Whether you’re on your computer creating your baby registry or out and about shopping for the nursery, put a play yard on the list. If you’re not sure how to choose the best one for your baby, you’re in the right place. 

In this article, we’ll discuss how to choose a play yard, including factors such as new versus used, optional features, foldability and portability, comfort, color, and more. But before we get to that, let’s briefly talk about exactly what a play yard is and why you need one.

What is a play yard?

First things first: What is a play yard? If a “playpen” or “pack-n-play” sounds more familiar to you, rest assured that they’re all essentially the same baby product. 

For an official definition, we turn to the Consumer Product Safety Commission:

“A play yard is a framed enclosure with mesh or fabric sides. Play yards are intended for use in or around the home, for travel, and for other purposes. Play yards provide sleeping and playing accommodations for a child who cannot climb out and is less than 35 inches.”

So, a play yard is a secure, enclosed space (typically with mesh sides) where your baby can lay or play without constant parental supervision. Some offer unique features (we’ll talk about that soon), but that’s the general idea of a play yard.

You can probably imagine why a play yard is so handy to have. But just in case it isn’t clear, let’s cover why you need one. 

Why you need a play yard for your baby

OK, maybe it doesn’t quite go right next to bottles and diapers on the list of baby essentials. But for us, a play yard is pretty high on the list of priorities! It’s a special and secure place for your baby to play, sleep, or simply lie down and observe their surroundings. 

That means when you put your baby in the play yard, your hands are freed up so you can get some work done, check your to-do list, do household chores, or kick back and have a much-needed rest. 

That said, keep in mind that even when your baby is in a playpen, you shouldn’t leave them alone for extended periods of time. 

Another benefit of a play yard is that, as the name “pack-n-play” suggests, it’s made to be portable — perfect for on-the-go families. Whether you’re going from room to room or traveling across the country, a play yard can go with you. 

So, how do you choose the perfect play yard that will fold in a cinch, go wherever you need, and be comfy and secure for your baby? We’ve got you covered. 

How to choose a play yard

Purchase a new play yard

First things first, shop for a new play yard instead of a used one. While we believe that it takes a village to raise a child — and hand-me-downs can be part of that — a play yard isn’t something that you want handed down. 

Choose a brand new one to ensure that it’s in good condition and isn’t missing any parts. You’ll also want to double-check that it’s compliant with the latest safety standards.

Decide on the features you want

With a new play yard in mind, decide on the specific features you want. What sorts of features might a play yard have?

• A changing station
• A waterproof mattress
• A bassinet
• A side panel zipper
• Travel bag
• Organizers and storage
• Wheels

The features you choose depend on your preferences and your family. As you can see, you have some choices to make!

Pick one you can use from birth on 

If you’re getting a play yard, be sure you can use it from day one with your newborn! Amidst the exhaustion of parenting a newborn, you’ll be glad to have a secure place to put your precious baby while you rest or simply take a deep breath. 

For example, you can use the Bugaboo Stardust from birth on. It includes a zip-in baby mattress which is good to go until your baby starts to roll and sit up or until they reach 19.8 pounds or 35 inches long. 

Opt for foldability

Since the idea of a play yard is that you can fold it up and go, it’s important to opt for one that’s highly foldable. You’ll thank yourself when your play yard folds in a jiffy when you need it most. No struggling or folding frustration for you! 

With its all-in-one design and patented aerospace technology, the Bugaboo Stardust unfolds in one second — simply unclip it, pop it open, and it’s ready to go. 

But unfolding isn’t this play yard’s only specialty. It folds up in three seconds so you can hit the road in no time. After all, with kids in tow, sometimes every second matters! Even if you’re just going from one room to another, a play yard that’s easy to fold makes your life that much easier. 

At Bugaboo, we combine ingenious Dutch design with creative ergonomic solutions so folding and storing is easy, whether you’re using the Stardust play yard or one of our strollers. 

Be sure it’s portable

Foldability is one aspect of portability, but it’s not everything. A truly portable play yard folds easily and is compact, light, and easy to carry. That makes it easy to bring along for weekend trips or a visit to see the grandparents. 

The Stardust weighs only 17.2 pounds and folds down to a mere five and a half inches wide. It’s clearly made to move. 

To top off its portability, the Stardust comes with a premium Velcro closing bag so it’s extra easy to pack up. If you don’t have the storage bag on hand, count on the straps to keep the play yard closed and ready for travel. 

Choose a play yard that’s easy to clean

You won’t regret having a play yard that’s super simple to clean. Just like most baby products, the play yard can get dirty in no time. Choose one that’s easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth. 

Here at Bugaboo, we’ve been designing durable, easy-to-clean products since the beginning. From washable fabrics to puncture-proof wheels on our strollers, you’ll enjoy your product for a long time to come. 

Speaking of cleaning and messes, if you’re dealing with a car seat catastrophe, read our article on how to get stains out of car seats. Likewise, click here to learn how to clean a stroller. 

Look for a built-in mattress

For a play yard to work for playtime and naptime, look for one with a built-in mattress. The Stardust includes a built-in mattress that’s adjustable to two heights. 

That makes it great for newborns and babies and also for postpartum moms. The zip-in mattress height makes it easy for you to lift your newborn in and out without bending over. 

Say “yes” to comfort

If your baby is going to be hanging out in the play yard, you certainly want it to be comfortable! Consider the airflow and the materials used to make the floor and the side panels of the play yard. 

With a multi-layered mattress, the Stardust offers instant comfort to your baby. Plus, the breathable mesh allows increased airflow, and the playpen is made with chemical-free, high-quality fabrics. 

The other advantage of our mesh panels? They allow you to keep your baby in sight at all times. 

When it comes to comfort, don’t hesitate to add a fitted sheet to the Stardust. And, once your baby is old enough, keep them cozy with a blanket, such as our soft wool blanket. 

Made with the finest merino wool and suitable for any baby’s skin, this comfy blanket is soft, breathable, and temperature-regulating. 

And, as a plus for you, it’s machine-washable and can be dried in the tumble dryer.

Choose a neutral color

Last but not least, choose a neutral color that will go with any room. After all, the play yard won’t stay put in one place!

The Stardust comes in black, steel blue, and grey mélange, an understated and elegant shade. If you’re looking for neutral nursery ideas, too, click here. 

A play yard for portable fun

The right play yard is ready to go with you and your baby to infinity and beyond! OK, maybe that’s a stretch. But it’s certainly ready to move! The right play yard facilitates portable fun. Your baby has a place to sleep and play whether you’re at home or traveling. 

To choose the best play yard for your baby, consider the factors we mentioned in this article. Choose a new play yard, decide on features, opt for portability and foldability, and look for a comfortable, built-in mattress. 

The Bugaboo Stardust is the perfect fit, and you can choose from black, steel blue, or grey mélange — three classy, neutral colors to fit your style. 

With a Stardust play yard, you and your baby are ready for the next adventure!