Graco knows what you need…a break. Feeding, changing, rocking—you're exhausted and need a place to put that baby down. Finding a safe a convenient spot to set your little squawker (mommy needs a shower and daddy needs some coffee) is the trick. Graco’s got dozens of playard models--some loaded with features, some bare bones—designed to keep baby out of trouble. We put the newest, the Suite Solutions up against Graco’s tried and true.
Placing baby in a sturdy Pack 'N Play (Graco’s trademark term for a playard) makes everybody happy; baby’s cozy and mommy’s got her hands free. If you plan on putting off your crib purchase for a while, the Suite Solutions can get you through the first few months. The elevated oval bassinet is an ideal spot for a newborn’s nap. Wide awake and ready to explore? Busy babes will coo for the Suite Solutions’ built-in entertainment center. Graco calls it the “soothe n’ amuse machine,” we call it mommy’s secret sleep weapon thanks to the vibrations, music, and nature sounds. While we think the prints are fussy and long for more contemporary looks, we love the Suite Solutions’ practical touches. ($229)
Pros: Accessories galore! Bassinet, shelves, changing table, sun canopy, and integrated soothers.
Cons: Expensive and bulky (this model weighs more than 30 pounds and measures 39H x 29.8W x 41L"), the Suite Solutions is too convoluted for travel.
Best For: Any home with multiple floors where an all-in-one baby station would come in handy.
Silhouette Pack 'N Play: Versatile and sturdy, this playard on wheels can be pushed in and out of rooms to accommodate baby’s schedule. ($149.99-$199.99 dependent upon print)
Pros: Update patterns (love the Deco print) combined with baby soothing system and changing stationmake this an ideal mini bedroom.
Cons: Still heavy (nearly 30 pounds) and with all the extras attached, this model is a pain to take on trips.
Best For: A cozy nest at grandma’s house.
Travel Lite Crib: Lightweight Pack 'N Play model with a few extras, such as canopy and dangling soft toys. ($79.99)
Pros: Weighs less than 20 pounds and is 20% smaller than a traditional Pack ‘n Play. Easy to break down and set up.
Cons: NBA players beware: The 32” length may squish your leggy babes.
Best for: Travel with a tiny baby.
Pack ‘N Play Playard: Roomy, square playard without accessories. ($84.99)
Pros: Easy set up (30 seconds).
Cons: One height setting. Pack 'N Play sheets won’t fit the 38” x 38” space so it's hard to keep mat clean.
Best for: Giving junior a safe place for quiet play while Mommy wolfs down a meal.
Pack ‘N Play Playard in Safari Friends: Value-priced travel companion. ($59.99)
Pros: Roomy sleep space (nearly 40” long) yet compact and light. Push-button fold is a cinch to operate.
Cons: While on the road, you’ll need a separate changing station.
Best for: Family vacations with baby in tow.
