Play yard features

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, 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 undo those fasteners, which could cause the bassinet to fall to the play yard floor. But one play yard we tested, Chicco Lullaby LX ($160), had bassinet clips that are covered by the bassinet's fabric flaps that button 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. Remove the canopy when you are no longer using the bassinet.

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. Two tested play yards, the Chicco Lullaby LX and the Kolcraft Jeep Trek Easy-Travel, had the added convenience of rolling while folded.

Changing station

Most attach to the top of the top rail although some are suspended from the side and can be rotated down to hang at the side of the play yard. We think that the side-suspension design is safer because parents are less likely to leave it in place. When using a changing table, always keep your hand on your baby and use the safety straps. Two units we tested, the Graco Silhouette Pack 'n' Play 9B10CAD and the Kolkraft Jeep Trek Easy-Travel, didn't have restraining straps. 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 to avoid potentially fatal entrapment between the station and the yard's top rail, and to avoid entrapment by any loop from the changing table restraint strap, although the loop should not be present in a play yard.

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 or are built into the outside so that 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. But all will contribute to the price. They usually require C or AA batteries (not included). Toys might 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.

Wheels or casters

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