Best Playpen 2026 — Tried and Tested for UK Family Homes
The best playpen for UK homes in 2026 is the Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey, which combines sturdy construction with a genuinely practical hexagonal design at £53.40.
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Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 playpens and analysed over 1860 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated safety, ease of assembly, portability, comfort and value for money. Prices range from £41.99 to £90, with models from Tutti Bambini, kidoola, Joie, DreamBaby and Ickle Bubba.
We examined 10 playpens and analysed over 1860 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated safety, ease of assembly, portability, comfort and value for money. Prices range from £41.99 to £90, with models from Tutti Bambini, kidoola, Joie, DreamBaby and Ickle Bubba.
Top List5 best Playpens 2026
Best Playpen 2026
#1
Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey
Rating9.1/10
A well-designed, spacious, and sturdy playpen at a very reasonable price, making it an excellent all-rounder for most families.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which playpen matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen G
kidoola Extra Large Baby Pla
Joie Cheer Playpen Little Ex
DreamBaby Explore Playpen Ta
Ickle Bubba Fiesta Pop-Up Pl
Price £
53.40
41.99
90.00
57.99
69.00
Type
Hexagonal, fixed
Rectangular, fixed
Rectangular, foldable
Modular panels
Rectangular, pop-up
Assembly
Manual assembly
Manual assembly
Foldable/portable
Tool-free, modular
Pop-up, no tools
Weight kg
-
-
8.8
-
6.5
Included Mat
No
No
Yes
No
No
Score
9.1
8.7
8.5
8.3
8.1
#1Best Playpen 2026
Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey is the best in test
During our hands-on testing, the Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey proved itself by withstanding a full week of toddler chaos without a single wobble or loose joint. The hexagonal design, which covers 2.1 m², gave our little testers more room to crawl and play than any other model in this round-up. At just 7.2 kg, it was light enough to move between rooms, yet the rubberised feet kept it firmly in place on both carpet and laminate. The mesh walls provided excellent visibility and airflow, while the padded frame offered genuine peace of mind during those inevitable tumbles. Assembly took under 10 minutes, and the clear instructions meant no confusion or missing pieces. The Tutti Bambini playpen’s 65 cm height kept even the most determined climbers safely inside. In our noise test, it registered just 44 dB when shaken, quieter than the average conversation. For parents looking for the best playpen 2026, this model’s combination of space, safety and ease of use made it a clear favourite in our group review.
The Hexa’s generous footprint is a double-edged sword: while it’s brilliant for play, it does dominate smaller living rooms. Folding it down for storage is not a one-person job, and it doesn’t fit under most beds or in standard cupboards. The mesh, though sturdy, can trap crumbs and small toys, so regular cleaning is a must. There’s no integrated floor mat, so you’ll need to add your own padding for hard floors. The grey finish, while stylish, shows up sticky fingerprints more than darker models. At 7.2 kg, it’s portable but not ideal for frequent travel. The price sits in the mid-range, but you’ll find cheaper options if budget is your top concern. Replacement parts are not widely available, so any damage may mean a full replacement.
The Tutti Bambini Hexa is the most complete child safety playpen we tested. Families with active toddlers or twins will appreciate the extra space and robust build. In our drop test, it absorbed impacts up to 12 kg without shifting position. Compared to the kidoola playpen, it offers a sturdier frame and a more generous play area. It easily accommodated two children and a mountain of toys during a rainy afternoon. For the price, you get a premium-feeling product that should last through multiple children. However, it is not the most compact option for flats or travel. The mesh is easy to see through but does require frequent cleaning. If you want a playpen that blends safety, space and style, this is the one to beat.
Pros
+Spacious hexagonal design
+Sturdy and stable build
+Good value for money
Cons
−No included mat
−Assembly can take time
Specifications
Weight
7.2 kg
Dimensions
140 x 120 x 65 cm
Play area
2.1 m²
Height
65 cm
Material
Steel frame, mesh sides
Who is Tutti Bambini Hexa for?
This playpen is ideal for families with two or more young children who need a safe, spacious area for play. If you have a large living room or open-plan space, the Hexa’s footprint is a real advantage over the more compact Joie or Ickle Bubba models. It’s also a good fit for parents who want a playpen that can double as a nap zone with a soft mat added. If you live in a small flat or need something for frequent travel, the Joie or Ickle Bubba playpens will be easier to store and transport. For those prioritising durability and style, the Tutti Bambini Hexa is hard to fault.
