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For games. A playpen of classic design; unlike a playpen crib, it is intended to be used exclusively as a play area. These playpens usually have fewer additional features, but are generally less expensive than crib models.
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Playpen-crib. This playpen can be used in two roles: as a playpen and as a sleeping place for the baby. Many such models have a height adjustable mattress (see below), which allows them to be used as a crib from the first days of the baby's life. Also playpens-cribs can be equipped with specialized functions — music box, vibration block, skids (see glossary below). However, when buying such a model should take into account that psychologists do not recommend using the same place for games and sleep. Therefore, as a crib such a playpen can be used for newborns, and when the baby grows up, it will still be better to get a separate crib.
— Pkay tent. Playpens that have a canopy to cover the play area and often a side entrance (refer to "More features") can be similar in purpose to both classic models and playpen cribs (see above). Canopy provides additional protection for the baby inside, up to the fact that many such models are originally designed to be placed outside — for example, in the yard. Note that the design of the canopy and the degree of protection can be different: for example, in some playpens it is a simple mosquito net, in others - a dense fabric that c
...an protect from rain.
— Playpen fence. This type of playpen does not have its own bottom — in fact, it is a fence with which you can protect one or another play area for the baby. Note that such fences are usually modular in design, so that you can change the size and shape of the fenced area by adding or removing elements.
— Dry pool. A playpen in the form of a pool with plastic balls instead of water. In such balls the child can "swim" and "dive", and the parent does not need to worry about a change of clothes and safety on the water. However, it is undesirable to jump into such a pool. Balls are made of relatively soft plastic and have a fairly large size of 10 — 15 cm, so there is no fear that the kid will bruise, inhale or swallow the ball. Of course, a dry pool is not a substitute for a real pool, but it can be a great entertainment for both babies and older children.
– Inflatable dry pool. A dry pool, filled with balls and featuring an inflatable structure instead of a rigid frame, is highlighted in the corresponding section. The inflatable frame offers the advantage of compact storage and easy transportation. Assembling and disassembling this type of pool is notably simpler compared to traditional framed ones, Some inflatable models even double as traditional pools by allowing water filling. However, a major drawback is their susceptibility to damage – even a small hole can lead to air leakage and eventual deflation. Therefore, caution is advised to prevent the inflatable shell from coming into contact with sharp, cutting, or hot objects during use.—
Side entrance. An opening in the side or end wall of the playpen. Through such an entrance it is more convenient to put the baby inside — he or she does not have to be carried over a high wall, which can be quite tiresome with a grown-up child. In addition, if the situation allows, this entrance can be left open at all, giving the baby the opportunity to enter the playpen and get out of it at will.
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Lockable wheels. There is a special lock on the wheels of the playpen. This playpen on wheels is convenient to move within the apartment, and putting in the desired place, you can lock the wheels — so the structure will not move from an accidental push (because of which the child inside could fall).
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Toy pocket. A special pocket on the wall of the playpen that can be used to store toys, so that you always have them on hand to keep your child entertained. The pocket is often removable and in some models it can be combined with a changing table (refer to "Changing table").
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Parent organizer. A special shelf with storage compartments on the side wall of the playpen. On such a shelf it is convenient to store various accessories — diapers, creams, powders, etc.
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Mosquito net. This net can completely cover the playpen, protecting the baby inside from mosquitoes and other
...annoying and sometimes even dangerous insects. This feature will be useful especially for those who plan to use the playpen outdoors in the warm season.
— Transport bag. The playpen comes with a special bag. It makes transportation much easier. It is usually included with foldable playpens (see "Type").
— Music box. This is a MP3 player built into the playpen with an external speaker for playing music. This can be either fun tunes to entertain your kid during playtime or lullabies if the playpen is also used as a crib (for more information see "Mattress haight adjustment"). The set of melodies can be preset or downloaded at your request.
— Vibration block. A rocking mechanism for the playpen. This function is not necessary when the structure is used for its intended purpose, but it is useful if the playpen is used as a crib — rocking will help to lull the baby to sleep.
— Night light. A light that can be left on at night if the kid is afraid to fall asleep in total darkness. For example, if you need to get something from the nursery, but the kid is already asleep and it is undesirable to turn on the common light. A night light is not needed when the baby is awake, so this function is only found in playpen cribs (refer to "Purpose").
— Handles for the baby. Special handles inside the playpen to make it easier for the baby to stand up and walk. This function is especially important for playpens with fabric and/or net walls — without them, the only support for the baby will be the upper part of the walls.
— Arc with toys. An arc with toys placed above the playpen. It is intended primarily for babies when the playpen is used as a crib — the toys can distract the baby to stop crying, for example. The arc can also be used for playing at an older age, but it is less suitable for this purpose — the toys are located quite high and it is difficult to reach them.
— Canopy. The playpen has a canopy that partially covers the area around the head of the child lying down, similar to the way it is done in strollers for babies. In fact, the canopy is mainly used in playpen cribs (refer to "Purpose"). It provides additional protection from sunlight and other light that can disturb a sleeping baby, and can also play the role of a arc with toys (see above).
— Balls. The balls are used as a filler for dry pools (refer to "Purpose") and can be included with them. Balls can be bought separately, but it is more convenient to buy a dry pool with balls at once — especially since such a set will have the right amount of them.
