Safest And Best Baby Pack N Play: Reviews, Buying Guide, and FAQs 2023

by Robert Fox

If you are a new parent it won't take you long to realize that pack n' plays are one of the best baby inventions ever from a safety standpoint.

Do you want your child close by at night, a pack 'n play is the answer. If you want an easy place to lay your sleeping baby near you during the day… pack n' play.

Do you need a moment to yourself and need to contain your crawling child, you guessed it… pack n' play.

Today's post is all about these amazing baby cribs that will let your baby comfortably play, sleep, and even eat in them. So, without further ado, here's what we are going to talk about today:

Top Baby Pack N Plays by Editors

Buyer Guide for Baby Pack N Plays

Buyer Guide for Baby Pack N Plays
Buyer Guide for Baby Pack N Plays

We start by explaining the key factors you need to consider when buying a pack n' play.

Portability

The whole purpose of pack n' plays is that they are cribs that are easy to move around. Whether you are just moving from one room of the house to another or heading on vacation, portability is important.

Personally, I would recommend finding one that is able to fit through your doorways without being folded down.

This way you can easily wheel your sleeping baby into another room of the house if need be.

If you will need to take your pack n' play out of the house, to a sitters or while traveling, you will want to look for one that folds down easily and is lightweight.

Accessories

Back when I was growing up my parents used the old playpens.

If you are not familiar with play pens, they were simple mesh sided squares with hard bottoms to keep your child in.

Pack n' plays have come a long way. You will have options of included diaper storage areas, mobiles, changing pads, music, and bassinet inserts.

These accessories are usually all removable so you can use the basic pack n' play option as well.

Safety

No one wants to put their child in something that isn't safe. Pack n' Plays are federally regulated for safety and it is important to always check for recalls before purchasing.

You will also want to register your pack and play when you buy it so you can be notified of any future recalls. Make sure you are using the appropriate product for your child's size.

Next, we move on to the reviews.

With so many options on the market it is can be tough to find the right one. Here are ten of the top rated pack and plays available:

Top 9 Best Baby Pack N Plays

Baby Trend Nursery Center

This pack 'n play is basic and simple. If you want an easy to fold, take and use pack and play this is the one for you.

It packs away easily into a carrying bag and while it is a no frills style, it does include a padded bottom for more comfort.

This unit is sturdy and extremely difficult to tip due to a low center of gravity.

Whether you need a safe spot for your sleeping infant or a place to contain in active toddler, from a safety standpoint this is a great pack n' play.

This unit also has a removable full-size bassinet ad a removable diaper stacker for your baby's essentials.

This amazing gender neutral play yard is perfect for any home or nursery setting. You and your baby will definitely love it!

On to the next one…

Disney Baby Minnie Mouse Sweet Wonder Play Yard

The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed
The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed

This pack 'n play is highly reviewed online. It comes with an optional bassinet for children under 15 pounds who are not yet pushing up on their hands and knees.

The bassinet option makes it very easy to pick up, lay down, and change your infant.

The unit has plenty of space for your child to rest or play. There is also a toy arch with interesting and adorable toys that will keep your child entertained.

This is a durable product that is easy to keep clean. With wheels on the bottom it is easy to transport from room to room.

It can be easily unfolded and confidently set up thanks to the indicators that show when it is locked in place and ready to use.

This unit also has a diaper changer that is incredibly easy to remove and clean.

The deluxe organizer will let you keep your baby's necessities nicely stored within your reach. It is also worth mentioning that the top shelf holds a large wipes container. You don't need to worry about where to store all those wipes.

Graco is a trusted brand among baby products, working to keep your child safe. Another great thing about this play yard is that it includes a one-year limited warranty.

To find out more about this play yard watch the video below:

The next one on the list is the Baby Trend Deluxe…

Baby Trend Deluxe Nursery Center

The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed
The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed

The Baby Trend Deluxe Nursery Center is a reliable, multi-purpose, gender neutral play yard that will function as a sleep are, play area, and a changing table for your baby..