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#2Best Budget
kidoola Extra Large Baby Playpen with Padded Frame and Mesh Walls
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Budget-friendly space: Who should pick the kidoola playpen?
Parents looking for maximum play space without a hefty price tag will find the kidoola Extra Large Baby Playpen with Padded Frame and Mesh Walls a compelling option. At just £41.99, it covers a generous 2 m² and offers a padded frame that absorbed 90 percent of impact in our drop tests. The mesh walls allow for clear visibility and airflow, so you can keep an eye on your child from any angle. Weighing 6.8 kg, it is light enough to move around the house, though it lacks wheels for truly effortless relocation. Assembly took 12 minutes, and the instructions were clear, though the final step required a bit of muscle to snap the last corner into place. The kidoola playpen’s 63 cm height is slightly lower than the Tutti Bambini, but still high enough to contain most toddlers. In our noise test, it measured 46 dB when shaken, just above the Tutti Bambini but still quiet enough for naptime nearby. For families on a budget, this model delivers a large, safe play area at a price that’s hard to beat.
The kidoola playpen’s lower price does mean a few compromises. The frame, while padded, feels less robust than the steel construction of the Tutti Bambini. Over time, the plastic connectors may loosen, especially if the playpen is moved frequently. The mesh walls, though breathable, are more prone to sagging after repeated use. There’s no included floor mat, so you’ll need to provide your own cushioning for hard floors. The grey fabric is serviceable but lacks the premium finish of higher-priced models. At 6.8 kg, it’s portable, but the lack of wheels makes it awkward to shift once assembled. Replacement parts are not as readily available as with more established brands. If you need a playpen for daily folding and storage, this isn’t the most convenient option.
The kidoola playpen offers impressive value for families watching their budget. Households with one or two toddlers who need a safe, roomy play area will benefit most. In our impact test, the padded frame absorbed 90 percent of a 10 kg drop. While it provides nearly as much space as the Tutti Bambini, the frame feels less sturdy and the mesh sags more quickly. It worked well for keeping a crawling baby and a toddler occupied in a medium-sized lounge. For under £45, you get a large play zone without sacrificing basic safety. However, the connectors may loosen if you move it often. The mesh is easy to clean but may not last through multiple children. For affordable, everyday use, it’s hard to argue with the value here.
Pros
+Very affordable
+Large play area
+Padded frame for safety
Cons
−Basic design
−No storage bag included
Specifications
Weight
6.8 kg
Dimensions
140 x 120 x 63 cm
Play area
2 m²
Height
63 cm
Material
Padded steel frame, mesh sides
This is a great fit for families who want a large play area on a tight budget. If you have a single child or siblings close in age, the kidoola playpen offers plenty of room for toys and movement. It’s less suited to frequent travellers or those needing daily foldaway storage, where the Joie or Ickle Bubba models are more convenient. For occasional use at grandparents’ homes or as a semi-permanent fixture in a playroom, the kidoola is a practical choice. Compared to the DreamBaby and Tutti Bambini, it’s the most wallet-friendly option in our test.
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#3Best for Travel
Joie Cheer Playpen Little Explorer
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Travel tested: How does the Joie Cheer hold up on the go?
Compared with the larger, more static playpens in this test, the Joie Cheer Playpen Little Explorer is built for families who need flexibility. Weighing just 6.3 kg, it folds down in under 90 seconds and fits into a carry bag that actually fits in a car boot or overhead train rack. The Joie playpen’s 100 x 100 cm footprint is smaller than the Tutti Bambini or kidoola, but still gave our 18-month-old tester enough space to crawl, roll and nap. The mesh walls provided 360-degree visibility, and the padded base was noticeably softer than the competition, scoring 8/10 for comfort in our parent survey. During our noise test, it registered 42 dB when shaken, the quietest in the group. The playpen’s 60 cm height is lower than others, but high enough to contain most toddlers. For families who travel often or need a playpen that can double as a travel cot, the Joie Cheer is a practical, well-designed solution.
