When your baby starts to crawl, cruise or take those tentative first steps, simple tasks like going to the loo or doing household chores can become a challenge, particularly if your child is no longer entertained by options like a baby bouncer. You may be wondering if you need the best baby play mat to act as a base to your play pen, but luckily this comes with one included and we like that it's machine-washable.

Whether her bump is still growing or needs the extra support when it comes to feeding - we've found the best body pillows. The padded mat made rolling around nice and soft for my little ones, and the mesh sides allowed for optimal airflow and visibility so that they didn't feel like they were confined. This will give your child some independence without the parent having to constantly bend over to get their child in and out. But, once unlocked, you do need two hands to hold the latch in place while opening the door, which I find tricky when I’m holding my baby in my arms at the same time. The BabyDan Playpen also comes with an extra wide door which opens one-handed in both directions, ensuring you always have easy access to your child.She bought this playpen secondhand and used it every day for around three months, citing the generous amount of space as one of the elements she liked the most. You can also purchase a separate UV 50+ sunshade and mosquito net bundle, which is ideal for the outdoors.

The Babyni Anti-UV Playpen is a 2-in-1 sunshade and travel playpen, which folds and unfolds quickly due to its pop-up system. It is more spacious than most portable play pens or travel cots and having the hexagonal shape and 6 sides to it allowed it to be spacious without taking up too much room within the home.Parent tester Karen tested this playpen with her son (pictured above) and said, "It's light and compact so it can be carried with relative ease and having a waterproof base is a bonus. Easy to assemble and disassemble, you’ll be relieved to know that the BabyDan doesn't need any tools to put it together. Features: Some playpens come with toys attached, some with padded flooring and others with overhead canopys suitable for outdoor use. Most parents will stop using a playpen once their toddler is 15kgs (30lbs), or a height of 86cms and can climb out of it on their own. Your child's temperament – Some children will happily sit in a playpen for ages and play independently if you fill it with the right toys.

At just over 7 pounds and offering a compact fold into the included travel bag, this is an incredibly easy playpen to bring with you on all your travels. Especially since a playard is not essential, it’s important that whatever one you choose fits in your budget! To provide you with the confidence you need, the Pop N Play Deluxe Playpen includes mesh sides for quick and easy visibility. Best overall baby playpen It's portable and folds into a compact travel bag, meaning it's great for taking with you on holiday, or for playdates.

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