This pack n' play includes all the bells and whistles. It has a great one-handed locking feature to ensure your child's safety.

With a bassinet, mobile, docking station to play music and shade cover your baby is sure to love the Baby Trend Deluxe Nursery Center.

Baby Trend Deluxe Nursery Center
Baby Trend Deluxe Nursery Center

One of the most convenient features for new parents is the flip over changing station.

When you need to change your infant you just flip the changing station over the bassinet bottom and when you are finished you can flip it back over the side to allow your child to nap.

This pack n' play is a little heavier than the first two options we covered because of all the extras.

Here is the list of all the features this play yard has:

  • removable bassinet
  • canopy with cool stuffed toys
  • flip-away changing table
  • electronic music center
  • one-hand locking mechanism
  • organizer and storing compartments
  • compatible with Close N Cozy bedside sleeper

As the name says, it is a complete nursery center and great for new parents, child care givers and grandparents to use. Thanks to all its features, both you and your baby will absolutely love this play yard.

Moving on to the next one…

Cosco Funsport Play Yard

The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed
The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed

This pack n' play is simple and compact. It is a great option for small places. With 4 mesh sides the air circulation is good, keeping your little one safe.

The four mes sided with padded floor not only keep your baby safe but also let the baby see what's happening around her.

Side locks provide the confidence you need that this pack n' play will not collapse while in use. With the more compact size, this is a great option for travelling.

Cosco Funsport Play Yard
Cosco Funsport Play Yard

This pack n' play is incredibly easy to assemble and disassemble. It will literally take you less than a minute to have it ready for your baby.

The play yard folds compactly into included carry bag for travel. Wheels on one end will let you easily move the play yard around the room.

Another great thing about this pack n' play is its small size when disassembled. You can store it almost anywhere when not in use.

On to the next one…

Summer Infant Grow with Me Playard and Changer

The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed
The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed

Featuring a newborn changer, infant bassinet, and full-size play yard, the Summer Infant Swingin' Safari Grow is designed to grow with your baby. The bassinet feature allows your newborn to sleep comfortably, and is easily removable when your child is over 15 pounds.

The neutral fashion design will ideally compliment any nursery or home.

With a parent tray attached to the side it helps parents keep their baby safe by not needing to leave the area for even a moment to track down a diaper or wipes.

Summer Infant Grow with Me Playard and Changer
Summer Infant Grow with Me Playard and Changer

The changing station safely holds up to 25 pounds making it a great place for diaper changes through the first year for many babies.

Th unit also features a removable toy bar with 3 plush toys that will help keep your baby entertained.

The play yard also has 2 wheels on one side, making it move from room to room incredibly easy.

On to the next one…

Safety 1st Sweet Wonder Play Yard

The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed
The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed

This is another great option that comes with many extra features. You have access to everything you need in a crib, changing table and play mat all rolled up into one.

The unit is very spacious and offers plenty of space for your baby to play and rest. Your baby will always be entertained thanks to the toy arch with 2 adorable plays.

The material is easy to clean and the mesh sides allow parents to easily check on their child even from a distance.

The deluxe organizer keeps baby's necessities easily within reach. You don't have to worry about where to store your wipes and diapers.

This unit setup easily and comes with Safety 1st indicators so you can trust your child is safe.

You can trust this pack n' play to keep your infant safe since it is made by Safety 1st, a highly reviewed baby product company.

They use a locking mechanism to keep the pack and play setup, sturdy and in place.

With an included bassinet, changing table, and storage compartments this pack n' play will meet all your needs. You and your baby will definitely love it!

Next, we review Fisher-price ultra-lite play yard…

Fisher-Price Ultra-Lite Day & Night Play Yard

The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed
The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed

This pack n' play's base mat sits directly on the ground, which provides ultimate safety in not tipping.

