Which crib is better, a wooden one or a playpen bed? Is it worth putting in a playpen for newborns: a review of models and opinions

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.

Types of playpens great amount. 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:

  1. 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;
  2. It is safer, high sides will prevent the baby from falling out;
  3. Bottom height is adjustable;
  4. Lightweight and mobile version on wheels, easily moves around the room;
  5. 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.

Types of construction

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

There are more simple models, which 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 your baby will have to be placed only on adult bed and worry about it not falling off, cover it with pillows. The folding playpen bed is easy to unfold and assemble.

Its advantages:

  1. No additional tools are needed for assembly;
  2. 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;
  3. Has a solid base;
  4. The baby will sleep in his usual place, he will not have to get used to the new environment;
  5. Mesh walls through which parents can clearly see the child;
  6. 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 kind of travel playpen bed will be a real find for families who like to go out of town to the countryside to get some fresh air. 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, pockets for necessary things that should be at hand during changing and daily care crumbs.

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:

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

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

Game

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

For twins

Eat different types 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.

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. Wonderful multifunctional model, any mom will like it.

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

  1. For a baby it is used as a cradle complete with a changing pad;
  2. Afterwards it is converted into a crib, a playpen;
  3. 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;
  4. If desired, the structure can be assembled into two chairs and a table.

In Europe, popular hexagonal, 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 for your little miracle and try to choose comfortable model both for yourself and for the baby.

Rectangular

Hexagonal

Bead material

A highly prized playpen bed made from environmentally friendly pure materials, for example, from solid birch, ash, oak. 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.
  • 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 durable, 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.

  • 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.
  • 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.

The basis

Bottom in wooden structures strong and smooth. 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.

Folding type

The folding model can easily be transformed into working position and gets ready. 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.

Assembly wooden model will take longer. You will need tools (wrench, screwdrivers, hexagons). For complex structures, such as transformers, requires instructions with step by step description 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.

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. Very convenient device for mom, 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– 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.

When such a miracle as the birth of a child happens in life, you want to give him all the best: so that the child feels good and comfortable. Especially when it comes to choice sleeping place- after all, this is where the child spends the most time. Sleep is one of the most important actions, because... It is how the child sleeps that determines his mood and well-being for the entire next day. Therefore, choosing a crib is very important. Check out our large selection various options children's beds you can.

Children's bed made of solid wood. There are also, of course, cradles, but we will not consider them, because... This is not a very practical bed, because... It doesn't last long, and not all children like motion sickness. The most ordinary crib is much more practical. It is comfortable for a child if there is an orthopedic mattress. Also, a crib made of wood most often has a drawer for linen, which is very convenient. Another undeniable advantage over the cradle is that it can be both rocked and fixed so that it is motionless. But the bars can be dangerous for a child: if the head cannot get through, then a leg or arm may well get stuck. To ensure safety, there are various bumpers and sets for the crib. They are a barrier between the baby and the bars. The crib, as a rule, has two bottom levels - a high one for newborns, and a second one for an older child, when he is already sitting down and getting up.

Playpen bed. The first and main advantage over a regular bed is versatility. The child can sleep safely in this bed and play peacefully. The walls are made of mesh, which guarantees the safety of the child. But at the same time, it limits its service life: mesh is a fragile material, especially in a child’s room. Sometimes such a playpen has folding table for changing, which is convenient. But the playpen does not always have two tiers of bottom - this is very inconvenient, especially for a newborn. But, for example, for a child from 4 months old, this crib can be quite comfortable, because the child will get up, sit and he can play safely while sitting in it. But the playpen does not have any drawers or cabinets.

Absolutely different types of children's sleeping place - a wooden bed and a playpen bed. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. Important: the playpen bed will be more comfortable in one-room apartment, but for the child’s comfort it is better to have his own wooden bed. But in terms of functionality it is inferior to the playpen bed, because... combines two places at once: for sleeping and for playing. But having bought a classic bed, you need to incur additional costs for a crib set, and for a playpen you only need a bedding set, even without a mattress. You need to make a choice based on your financial capabilities and needs.

A crib is a modern children's furniture, which combines several functions at once, it serves the child not only as a place to sleep, at the same time it can play the role of a space for the baby to play and be awake. The best part is that it can ensure the safety of a child in nature or in the country when he is left alone in the fresh air.

This bed is very comfortable, stable and practical. Most often, all playpen beds are made of folding aluminum material, which is covered with mesh textiles; you can also find examples made of wood. Handles help children stand up with support and stay upright. An older child learns to walk along the support, clinging to these handles.

Advantages

Compared with a regular crib, then playpen cribs are very practical in terms of movement.They can be easily folded. Such models are assembled according to the rules of the umbrella. The folding and unfolding mechanisms are quite simple and quick.
Also, such playpen beds are easy to transport to any place.

A big plus is that almost all models are equipped with wheels, which makes moving them around the room quite easy.

Flaws

The main disadvantage of these models is the combination of sleeping and playing space. Many argue that by acquiring the habit of playing in the crib, the child may have problems sleeping in the future. Such cribs are less familiar and hygienic - the fabric on the sides collects a lot of dust.

For cheap models, manufacturers use exclusively synthetic materials, which today causes allergies in many children. The child quickly grows out of the upper level, but on the lower level he has to sleep almost like on the floor, which is winter time years is very undesirable.

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 cozy and comfortable crib . Made from modern, lightweight materials. The textile is quite soft and practical to use. Maximum load per top level(crib) - 9 kg, lower (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 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.
  • Minuses - little choice in a variety 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, come complete with a mattress, convenient pockets, and toys.
  • Cons – the floor is not soft enough.
  • Price – 3,730 rub.

The Capella Sweet Time children's playpen bed is the best, compact and reliable assistant for parents. A safe place for your child to sleep and rest, made from quality material and has a bright design.

His The 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 playpen. What did moms use and what was their experience?

With each new stage in the baby’s development, everything is required from the mother more attention. 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 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.

12.04.2014
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.

10.04.2014
shnurok

12.04.2014
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 what this is safe place– his own territory and 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 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:

08.04.2014
Nika Mironova

01.05.2014
MomUli

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.