Ahead: The weight limits of all the most popular playard models
Whether you’re looking to buy a Pack N Play with the greatest longevity, or you’re wondering when to stop using the one you already own, you’re in the right place.
Playards are federally regulated, which means they’re all rather similar. However, how long a baby can sleep in Pack N Play is different for each model.
This guide will break down Pack N Play weight limits into two categories: playards with standard weight limits and those with high weight limits.
We’ll also cover the other milestones that determine when to stop using the entire playard or certain sections of the playard.
Disclaimer: None of the information contained herein should serve as a substitute for reading your own user manual.
Note: This guide uses the terms Pack N Play and playard interchangeably.
Let’s dive in!
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How long can a baby sleep in a Pack N Play?
Most Pack N Plays have a weight limit of 30 pounds and a height limit of 35 inches. Some models don’t have a weight limit at all. (We’ll get to those shortly).
Many children will max out the height limit around 2 years old.
When your child is able to climb out of the Pack N Play, it’s time to discontinue use.
Importantly, when your little one meets any of the milestones listed in your user manual, even if they haven’t met the others yet, it’s time to stop using the playard.
Now let’s talk about the weight limits for specific playard models! We’ll start with a list of Pack N Plays with standard weight limits.
Pack N Plays with Standard Weight Limits
All of the Pack N Plays on this first list have a height limit of 35″ and a weight limit of 30lbs.
It’s time to stop using all playards when the child is able to climb out (even if they haven’t reached the height/weight limit).
Always go by whichever milestone happens first.
Low Price Point (Under $100)*
- Dream On Me Zodiak Portable Playard
- Graco Pack ‘N Play
- Dream On Me Nest Portable Playard
- Dream On Me Travel Light Play Yard
- Baby Trend Nursery Center
Mid Price Point ($100-$200)*
High Price Point ($200+)*
*Pricing is accurate as of the date of publishing and is subject to change.
Next, we’ll talk about Pack N Plays with high weight limits (or with no weight limits)…
Pack N Plays with the Highest Weight Limits
If you’re in the market for a Pack N Play that will work for a young toddler, these are your best options. Most of the playards below do not have weight limits.
Guava Lotus
The Lotus Travel Crib does not have a weight limit, as the mattress is supported by the floor.
It does have a 35″ height limit.
Stop using this playard when your child is able to climb out.
Sometimes this playard is on sale for $20 off.
Baby Bjorn
The Baby Bjorn Travel Crib does not have a weight limit because the mattress sits on the floor.
Like most playards, it does have a 35″ height limit.
Stop using this product when your child is able to climb out.
Joovy Room
(A weight limit is not listed in the manual. I confirmed the lack of weight limit with the manufacturer as well).
It does, importantly, have a height limit of 35″.
And like all playards, it’s no longer safe to be used once the child can climb out.
Joovy Room²
(A weight limit is not listed in the manual. I confirmed the lack of weight limit with the manufacturer as well).
Critically, it does have a height limit of 35″.
And like all playards, it’s no longer safe to be used once the child can climb out.
Bugaboo Stardust Playard
This luxe playard has a slightly higher than standard weight limit: 33 lbs.
Like all Pack N Plays, it has a height limit of 35″ and should no longer be used once the child is able to climb out.
Check the price here. (Be prepared for some sticker shock!)
Pack N Plays with Unknown Weight Limits
There are quite a few playard brands on Amazon with no website and no user manual (that I’ve been able to locate):
- Angelbliss
- Baby Joy
- HEAO
- Honey Joy
- Pamo Babe
It is unclear whether any of these “playards” meet federal safety standards.
Without knowing whether these playards have undergone third-party testing by an accredited CPSC laboratory, we can’t be confident in the veracity of any claims made on their Amazon sales listings.
Therefore, the weight limits of these Pack N Plays are classified as unknown.
FAQs about Pack and Play weight limits and milestones
How much weight can a Pack N Play hold?
Most Pack N Play models can hold a maximum of 30lbs.
If there are bassinet levels or attachments, those have lower weight limits, usually 15lbs.
If you’re looking for a playard that can hold more weight, consider purchasing one with a mattress that sits on the floor, as these do not have a weight limit.
Here are 2 options for Pack N Plays without weight limits:
- Guava Lotus
- Baby Bjorn
Keep in mind though, even if a Pack N Play doesn’t have a weight limit, all of them have height limits and/or milestone limits.
What are the weight limits for Pack N Play bassinets?
Some Pack N Plays have a bassinet level or bassinet attachment which have their own safety standards.
Here are the most common milestones for those:
- Most playard bassinets have a weight limit of 15lbs.
- Many infants will max out the weight limit around 4 months.
- When the infant is able to push up on their hands and knees, you should discontinue use.
Always go by whichever happens first.
Be sure to read the user manual for the Pack N Play that YOU own, as instructions vary from product to product.
TIP: There’s one Pack N Play bassinet with a higher weight limit!
The “Stage 2” of this mini Pack N Play can accommodate a baby up to 20 lbs.
Keep in mind, though, that the physical developmental milestone is the same:
No matter the baby’s weight, discontinue use of all bassinet levels once they are able to push up on hands and knees.
When should you lower a Pack N Play?
It’s time to lower the Pack N Play and start using the bottom level as soon as your baby is able to push up on his hands and knees — OR — when your baby reaches the bassinet weight limit, typically 15 lbs.
Go by whichever happens first.
Be sure to check the user manual for your specific product to be sure.
You can find it easily by googling [product name] + user manual.
How long can a baby sleep in a Pack N Play during a single period?
Regulated playards are safe sleep spaces.
Provided that you are practicing safe sleep, it’s perfectly fine for your baby to sleep through the night or take a long nap in a Pack N Play.
Articles related to Pack and Play safety:
- Pack N Play Mattresses (Why are they so firm? Can you make them more comfortable?)
- Cleaning a Pack N Play (without compromising its structural integrity)
- Can a newborn sleep in a Pack N Play?
- Intro to Safe Sleep + Preventing SIDS
- How to Stop Swaddling (and why it’s so important)
- When Can Babies Sleep with Lovies?
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