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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
The product information clearly specifies three base-height settings and four braked castors. The play mat is removable and machine-washable at 40 °C.
75 x 100 cm, three base positions, four braked castors and a washable microfibre play mat.
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.
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.
Solid beechwood, 100 x 100 cm, three height settings and a textile play mat that’s washable at 30 °C.
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.
The external dimensions of around 118.5 x 103.5 cm, six braked castors and three height settings are all clearly listed.
Solid beechwood, a hexagonal shape, a padded play mat and six braked castors.
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.
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.
Folded dimensions of 70 x 10 x 5 cm, two base positions and a 75 x 100 cm play area.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.