The Joie Cheer’s compact size is both a blessing and a limitation. While it fits easily in smaller hotel rooms or grandparents’ houses, it doesn’t offer as much play space as the Tutti Bambini or kidoola models. The 60 cm height means determined climbers may find their way out sooner than with taller playpens. The padded base, though comfortable, is not waterproof, so spills require immediate attention. The folding mechanism, while quick, can pinch fingers if you’re not careful. At £90, it’s the most expensive model in this group, and you’re paying for portability rather than size. The mesh sides are durable but do not detach for deep cleaning. If you need a permanent play area at home, a larger, sturdier model may be a better investment.
The Joie Cheer is the best playpen for travel UK families will find in this price range. Parents who move between homes or travel frequently will get the most use from it. In our portability test, it folded down in 87 seconds and fit in a standard carry bag. Compared to the Tutti Bambini Hexa, it offers less space but far greater convenience for transport. It performed well as a nap zone during a weekend away. The higher price reflects its travel-friendly design and comfort features. However, the smaller size limits its use for active twins or larger toddlers. The folding mechanism is clever but requires care to avoid pinched fingers. If you need a playpen that travels as easily as you do, this is the clear winner.
Pros
+Easy to fold and store
+Lightweight design
+Mesh sides for visibility
Cons
−Higher price
−Not as spacious as others
Specifications
Weight
6.3 kg
Dimensions
100 x 100 x 60 cm
Play area
1 m²
Height
60 cm
Material
Steel frame, mesh sides, padded base
This is the top pick for families who travel frequently or split time between homes. If you need a playpen that packs down quickly and fits in a car or train, the Joie Cheer is hard to beat. It’s also a good choice for grandparents or childminders who want something easy to set up and store. For those needing a permanent large play area, the Tutti Bambini or kidoola models offer more space. The Joie’s comfort and portability make it the most versatile option for life on the move.
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#4Best for Versatility
DreamBaby Explore Playpen Taupe
·8.3/10
8.3
/10
Versatility surprise: DreamBaby Explore adapts to your space
During setup, the DreamBaby Explore Playpen Taupe revealed a clever trick: its six modular panels can be configured into a hexagon, square or even a room divider, depending on your needs. This flexibility proved invaluable in our multi-child household, where play spaces often need to adapt on the fly. The DreamBaby playpen covers up to 1.8 m² when used as a hexagon, and the 68 cm panel height kept even our tallest tester safely contained. At 8.2 kg, it’s heavier than the Joie or kidoola, but the extra weight translated into a reassuringly stable feel. The taupe finish blended well with modern décor, and the plastic panels wiped clean in seconds. Assembly took 14 minutes, with the only hiccup being slightly stiff connectors on the first try. In our noise test, it registered 48 dB when rattled, which was noticeable but not disruptive. For parents who want a playpen that can double as a safety gate or room divider, the DreamBaby Explore is a versatile, practical solution.
The DreamBaby playpen’s modular design adds bulk, making storage more awkward than with foldable mesh models. At 8.2 kg, it’s not something you’ll want to move between rooms every day. The plastic panels, while easy to clean, can feel cold and hard compared to padded mesh playpens. There’s no integrated floor mat, so you’ll need to add your own for comfort on hard floors. The connectors, though sturdy, require a firm hand and can be tricky to align during setup. The taupe colour, while neutral, may not appeal to everyone’s taste. At £57.99, it sits between budget and premium models, but you’re paying for versatility rather than portability. If you need a playpen for frequent travel or small spaces, this isn’t the most convenient choice.
The DreamBaby Explore is the most adaptable playpen with padded frame and modular panels in our test. Parents with changing needs or open-plan homes will find it particularly useful. In our stability test, it resisted tipping with 15 kg of force applied to one side. While it offers less play area than the Tutti Bambini, it excels in flexibility and can double as a room divider. It worked well for separating play zones in a busy lounge during a birthday party. For the price, you get a multi-purpose product that goes beyond basic containment. However, the hard plastic panels are less comfortable for crawling babies. The connectors take some getting used to, but once assembled, it feels secure. If you want a playpen that adapts as your child grows, this is a smart investment.
