but not very convenient for parents. Due to its size, it ceases to be mobile, compact and light. And this is especially important if you are going to take it to the country, for example. Therefore, think in advance what size will suit you in terms of folded dimensions.

The side walls are exactly what will protect the baby while you are not around. Therefore, pay attention to their height; it should be sufficient for the baby’s growth and not enough for him to overcome them.

The stability of the arena is also a very important characteristic. The child will not only sit in it, he will definitely want to jump in it, flop on his butt and swing it, holding on to the sides. Check its stability before purchasing. This is exactly what confuses many mothers when choosing a playpen:

04/08/2014 Nika Mironova

05/01/2014 MamaUli

All advice from moms

Playpens come in mesh and slatted varieties. Some have slats as walls, others have mesh. Pay attention to the distance between the slats: it should not be more than 6.5 cm to avoid getting the child’s head stuck. And the size of the mesh cells should be such that the baby’s fingers do not get stuck in them.

Important

Remember that the playpen is designed for children up to 1.5-2 years old.

Do not put large toys in the playpen - the baby is smart enough to climb on them and try to overcome the walls of his “fortress”.

Toys in the playpen must be safe, that is, without sharp edges or hard edges, as the baby may fall and get hurt.

A sound sleep for your baby is the key to a calm atmosphere in the house. The longer the sleep, the healthier and stronger the baby grows. That is why it is important to choose the right children's furniture. And here many parents are faced with a choice: which is better - a playpen or a crib?

Form

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

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

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

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

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

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

Round

Rectangular

Hexagonal

Advantages

According to reviews, playpen beds have several advantages. They are multifunctional, as they include a sleeping and playing area. But there are 3 in 1 options when there is a changing table. Most models are folding playpen beds, which are also easy to transport. Other benefits include:

Safety. The baby will not fall out of this design and will not hit himself. Also, it cannot get stuck between the rods, as in a conventional product. Thanks to a special protective net, the child is protected from insects, so safety is ensured at home and outdoors.
Mobility. The product folds very easily, so it can fit in the trunk of a car. You can take the device with you everywhere. And because of the lightness and wheels, the playpens can be moved around the room.
Easy care. All parts can be washed. A crib of this type usually has everything you need, but some parents choose special orthopedic mattresses.
Bed height adjustment function. For a child, you can raise the sleeping place so that it is convenient for the mother to fold it. Some models have bassinets for little ones. When the child grows up, they can be lowered lower.

Although playpen beds for newborns are safe, you should not leave your baby alone for long periods of time. After the purchase, it is advisable for mom to stay near the structure. According to reviews, children usually like playpen beds. They quickly get used to being there, they feel comfortable and comfortable.

Bead material

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

Advantages of wooden playpens:

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

Minuses:

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

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

Pros:

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

Minuses:

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

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

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:

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

Advantages of using a children's extendable bed, 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.

The basis

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

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

Assembly procedure

When choosing a bed, you should pay attention to its design. It is believed that the more complex the structure of the arena, the longer it will take to install. In addition, such structures are often susceptible to breakdown. The failure of moving parts is due to their quantity and poor design. An active child may often toss and turn in his sleep and be restless, which increases the load on the bed. In this case, it is better to choose a product that is easy to install. While in the store, you can visually imagine the assembled model in disassembled form: if all the connections are clear, you can safely purchase the playpen.

To answer the question of how to assemble a playpen bed with your own hands, you should refer to the step-by-step assembly instructions:

