When choosing a playpen for your baby you need to be aware of some features to look for and features...
When choosing a playpen for your baby you need to be aware of some features to look for and features to avoid.
- Note that buying a used playpen is fine, so long as you check and make sure it meets all the safety requirements of a new one - bonus if your used playpen still comes with a warranty or at least a company brochure so you can check up on recalls.
- Playpen sides need to extend at least 20 inches above the floor.
- Make sure wooden playpen sides have no rough edges or splinters.
- Playpen should have no peeling paint or stickers that your tot can put in her mouth.
- If your playpen has mesh siding, be sure that the holes are small (1/4 of one inch or less) - this will protect your baby's fingers from getting trapped in the mesh. Double check that mesh is securely attached to the playpen's edges.
- Make sure playpen legs are not wobbly - same goes for playpen siding rails (if wood).
- Side rails of your playpen should be padded to protect against bumps to your tot's head.
- If your playpen is the type that opens and closes make sure your baby can't reach the locks/hinges from inside the playpen.
- If you get a used playpen check the floor. The floor should have no rips, splinters (if wooden), or worn spots.
