The Remi carries on Uppababy's outstanding reputation of high-quality and intuitive parenting products with durable straps, four wheels and a one-handed fold.
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Our testers found the Nuna Sena Aire to be a quality product. But downsides like the lack of a waterproof option make it hard to justify the price.
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Chances are, you already have a crib or a bassinet. Perhaps one that you meticulously researched and ranked according to your top priorities, whether they be aesthetic, safety, or size. But if you ever want to leave your house again, you’ll likely want a portable play or nap area to safely contain your little one in a new space. Whether you’re traveling across the country or simply setting up shop at a friend’s place for the day, an easy-to-carry, simple-to-set-up pack and play is a must.
After researching some of the most popular models on the market, we’ve ranked them with the most important characteristics being ease of use, comfort and safety. Because what’s the point of an easy-to-haul play space and secondary nap spot if it’s hard to haul around or difficult to set up—even if that’s just to the kitchen while you prep dinner?
Given this, our top pick is the Uppababy Remi Playard
(available at Amazon for $299.99)
. It has a breathable, fluffy mattress that still seems safe and it’s incredibly easy to set up compared to others we’ve tested.
We also love the Nuna Sena Aire (available at Pottery Barn Kids), for its sleek design that lends itself to any space in the home. It’s sturdy and spacious enough for sleeping or playing and while it’s not the most lightweight option, it’s intuitive, and easy to unfold and repack in its carrying case.
The Chicco Alfa Lite (available at Buy Buy Baby) was a more budget-friendly option—which is always appealing—but it’s also incredibly lightweight and easy to set up and break down. It has a clean design, is simple to assemble, and the front-zip feature allows it to transform from sleep space to play place.
Best Play Yard
Uppababy Remi
Fans of the famous Uppababy stroller will be equally impressed with their play yard, which has parents’ ease—and baby’s comfort—at top of mind. It features multiple must-have traits of a great pack ‘n play, including a breathable but fluffy mattress that actually looks comfortable to lay on. It comes with a sheet, and a few leather finishes, making it one of the trendiest looking options—not a must for baby products, but it’s the little wins in parenting, right?
This is one of the few products with four wheels for easiest transport from room to room. The zippers are thick and the straps are sturdy. It is slightly heavier than others, but that also comes with a more expensive and potentially longer lasting feel, as though it was designed to last through multiple kids. The one hand pop up and closure function is a must for parents who often don’t have a free hand to spare, and you won’t have to worry about the straps on the carrying bag breaking any time soon.
This play yard has a unique zipper feature, in which kids can climb in and out to play through an unzipped lower section in the netting, or parents can unzip it slightly to peek in at their kid. However, if a kid is sleeping, this shouldn’t be left open, because it’s a few inches off the ground and they could potentially roll out.
With all of these extra features, the Uppababy is a strong contender for play yard purchases.
The Nuna Sena Aire is a more deluxe pack n' play with a polished design that can be used for toddlers of various sizes
Best Design
Nuna Sena Aire
We like the Nuna Sena Aire for its overall performance but there’s no denying it’s stylish as well. Aesthetes, look no further: This model has an attractive, yet durable design. It comes in soothing, neutral colorways and offers limited-edition patterns on its website through a collaboration with Pottery Barn Kids.
It includes a no-fuss, fold-out, clip-in mattress that’s slim enough for simple repacking, but cushy enough for sleeping. And while it weighed in at roughly 22 pounds, it was not cumbersome, and was easily maneuvered to multiple locations. It’s easy to clean, with a zip-off, dryer-safe mattress cover and GOTS organic sheet. Its skid-proof feet offered a sturdiness capable of handling the most expressive little ones. This model was also the easiest to convert to a bassinet, with a seamless add-on feature.
We also love how it’s slightly higher than the others, meaning larger toddlers can use it for longer without fear of them climbing out, and it makes for a steadier play space. In addition, the slip proof feet are wider, which create more stability. And the mattress velcros to the bottom of the frame for less movement.
The biggest downside? It’s pricey. There is no front zip feature, like many of the travel play yards, and the changer accessory is sold separately. All in all, we feel the Sena Aire’s long list of benefits outweigh the cons.
The Chicco Alfa Lite is a lightweight play yard with a clean and simple design.
Best Value
Chicco Alfa Lite
Weighing in at 13 pounds—making it exceptionally portable—the Chicco Alfa Lite is not only lighter and more affordable than the Sena Aire, but it also has a clean, simple design. The zip-front feature is great for crawling tots and there’s a zip-off, machine-washable mattress cover. It is Greenguard Gold-certified for low carbon emissions. The best part, though? It’s incredibly simple and straightforward to unfold and repack.