preparation - all tools must be located near the workplace. The playpen parts must be laid out on the floor according to the instructions, if any. Before assembly, you need to make sure that all the parts are in place; for this you should check the manual;
installation of the initial part - at the start of work, you need to take the main headboard, the one that is stationary and motionless. To independently distinguish it from the adjustable part of the playpen, you should take a closer look at the number of holes for fastenings: there will be fewer of them than on the movable side of the playpen;
Next you need to take the left side part. It is leaned against the main backrest and secured with bolts and a screwdriver. Manufacturers usually make holes at the bottom and top to provide a connection between the two parts;
do the same with the second side - the right side. It is leaned against the back and bolted. It is impossible to make a mistake in this case: each part is equipped with support legs, so it is impossible to confuse the top and bottom;
After the manipulations have been done, it’s time to attach the bottom. It is made in one single piece and is difficult to confuse with other elements. This will require the help of a second person. One person will hold the bottom from below, and the other person will try to make sure that the holes for the fastenings on the bottom coincide with the grooves on the side of the bed from the inside. The part is also secured with bolts from the outside;
Before completely securing the bottom of the playpen, you need to attach the second part of the bottom to the side right part. Once both parts are in place and the legs align with the bottom fasteners, you can tighten the bolts with a screwdriver;
The moving part of the bed usually contains a large number of components: brackets, upper and lower rails, as well as upper and lower fastenings. First, the staples are installed in the holes at the foot of the bed. The lower fasteners are fixed on top of them, then the upper fasteners are installed. After this, the upper and lower guides are mounted;
The final step will be to tighten all the bolts to full strength.

When the playpen bed is assembled, you need to check its strength. To do this, just raise and lower the adjustable part of the crib several times. It is also important to apply a little pressure to the body of the product to check its stability. If the playpen is equipped with wheels, it is better to carefully secure it near the wall to avoid accidental rolling away. If all actions were carried out in accordance with the instructions, you can safely begin using the playpen.

Folding type

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

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

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

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

Why do you need a playpen?

The playpen will become an assistant for a mother who is alone in the house with her baby all day. While the child is inside the playground, she can calmly go about her business. A baby under one year old will not be able to climb out or climb over the sides or partitions of the device. He will be in a fenced safe space.

In the playpen you can create a comfortable area for your baby, where he will be occupied with toys. The child will have his own corner, which can be organized even in small apartments. The playpen will delimit the space and become a place for games, while the crib will be intended exclusively for sleeping.

In the playpen it is convenient to learn to get up, stand and walk along the side. At the same time, the walls of the products are, as a rule, solid, so the baby will not stick an arm or leg through the bars. And due to the softness of the product, if a child falls, he will not hit himself. With the help of playpens for children, you can develop perseverance, imagination, fine motor skills and independence.

And if the child crawls, the playpen ensures the safety of the baby as much as possible. He won't be able to crawl far, hit furniture, and so on. By the way, kids who are accustomed to sitting quietly and playing in the playpen on their own become resistant to stress. They will be able to easily endure separation from their parents and remain at home alone in the future.

Equipment options

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

Modern playpen beds for children are available with various additions:

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

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

Which is better - a playpen or a crib?

Each children's furniture has its own functional characteristics. The main thing when choosing is the parents’ needs for certain “bells and whistles”. If a separate room is allocated for the baby, then it is usually equipped with a stationary crib

. But if the room is small, or parents often move the child’s bed, then a playpen is preferable.

To make the right decision, you need to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Cot

. This is the most traditional resting place for a small child. As a rule, it is preferred by those who teach their baby to sleep separately from the first days of life. The crib is conveniently placed next to the parent's bed, which allows the mother to easily reach the baby without getting out of bed.

The main advantages of a baby crib:

The crib is the baby’s personal space, where he is the rightful owner. He is on his own, but at the same time he is very close to his parents, which gives him a feeling of security;
Sleep in a crib is more restful and longer;
The crib fits perfectly into any interior, taking up little space. A baby can sleep in it for quite a long time, since its dimensions and removable elements allow it to comfortably accommodate a 4-5 year old child.

The only disadvantage of a traditional crib is its clumsiness

. Often, a place for it is chosen immediately, and the bed remains on it for more than one year. It is very inconvenient to move it around the apartment, so the baby will always be in one place.

Playpen bed

. This is the choice of modern parents. A light and comfortable crib moves easily around the apartment, allowing the baby to always see his family.

