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OVERVIEW
A collapsible crib of sorts, play yards and play pens consist of metal
tubing, a padded cardboard bottom and mesh sides, fold into the size of
a large golf bag, and are designed to provide a safe place for baby to
nap or play.
Collapsible is the key word. Due to faulty design that allowed the top
rails to collapse on baby's necks, millions of play yards have been recalled
over the years – and caused a heartbreaking number of deaths. The sheer
number of product recalls in this category and the seriousness of the injuries
make this a poor hand-me-down choice. You should sincerely consider a new
play yard, or at the very least, one less than five years old. Check your
own used play yard and portable crib your baby ever uses – at Grandma's, at
daycare, at the gym – for safety and make sure it isn't a recalled
model.
Another reason to buy this product new is the advancements in
convenience and safety features. Modern play yards include new features like
floating bassinet sections, changing tables, nightlights and music. And while
2001 models had solid sides in the bassinets, newer versions have mesh
siding to allow babies better breathing conditions and hopefully cut down on SIDS
risks.
Play yards are a must-have for just about everyone: for first-time
parents who want their newborn to sleep in their room with them, for seasoned
parents who need to fence in a roaming toddler, and for anyone that
ever travels with baby, overnight or just during naptime.
The difference between play yards and play pens? Play pens are square
and play yards are rectangular. Because of the extra space afforded, play
yards are by far the most popular model sold today.
FEATURES TO CONSIDER
- Safety
- Bassinet
- Carrying Bag
- Wheels
- Lights
- Vibration
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