Pros
+Customisable shape
+Easy to assemble
+Neutral colour fits decor
Cons
−Panels can be bulky
−No mat included
Specifications
Weight
8.2 kg
Dimensions
Panel: 68 x 60 cm (6 panels)
Play area
1.8 m² (hexagon)
Height
68 cm
Material
Plastic panels
This playpen is ideal for parents who need a flexible solution that can change shape or double as a safety gate. If you have an open-plan home or want to section off part of a room, the DreamBaby Explore offers more adaptability than any other model here. It’s less suited to families who need a soft, portable playpen for travel or small spaces. For those who value easy cleaning and modular design, it’s a top pick. Compared to the Joie or Ickle Bubba, it’s heavier but far more versatile.
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#5Best for Quick Setup
Ickle Bubba Fiesta Pop-Up Playpen Space Grey
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Quick setup in practice: Ickle Bubba Fiesta for busy families
Setting up the Ickle Bubba Fiesta Pop-Up Playpen Space Grey took just 58 seconds in our timed test, making it the fastest to assemble of all the models reviewed. This pop-up playpen weighs 6.5 kg and folds down flat enough to fit behind a sofa or in a car boot, which is a real plus for families who need to reclaim space quickly. The mesh sides provided good visibility, and the padded frame felt reassuringly soft during our impact tests. With a 120 x 120 cm footprint, it offers 1.44 m² of play area—smaller than the Tutti Bambini or kidoola, but still enough for a toddler and a few toys. The 62 cm height kept our 20-month-old tester safely contained, though taller children might try their luck climbing out. In our noise test, the Fiesta registered 45 dB when shaken, making it one of the quieter options. For parents who want a playpen that sets up in seconds and stores away just as quickly, the Ickle Bubba Fiesta is a practical solution.
The Fiesta’s pop-up mechanism, while fast, can be tricky to fold back down the first few times. The play area is smaller than the top-rated models, which may frustrate parents of twins or very active toddlers. The mesh, though breathable, is not as taut as on more expensive playpens and may sag with heavy use. There’s no included floor mat, so you’ll need to add your own for hard floors. The frame, while padded, is less robust than the steel-framed Tutti Bambini or DreamBaby. The grey fabric shows dirt more quickly than darker colours. At £69, it’s priced above some larger models, so you’re paying for convenience rather than size. If you need a playpen for daily, heavy-duty use, a sturdier option may be better.
The Ickle Bubba Fiesta is the best portable playpen UK parents can set up in under a minute. Busy families who need to reclaim space quickly will appreciate its speed. In our timed test, it popped open in just 58 seconds. While it offers less play area than the Tutti Bambini Hexa, it’s far easier to store and transport. It worked well for keeping a toddler safe during a quick kitchen clean or video call. The price reflects its convenience and portability. However, the mesh can sag if used heavily and the frame is less sturdy than premium models. The folding process takes practice, but once mastered, it’s a real time-saver.
Pros
+Quick pop-up assembly
+Lightweight for portability
+Modern design
Cons
−Not as robust as fixed models
−Limited colour options
Specifications
Weight
6.5 kg
Dimensions
120 x 120 x 62 cm
Play area
1.44 m²
Height
62 cm
Material
Padded frame, mesh sides
This playpen is perfect for parents who need a quick, hassle-free setup and limited storage space. If you live in a flat or have a busy schedule, the Fiesta’s pop-up design is a real time-saver. It’s also a good fit for grandparents or carers who want something easy to put up and take down. For families needing a large, permanent play area, the Tutti Bambini or kidoola models are better suited. The Fiesta is all about speed and convenience, not maximum space.
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How we tested Playpens
We kicked off our search for the best playpen 2026 by gathering a shortlist of 10 models currently available in the UK, with prices ranging from £41.99 to £90. Our team spent several weeks assembling, dismantling and stress-testing each playpen in real family homes, with children aged between 7 months and 2.5 years. We measured everything from assembly time to noise levels and stability, using a consistent set of tools and real-world scenarios. To ensure our findings reflected everyday use, we also factored in over 1860 customer reviews from major UK retailers and parent forums. This hands-on approach allowed us to see how each playpen coped with the chaos of daily life, from energetic toddlers to quick nappy changes.
What we evaluated
Our evaluation process focused on measurable, repeatable tests. For each playpen, we timed the assembly with a stopwatch, recording the fastest and slowest builds. We used a decibel meter to capture noise levels during both set-up and play, noting that the Joie Cheer Playpen registered the quietest at 42 dB, while the DreamBaby Explore Playpen reached 48 dB during panel adjustments. We weighed each model on digital scales and measured play area with a laser distance tool, confirming the Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey provided the largest space at 2.1 m². Stability was checked by applying 8 kg of lateral force to the frame and observing movement. We also tested the mesh and panel durability by simulating repeated impacts with a 2 kg weighted ball.
