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Our team of moms has tested and researched dozens of pack n plays and travel cribs for our little ones — these are our top selections for safety, nontoxic materials, and durability across various price points.
When it comes to travel cribs and pack ‘n plays, finding the right one can feel like a tiresome mission. We want something safe and sturdy, but lightweight enough to make packing a breeze. That’s why the moms on our team adore these travel cribs and pack ‘n plays that fold down in a snap, turning nap time into a cozy haven no matter where we are. From quick overnight stays at the in-laws to impromptu weekend getaways, these little sleep spaces give us much-needed peace of mind (and our babies a few extra zzz’s!). The best part? Today’s travel cribs are thoughtfully made with nontoxic materials and breezy fabrics so our babies can rest easily — and so can we.
What is a pack ‘n play?
A pack ‘n play is a portable crib and play yard all in one — a multitasking wonder perfect for naps, overnight trips, and safe playtime. These lightweight, foldable baby beds are designed to be easy to pack up and take with you wherever you go, whether across town or the country. We love them for creating a cozy, secure space for our little one so we can travel with peace of mind. They are also great for use in the living room or even as a more affordable crib option!
Why consider a non-toxic pack ‘n play?
We love nontoxic pack ‘n plays because they are made without harsh chemicals, flame retardants, or other potentially harmful materials, creating a healthier and more natural space for our babies to rest and play. These thoughtfully designed options often use gentle, low- or no-VOC finishes and natural fabrics that are safe for sensitive skin, helping to reduce exposure to irritants while still providing the cozy comfort and sturdy support we want for our little one. They are also made by brands we trust and support for quality and longevity.
Our criteria
There are so many pack ‘n plays out there, from budget-friendly basics to innovative, nontoxic models with organic touches, so we’ve pulled together a curated selection of the best brands crafting safe, sustainable sleep spaces for your little one. We update this list regularly to spotlight emerging standouts that go above and beyond.
- SAFETY | Each of these pack ‘n plays is made with high-quality, durable, and functional materials that meet or exceed the highest safety tests and standards.
- NATURAL, NON-TOXIC MATERIALS | We’ve prioritized pack ‘n plays with GREENGUARD GOLD certified materials free from harmful toxins and chemicals that can leach into the air.
- LONGEVITY | We’ve done the research for you and tested out many of these products firsthand. We’ve listed the best pack n’ plays made with strong materials and offering extensive features so you can use them for years.
Looking for other baby gear? Check out our guide for the best convertible cribs and organic crib mattresses.
Best For | Airport travel and a hands-free pack ‘n play
Nontoxic or Sustainable Materials | GREENGUARD Gold certified, Low-VOC, Insulated Mattress
Max Height/Weight | Suitable for ages newborn to 3 (or until they can climb out)
It’s probably no surprise that Guava is at the top of our list — it’s a reader and editor favorite around here! The Guava Family Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib has quickly become a standout in the world of travel families, and for good reason. Weighing just 15 pounds and folding down with the patented 3D Z-Fold™ system in under 15 seconds, it’s incredibly easy to carry through busy airports or tuck into a car trunk. The included backpack-style carry bag is ergonomic, too, making hauling it hands-free a breeze. Beyond its unbeatable portability, the Lotus has three major safety certifications, including the GREENGUARD Gold certification. This means it meets the highest standards for low chemical emissions and is free from harmful substances like PVC, flame retardants, and phthalates. Its breathable ClearView™ mesh panels provide excellent airflow and complete visibility, and the entire fabric shell is machine washable, making cleanup effortless no matter where your travels take you. Simply put, the Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib blends safety, convenience, and thoughtful design—everything a traveling family needs.
Our Editor Review | “My husband and I met while traveling, and before having our daughter, we spent years traveling and living abroad. When it came time to build our baby registry, a pack ‘n play was a non-negotiable, and we specifically needed something that could handle all the international trips we were already dreaming of. The Lotus checks every box and has blown us away. It’s hands down our top recommendation for any adventurous parents who want to keep exploring near and far with their little ones in tow.” – Kayti Christian, Senior Content Strategist (See more customer reviews)
Best For | Ultra breathable and entirely washable pack ‘n play
Nontoxic or Sustainable Materials | patented ultra-breathable, washable & recyclable Wovenaire® Core, GREENGUARD Gold Certified
Max Height/Weight | Suitable for children up to 35″
Our editors have personally tested the Newton Baby Travel Crib & Play Yard, and it’s quickly become a favorite for our little ones — and for us. From the GREENGUARD Gold certification, giving us real peace of mind about indoor air quality, to the patented Wovenaire® mattress that’s as breathable as it is washable, it feels like they thought of everything. The roomy, largest-in-class surface area means we never have to worry about cramped playtime, and the airy mesh panels keep our babies in sight at all times. Even better? It folds down compactly and weighs just 17 lb, so it’s as easy to pack for travel as it is to set up in the living room. We especially love the exterior zipper — it’s such a simple detail that makes getting our baby in and out so much easier. Altogether, it’s a beautifully balanced blend of safety, comfort, and practicality — precisely what we’re looking for as our families grow and explore.
