Don't Come Home From The Hospital Without One! By jb_shops on - Updated Oct 15, 2011
If you have a baby, you have a Pack-N-Play. If not, how do you get by? I know that sounds funny as when most of us were born portable playpens weren't that portable if they existed at all. Of course, car seats weren't around for many of us either.
There are a handful of brands and styles of play pens. I have found both of the Graco models we've owned very good and they have improved significantly over the past ten years.
It is:
- Portable: collapses and folds allowing you to load it and take it to GrandMa's house
- Storable: Place in a closet until needed. Maybe you have family with children coming??
- Convertible: Many models convert to bassinet by placing an insert. If you are not sleeping at night, it is nice not to have to lean all of the way over to extract the child.
Whether you need a play pen (your baby can plan in a safe space and maybe give you a moment to get something done) or a temporary crib (a place to sleep when you cannot use the permanent crib), the Graco Pack-N-Play is a must buy.
I recommended this model as is it has the best balance of looks, options, and price. Sure you can get a lot more accessories and options, but those things add weight to this portable unit and cost twice as much.
About The Author:
Graco 9351JJB Purchased at: Babies R Us Price: 59.99
We always used Graco Play yards. They were absolutely a wonderful help for a new mom and baby. I used it to keep baby safe while on the phone or doing chores. And as a training tool to help baby learn how to self soothe.
You're exactly right, if you have a baby you need a pack-n-play. Best thing we ever owned for our babies.
The pack-n-play is great for grandma's house!
Boy, now that I've seen the picture of what this is like, we sure could have used one. We were always on the go, and needed this big time.
These are fabulous & are so durable & kids love them! (parents too!)
I had one of these for my daughters and it was one of the things I used most. This is also one of my favorite baby shower gifts to give.
They've come a long way from the "prison bar"-type playpens from the old day!
I agree with the pack n play...its a life saver!
This sounds like a very nice pack n play. Thanks for sharing.