Which is better a playpen bed or a wooden crib. What is better to buy for a small child: a crib or a playpen? Is it possible to replace the playpen with a crib

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We learned from the mothers of our site what is better and more effective for the safety of the child: a crib or a playpen. What did the mothers use and what was their experience?

With each new stage in the development of the baby, more and more attention is required from the mother. If the baby’s lifestyle gives the mother the opportunity to do household chores, then with the advent of the baby’s ability to crawl, moving away from him becomes problematic. It is in such situations that for the safety of the child it is advised to use the arena.

Can the playpen be replaced with a crib?

Firstly, in terms of safety, the crib is much inferior to the arena. The fact is that a kid who knows how to jump can swing it a lot and just fall out. Not to mention the option of a rocking bed - it is extremely unsafe.

Secondly, the size of the crib is usually much smaller than the playpen. So, the crumbs less space to actively crawl, play, train to get up and walk.

The arena, although often short, is wide - a convenient field for children's activities.

12.04.2014
shnurok

All advice from moms

Thirdly, it is not recommended to let the baby play in the crib. Still, the bed is intended strictly for sleeping - that is, the child should associate it with relaxation, and not with games and fun. So it is easier to form a full-fledged regimen and teach the baby to fall asleep in the crib.

As for falling asleep in the arena, many mothers complain about the inconvenience of this option. The sides are high, the bottom is low, which makes it difficult to lower and raise a sleeping child from the depths of the arena.

10.04.2014
shnurok

12.04.2014
Ashatan_Natasha

All advice from moms

In general, we can conclude that one can be replaced by another, but it is undesirable and inconvenient. Arena - for games, bed - for sleeping.

By the way, for those who spend time outside the city in the country, the variant with an arena is especially convenient. It can be placed right on the street (the main thing is to be in the shade), and let the baby have fun in it and breathe fresh air simultaneously. At the same time, a huge plus for the mother is that the baby is supervised and safe.

Arena - for an amateur?

There is one more nuance regarding the child's pastime in the arena. The fact is that not all children treat him positively. One child in a minute will demand to let him out of this “cage”, while the other will enthusiastically take care of toys and will not cause trouble. How the baby will behave in the arena largely depends on the parents. Mom needs to introduce the baby to the arena gradually. Even before he started to crawl, sit down and stand up. Place the child in the playpen, and put familiar toys nearby. Let him get comfortable in his new space. And in no case do not leave the baby alone for now, stay close. The kid must understand that this is a safe place - his own territory and small world. When the child gets used to it, do not leave him for a long time alone. The kid should know that you are nearby: they went to the kitchen for ten minutes and returned, left - returned. These 10-minute times are enough to cook pasta, put a chicken in the oven, or wash vegetables for a salad.

And if the size of the kitchen allows, then you can put the playpen nearby. And the baby is not bored, and the mother is at work. Just do not forget about the safety rules - place the arena away from the stove, hot dishes and sharp objects.

In favor of the arena

The main plus is, of course, the opportunity for the mother to move away from the child for a few minutes, leaving him alone in the room and not fearing for his safety. The playpen also teaches the child to occupy himself with toys, promotes the development of skills to get up and walk.

agucha

All advice from moms

When choosing a playpen for your baby, pay attention to the following:

A large playpen is good for a child, but not very convenient for parents. Due to its size, it ceases to be mobile, compact and light. And this is especially important if you are going to carry it to the country, for example. Therefore, think in advance what size suits you in terms of dimensions when folded.

The side walls are exactly what will protect the baby while you are not around. Therefore, pay attention to their height, it should be sufficient for the growth of the baby and insufficient for him to be able to overcome them.

The stability of the arena is also a very important characteristic. The child will not only sit in it, he will definitely want to jump in it, plop on his ass and swing, holding on to the sides. Before buying, check its stability. This is what confuses many mothers when choosing an arena:

08.04.2014
Nika Mironova

01.05.2014
MamaUli

All advice from moms

Arenas are mesh and rack. Some have slats as walls, while others have mesh. Pay attention to the distance between the rails: it should not be more than 6.5 cm, in order to avoid getting stuck in the child's head. And the size of the mesh cells should be such that the baby's fingers do not get stuck in them.

Important

Remember that the arena is designed for children up to 1.5-2 years old.

Do not put large toys in the playpen - the baby is smart enough to climb them and try to overcome the walls of his "fortress".