Our Editor Review | “I couldn’t wait to try out the Newton Travel Crib after seeing it pop up on my social media feeds and hearing so many glowing reviews from new mom friends. And you know what? It totally lives up to the hype! I love how it somehow feels both roomy and lightweight—perfect for toting around on my own. I was so impressed I even gifted one to my sister and new baby niece because I genuinely wanted them to have this same cozy, travel-ready haven.” – Kayti Christian, Senior Content Strategist (See more customer reviews)
Best For | Extremely lightweight pack ‘n play (13 lbs)
Nontoxic or Sustainable Materials | OEKO-TEX Standard 100, Class 1 fabrics
Max Height/Weight | Suitable for newborns to age 3 (or until they can crawl out of it)
We’re loving the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light (specifically the dark green!) — an elegant, minimalist take on portable comfort. Weighing just 13 lb, it folds and sets up in seconds, no fiddly parts or confusing instructions required. We’re especially fond of the breathable full mesh sides that offer total visibility and peace of mind, and the OEKO‑TEX certified fabrics that feel safe and gentle against baby’s skin. The plush, supportive mattress ensures naps and overnights are restful, while the optional organic fitted sheet is a soft touch that makes this crib feel like a cozy sanctuary. Lightweight, thoughtfully designed, and easy to clean (yes, it’s washable!), this pack ‘n play adapts effortlessly to our family’s adventures near and far.
BabyBjörn Customer Review | “We’ve been sitting on the fence with whether or not to purchase this because it is so expensive compared to our Graco pack n play. But you get for what you pay for and we’re so happy with this play yard light crib. It is so much lighter and easier to pack around. It is also comfortable for our 8 month baby to nap in.” – Nancy (See all reviews)
Best For | Greenguard Gold Certified pack ‘n play with unique features like advanced airflow and zig-zag frame
Nontoxic or Sustainable Materials | GOTS-certified organic sheet (included)
Max Height/Weight | Birth to 30 lb or 35 in height (for the pack ‘n play)
We’re always on the lookout for baby gear that doesn’t just meet the mark — it redefines it. Enter the Nuna Sena Aire: a play yard that’s as sophisticated as it is practical. We love how the GREENGUARD Gold certification underscores the brand’s commitment to health and creating the purest possible environment for our babies. The frame’s zigzag design is nothing short of genius, as it unfolds and folds effortlessly with just one hand, bassinet and all. The mesh panels — lining the sides, mattress, and floor — offer 360-degree airflow to keep things breezy and comfortable, while skid-proof feet and an above-ground base add a reassuring stability we can’t help but appreciate. Plus, it comes with a GOTS-certified organic cotton sheet, perfectly sized and whisper-soft against delicate skin. Essentially, this isn’t just another pack ’n play — it’s a thoughtfully designed sanctuary that promises to keep pace with our every adventure, at home or away!
Nuna Customer Review | “Beautiful! Well built! Super easy to take out of the box and unfold! I wanted something very easy to travel with that I don’t have to build each time. This thing just folds out perfectly. I love that it has the baby changer station. The quality is top notch!” – Stephanie S. (See all reviews)
Best For | 3-in-1 bassinet and pack ‘n play made with recycled materials
Nontoxic or Sustainable Materials | 100%-recycled fabric made from plastic bottles
Max Height/Weight | Until your toddler reaches 35” or when they can climb out, whichever comes first
The Maxi‑Cosi Swift Play Yard isn’t nontoxic or organic, but it appeals to our sustainability ethos with its EcoCare fabric from 100% recycled plastic bottles. Beyond that, this pack ‘n play is sleek and stylish, weighing in at only 18 lbs — around 25% lighter than most competitors — and folding down effortlessly with a swift, one-handed motion (plus, it comes with a handy travel bag!). Inside, a clever two-stage mattress transitions seamlessly from a cozy newborn bassinet to a spacious play yard for toddlers, meeting CPSC safety standards. With its soft recycled yarn, lightweight portability, and thoughtful design, the Swift isn’t just easy on the eyes — it reflects modern motherhood values, blending sustainability with style in one smart, functional package. Naturally, we had to add it to the list.
Maxi-Cosi Customer Review | “What a spectacular take on a pack and play! The swift play yard is perfect from newborns to toddlers. I’ve been using it with the bassinet as the perfect spot for my 3 month old to nap in the living room. The mattress is cozy and importantly water proof. This play yard folds up SO easily. I am petite at 5’1″ and can easily fold and move it from room to room throughout the day. Additionally it is really beautiful for a pack and play- the wood legs in particular are very visually appealing and much classier than your typical play yard.” – Sam (See all reviews)
Kayti Christian is a Senior Content Strategist at The Good Trade. With an MFA in Nonfiction Creative Writing, her work has appeared in TODAY, Shondaland, and The New York Times. Since 2017, Kayti has been uncovering and reviewing the best sustainable home brands and wellness products. Her personal journey through four years of fertility treatments has inspired her to write extensively about women’s healthcare and reproductive access. Beyond her work at The Good Trade, Kayti is the creator of Feelings Not Aside, a Substack newsletter with 6,000 subscribers, and the cohost of the FriedEggs Podcast, which delves into IVF and infertility.