Because of its clean design and lightweight feel, however, it may be slightly less sturdy than other options. Like most play yards, it’s recommended for children up to 30 pounds and 35 inches tall. There are no additional features, like a bassinet, diaper caddy, or changing table add-on, but for on-the-go parents who want an attractive, space-efficient option without breaking the bank, the Alfa Lite is an excellent choice.
Century Play On 2-in-1 Playard and Activity Center
There was a lot to love about the Century Play On 2-in-1 play yard. Literally. Though it wasn’t particularly heavy, it was the largest play yard we tested. It includes a multitude of fun features, like a Playscape wall with removable Velcro toys, a zipper door, and plenty of room for rolling, crawling, and playing. Fabrics are made from recyclable materials. Due to its size, however, it is nearly impossible to comfortably use this model in smaller homes or apartments, and has the potential to be more cumbersome during air travel.
The setup and breakdown are easy, the mattress is conveniently foldable yet still comfortable enough for sleeping, and the entire model feels secure and durable. This would be an optimal choice for a large space or outdoors, and for mobile babies who would appreciate the extra square footage.
The Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light acquired its points by being lightweight (only 13 pounds), extremely easy to unfold and assemble, and one of the easiest options to repack in its carrying case. It is one of the best designs for not only moving around the house, but also for getting in and out of the trunk of a car. It has a simple, sleek design, and like the Chicco Alfa Lite, it has a small footprint, making it an optimal choice for both air travel and hotel stays. Ultimately, its ranking is due to its being intuitive and hassle free.
However, this easy-to-use crib lost points for price, because it feels a bit steep for a no-frills option without a bassinet or changing table component, front zip closure, or playtime add-ons. Though, the materials do meet the requirements for Oeko-Tex Standard 100, Class 1, which means they are “kind to sensitive skin” and “safe to taste.” If these classifications are important to you, this could be an option for your growing family.
If the Sena Aire and the Alfa Lite had a baby, it would be the Guava Lotus. It has a sleek, yet sturdy design, with an easy-to-clip-in mattress and zipper door. At 13 pounds, it is lightweight enough to move around the house, and relatively easy to pack back into its carrying case, which has a backpack feature.
The mattress, which lies flush against the ground, was not particularly comfortable; this may be less of an issue if the play yard is set up on carpet. The initial set up and breakdown is not as intuitive as one would hope, but a quick glance at the instruction manual will explain its simple pop-out function. It is also one of the pricier options, and does not come with additional features, but we still think it's a stylish, high-quality choice for napping (or playing) on the go.
Graco’s play yard is an aesthetically pleasing option, with some extras, such as a toy bar, that other simpler models don’t offer. It has a sleek look, exposed poles on the side, and generally looks more updated than some others. The upper net that creates the bassinet level for smaller babies is easier to attach than other brands, as is the pay bar.
However, there are a few drawbacks, including a much squishier mattress that feels a little concerning when it comes to it bunching up more compared to other more breathable options. In addition, the toys on the toy bar are velcro and fall off a bit more easily than others that are secured. But, overall, this is a solid option especially if you are looking to use it for a long time.
Typically, play yards need to have the ability to move room to room without having to break them down, or at least be moved around easily within a room. So, this option offers two wheels to help increase its mobility which is helpful. It also offers the upper net area for a bassinet option, but no changing station.
There are a few issues with this play yard, including that the fabric and design feel a bit cheaper than others, including the mobile, the fabric, and some of the construction of the frame and packing system. For example, if it doesn’t pop up or down perfectly (meaning each side at the same time and right angle), it needs some jostling and a do-over. The process for attaching the net was harder than others with a hook system. In addition, there is a saggy extra pouch for diapers that wasn’t the most convenient.
New parents are often toting a diaper bag, a baby, and numerous other items and don’t have the bandwidth for extra fuss or weight. That’s where the Maxi Cosi comes in—it’s very light and collapses with one hand, a big advantage over other options. The mattress is a thicker pad, but not quite as nice as our top pick. This is also an exceptionally secure option, meant to not move around at all. There’s a large padded area around the top of the pack ‘n play that is safer for larger kids who might be able to reach that height.
The only issue is the bag is quite tight, and a bit tough to get off easily, making set up take a little longer.
