For clarity this review is for the JOOVY New Room2 with gray fabric and gray mesh. It is replacing a Pack n Play TotBloc that my daughter is taking. I decided not to duplicate the previous play yard for several reasons: the JOOVY New Room2 is a bit larger, has more viewing area because of the upright support design, it has two wheels, comes with a waterproof sheet, a zippered carrying case, and the available color choice.
My first thoughts:
This is not light, but the wheels certainly make it much easier to move and prevents stressing the support legs because you don't have to drag it if you don't have help moving it. Set up was easy enough, similar to the P&P, and the padded mattress is okay for most babies and young toddlers. The waterproof sheet that came with it fits nicely and has deep pockets to keep it from popping off. There are reinforced slits for the straps to go through that hold the mattress to the frame. It has a velore-like top that is very soft and you can buy extras to have a spare just in case.
The zippered case is nice to have because if you do use the NR2 for vacation, etc. it will help keep the dirt from getting in or the play yard frame from slipping out of the wrap-around mattress if you haven't tightened the straps enough. It's made from windbreaker type material and the zipper works easily.
The reason why I chose the gray/gray was simple; wet baby fingers and drooling mouths are inevitable, and they attract dirt like a magnet. When your little one is old enough to stand, they will chew on the top rail and run their hands (and tongue) over the mesh. It doesn't take long for the play yard to look nasty if you're dealing with light colored fabric and mesh. My daughter's P&P has a very light gray fabric and white mesh. It only took the grandson a few months to make it look stained (she jokes it's just the top rail showing through). I'm hoping the darker gray will hide the dirt better, but if it doesn't, a quick wipe down should make it look new again.
Now the Cons:
It is heavy but if you are strong and in good shape you should be able to handle transportation with little difficulty. For the rest of us, it might be a struggle. I wish the mattress was tighter fitting but if you use the straps, especially if you have a "creative" child who likes to tunnel, the mattress should stay put. Check occasionally for missing toys under the mattress either way. Adding an additional aftermarket mattress is not recommended, and some reviewers have put extra blankets under the fitted sheet. I bought a spare waterproof sheet and doubled up and it's plenty soft. Since they are waterproof, if the top one gets soiled, it will be easy enough to remove it and a clean sheet is already on. None of the cons I've mentioned is enough for me to knock off a star.
To wrap up this novel, it doesn't matter what color you choose, I think you'll be very pleased with the JOOVY New Room2 and the extra room your child will have to play in may give you peace of mind longer. I will update my review if my opinion changes or a problem arises.
****Update: I didn't have this unit a week before my grandson threw up in it! Down one side, stuck in the mesh, hitting the waterproof sheet and pooling under the mattress. Ugh! A few paper towels for the chunks and some disinfectant wipes for the rest and there were no traces of the accident. The moisture never went through the sheet and nothing leaked through the bottom onto the carpet. I was so relieved to see no traces of stains or smell the next day!
On a side note, the bump or ridge that has been mentioned by other reviews has appeared in our mattress as well. It in no way interferes with the function of the play yard.
| Product Dimensions | 39.75 x 39.75 x 31 inches |
|---|---|
| Item model number | 7029 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Target gender | Unisex |
| Maximum weight recommendation | 25 Pounds |
| Maximum height recommendation | 35 Inches |
| Material Type | Mesh |
| Care instructions | Hand Wash Only |
| Additional product features | Large Playard, Travel bag included |
| Number Of Items | 1 |
| Batteries required | No |
| Item Weight | 29.6 pounds |
| Country/Region of origin | USA |