Toys in the playpen must be safe, that is, without sharp edges and hard edges, because the baby can fall and get hurt.

As soon as the baby begins to roll over on his tummy, it becomes dangerous to leave him unattended. A wonderful way out would be to purchase an arena bed. A place where the baby can sleep and play at the same time. Bladeless sides will not let it fall, and multifunctional transformers will be a real find for a young mother.

There are a huge number of varieties of arenas. There are models that are created only for the game. For example, a playpen-grid is a lightweight portable option, the walls of which are made of mesh, and the bottom is covered with oilcloth. Game models can be different in shape, material and design. But these species are not intended for sleep.

The playpen-bed is much stronger and more comfortable. The baby can play and sleep in them. The most common models are similar to children's beds with a side, usually multifunctional, have two levels. The upper one is for newborns, the lower one is for older kids who are already starting to rise to their feet.

Compared to conventional cribs, playpens have several advantages:

1. The playpens are functional. You can immediately purchase a changing table, a cradle for a newborn, a suspension in the kit, and later, transformers are rebuilt into a desk, cabinet, some models also into chairs;
2. It is safer, high sides will not let the baby fall out;
3. Adjustable bottom height
4. Lightweight and mobile version on wheels, moves around the room without any problems;
5. If you need to take it outside or go on a trip, folding and then unfolding the arena will not be difficult.

Despite the safety of such furniture, the baby should not be left unattended for a long time.

Construction types

There is a huge variety of arenas, differing in type of design and functionality.

There are more simple models, which have two levels of bottom height. They lower and raise one side wall, and if necessary, it can be removed. This is convenient when the child grows up and he no longer needs the bumpers, he will climb into the crib on his own.

Folding

This model is designed for families with young children who like to travel frequently. With such a crib, you should not worry that the baby will have to be laid only on an adult bed and worry that he does not fall down, cover him with pillows. Folding playpen bed is easy to unfold and assemble.

Its advantages:

1. Assembly does not require any additional tools;
2. No need to worry about how to take it apart, just take it out of the bag and it will automatically decompose. The mattress is laid and the baby's sleeping place is ready;
3. Has a solid base
4. The baby will sleep in his usual place, he will not have to get used to the new environment;
5. Mesh walls through which parents can clearly see the child;
6. Easy to care for. The cover is removable and machine washable.

Such a bed will fit into any room without any problems and you can always take it with you on a trip. The compact transformer does not take up much space when disassembled, folds into a special bag, and weighs only 5–6 kg. Such an arena bed for travel will be a real find for families who like to travel out of town to the country, get some fresh air and take a break from the bustle of the city.

Transformer

Multifunctional design, which provides everything you need for the convenience of mom and baby. There are models that have a changing table, linen boxes, pockets for the necessary things that should be at hand during swaddling and daily care of the crumbs.

Transformer Light

This universal model is designed for children from 0 to 12 years old. It will be relevant for an infant and then you will not have to change furniture until the child is 12 years old.

Its features:

1. There is a rectangular cradle with two levels and a pendulum mechanism;
2. Orthopedic base, which positively affects the development of correct posture;
3. Changing table-bedside table for things that can be rearranged;
4. Under the bottom there are drawers for storing linen;
5. Further, it can be reformatted into a desk, cabinet and crib;
6. The design has rounded corners;
7. Made from hypoallergenic materials.

Such an arena transformer for a child and a young mother will be an excellent gift, practical and convenient, and also compact will fit even in small room and save some space.

Game

A popular model that transforms from a crib into a playhouse. Convenient, especially when there are small children of different ages in the family.

For twins

There is different types such arenas:

• In some, the cradles are located across the bed, but the main part is solid, separated by a partition or roller;
• 2 separate beds, which are separated by a changing table. In the process, they can be moved and arranged;
• Bunk, solid and retractable;
• Oval arena for twins.

It is important when choosing a joint arena for twins to ensure that sides descended from both sides. It is convenient for feeding. Access to babies should be free.

For dolls

There are toy structures designed for children. Bed playpen for dolls, very similar to the natural model, only much smaller. The kit may include a pendant, a pillow, a blanket, and a case for assembly.

Models can be made in the style of a lullaby, cradle with a canopy. Huge variety, like real models. The playpen bed for dolls is a good start in raising young mothers, in the process of playing they learn the skills of daily care for the baby, they develop independence, attentiveness, a sense of love and affection for children.