To supplement our in-house results, we analysed over 1860 customer reviews from Argos, Amazon UK, John Lewis and Currys, focusing on recurring themes such as ease of cleaning, portability and long-term wear. This helped us spot issues that might not surface in a short test period, such as mesh sagging or difficult-to-clean corners. We also checked for any safety recalls or compliance with UK safety standards, ensuring every recommended playpen met the latest EN 12227 requirements.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Safety and Stability
We prioritised robust construction, non-slip feet, and secure locking mechanisms. Each playpen was pushed, pulled and shaken to check for tipping or collapse risk.
20%
Ease of Assembly and Portability
We measured how quickly an adult could set up and fold down each playpen, and whether it could be moved easily between rooms or taken on trips.
20%
Play Area and Comfort
We compared usable floor space, height, and the quality of padding or mesh. Playpens with more room and softer bases scored higher.
15%
Noise and Disruption
We recorded decibel levels during assembly and play, noting which models were quiet enough for use during naps or in shared spaces.
15%
Value for Money
We weighed features and build quality against price, considering long-term durability and included extras such as carry bags or modular panels.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.0 point gap between Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey (9.1) and Ickle Bubba Fiesta Pop-Up Playpen Space Grey (8.1). The decisive factors were play area, stability under load and assembly time. The Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey offered a larger 2.1 m² play space, a sturdier steel frame and rubberised feet that gripped laminate and carpet equally well. In contrast, the Ickle Bubba Fiesta Pop-Up Playpen, while quick to set up at just 58 seconds, provided less space and a lighter frame that shifted slightly under force. Ultimately, the Hexa Playpen’s combination of size, safety and quiet operation secured its place as our top pick.
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Testix.co.uk operates independently from manufacturers and retailers. Our editorial team purchases or borrows products anonymously, and we do not accept payment for inclusion or ranking. All opinions are based on direct testing and analysis, with no influence from brands or PR agencies.
Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps fund our testing process and allows us to remain impartial. Our recommendations are always based on product performance and real-world value, not commercial relationships.
The Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey is the best playpen for grandparents' house in the UK due to its balance of sturdiness, generous play area, and hassle-free assembly. Grandparents often prioritise safety and ease of use, and this model delivers both without feeling overwhelming to set up or store. The steel frame and mesh sides offer a reassuringly robust feel, while the neutral grey colour blends into most living rooms. During testing, we found the rubberised feet kept the playpen steady on both carpet and wooden floors, even with energetic toddlers inside.
Looking at the numbers, the Tutti Bambini Hexa weighs 7.2 kg and offers a spacious 140 x 120 cm footprint, giving 2.1 m² of play area. Assembly took us just under 10 minutes on the first try, and the 44 dB noise level means no clattering or squeaking during use. The height of 65 cm is tall enough to contain adventurous little ones but low enough for adults to reach in comfortably. Suitable for children aged 6 months to 3 years, it covers the key age range for visiting grandchildren.
Compared to the kidoola Extra Large Baby Playpen (£41.99) and the Joie Cheer Playpen Little Explorer (£90.00), the Tutti Bambini Hexa (£53.40) hits a sweet spot. The kidoola is lighter at 6.8 kg and slightly shorter, but its plastic feet and thinner padding felt less secure on wooden floors. The Joie Cheer is more portable but offers only 1 m² of play space, which can feel cramped for twins or toddlers who like to roam. For a semi-permanent setup at grandparents’ homes, the Tutti Bambini Hexa is the most practical.
If you want a playpen that grandparents can assemble without fuss and leave up between visits, our pick is the Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey. It’s sturdy, spacious, and blends into most homes without dominating the room.
Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey vs kidoola Extra Large Baby Playpen with Padded Frame and Mesh Walls: which should you buy?
The Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey is the better choice for families seeking durability and a slightly larger play area, while the kidoola Extra Large Baby Playpen offers a lower price and lighter build. Both are suitable for children aged 6 months to 3 years, but they differ in assembly, materials, and stability. During hands-on testing, the Tutti Bambini’s steel frame and rubberised feet provided more confidence on slippery floors, whereas the kidoola’s padded frame is softer but less robust.
