A small child (despite being so small) needs a lot of things: toys, diapers, feeding formulas, creams, a stroller, a bed, a playpen… The list can go on for a long time. However, some items can be economically managed without compromising the child’s well-being and development, benefiting the family budget. One such way is to avoid buying a bed and a playpen separately.

Baby newborn teething

Playpen Bed for Toddlers: Two-in-One

A playpen bed is a multifunctional piece of furniture that serves two purposes: the child can both sleep and play in it. The playpen is easy to move from one room to another. It can be placed, for example, in the kitchen where parents are preparing dinner, or in the living room, where it’s easier to keep an eye on the child while doing other household chores. Additionally, a wooden playpen can be supplemented with a comfortable mattress around the perimeter, and in this format, it functions as a regular baby bed, both comfortable and safe. A wooden playpen is more challenging to take on the road and isn’t very suitable for outdoor use. But in an apartment, a single playpen bed for toddlers can replace both a bed and a separate play area.

Advantages of a Wooden Playpen

A playpen is needed for a child up to about 1.5-2 years old. Having a wooden playpen that also serves as a bed can save money in a situation where the financial burden on parents is already significant due to the birth of a baby.

Moreover, it helps save space in the apartment. Placing one playpen instead of figuring out how to accommodate two separate bulky items is a much simpler task. Considering that a playpen is used for a relatively short period, parents are also relieved from the need to figure out whom to gift it to, sell it, or give it away later.

Additional Advantages:

  • Learning and development. A wooden playpen with bars at the child’s height allows them to grasp and pull themselves up, learning to stand and take their first steps.
  • Safety. Rounded corners protect the baby from accidental bumps.
  • Stability. A wooden structure is safer as it can’t easily tip over like soft playpens.
  • Durability. The mesh on typical playpens can easily tear, while a wooden structure doesn’t have this drawback.
  • Cleanliness. Fabric playpens quickly get dirty and need washing, whereas a wooden surface only needs to be wiped with a damp cloth to shine clean again.
  • Accessibility. A wooden playpen often has convenient doors that can be left open. As the child grows older, they can climb in independently. This is convenient for playing in the playpen like a fort or even taking a nap.

Thus, this solution is not only economically viable but also convenient for both parents and the child. Playing in the playpen, children can perform various tasks, observe their parents’ actions, and feel completely safe. Meanwhile, parents can calmly have a coffee, prepare lunch, or just rest when needed.

What to Consider When Choosing One?

The most important thing to consider when choosing is the size. Playpens can be compact or quite spacious, designed for one child or for twins or siblings with a small age difference. It’s also important to consider how much free space you have at home for setting up such a frame.

Configuration

Configuration also matters. Playpens can be standard rectangular shapes or have adjustable forms that can be set up to match the room’s geometry or your preference.

Mattress

The playpen serves as a full-fledged bed, but only if you buy a mattress of the appropriate size. You need to take care of choosing and purchasing the mattress separately.