The form

The most common rectangular shapes, they are almost the same size as a baby bed in appearance and size. The advantage of the arena is that it is designed not only for sleeping, but also for playing. There are models of square shapes (sizes 80/80 or 100/100 cm), but they are more used for games. Oval types, also popular among consumers. The advantages are in the safety of the design, they do not have corners.

For example, in an oval transformer there are round and oval cradles with a changing table, an arena for games. When the child grows up, you can fold the sofa, 2 chairs and a table, an extra bed. The mattress is also a transformer. A wonderful multifunctional model, any mom will love it.

Oval bed transformer Rastishka is a very comfortable and compact model:

1. For babies, it is used as a cradle complete with a changing pad;
2. After it is rebuilt into a crib, an arena for games;
3. Further, as the baby grows up and can independently climb onto the bed, it unfolds into a sofa on which the child can sleep up to 10 years;
4. If desired, the design is assembled into two chairs and a table.

In Europe, popular hexagonal, square shapes made of wood.

The playpen should be comfortable for the baby, it is undesirable to buy small playpens. First of all, take care of comfort for a small miracle and try to choose comfortable model both for yourself and for the baby.

Rectangular

Hexagonal

Bead material

A playpen bed made of environmentally friendly materials, such as solid birch, ash, oak, is highly valued. Wooden models are expensive. When choosing, it is very important to pay attention to the manufacturer, his reputation, so as not to acquire a fake. Properly processed wood is covered with a special varnish or paint that is harmless to children. This design will last more than one generation.

Advantages of wooden arenas:

• There is no strain on vision, the sides made of slats have a good overview;
• Sturdy building;
• Stable, you can not be afraid that it will roll over with the baby.

• Heavy construction, difficult to move to another place;
• Usually take up a lot of space;
• If the child falls, it may hit the rails;
• Inconvenient to care for. Each rail must be wiped daily from dust;
• High price.

But, despite all the disadvantages, it is a strong, durable design and, most importantly, environmentally friendly. The option with side walls covered with material and mesh is not so durable. The service life is 3-5 years.

• Lightweight design, easy to move around the room;
• The frame is rigid, with fixed corners;
• Safe if the child falls, is not injured, the side walls are covered with material;
• It's not scary if it gets dirty, the material can be easily removed, washed in a typewriter;
• You can brightly decorate - flowers or a boat made of bright fabric will definitely please the child.

• Bright colors have a bad effect on a child’s sleep; it’s good to play and stay awake in such playpens;
• The child, lying in the playpen, constantly observes those around him through the net, his eyes strain;
• Dust collects quickly.

For prevention, it is necessary to wash the material frequently.

The foundation

bottom in wooden structures solid and even. It is advisable to purchase orthopedic mattress for the correct formation of posture in the child. In models with fabric walls, it is important to ensure that there is a strong bottom. Usually it is made of multilayer fabric with moisture-resistant impregnation, in cheaper versions - with oilcloth. There are models in which the base is made of plastic. This option is easy to care for, but requires additional equipment in the form of a blanket or mattress.

It is advisable to purchase an orthopedic mattress in the arena bed. Especially if the design is designed not only for games, but also for the child’s sleep.

Fold type

The folding model is easily transformed into a working position and assembled. No tools required, just take it out of the case. Next, you need to straighten each handrail of the sides. After pressing on the middle. Disassembly also occurs, only in reverse order. First you need to raise the bottom, and then, pressing on the side rails, fold the structure. When choosing such models, be sure to check the condition of the latches that prevent unexpected folding of the structure, as well as the presence of latches on the wheels.

Mesh models are often equipped with a folding mechanism that works like a "book". If you need to fold such an arena, a series of actions will be required:

• We remove the mattress or developing mat from the bottom;
• Remove all hanging toys, pockets, mobiles;
• Open the latches of the side racks;
• We fold the body and bottom;
• Snap fasteners.

Building a wooden model will take longer. You will need tools (wrench, screwdrivers, hexagons). For complex structures such as transformers, instructions are needed with step by step description actions. Each model has a different workflow. It is important at the end of work to check whether all fasteners are securely fixed.

Equipment options

Each model assumes its own configuration, the mattress is not always included in this list. Bed linen, pillows, a mattress cover are purchased separately, usually in the same store where the arenas are.