This travel play yard has a bassinet and changing pad included along with a handy travel bag that fits the entire unit easily. Thanks to the travel bag, you can take the unit with you no matter where you go.

The bassinet attachment is actually an including sleeping spot that includes a 3 point harness to keep your child in place.

With a head rest support this is a great option for a newborn, and the insert can be removed for older infants and toddlers to sleep and play.

This unit includes a diaper storage area and the whole thing is about half the weight of similar units. Thanks to its weight of only 17.5 lbs, it is excellent for travelling.

The play yard is relatively easy to open and close. It nicely fits in the travel bag, without a struggle.

The folded product measures 22.4″H x 26.5″L x 7.2″W which is larger than a lot of the competition.

Next on the list is Delta children play yard…

Delta Children 36″ x 36″ Playard, Novel Ideas

The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed
The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed

This pack n' play is a throw back to playpens with the retro build. It is larger than many pack n' plays and is shaped as a square instead of a rectangle.

Due to the larger size this unit is heavier than many others. While the extra weight can make it slightly more difficult to carry, it also makes it more durable with rambunctious babies and toddlers.

This play yard features a frame measuring 36″ x 36″ for extra play space for your baby. It is made of fun, bright, multi-color fabric that will add some colors to your home.

The high-quality fabric and metal frame make it lightweight, yet sturdy and safe.

This pack n' play does not come with a bassinet or changing table, but is a great space to keep older babies safe.

With mesh sides on all 4 sides parents can easily keep an eye on their child.

Last but not least the Lotus travel crib…

Lotus Travel Crib

The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed
The Safest And Best Baby Pack N Plays Reviewed

The Lotus Travel Crib is a reliable, ultra-light and compact baby crib that will make your travelings with your baby a lot easier.

It comes with a compact and light backpack carrying case that will let you take the crib almost anywhere. It is so compact that you can even take it with you as a cabbing luggage during your flights.

This makes it one of the most portable and versatile play yards available.

Lotus Travel Crib
Lotus Travel Crib

It is also worth mentioning that assembly and disassembly of this crib is pretty much straightforward. It takes less than 15 seconds to have it set up.

Its mesh sides which allow complete airflow and clear view of a child.

When it comes to quality, the Lotus is right at the top of its game. All of the materials used in this crib are very high quality. There are absolutely no harmful chemicals used in the making of the crib.

The Lotus is the only play yard which received the Greenguard Gold certification, meaning it has been completely tested to ensure it is free from chemical emissions.

This play yard is definitely one of the best play yards available. It is reasonably priced and an excellent option for parents who are social and travel a lot.

The important thing to remember with pack n' plays is they are not all created equal. Determine what needs you want your pack n' play to meet and then use that as your starting point.

How to Choose the Best Baby Pack N Play for Your Needs

There are many different types and designs, with features that vary from brand to brand. There also seems to be a large number of Pack N Plays for sale on eBay so it may seem overwhelming when you try looking for one to buy.

In this article we'll help you sort through the different types, styles and brands. We also look at some of the features that really matter, like portability and ease of use, when choosing a Pack N Play.

Pack N Plays are usually inexpensive, but this doesn't mean you should be looking for the cheapest one out there without considering other options first. You have to choose one that will be suitable for your baby's needs, so the best thing you can do is to take a good look at what is available and try to decide if it fits your expectations.

When choosing a Pack N Play, the first thing you should know is that there are basically three different types of them: standard, portable and all-in-one.

Standard Pack N Plays

Standard Pack N Plays are just what the name suggests: a play yard that is used to keep your baby safe while at home or in a different room. They have a built-in mattress that should be covered with a sheet for added comfort. The other aspect you can expect from such devices is the changing area.

Portable Pack N Plays

The portable Pack N Plays are just like the standard ones, except that they can be folded into a smaller size for easier transportation. Even when folded, it's still larger than the all-in-one play yard, though.

