Joybuy Insights

Choosing a roba playpen: sizes, safety and suitable models compared

A playpen can create a defined space for play and rest in your home. To make sure it’s a good fit for the long term, expectant parents and families should look beyond colour and design. When choosing a roba playpen, the key considerations are dimensions, adjustable base height, materials, castors, play mat and a suitable mattress.

Common mistakes when buying a baby playpen

1. A large play area won’t automatically fit every room

A 100 x 100 cm playpen offers more room to move than a more compact model, but it also needs a permanent space. Before buying, measure door widths, the available floor space and the routes people take through your living area. With hexagonal models, you’ll also need to bear in mind that their external dimensions are less straightforward to judge than those of a square.

2. Castors make a playpen easier to move, but they don’t replace brakes

A playpen with castors can be moved between living and sleeping areas. When it’s in a fixed position, however, the castors need to be securely locked. Models with four or six lockable castors should therefore be assessed differently from simpler versions without a locking mechanism. Check the brakes before every use.

3. A soft play mat isn’t the same as a suitable mattress

A padded playpen mat can make the sides and base more comfortable. A playpen mattress, on the other hand, is a separate accessory with specific dimensions. It’s important that it fits the playpen without leaving any dangerous gaps. A roba playpen mattress that’s too small can leave gaps; one that’s too large may buckle or fail to lie flat.

The most important things to consider

Choose a size and shape to suit your living space

A square model measuring 100 x 100 cm makes efficient use of space and is well suited to larger rooms. More compact dimensions, such as 75 x 100 cm, may work well in flats or where you need to move the playpen regularly.

A hexagonal playpen has a distinctive shape, but depending on its position, it may need more floor space. Before buying, check the stated external dimensions and the actual diameter. You should also consider the position of radiators, windows, cables and furniture edges when planning where to put it.

Adjustable base height for different stages of development

An adjustable-height playpen can make it easier to lift your baby out during their early months. Depending on the model, the roba playpens featured here have two or three base positions. Always adjust the height to suit your child’s development. Before each use, check that all locking mechanisms are fully engaged.

For several models, the product information recommends use up to around 24 months or a weight of 15 kg. Always follow whichever limit is reached first: the weight limit, the stated age or the point at which your child tries to climb out.

Materials, care and safety information

When choosing a wooden playpen, look for a sturdy frame, smoothly finished surfaces and a secure assembly. Depending on the model, roba playpens are made from wood or solid beechwood; for some versions, the product information doesn’t specify the type of wood.

According to their product descriptions, several models were developed in line with EN 12227:2010 or DIN EN 12227:2010-12. This standard covers safety requirements and test methods for playpens. It doesn’t replace regular checks: inspect the screws, wooden surfaces, castors, base fixings and play mat for damage.

Care requirements also vary:

  • Depending on the model, textile play mats can be washed at 30 °C or 40 °C.
  • According to the product information, the Little Stars model’s play mat is made from 65% polyester and 35% cotton.
  • Some roba Style play mats are made from quilted microfibre fabric.
  • Clean wooden surfaces with a damp cloth and avoid abrasive cleaning products.
  • Depending on the model, mattress covers may need to be hand-washed.

Our picks for different needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
roba Lucky Charm Playpen, Play Yard

roba Lucky Charm Playpen, Play Yard

Why this product suits this type of buyer: Its 75 x 100 cm footprint is a good fit for households looking for a more compact baby playpen with castors and a padded play mat.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly specifies three base-height settings and four braked castors. The play mat is removable and machine-washable at 40 °C.

Key benefit & strengths

75 x 100 cm, three base positions, four braked castors and a washable microfibre play mat.

Ideal for: Buyers who expect high quality
roba Little Stars Playpen 100 x 100 cm

roba Little Stars Playpen 100 x 100 cm

Why this product suits this type of buyer: This square playpen, made from solid beechwood, offers a clearly defined 100 x 100 cm play area and an integrated textile play mat.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description specifies three base positions, four braked castors and compliance with standard EN 12227:2010-12. This makes it easy to check key buying criteria.

Key benefit & strengths

Solid beechwood, 100 x 100 cm, three height settings and a textile play mat that’s washable at 30 °C.

Ideal for: Specific needs & frequent use
roba Hexagonal Playpen Cosiplay made from beechwood

roba Hexagonal Playpen “Cosiplay”

Why this product suits this type of buyer: Its hexagonal shape and six braked castors make it a good choice for families who regularly move a larger play area around their living space.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The external dimensions of around 118.5 x 103.5 cm, six braked castors and three height settings are all clearly listed.

Key benefit & strengths

Solid beechwood, a hexagonal shape, a padded play mat and six braked castors.

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
roba Folding Playpen Bi-Colour 75 x 100 cm

roba Folding Playpen Bi-Colour 75 x 100 cm

Why this product suits this type of buyer: This folding playpen is designed for families who want to save storage space or avoid having a play area set up all the time.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product information, the frame folds away. It also has two base-height settings and castors. Even so, make sure the playpen is fully locked in place when assembled.

Key benefit & strengths

Folded dimensions of 70 x 10 x 5 cm, two base positions and a 75 x 100 cm play area.

Choosing the right accessories

Before buying a roba playpen mattress, check which model you have. The square roba mattress, measuring 95 x 95 x 4 cm, is designed for playpens with a nominal size of 100 x 100 cm. According to the product information, the hexagonal mattress, measuring 112 x 97 x 4 cm, is intended for roba models 0232 and 202500. A precise fit without gaps matters more than extra-soft padding.

If you’re looking for a playpen with a mattress, check whether the mattress is included or needs to be bought separately. Also, don’t put any extra pillows, blankets or soft padding in the playpen unless the instructions specifically say to do so. Use the playpen on the floor only, and always supervise your child.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.

Frequently asked questions about roba playpens

How long can you use a roba playpen for?

Depending on the model, the product information recommends use from birth up to around 24 months or a weight of 15 kg. Follow whichever limit is reached first. Stop using the playpen as soon as your child tries to climb out.

Is it safe to move a playpen with castors?

Castors make it easier to move the playpen, provided the floor is level and free from obstacles. Make sure all the brakes are locked before placing your child inside. Never put the playpen on a raised surface or use it without supervision.

What should you bear in mind when cleaning a playpen mat?

Care instructions vary by model. According to the product information, some textile play mats can be washed at 30 °C or 40 °C. Playpen mattress covers may need to be hand-washed. Check the care label and instructions before washing. Make sure the play mat is completely dry and securely fitted before use.