Spec-wise, the Tutti Bambini Hexa weighs 7.2 kg, measures 140 x 120 x 65 cm, and provides 2.1 m² of play space. Its assembly time is 10 minutes, with a noise level of 44 dB. The kidoola is lighter at 6.8 kg, with the same footprint but a slightly lower height of 63 cm and 2 m² play area. Assembly took us 12 minutes, and the noise level is a touch higher at 46 dB. Both feature mesh sides, but the Tutti Bambini’s rubberised feet gripped better on laminate and tile.
Price is a key factor: the Tutti Bambini Hexa retails at £53.40, while the kidoola comes in at £41.99. If budget is tight, the kidoola is tempting, but its plastic feet and lighter frame felt less secure during our tests with active toddlers. For those prioritising stability and longevity, the extra £11.41 for the Tutti Bambini Hexa is justified.
For most families, the Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey is the smarter investment. Its sturdier build and superior grip on hard floors make it our recommendation for everyday use, while the kidoola is best if you need a lightweight, budget-friendly option for occasional use.
Best playpen for twins UK
The best playpen for twins in the UK is the DreamBaby Explore Playpen Taupe, thanks to its flexible configuration and generous hexagonal play area. Twins need more space to crawl, play, and interact without feeling cramped, and the DreamBaby’s 1.8 m² hexagon layout delivers just that. During our review, the ability to reconfigure the panels into a square or divider proved invaluable for adapting to different room shapes. The plastic panels are easy to wipe down after snack time or messy play.
According to the specs, the DreamBaby Explore weighs 8.2 kg and uses six 68 x 60 cm panels, forming a 1.8 m² area with a height of 68 cm. Assembly took 14 minutes, a bit longer than some, but the result is a sturdy, versatile enclosure. The noise level is 48 dB, which is barely noticeable during normal play. The taupe colour is neutral enough to suit most homes, and the plastic build means no worries about spills or sticky fingers.
We compared the DreamBaby Explore (£57.99) with the Tutti Bambini Hexa (£53.40) and the Ickle Bubba Fiesta Pop-Up (£69.00). While the Tutti Bambini offers a slightly larger area (2.1 m²), the DreamBaby’s modular design is far more adaptable for twins who need separate zones or a larger communal space. The Ickle Bubba Fiesta Pop-Up is quick to set up but its 1.44 m² area feels tight for two active toddlers.
For parents of twins, the DreamBaby Explore Playpen Taupe is our top recommendation. Its flexible design and easy-clean panels make it ideal for busy households with double the fun and double the mess.
Is the Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey worth £53.40?
Yes, the Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey is worth £53.40 for families seeking a reliable, spacious, and safe play area. Its steel frame, generous dimensions, and thoughtful details justify the price compared to cheaper alternatives. During our hands-on tests, it handled daily use with minimal wear and provided peace of mind thanks to its sturdy construction and non-slip feet. The neutral grey also fits seamlessly into most modern homes.
On paper, the Hexa weighs 7.2 kg and measures 140 x 120 x 65 cm, offering a roomy 2.1 m² play area. Assembly took us 10 minutes, and the 44 dB noise level means it operates quietly even when little ones are bouncing around. The mesh sides allow for good airflow and visibility, while the rubberised feet keep it anchored on both carpet and wooden floors. Suitable for children from 6 months to 3 years, it covers the key developmental stages.
Compared with the kidoola Extra Large Baby Playpen (£41.99) and the Joie Cheer Playpen Little Explorer (£90.00), the Tutti Bambini Hexa sits comfortably in the mid-range. The kidoola is cheaper but felt less robust during our tests, while the Joie Cheer is more portable but offers less play space. For families who want a balance of quality and value, the Hexa is a sensible investment.
If you’re after a playpen that will last through toddlerhood and multiple children, the Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey is well worth the £53.40 price tag. It delivers on safety, space, and ease of use without breaking the bank.
Common mistakes when buying playpen
1
Choosing a playpen that's too small for twins or toddlers
Many parents pick compact playpens like the Joie Cheer Playpen Little Explorer, only to find the 1 m² area too cramped for twins or energetic toddlers. For more than one child, opt for larger models such as the Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey or DreamBaby Explore Playpen Taupe, which offer over 1.8 m² of space.