Modern playpen beds for children are available with various additions:

• The toy pendant will soothe the baby. Helps in the development of attention, but on condition that the toys are no closer than 40 cm from the eyes;
• The changing table, which is mounted on the side walls, is very convenient and does not take up extra space in the room;
• There are models with a sun visor, arcs for toys;
• A special container for the necessary things during the daily care of the baby is attached to the side wall. Very convenient fixture for mom, everything you need for hygiene and feeding will always be at hand;
• The mosquito net will protect the baby from annoying insects;
• In some arenas, an audio system is installed, on which lullabies and soothing melodies are recorded. There are models with a recording function, mommy can record her voice, and the baby will fall asleep to native sounds;
• Special rings, belts installed on the side walls will help the baby learn to roll over, sit down and stand up on their own;
• It is important to monitor the quality of fastening in order to protect the baby. Such devices for the arena can be purchased separately;
• Another useful accessory is the side mesh with a zipper. When the baby learns to walk, he will be able to independently climb through a special hole in the grid;
• The crib, equipped with a vibration unit, will help the baby fall asleep. But warm mother's hands, gentle voice and native heartbeat can not be replaced by any mechanics. Do not get used to such innovations.

When choosing a model, think carefully about what is really needed. The availability of such devices requires additional expenses. Many of the above can be purchased separately.

A sound sleep of the crumbs is the key to a calm atmosphere in the house. The longer the sleep, the healthier and stronger the baby grows. That is why it is important to choose the right children's furniture. And this is where many parents face a choice: which is better - a playpen or a crib?

Which is better - playpen or crib?

Each children's furniture has its own functional features. The main thing when choosing is the needs of parents in certain “bells and whistles”. If a separate room is allocated for the baby, then it is usually equipped stationary crib. And if the room is small, or parents often move the children's bed, then a playpen is preferable.

To accept the right decision, you need to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Crib. This is the most traditional resting place for a small child. As a rule, it is preferred by those who teach the baby to sleep separately from the first days of life. The bed is conveniently placed next to the parent's bed, which allows the mother to easily reach the baby without getting out of bed.

The main advantages of a baby crib:

• The crib is the personal space of the baby, where he is the rightful owner. He is on his own, but at the same time, very close to his parents, which gives a sense of security;
• Sleep in the crib is more calm and longer;
• The crib fits perfectly into any interior, taking up little space. The baby can sleep in it for quite a long time, since its dimensions and removable elements make it possible to comfortably accommodate a child of 4-5 years old.

The only disadvantage of a traditional crib is its sluggishness. Often, a place for her is chosen immediately, and the bed has been standing on it for more than one year. It is very inconvenient to move it around the apartment, so the baby will always be in one place.

Bed-playpen. This is the choice of modern parents. Lightweight and comfortable bed easily moves around the apartment, allowing the baby to always see his family.

The main advantages of such furniture include:

• Maneuverability and compactness. Such a crib can not only be easily moved around the rooms, but also taken with you on long trips.
• functional component. In the first months of life, such furniture is used only as a place of rest, but later a grown-up baby can play in it as in an arena.
• Bright design. Toddlers are delighted with playpens because they remind them of a house. How exciting it is for a crawling baby to play on its own territory! Some models even have special zippers through which the kids can get into their house on their own.

The main disadvantages of this model are its low bottom and inability to adjust its height. Of course, in such a bed, a grown child will be safe, but it will not be very convenient for the mother to put him in such a bed all the time. You have to bend too low, which creates an additional load on the back.

In any case, only parents can decide what furniture to choose for their newborn baby, and an online store of children's furniture can help with this. Perhaps, over time, one version of the crib will replace another, so do not get ahead of yourself. The main thing is to choose the furniture where your baby will feel good and calm.

The playpen is a modern children's furniture, which combines several functions at once, it serves the child not only as a place to sleep, at the same time it can play the role of a space for the baby to play and wake up. The best part is that it can ensure the safety of the child in nature or in the country when he is left alone in the fresh air.

This bed is very comfortable, stable, practical. Most often, all playpens are made of folding aluminum material, which is covered with mesh textiles, you can also find specimens made of wood. The handles help children stand up with support and stay upright. An older child learns to walk along the support, clinging to these handles.

Advantages

Compared to a regular bed, playpens-cots are very practical in terms of movement.They can be easily folded. Such models are assembled according to the rules of an umbrella. Folding and unfolding mechanisms are quite simple and fast.
Also, these beds are easy to transport to any place.