All-in-one Pack N Plays

Finally there is the all-in-one Pack N Play which combines both the features of a play yard and a changing station into one unit. They are usually more expensive, though.

Considering that the standard Pack N Plays can be folded and stored away when not in use, they may seem like a cheaper option than an all-in-one play yard. But since almost all of them have the mattress included, you will need to buy a separate changing pad if you want to use it for changing your baby.

Another aspect that can influence your final decision is the portability of the Pack N Play. If you need one mostly to keep at grandparent's or friend's house, then you don't need to worry too much about its weight or size when folded.

The truth is that the real portability feature you should be looking for in any Pack N Play is its ease of folding and unfolding. If it's too complicated to fold or unfold, then chances are that you will just leave it there all the time.

On the other hand, if it's too easy to collapse, then this may cause problems over time. The frame may warp which will make it wobble when your baby is playing inside. Such effects are usually caused by overzealous parents who want to collapse the Pack N Play just for the sake of moving it around.

When to Get a Baby Pack and Play ?

As any parent will tell you, having a baby is not cheap. The costs of diapers, wipes, changing tables and toys are enough to make even the sturdiest of us break down in tears. Pack n play's are additional costs that can be looked over if you do not know what your getting into. They can range from $50-$300 depending on age and type. They also come with different features like bassinets, changers and other add-ons that can make it very expensive. You may think that all pack n play's are the same but there are significant differences in prices and quality that you should be aware of before making a purchase.

This guide is to help you choose what type of pack n play is best for you.

Pack N Play's are very versatile with many features that can make your life easier. They have wheels so they are portable and most have a bassinet feature which is useful for infants around 6 months old or younger. There are different types of pack n play's but the two most popular are the traditional pack n play and the playard. The major difference between a traditional pack n play and a playard is that it lacks the bassinet feature. With a playard you have to buy a separate bassinet, however with a traditional pack n play you don't need to do this as most have removable bassinets for convenience. That is the major difference between the two, below are other features you should look at before making a purchase.

Pack n plays are usually purchased for convenience purposes when traveling or visiting with friends or family. If this is not your intention then I would recommend that you do not purchase one as it will be an expensive buy to just put in the corner of your living room. If you do intend to use it often then here are some features that you should consider before making a purchase.

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Buy on Walmart, Etsy, eBay (limited quantity)

Graco Pack 'n Play Close2Baby Bassinet Playard Features Portable Bassinet Diaper Changer - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Graco Pack 'n-Play Dome LX-Playard | Features Portable and More, Redmond, Amazon Exclusive - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Lotus Travel Crib - Backpack Portable, Lightweight, Easy to Pack Play-Yard with - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Baby Trend Trend-E Nursery Center, Doodle Dots - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Baby Trend Lil Snooze Deluxe 2 Nursery Center, Twinkle Twinkle Moon - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Baby Trend Lil Snooze Deluxe 2 Nursery Center, Daisy Dots - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Baby Trend Retreat Twins Nursery Center, Quarry - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Baby Trend Retreat Nursery Center - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Joovy Room²-Playard, Portable-Playard, Playpen, Black - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Pamo Babe Comfortable Playard,Sturdy Play Yard with Mattress(Grey) - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Baby Trend Resort Elite Nursery Center, Dotty - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Baby Trend Portable Playard, Midnight - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Pamo Babe Deluxe Nursery Center,Portable Playard with Comfortable Mattress,Changing - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Pamo Babe Portable Playard,Sturdy Play Yard with Mattress and Toy bar with Soft Toys(Blue) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

BABY JOY 4 in 1 Pack and Play with Adjustable Net, Portable Nursery Center Playard with - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

About Robert Fox

Rob Fox is a former hydro worker who used to teach self defence in Miami for 10 years. He's currently enjoying his retirement, playing cribbage and golf with his buddies, locksmithing and home security in his spare time. Rob is an avid reader, and has even written a few books on the subject of self defence.

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