If you’re a grandparent-to-be getting ready for new adventures, you are probably looking at cribs. Perhaps you want a full-sized bed, but many grandparents opt for a travel crib that can be packed away between visits or between grandbabies. Play yards are popular options, but manufacturers warn that these are not substitutes for cribs. They should be used for daytime visits rather than sleepovers. If you haven't shopped for baby equipment in a while, you'll be amazed by the baby crib choices that are available. Recommendations are based on published reviews and word-of-mouth rather than actual experience.
1. Cariboo Folding Bassinet
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These good-looking bassinets from a New Zealand company will accommodate babies up to 22 pounds and can be used for toy storage thereafter. There's a gentle motions version that rocks and an eco-friendly model made of 100% natural products.
2. Dream On Me Portable Crib
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This patented three-in-one design means that this crib can be used as a changing table, crib, or playpen. No tools are required to adjust from one function to another. The crib comes in white, cherry or natural and includes a one-inch mattress. Weight is approximately 48 pounds.
3. BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light
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This travel crib weighs only 11 pounds and can be set up in one easy movement. Appropriate for children up to three years, it comes in its own travel case. The fabric is soft and can be removed for washing. Baby Bjorn is a Swedish company that works closely with pediatricians to develop its products.
4. Pea Pod Plus by Kidco
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This innovative take on the portable crib can actually be used for infants and for small children. It is basically a tent that comes with an inflatable mattress; the total weight is only ten pounds. Because it can be zippered closed, it protects children from insects and is thus perfect for camping. It also provides protection from wind and sun. Indoors, it can be left unzipped for easier access.
5. Phil and Teds Traveller
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Weighing only eight pounds, this travel crib with aluminum frame and washable fabric will serve well both inside and outdoors. The closed-cell air mattress is described as self-inflating, meaning that it requires only a few puffs of air to inflate. It is designed to serve as a crib or playpen for ages up to 3. A screen offering UV protection is sold separately. It's a great choice for traveling with grandchildren.
6. Combi Jazz Play Yard
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The cool colors and trendy silhouette will make this model a favorite of modern grandparents. The Deluxe model weighs about 35 pounds. Go for the basic Sport model and you'll save about 15 pounds and about $60. This foldable play yard can also be used for naps, although manufacturers warn that play yards are not designed to take the place of cribs. It comes with a diaper changer and a bassinet for infants.
7. Foundations HideAway FullSize Folding Crib
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Grandparents who are traditionalists will be comfortable with this simple design which looks like a standard crib but folds for storage when not in use. A two-inch mattress is included. The crib weighs 63 pounds, which means that putting it away will be a two-person job for most people. But its height means that transferring babies in and out will be relatively easy on the back.
8. Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard with Bassinet
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Graco is a 50-year-old company, and it's Pack 'n Play has set the standard for this type of product for years. It's tough to beat for price and durability. This is a standard model, but Graco also makes some with more bells and whistles. Weight is about 30 pounds.
9. Evenflo BabySuite Signature Playard
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This version of the fairly standard play yard has a couple of extra features. One is a canopy with a couple of hanging toys; another is the hanging storage bag. This unit is frillier than most, with ruffles along the bottom and print fabric accessorizing the solid. It does come in some sedate colors, however, such as shades of gray and brown. Weight is about 25 pounds.
10. Chicco Lullaby LX
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This playard with bassinet and changing station also features a removable playmat with a toy gym. It features push-button fold and comes with a nylon storage bag with cargo pockets. The unit weighs about 37 pounds, and it comes in several attractively understated color combinations.