A big plus is that almost all models are equipped with wheels, which makes it quite easy to move them around the room.

disadvantages

The main disadvantage of these models is the combination of a sleeping and playing place.. Many argue that acquiring the habit of playing in the crib, in the future, the child may have problems sleeping. Such beds are less familiar and hygienic - the fabric on the sides collects a lot of dust.

For cheap models, manufacturers use exclusively synthetic materials, which today causes allergies in many children. From the upper level, the child grows quickly, and on the lower level he has to sleep almost like on the floor, which in winter time year is highly undesirable.

Rating of the 5 best models and their photos

Noony Cubby

• There are 2 levels of bottom height adjustment.
• Dimensions (LxWxH) -125x65x76 cm.
• Pros - light weight, there is a carrying bag, a lot of attachments.
• Cons - not suitable for a small room.
• Price - 5 399 rubles.

This model will be a great purchase for parents, which will please them not only with their appearance, but will also become a safe place for playing, sleeping and changing clothes for the baby.

Noony Cubby allows parents to control their child from a distance with the help of translucent breathable sidewalls.

For newborn babies, a place to sleep is set on the second level. To make it easier for mom to lull the baby, the developers have provided a vibration motion sickness function and a mobile with bright hanging toys. For older fidget children, a side hole was made.

happy baby martin

• Production material - frame made of metal and plastic, walls made of textiles.
• Dimensions (LxWxH) - 128x71x76 cm.
• Pluses - the maximum weight is up to 25 kg, the presence of a second bottom for newborns, rings are included.
• Cons - heavy to assemble.
• Price - 3 899 rubles.

Lovely Happy Baby Martin playpen, easily becomes a cozy and comfortable crib. Made from modern, lightweight materials. The textile is quite soft and practical to use. The maximum load on the upper level (crib) is 9 kg, on the lower level (arena) - 25 kg.

Large side walls made of mesh fabric provide sufficient lighting for the child, ventilation, and through them, parents can watch the baby during sleep and wakefulness. With the help of wheels, moving around the room is made easier and more convenient. All dangerous places are covered with overlays.

noony friends

• Production material - frame made of metal and plastic, walls made of textiles.
• Dimensions (LxWxH) - 110x76x76 cm.
• Pros - thanks to the hard bottom, the child will not have problems with the spine, in addition to everything there is musical accompaniment, vibration and lighting.
• Cons - a small selection of a variety of colors and designs.
• Price - 6220 rubles.

The universal playpen-bed will be the first assistant for the mother in the care of the baby. It is equipped with a bottom that can change its level as the baby grows. There is a changing table equipped with side rails, which will allow the mother to change the baby's clothes without leaving the place of sleep. It will become easier to rock the baby with the vibration rocking function.

And so that the baby does not get bored, a pendant with toys and a musical mobile will amuse him. Additionally, the playpen Noony Friends has a zippered side door through which the little fidget can independently climb into his cozy seating area. The product easily develops as "umbrella".

It is convenient to store and transport it in a special bag that comes with the kit.

Happy Baby Lagoon

• Production material - frame made of metal and plastic, walls made of textiles.
• Dimensions (LxWxH) - 110x80x85 cm.
• Pluses - the kit includes toys, easy to move around the apartment.
• Cons: No changing table.
• Price - 7100 rubles.

This is a 3 in 1 arena model, playpen with a second bottom, rocking chair, playpen for games. The second bottom is easily attached to the arena with a zipper, which allows you to turn the play area into a cozy and comfortable bed.

Two easily removable arcs, which are located on the sides of the arena, will help the mother to rock the baby, they are protected by silicone pads, which makes the motion sickness quieter and softer. An arc with toys will help to entertain the little one, which can be easily removed, which will allow you to wash toys or hang new ones.

Capella Sweet Time

• Production material - frame made of metal and plastic, walls made of textiles.
• Dimensions (LxWxH) -126x66x62 cm.
• Pros - comfortable, pleasant appearance and multifunctional, come complete with a mattress, comfortable pockets, toys.
• Cons - insufficiently soft floor.
• Price - 3,730 rubles.

The Capella Sweet Time baby playpen is the best, compact and reliable helper for parents. Safe place for sleep and rest of the child, made of quality material and with a striking design.

His side walls are made of mesh that allows air to pass through, and through which mother and baby will perfectly see each other.