As you know, healthy sleep is needed not only for adults, but also for children. Its quality is influenced by many factors. One of them is a crib. Often parents choose universal designs with which you can save money and space. A wonderful choice is a playpen. As you can see from the reviews, many mothers and fathers appreciated the benefits of this convenient thing. The nuances of choice and popular models will be discussed in the article.
What it is?
A playpen for a child is a transformer that can serve not only as a sleeping place, but also as a play space. Many parents like this product because it can serve as a substitute for a classic wooden crib. The design can be placed at home, it can be taken to the country. Then the baby will be safe even in nature.
For what age?
Such a crib can be used from 5-6 months to 3-3.5 years. But if a model with an upper bottom level or with a cradle is selected, then the product is suitable from birth. Judging by the reviews of parents, this device is convenient for the baby, it is reliable and practical.
Some companies indicate weight restrictions on products. They should be guided when using, since by 3-4 years the child usually outgrows the maximum mark. More stable products are designed for weight up to 13-15 kg.
Differences from a standard bed
According to reviews, playpens are chosen by many parents instead of the usual designs. They differ:
- Functionality. The standard product is used only for sleep, and in the arena the baby can be during wakefulness.
- Materials. Typically, playpens are created not from wood, but from light materials: metal, plastic, fabric, special nets.
- Weight. Moving a large product is quite complicated. The arena has a small weight, so it is very easy to move.
- The dimensions. Children's playpens are wider than standard, so they are suitable for playing.
According to parents, playpens are safe, because in them the child can be left during the game. The main thing is to place the product in the right place so that the baby is under supervision.
Benefits
According to reviews, playpens have several advantages. They are multifunctional, as they include a sleeping and playing place. But there are 3 in 1 options when there is a changing table. Most models are folding playpens, which are still convenient to carry. Other benefits include:
- Security. From this design, the baby will not fall out and will not hit. 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, therefore safety is ensured at home and in nature.
- Mobility. The product is very easy to fold, so it can fit in the trunk of a car. The device can be taken with you everywhere. And because of the lightness and wheels, playpens move around the room.
- Simple care. All parts can be washed. This type of bed usually has everything you need, but some parents choose special orthopedic mattresses.
- The function of adjusting the height of the berth. For a child, you can raise a berth so that it is convenient for mom to fold it. Some models have cradles for the smallest. When the child grows up, they can be omitted below.
Although baby cots are safe, you should not leave the child alone for long. After shopping, it is advisable for mom to be near the structure. According to reviews, playpens usually like children. They quickly get used to being there, they are comfortable and convenient.
Options
Modern cots have everything that makes life easier for parents. But keep in mind that additional features affect the price. Before you purchase a product with various options, you should determine what is really useful and what you can do without. According to reviews, playpens may have a minimum of functions, but they will be comfortable. The complete set of most products is as follows:
- Changing table. This part is removable, which can be installed and removed when required.
- Shelf or pocket for cosmetics. There you can keep everything you need.
- Mosquito net. The product is used to protect against mosquitoes and other insects. A net is required if the playpen will be in the garden or in the summer on the balcony.
- Vibration block. All mothers know how easy it is for a baby to fall asleep when rocking on his hands. The vibration function allows the child to calm down and fall asleep.
- Audio system. Blocks with music include lullabies and soothing tunes for quick falling asleep and a restful sleep.
- Side door This is a great solution for older children who can make a play table out of the playpen.
- Case. It serves to carry the product, and also protects from dirt, damage.
How to choose?
Bed-playpens for newborns should be safe, so you need to choose them carefully. As the reviews confirm, first of all, you need to pay attention to the stability of the device. After all, the baby will play and swing the product, but it must withstand everything. When choosing, pay attention to the following parameters:
- Grid. The design can be a classic or small euro grid. In the first case, the child can independently rise. Special belts and rings, which should be attached perfectly, will help the baby to get up. In some beds there is a special hole located on the same grid. This will allow you to go out yourself when the child is older.
- Material. It must be environmentally friendly. The metal frame is more reliable, but heavier than plastic. It is desirable that the coating can be easily washed. For example, raincoat material is easy to clean and dries quickly.
- Type of folding. It is important to choose the type of folding - “umbrella” or “book”. In the first situation, the product is compact when folded, but the fold lines intersect the center of the product. This problem is solved by the fixer and the correct mattress. Fasteners must be hidden under the casing or with special caps.
- The form. Cots are usually rectangular, but are square, round. Which is better to choose depends on personal preference. The sizes of playpens may vary, but the standard product is 120x60-80 cm. In very small products, the child will be uncomfortable. It is advisable to choose playpens having high walls and 2-3 levels.
According to parents, it is important to choose the right color. It should not be “poisonous”, as this adversely affects the baby’s sleep. It is better to choose pastel and wood shades.
The best models
A large variety of designs are sold in children's stores. The best of them include:
- Jetem C1. The South Korean concern produces high-quality products for children, so they are in demand all over the world. In the crib is a changing table, mosquito net. Arcs for motion sickness and a latch that serves as protection against arbitrary folding. High-quality antibacterial material is easily removed and machine-washable.
- Graco Contour Electra. The bed has a two-level bottom, so it can be used from birth. The side wall is made of transparent material, so mom can watch the baby constantly. For stability, there are 7 supports, and thanks to the wheels, the product moves easily. The set includes lamps, an audio device, an arc for toys, a changing table, a cover for transportation.
- Chicco Lullaby Top Swept Tubes Vega. Such a crib-playpen can be used for newborns, children under 3 years. Due to the hard bottom, the child will not have problems with the spine. The product has double protection against accidental folding. A wicker cradle is suitable for children from birth to 6 months (8 kg.), And a changing table - up to 9 kg. The cot comes in several colors.
- The Happy Baby Alex playpen is presented in the form of a square, with rings for support, a hard bottom, a side play hole, which is fastened with a zipper. The side walls are made of translucent material. The design easily folds into a compact product, convenient for carrying. The Happy Baby playpen can be used from 6 months.
Conclusion
Beds-playpens - comfortable and practical products that will be great helpers. Children in them feel comfortable, and parents with such a device will be calmer.