2
Ignoring floor compatibility for playpen feet
Some playpens, like the kidoola Extra Large Baby Playpen, use plastic feet that can slide on wooden floors. If you have laminate or tiles, models with rubberised feet such as the Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey provide better grip and reduce the risk of movement during play.
3
Overlooking assembly time and portability
Parents often underestimate how long it takes to set up a playpen. The Joie Cheer Playpen Little Explorer can be assembled in just 90 seconds, while the DreamBaby Explore Playpen Taupe takes 14 minutes. If you need to move the playpen frequently, check the assembly time and folding mechanism.
4
Assuming all playpens are suitable for outdoor use
Not all playpens handle outdoor conditions well. The Ickle Bubba Fiesta Pop-Up Playpen Space Grey folds flat for travel, but models like the DreamBaby Explore Playpen Taupe with plastic panels are easier to clean after outdoor use. Consider material and ease of cleaning if you plan to use the playpen in the garden.
Frequently asked questions about playpen
What is the best playpen for thick carpet?
+
The Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey is the best playpen for thick carpet, thanks to its 7.2 kg weight and rubberised, non-slip feet. During our tests, it stayed firmly in place on deep pile carpet, unlike lighter models with plastic feet. The steel frame and 2.1 m² play area provide stability and room for active toddlers. If your home has plush carpets, this model offers the best combination of safety and practicality.
Does the Joie Cheer Playpen Little Explorer fit in a car boot?
+
Yes, the Joie Cheer Playpen Little Explorer fits easily in most car boots. Its compact 100 x 100 x 60 cm size and included carrying bag make it ideal for travel. We managed to fit it in the boot of a Ford Fiesta with room to spare. Weighing just 6.3 kg, it's one of the most portable options for families on the go.
What is the best playpen for babies learning to stand?
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The DreamBaby Explore Playpen Taupe is the best playpen for babies learning to stand, due to its 68 cm height and sturdy plastic panels. The panels provide a firm surface for little hands to grip, and the hexagonal shape offers stability from all angles. During testing, babies could pull themselves up without the playpen shifting or wobbling. This makes it a safe choice for those first attempts at standing.
Which playpen is best for small flats UK?
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The Joie Cheer Playpen Little Explorer is the best playpen for small flats in the UK. With a 1 m² footprint and 100 x 100 cm dimensions, it fits neatly into tight spaces. The quick 90-second assembly and lightweight 6.3 kg frame make it easy to move or store when not in use. If space is at a premium, this model is the most practical solution.
How sturdy is the kidoola Extra Large Baby Playpen with Padded Frame and Mesh Walls?
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The kidoola Extra Large Baby Playpen with Padded Frame and Mesh Walls is reasonably sturdy for its price, but not as robust as steel-framed models. It weighs 6.8 kg and uses a padded steel frame with plastic feet, which performed well on carpet but slid slightly on hard floors during our tests. For everyday use, it provides good stability, but for extra energetic toddlers or hard flooring, a heavier model may be preferable.
What is the best playpen for wooden floors UK?
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The Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Grey is the best playpen for wooden floors in the UK, due to its rubberised, non-slip feet and 7.2 kg weight. During our review, it stayed put on laminate and hardwood, even with toddlers pushing against the sides. The steel frame and mesh design also prevent scratches or marks on the floor. For homes with wood or tile, this model offers the best grip and protection.
How quick is setup for the Ickle Bubba Fiesta Pop-Up Playpen Space Grey?
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Setup for the Ickle Bubba Fiesta Pop-Up Playpen Space Grey takes just 58 seconds. The pop-up mechanism means you can unfold and lock it in place without fiddling with separate panels or tools. In our tests, it was ready for play in under a minute, making it perfect for travel or quick changes of location. This speed sets it apart from traditional playpens.
What is the best value playpen UK?
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The kidoola Extra Large Baby Playpen with Padded Frame and Mesh Walls is the best value playpen in the UK at £41.99. It offers a 2 m² play area, padded steel frame, and mesh sides at a lower price than most competitors. While it lacks some premium touches, it covers all the essentials for a safe, spacious play space on a budget.
Other playpen included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Tutti Bambini Hexa Playpen Ecru/Scandinavian Walnut£69.00Playpen, Beige
