Best Playards for Newborns

September 3, 2025

Stephanie Giustino

When preparing for your newborn, a playard might not be the first thing on your mind. After all, anything with the word play may sound like something you won’t need until your baby is a bit older. But in reality, a playard is a must-have for your registry—especially one designed with newborns in mind.

The right playard is more than just a safe spot for playtime. Many models come with newborn-friendly features like a bassinet mode, a changing station, and a breathable, washable mattress. As your baby grows, the same playard transitions into a secure play space for the infant and toddler stage, giving you years of use. We’ve rounded up our favorite options that are the well-suited from the day you bring your baby home.

Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Playards for Newborns

While there are countless playards on the market, our list is short and intentional. We’ve focused only on the models that deliver the safest and most practical features for newborns.

First and foremost: GREENGUARD Gold certification. Every playard here meets that standard, ensuring healthier air quality for your baby from day one. Each option also includes a bassinet attachment—giving you a ready-to-use, cozy sleep space without needing extra purchases. These systems work beautifully as a bedside bassinet or as a travel crib when you’re away from home.

Beyond that, they all offer long-lasting convenience with machine-washable mattresses, making cleanup simple and keeping the playard fresh through years of daily use. From birth through toddlerhood, these models deliver comfort, safety, and practicality. Let’s take a closer look at our top picks.

Nuna COVE Aire GO

The smallest option on our list, the Nuna COVE Aire Go is perfect for families with limited space or for those who want a compact bedside bassinet. Its streamlined design also makes it extremely travel-friendly.

Why We Love it for Newborns

GREENGUARD Gold Certified
Bassinet included
Breathable mesh mattress
Included GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Sheet

Highlights

Compact
Lightweight
Quick and easy fold and unfold
Easy to clean
Machine washable mattress
Storage bag included

Specs and Dimensions

Open: 40 x 24.5 x 30 in
Folded: 14.5 x 10 x 34.5 in
Weight: 22 lbs
Bassinet capacity: 15 lbs
Play yard capacity: up to 30 lbs or 35 in

Shop Nuna

Nuna PAAL

Slightly longer than the COVE Aire Go, the Nuna PAAL offers extra room for play while still maintaining a slim profile for bedside use. It’s equally ideal for travel and at-home convenience, with the bonus of a zip-open side for easy access during both infant and toddler stages.

Why We Love it for Newborns

GREENGUARD Gold Certified
Breathable mattress for premium airflow
Included bassinet insert
Included GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Sheet
Mesh side panels for easy viewing and ventilation

Highlights

Compact fold
Easy to use and store away
Lightweight
Narrow, space saving design
Machine washable mattress
Zip-front opening for easy interacting during play
Padded edges for extra protection
Included travel bag
Included insect net

Specs and dimensions

Open: 40 x 26 x 28.5 in
Folded: 13 x 11 x 28.5 in
Weight: 19.8 lbs
Bassinet capacity: 15 lbs
Play yard capacity: up to 35 in

Shop Nuna

Nuna SENA Aire with Zip-in Bassinet and Changer

The Nuna SENA Aire is a full-size playard, available with or without a changer (we recommend opting for the changer). This model stands out as a complete care station, handling diaper changes, nap time, and play with ease. Its quick fold and included storage bag make it a smart, portable choice for families on the go.

Why We Love It for Newborns

GREENGUARD Gold Certified
Included bassinet insert
Breathable mattress
Changing station
Included GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Sheet

Highlights

Easy to use and store away
Quick fold
Machine washable mattress
Above ground base- mattress off floor
Included travel bag
Mesh sides

Specs and dimensions

Open: 41.3 x 30 x 29 in
Folded: 11 x 13 x 31.5 in
Weight: 22 lbs
Bassinet capacity: 15 lbs
Play yard capacity: up to 35 in or 30 lbs

Shop Nuna

UPPAbaby Remi

The UPPAbaby Remi is the most versatile option, thanks to a wide range of thoughtful add-on accessories. As a full-size playard, it provides plenty of room for both infants and toddlers. With its zip-in bassinet, compatible changer, and diaper organizer, it’s especially convenient for newborn use. Add the UV-protected mesh canopy, and it becomes a fantastic outdoor play space—perfect for beach trips or travel.

Why We Love It for Newborns

GREEN GUARD Gold Certified
Included bassinet insert
Air mesh mattress for improved breathability
Included organic cotton mattress cover
Mesh sides
Changing station add-on
Diaper Organizer add-on

Highlights

Easy to use and store away
Quick fold
Machine washable mattress
Zip-front opening for easy access during play
Included travel bag
Above ground design- mattress lifted off floor
Large play area

Specs and dimensions

Open: 45.5 x 26 x 28.5 in
Folded: 11 x 10 x 28.5 in
Weight: 20 lbs
Bassinet capacity: 20 lbs
Play yard capacity: up to 35 in

Shop UPPAbaby

Choosing the Right Gear for Your Family's Needs

Need more help building your registry? We have you covered! Continue your baby gear research with these articles:

*For more on safe sleep, check out our article:

How to Create a Safe Sleep Environment for Your Baby

Why should you trust Bambi Baby?

At Bambi Baby, our decades-long commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has established us as a trusted authority in the baby products' industry. With over 40 years of experience, we have developed a deep understanding of what parents require when choosing the perfect gear. Our expert team is dedicated to guiding you through this important decision with personalized recommendations, ensuring that the gear you pick perfectly matches your lifestyle and needs.

Still have questions?

Bambi Baby experts are ready to connect! If you have any more questions regarding baby gear you can reach us at cs@bambibaby.com or chat with us on our website. We would love to hear from you!