Of all the play yards we tested with additional features such as a bassinet, changer, and storage caddy, the Delta LX Deluxe was by far the most lightweight, the least cumbersome, and the easiest to unfold and assemble. A clip-on mobile is a sweet addition for infants. It has lock-enabled wheels for safety, and moves easily around the house. Plus, it comes in under $100, making it one of the more cost effective options.
Due to the multiple parts, it can be somewhat of a challenge to effectively repack the play yard into the carrying case. The additional parts also add weight, making it less portable when traveling. But if you’re not traveling often, or going mostly by car, this could be a great option for taking your kids from infant to toddler years.
Cosco is one of the most simplistic value picks on the list, but a reliable option for someone who doesn’t need all the bells and whistles. However, the quality has a few drawbacks. The bag that contains the folded play yard itself has a cheap feel, and we question whether it will last for years to come. Parts were more difficult to assemble than other play yards we put together (and we put together many play yards for this guide).
But, the Cosco does have two wheels for easy relocation around the house without having to break it down to get it from point A to point B. It would be ideal as a backup at a grandparents house or for someone who won’t be using it quite as frequently.
The highlight of the 4Moms Breeze Plus is its “one push open, one pull close” functionality. It’s simple and intuitive, and possible to open and close the frame with one hand. If you don’t intend to use the included add-ons, then one hand is nearly all one would need. However, the diaper caddy, changing table, and infant insert (which uses the 2-in-1 mattress with zip-off panels) require a bit more time and effort to assemble, making this one of the more cumbersome set ups.
This is a less portable option because it’s heavy, slightly clunky to move around the house, and somewhat difficult to properly repack each piece inside the carrying case. But if you love a convertible design with lots of options, then the Breeze Plus could be a good pick.
It might seem like the bag that carries a pack ‘n play is no big deal, but they aren’t all created equally. Some, like this one, have a slit with a protruding handle and they have varying numbers of straps containing the folded pack ‘n play. For example, this one doesn’t have a middle strap, making storage and transport a bit more precarious than others. This matters, because packing up play yards wrong can mean them falling out of the bags which is a nuisance that no parent needs.
Set up was also a big more difficult with this product, as you have to pull the sides up perfectly and all at once, or you have to start over. At one point during testing, the sides weren’t staying up, so it took longer than normal to get it ready for use. However, this play yard does have a changing pad and the diaper caddy has more storage than other so it has that going for it.
Pros
Includes changing pad and diaper caddy
Cons
Inconvenient carry bag
Awkward set up
Chicco Lullaby Primo
The Chicco Lullaby Primo Organic pack and play is most like a traditional pack and play, but on steroids. It unfolds and collapses like most standard models (by locking the sides before flattening the bottom all the way); has a snap-on changer, diaper caddy, and portable mobile; and is made from soft, organic materials––including the mattress, change covers, and top rail fabric. It is Greenguard Gold-certified, which means it’s been tested for low chemical emissions, and wheels on one side make it easy to maneuver.
The reason for its ranking is because it is one of the heaviest, and its multiple parts not only make it more difficult to efficiently repack in its carrying case, they also make it heavier and more cumbersome when moving from place to place. At $299.99, it’s not the most affordable option, but if you’re interested in an organic option with all the bells and whistles, this would make a great choice.
Play yards and pack 'n Plays can be great for travel or safe sleep and act as a safety zone for your toddler.
The Tester
Hi, I'm Deenie. As a first-time mom, faced with an onslaught of new parenting advice, a wickedly unpredictable schedule, and the influx of baby gear that began covering the inside of our modest home like kudzu, I felt passionately that postpartum purchases should be simple. Effective, yes. Safe, of course. But while I watched from the stovetop or a hotel bathroom as my baby kicked and cooed from each pack and play mattress, I knew we had more important things to do than spend 10 minutes putting together and breaking down a play yard. There was a whole world out there, and we were going to see it together.
The Tests
When it comes to play yards, most parents have the same set of requirements: they want something lightweight, easy to fold, and durable. They also don’t want to strain their backs in the process.
We started by compiling a list of the most popular models from the most well-known brands and whittled that list down after reading reviews, and by analyzing top-selling products across major websites.
After settling on our finalists, we established our test procedures and gave every model the same thorough examination. We wanted to see which play yards had the highest concentration of the attributes parents find most important. We spent time with each model, using them in real-world situations, including packing, unpacking, and setting each model up. We tested these products using multiple babies and toddlers of varying ages, to ensure they’d still be functional and helpful as your baby grows up.
What You Should Know About Buying a Play Yard
Credit:
Reviewed / Deenie Hartzog-Mislock
Play yards are ideal for toddlers under 34 inches tall and/or 30 pounds.
