A toddler play yard is not as essential as a toddler bed or stroller. But, a toddler play yard can fill a need you might be unaware of until you start using it. If you plan on buying one, make sure to keep these tips in mind.

Consider Your Purpose

Why do you need to buy a toddler play yard? The first thing you have to consider when buying a toddler play yard is the main purpose that it will serve. If you want one for travel or you are on a tight budget, go for a portable play yard. It is affordable, folds easily for hassle-free storage and can fit snugly in a travel bag. If your toddler will be using it on a daily basis, an entertaining play yard would be your best option. It is more stationary which is great for indoor and outdoor use, foldable (but requires more room for storage) and has toys attached into the walls. If your little one will spend most of his time outside, choose an outdoor play yard which is made of durable plastic that is easy to clean.

Think About The “Look”

A wooden and neutral colored toddler play yard will complement most home decors. A play yard with contrasting colors will make it stand out. There are also gender-specific color choices such as pink polka dots and plaid. Your toddler will not care what his play yard looks like, but you might, so choose one that suits your taste.

Check Manufacture Date and Packaging

Go for a toddler play yard with the most recent production date. See to it that the model has a certification sticker from JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) to prove that it has been tested and passed the current ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards. Bear in mind that safety should be your utmost priority and seeing a JPMA seal will give you some assurance that the play yard is sturdy and has no defects such as protruding objects, chipped paint, cracks, sharp edges, uneven rail slats which can trap your toddler and an inadequate locking mechanism that can risk a toddler’s security.

Make Sure It Is Appropriate For Your Toddler’s Age

            Just like any toddler gear, pick a toddler play yard that is appropriate for your child’s age. Read the label or ask the salesperson the maximum weight and height recommendations. Getting one that is too small for your toddler will make it easy for him to access the lock from the outside and go out without you knowing it.

Opt For Extra Features

If you want a toddler play yard that will keep your child entertained for hours on end, look for one with fun features such as a slide, a swing set or an activity board with toy accessories (rubber animals, spinning ball, play phone, mirror, picture house, light-up musical keyboard, etc.).

Get One That Is Easy To Fold

There are play yards that are very difficult to collapse so make sure you stay away from them. Practice assembling and disassembling the play yard in a store. If you can do it with one hand, then you know it is a good one.

Buy Brand New

Never buy a used toddler play yard. Older models might have been recalled and have design problems which can collapse and injure your little one anytime. Purchase a brand new toddler play yard. You might have to shell out more bucks but at least you can see to it your little one can stay and play in his play yard safely.

A toddler play yard is not just a place for playing, it can also provide your toddler an enclosed place for napping and a space where you can keep him safe and under your watchful eyes while you answer the phone or clean the living room.