Features to consider Play yards

Removable bassinet. This gives newborns a place to nap. If you have older children or plan to use this play yard for your next baby, too, look for a bassinet that is secured to the play yard in a way that older children can't tamper with. Some of the units we tested had bassinets that attached to the play yard with easily disengaged bars or by bars and exposed plastic clips. Older siblings could easily outwit these fasteners, which could cause the bassinet to fall to the play yard floor. But one play yard we tested, the Evenflo Baby Go Portable ($70), had bassinet clips that are covered by the bassinet's fabric flaps that snap on the play yard, hiding the clips from view. It was judged safe.

Look for a design that's easy to use. Stop using the bassinet when your baby reaches the manufacturer's recommended weight limit (typically 15 pounds) or can sit up, pull up, or roll over.

Canopy. Many play yards with bassinets have a canopy to shade your baby from harsh light. Some canopies have attached toys that act as a mobile.

Carrying case. Most cases are fabric bags that all the components of the play yard fit into. The four sections of the folded-up floor provide support for the bag by surrounding the unit's other components. A carrying case with a shoulder strap can make life easier. One tested play yard had the added convenience of rolling while folded.

Changing station. Most attach to the top of the top rail, though some are suspended from the side and can be rotated down to hang at the side of the play yard. When using a changing table, always keep your hand on your baby and use the safety straps. One unit we tested, the Graco Pack 'n' Play 9952CLO, didn't have a restraining strap. We think you should avoid such models. Remove the changing station or flip it out of the way once your baby is in the play yard itself to avoid potentially fatal entrapment between the station and the yard's top rail.

Foldability. If you'll be traveling often with your baby, you'll want a play yard that folds and reassembles easily.

Storage. Some models provide storage for toys and other baby items in zippered side pockets, hook-on fabric storage pouches, and clip-on parent organizer bags. They should be big enough to actually hold something. Look for a model with storage compartments that attach to the outside so they're out of your baby's reach.

Toys, music, lights. Some play yards feature a mobile with suspended hanging toys or a detachable toy gym that can also be used with the bassinet mattress on the floor as a separate play mat for tummy time. These are a bonus, as are entertainment centers with music, soothing sounds, and lights, which will contribute to the price. They usually require C or AA batteries (not included). Toys may not be necessary if you intend to use your play yard as just a portable nursery. But if you use a play yard as a mobile activity center, toys and sound effects can be helpful, though you can always add your own.

Wheels or casters. A pair of lockable wheels or swivel casters on one end make moving the play yard easier. Make sure the wheels lock. Some designs can be rolled when folded. That's a definite plus.