Play Yards and Pack 'n Plays are the same thing
Play yards—often known by Graco's trademark name, the Pack 'n Play—come in all different shapes and sizes, with a myriad of options to choose from. Nearly all play yards include the same basic features: a frame that will fold up when not in use, a mattress pad, and a carrying case to keep everything together when on the move. Designs can vary wildly from one manufacturer to the next, but they all function in this basic way.
Add-ons are available
Credit:
Reviewed / Deenie Hartzog-Mislock
If you're looking to make your pack n' play more versatile, like maybe with a changing table, add-ons are widely available.
Some play yards offer add-ons designed for infants, such as napping and changing stations. Many of these changer/napper stations are a single, reversible piece that snaps onto the top of the play yard. One side is usually waterproof (for changing the baby) while the other is a little more padded and cozy, ideal for a newborn baby to nap in. These accessories can be handy, but most of them have a weight limit of 15 pounds or less and are only suitable for babies that can't roll over—meaning they are only good for the first 6 months or so.
Safety is key
Make sure you know what your play yard model's weight limits are. This also extends to mattresses and sheets—many parents want to use them with their play yard, but most manufacturers sharply recommend against it. Both the CPSC and the American Academy of Pediatrics specify that you should only use the included mattress with your play yard because there's just no guarantee a third-party product will fit safely. Though portable crib mattresses are very popular, buyer beware.
You'll be glad to have a play yard
There are a lot of products that parents are looking for when they’re preparing for a new member of the family. While a play yard might not be the first thing to come to mind, it’s a piece of gear that can make your life easier, while not breaking the bank. It especially helps fill in the blanks in those tough times when more dedicated long-term solutions, like a crib, or a baby-safe play room, or a changing table, just aren't available. More information on safety standards and the benefits of using a play yard as a safe place to put a baby can be found here.
Are play yards safe for sleep?
Credit:
Reviewed / Deenie Hartzog-Mislock
It's important to promote safe sleep, even with a pack n' play, so be sure to keep it free of any stuffed animals, blankets and pillows.
Yes, pack n’ plays are meant to be a safe sleep surface in most cases. As of 2022, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended that babies only sleep on a flat, firm surface as per their press release. This means that these products must adhere to marketing guidelines including that play yards cannot be inclined and sold as sleep products, according to the June 2021 Consumer Product Safety Commission’s rule.
The AAP also recommends that play yards be kept free of bumpers, stuffed animals, toys, blankets, or pillows. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission requires the following for play yards: top rail corner brackets, top rail locking/latching mechanisms, and floor support structures. So if the product you’re considering has those, it’s safe for sleep.
How do you clean a pack ‘n play?
Check the owner’s manual for cleaning recommendations. Some only allow spot cleaning options. The AAP recommends making sure you’re using a baby-safe cleaning option, such as vinegar and baking soda, since as with so many baby-related things the play yard may wind up in your baby’s mouth.
When is a baby too old for a play yard?
According to Kids Health, parents should stop using a play yard or playpen when the child can climb out or when they are 34 inches tall and/or 30 pounds. However, some parents may choose to continue to use them for supervised play beyond that age or weight depending on the scenario. But as soon as a child can climb out of it, it’s no longer considered a safe place for them to sleep.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
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Deenie Hartzog-Mislock is a writer specializing in lifestyle, beauty & wellness, fashion, and food. She is the former copy director at Vogue magazine and currently works with Virtue Labs. Her work has been published in the New York Times Modern Love column, Glamour.com, Refinery29, Longreads, and more. Find her on Instagram @deenkat.
Alexandra Frost is a Cincinnati-based freelance journalist, content marketing writer, copywriter, and editor focusing on health and wellness, parenting, work, real estate, business, education, and lifestyle.
Alex has a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications and Journalism, both from Miami University. She has also taught high school for 10 years, specializing in media education.
For over a decade she has been helping publications and companies connect with readers and bring high-quality information and research to them in a relatable voice. Her work has appeared in the Washington Post, Forbes, Huffington Post, Glamour, Reader’s Digest, Today’s Parent, Women’s Health, and Parents.
Away from the keyboard, Alex is also a mom to her four sons and one daughter, all under age 8, who keep things chaotic, fun and interesting.
Our team is here for one purpose: to help you buy the best stuff and love what you own. Our writers, editors, and lab technicians obsess over the products we cover to make sure you're confident and satisfied. Have a different opinion about something we recommend? Email us and we'll compare notes.