Playpen VS Crib

They say that traditional wooden cribs are more sturdy, lasts longer and are heavy duty compared to the what now seems to be a more popular alternative, the Playpen.

They cost almost the same, price ranging from P5,000 - to the higher class P19,000 --- depending on the brand.

Let's do Pros and Cons, shall we?
PLAYPEN
1. Playpens are made of softer materials --- steel legs are hidden over cushioned covers of colorful patterns. So no worries of baby bumping his head when inside the playpen. Some playpens also have musical toys to entertain the baby or put them to sleep.

2. Playpens are nicer to look at --- especially with the wide variety of color choice, themes and prints to match the baby's room and even gender.

3. Playpens are 2-in-1--- may be used as a crib and when the bassinet is lowered it turns into a playpen. Some playpens come with a changing table for changing diapers as well, although they cost a bit more.

4. Playpens fold - yes, they are easy to dismantle and simple to pack. Playpens from brands like Graco come with carrying bags.

5. Playpens have weight limits - Yep, playpens are not made of hard wood so there is a weight limit on how much it can carry. Although some playpens may be used from birth to 3 years of age.

6. Playpens' bassinets may dip - My son's playpen has been around for only 4 months and its bassinet (where the baby lies down to sleep) has already dipped in the middle where most of his weight is on when lying down.


TRADITIONAL CRIBS
1. There are 2 kinds of cribs we mostly choose from--- convertible baby cribs and the standard baby cribs.

2. Convertible baby cribs have adjustable features that last until the childhood years.

3. Standard baby cribs and convertible cribs are most of the time made of hard wood, therefore more durable --- even if the child is a bit on the heavier side or is very active. But then this depends on what wood it is made of. It may be sturdy --- yet heavy and lightweight --- yet easily broken.

4. Because they are made of wood, they may be decorated and matched with different colored beddings, and will match most furniture at home or in the baby room.

5. Traditional cribs are very easy to find -- or to have made by a good carpenter --- and they cost just a bit less than the modern Playpens. (Wooden cribs are all around Caloocan's furniture strip!)

6. Standard cribs may convert to a toddler bed or a day bed with a headboard and a footboard ready.

7. Traditional cribs may be heavyweight, therefore not very easy to carry from room to room and may require extra effort and time to pack.

When choosing the right place to sleep for your little one, always consider their age, your lifestyle, the space or room, their attitude (active, reserved, etc.) and of course, your budget.

Good Luck!