Baby Play Yards: Product Guide & Review of Styles, Features, & Safety 

Play yards can either be very simple (best for travel) or come with extra “bells and whistles." Here are some styles and features to consider:

Diaper changing table station
Attachable and removable.

Organizer
To hold diapers and creams.

Bassinet
For naps, these are attachable and removable; some rock when baby moves.

Mobile
For amusement.

Interactive toys or toy bars
More amusement.

Music/Sounds
Some can be activated by remote control.

Nightlight
So you can check on your baby during the night.

Wheels/Casters
For portability.

Canopy
To shield from light.

Vibrating mattress
Helps some babies fall asleep.

Removable rocking cradle

Carrying case
Most play yards come with a convenient carrying case.

Foldable
For easy storing or traveling.

The pad should be no more than 1 inch thick (only use the pad provided by the manufacturer) and snug fitting. Never add extra blankets or padding.

Wooden slats should be no more than 2 3/8” apart.

Any holes in the mesh sides should be no larger than 1/4” (so fingers don’t get caught).

When setting up the play yard, be sure to follow the instructions.

Make sure all latches and hinges are locked and tight.

If play yard has a changing station, always use safety straps.

Remove changing station or bassinet when baby is in play yard (straps may hang down causing a choking hazard).

Try to buy new – used or hand-me-down play yards may not meet current safety standards (if you need to use one at a hotel, day-care or family/friend’s house, just be sure it was manufactured after 2000).

Look for a Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) Certification sticker.

 

Products with JPMA certification are notated below. Currently JPMA certification is voluntary, although certain safety standards will be mandatory within the next 2 years. If you have any questions about a product's safety, do not hesitate to contact the manufacturer directly.

Other safety tips to consider:

Keep play yard away from electrical cords, blinds, and curtains.

Play area is for one baby at a time.

Never leave a child unattended.

Stop using a play yard once baby tries to climb out and/or reaches the manufacturer’s height and weight limit.

Stop using the bassinet once baby is about 15 pounds, or three months, or can roll over or sit up.

For more into, visit JPMA.