Building a Fun, Cheap Playpen for Baby: A DIY Guide
As parents, we want to provide our children with a safe and fun environment to play in, especially when we can’t always be there to supervise them.
But purchasing a playpen can be expensive, and it may not fit the unique style of your home.
That’s where a DIY playpen comes in!
With just a few materials and some creativity, you can build a playpen that is not only affordable but also customized to your taste.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
To get started, you’ll need the following materials:
- 8 Large cardboard boxes
- Scissors
- Tape
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Paint or markers
- Soft padding (such as foam mats or pillows)
Step 2: Cut and Connect the Boxes
Cut the tops and bottoms off each of the cardboard boxes. Then, use tape to connect four boxes together to form a square shape. Repeat this process to create a second square.
Step 3: Line the Playpen
Line the inside of the playpen with soft padding for added comfort and safety. You can use foam mats or pillows to achieve this.
Step 4: Decorate and Personalize
Get creative and let your kids help decorate the playpen! Use paint or markers to add fun designs and colors. You can even add their names or favorite characters for a personalized touch.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Place your completed playpen in a safe, designated area and let the kids play and have fun!
By following these simple steps, you can create a cheap DIY playpen that is both functional and fun for your little ones.
Whether you’re working from home or just need a moment of peace, this playpen is sure to keep your kids entertained and safe.
So gather your materials and get ready to make some memories with your kids!
Best Playpen for Crawling
There is no one “best” playpen for crawling as it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. However, some popular options include:
Graco Pack and Play On the Go Playard
- Removable bassinet offering an excellent spot for your baby to take a nap wherever you are.
- Has automatic feet and wheels that fold and open automatically, making it easy to carry while traveling. Also, this feature makes storage quite convenient as it doesn’t take up much space.
- Strong and durable
- Lots of amazing features to amuse your little one while keeping them from falling over.
- Easy to assemble
- More affordable compare to other playpens
- Easy to monitor your baby
- Has transparent, breathable grids that allow the baby to see their mother while lying down.
- Has cushioned corners to prevent accidents
To make it even better, this playpen for baby is large enough to allow the parent to hop in and enjoy play time with the little one.
Regalo My Play Deluxe Extra Large Portable Play Yard
- Has a nylon bottom that protects the baby against rough surfaces
- Has a full canopy cover to provide protection against sun’s radiation and a mosquito mesh to keep mosquitoes away.
- Has a fold-and-go design, making it easy to use, store, and carry around.
- Lightweight making it easy to use it indoor or outdoor.
- Simple fold design, making it easier to set up and pull down after use
- Very safe, thanks to the steel framing and extra firm stitching.
- Ideal for kids 6 to 24 months
Toddleroo By North States Superyard 8 Panel Baby Play Yard
The Toddleroo By North States Superyard 8 Panel Baby Play Yard is a portable, multi-functional play area designed for kids. Its key features include:
- 8 panels: The play yard has 8 interlocking panels that create a spacious and secure play area for children.
- Versatile: The panels can be configured in different shapes to fit your space, making it suitable for use both indoors and outdoors.
- Safe and Durable: The play yard is made of sturdy plastic with smooth edges to ensure the safety of your child.
- Easy to Assemble: The panels are easy to connect and disconnect, allowing for quick and simple assembly.
- Portable: The compact design makes it easy to fold and store, making it perfect for travel or outdoor use.
- Secure Locking System: This cheap playpen for baby features a secure locking system to ensure that the panels remain locked in place and the child stays safely inside.
This play yard for kids is ideal for kids between 6 and 24 months.
Graco Pack ‘n Play Simple Solutions Playard
Graco Pack ‘n Play Simple Solutions Playard is a versatile and convenient baby play yard that provides a safe and comfortable place for your little one to play or rest. This playard is designed to make your life as a parent easier with its simple and practical features.
Key Highlights
- Easy to set up and fold, making it great for on-the-go
- Comes with a removable and washable diaper changer for added convenience
- Equipped with a vibrating seat to help soothe your baby
- Includes a built-in storage pockets to keep essentials close at hand
- Features a compact design that fits into most spaces, making it a great option for small homes or apartments
- Meets all applicable safety standards to ensure the utmost safety for your baby.
Baby Trend Nursery Center Playard – under $100
The Baby Trend Nursery Center Playard is a practical and convenient solution for keeping your little one safe and entertained.
Here are its key highlights:
- Compact and Portable: The playard can be easily set up and taken down, making it perfect for use at home or on the go.
- Safe and Secure: The playard features a secure and sturdy frame, with mesh sides for optimal ventilation and visibility.
- Fun and Entertaining: The playard includes a removable bassinet, a built-in toy bar with toys, and a full-size changing table for added convenience.
- Comfortable: The playard is equipped with a padded floor mat for extra comfort and a built-in storage shelf for keeping baby’s essentials within reach.
Joovy Room2 Portable Playard – under $150
The Joovy Room2 Portable Playard is a convenient and cheap playpen for baby that is safe and comfortable.
Key highlights
- Portable: The playard can be easily folded and carried around, making it ideal for travel or for use in different rooms of the house.
- Spacious interior: The Room2 has a large interior space that can comfortably accommodate a child up to 35 inches tall and up to 30 pounds, providing plenty of room to play and explore.
- Durable construction: The playard is made with high-quality materials, making it sturdy and durable, and ensuring that it can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.
- User-friendly design: The playard features an intuitive and user-friendly design, making it easy for parents to set up and take down.
- Multifunctional use: The Room2 can be used as a playard, a portable crib, and even a room divider, making it a versatile addition to any home.
Know of other cheap playpen for baby that are durable, beautiful, and flexible? Please share with us in the comments section.
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