The main advantages of such furniture include:

Maneuverability and compactness. This crib can not only be easily moved between rooms, but also taken with you on long trips.
Functional component. In the first months of life, such furniture is used only as a place of rest, but later the matured baby can play in it as in a playpen.
Bright design. Kids are delighted with playpen beds because they remind them of a house. How exciting it is for a crawling baby to play in his own territory! Some models even have special zippers through which kids can get into their house on their own.

The main disadvantages of this model include its low bottom and the inability to adjust its height

. Of course, the grown-up child will be safe in such a bed, but it will not be very convenient for the mother to put him in such a crib all the time. You have to bend too low, which creates additional stress on your back.

In any case, only parents can decide what furniture to choose for their newborn baby, and an online children's furniture store can help with this. Perhaps over time, one crib option will replace another, so don’t get ahead of yourself. The main thing is to choose the furniture where your baby will feel good and calm.

Age restrictions

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

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

№	Kinds	Age category
1	Wooden bed playpen	From 0-5 years
2	Rectangular wooden transformers	From 0-12 years
3	Playpen covered with material	From 0-3 years
4	Folding playpen	From 0-1.5 years

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

0 to 5

From 0 to 12

From 0 to 3

From 0 to 1.5 years

How to decide on the package?

Next, you need to select devices and additional functions that increase the ease of use of the crib. Pay attention to the following details:

Baby changing table. This is an indispensable removable design, which is suitable for those who do not want to purchase a full-fledged replacement for reasons of economy. It will not take up much space in the apartment and will allow you to avoid unnecessary expenses. The changing table can easily accommodate a baby up to two years old.
A shelf or pocket for cosmetics is convenient because you will always have the most necessary things at hand: napkins, medicines and even toys.
A mosquito net will provide protection from insects: mosquitoes, midges, bees. It is especially relevant if the crib is installed in the garden or on the balcony in the summer.
Vibration block. You can turn it on if you need to calm your baby down as soon as possible. Due to rhythmic and gentle movements, the child will fall asleep much faster.
Availability of an audio system. If it is not possible to sing lullabies on your own, a block with music will come to the rescue. Usually these are calm melodies that help you fall asleep quickly and have healthy sleep. Some modifications are equipped with a recording function, thanks to which the child can recognize the voices of relatives.
Side door. This is a solution for older children, which allows you to equip the playpen with a place for board games.

Additionally, it is recommended to purchase a carrying case, which will make it easier to transport the structure when folded. In addition to simplifying the carrying process, it will serve as protection from damage and dirt.

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Who needs a playpen?

In general, it is advisable to make a decision about the need to buy a playpen long before it becomes vitally necessary for you, since you should accustom your child to it before he understands that he can crawl around the apartment without restrictions and take everything he can reach. Of course, many young mothers manage quite successfully without a playpen. It all depends on the child, on the conditions in which you live, and on yourself. In general, think for yourself, decide for yourself. We will describe just a few situations when a playpen can be very useful.

At home

A playpen will come in handy if you need to do a lot of things (clean up, cook dinner, take out the trash can) and, at the same time, keep an eye on your child. Of course, you can put all sharp, breakable and fragile objects on the top shelves, put protection on the corners, locks on cabinets, etc. But, believe me, if you go to the kitchen for a few minutes, you will not be able to calmly stir the soup if the baby is freely crawling around the apartment. Some mothers are afraid to even go to the toilet while the little explorer is awake. Of course, you can leave the room for a few minutes and put your child in bed, but most children perceive such confinement extremely negatively. And in general, according to experts, the bed should be associated only with sleep, but not with play. The rest of the space is for play!

At the dacha and while traveling

It is much more difficult to monitor a child in nature. It will no longer be possible to lower him to the floor and let him “freely graze”; there are so many interesting things in the grass: bugs, spiders, twigs, and the baby is trying to taste all of this. You will be able to move the playpen with your baby closer to your location without fear that the child will climb into the grill with burning coals or onto the compost heap, mistaking it for a slide. If you are one of the brave travelers for whom the birth of a child is not a reason to give up your previous lifestyle, you simply need a playpen. In addition, when traveling, the functions of the playpen expand - it is both a playpen and a sleeping place.