Mesh vs. Plastic Baby Playpens: Which One Is Better?

If you’re anything like most new parents, you’ve probably Googled “best baby playpen” sometime between feeds, nappy changes, and wondering if your baby will ever sleep through the night. And once you’re deep in the research rabbit hole, one question keeps popping up: Mesh or plastic?

On paper, they both sound decent. But what really matters is how these playpens hold up in real homes — with real babies, real messes, and real chaos.

This guide breaks down the key differences between mesh and plastic baby playpens, so you can confidently choose the one that fits your space, lifestyle, and parenting style. We’ll cover the practical stuff (like safety and cleaning) and the little things no one tells you about — like whether they creak in the middle of nap time.

 

Safety First: What Matters Most

When it comes to baby gear, nothing matters more than safety. So let’s talk about how mesh and plastic playpens compare where it really counts.

Mesh Playpens: Soft, Breathable & Visibility-Friendly

Mesh playpens are a popular pick for a reason — they’re soft, breathable, and usually have see-through sides so you can keep an eye on bub without hovering. The mesh also means fewer hard surfaces if your little one stumbles during tummy time or while learning to stand.

Pros:

• Breathable walls reduce suffocation risk

• Less likely to cause bumps or bruises

• Easy to see through (great for both parents and babies)

Watch out for:

• Poor-quality mesh can rip or sag over time

• Make sure the holes in the mesh aren’t too big (check for Australian safety standards)

Plastic Playpens: Sturdy & Structured

Plastic playpens are generally more rigid and feel a bit more like a mini fence than a cosy nook. That’s not necessarily a bad thing — especially if your baby is already pulling themselves up or you want to use it outdoors.

Pros:

• Solid structure that holds its shape

• Harder to climb or push over

• Often includes gates or activity panels

Watch out for:

• Hard edges (look for rounded corners)

• Less airflow and visibility compared to mesh

• Can feel a bit “cold” or bulky indoors

Real-world tip: If your baby is just starting to roll and explore, mesh gives you peace of mind. But if you’ve got a little climber, the extra height and sturdiness of a plastic playpen might be the safer bet.

Ease of Use: Set-Up, Storage, and Day-to-Day Life

Let’s be honest — if a product takes longer to set up than it does for your toddler to mess your lounge room, it’s not worth it. So how do mesh and plastic playpens stack up when it comes to everyday usability?

Mesh Playpens: Lightweight and Portable

Mesh playpens are usually designed with portability in mind. Many models fold down like a camping chair and come with a carry bag, which is brilliant if you’re moving it from room to room or packing it for a weekend at Grandma’s.

Why parents love them:

• Quick to set up and pack down (usually under a minute)

• Lightweight enough to move one-handed (baby in the other arm!)

• Great for smaller homes or travel

Minor downsides:

• Might not be as roomy inside

• Can lack the “stay put” feel — especially on hardwood floors

Plastic Playpens: Set and Forget

Plastic playpens take a bit more elbow grease to assemble, but once they’re up, they’re solid. Think of them more like a semi-permanent fixture — ideal for play areas where you want a clear boundary that doesn’t budge.

Why some parents prefer them:

• Once it’s up, it’s not going anywhere

• Usually offers more space to play

• Feels more “structured” in open-plan homes

Downsides to consider:

• Bulky to move or store

• Can be a pain to reassemble if you’re short on time or patience

Quick tip: If you're the kind of family that likes to rearrange furniture or travel a lot, mesh will make your life easier. If you’re after a solid play zone that stays put, plastic’s your friend.

 

Cleaning & Maintenance: The Mess Test

Babies are adorable — but let’s not sugar-coat it: they’re also messy little creatures. Spit-up, biscuit crumbs, sippy cup spills… your playpen is going to cop it. So how do mesh and plastic options compare when it’s clean-up time?

Mesh Playpens: Wipe, Wash… Wait?

Mesh playpens are usually made from fabric and breathable netting, which is comfy for bub but trickier to clean. Some models have removable, washable linings, but others just need to be wiped down — which isn’t always enough after a real mess.

Cleaning pros:

• Often machine-washable liners or mats

• Softer surfaces don’t stain as easily with clear liquids

Cleaning cons:

• Crumbs and fluff can get stuck in seams

• Takes longer to dry after a big clean

• Spills may soak into the fabric if not cleaned quickly

Plastic Playpens: Wipe-and-Done Simplicity

Plastic is a dream when it comes to cleaning. Spaghetti incident? Wipe it. Nappy leak? Wipe it. Mysterious goo that somehow got everywhere? You guessed it — wipe it again.

Cleaning pros:

• Easy to disinfect with baby-safe spray

• No fabric = no drying time

• Perfect for outdoor use and messy play

Cleaning cons:

• Scratches can hold onto dirt over time

• Less cosy if bub is spending long stretches inside

Parent tip: If you’re still in the early solids stage, plastic might save your sanity. But if you’re all about comfort and have the time to machine wash, mesh can still work — just don’t forget a waterproof playmat underneath.

Comfort & Design: What Will Your Baby Actually Enjoy?

Let’s be real — it doesn’t matter how safe or easy-to-clean a playpen is if your baby hates being in it. So, how do mesh and plastic options stack up from a comfort and design perspective?

Mesh Playpens: Cosy and Nap-Friendly

Mesh playpens tend to feel more like a soft enclosure than a barrier. The breathable sides make them feel airy, and many come with padded mats or soft bases that make them comfy enough for short naps or quiet time.

Comfort wins:

• Soft all around — fewer ouch moments

• Great airflow, especially in warmer months

• Feels more like a “space to play” than a cage

Style notes:

• Usually comes in neutral, minimalist colours

• Looks less “chunky” in modern homes

Plastic Playpens: Practical But a Bit… Industrial?

Plastic playpens are practical, but let’s be honest — they’re not winning any interior design awards. They’re bulkier and can look more like a fence than a play space, though some do come with interactive panels or bright colours to engage your little one.

Comfort wins:

• Often bigger and more open inside

• Some have built-in toys or activity boards

Style notes:

• Bright colours may overstimulate some babies

• Takes up more visual space in your living room

Parent insight: If your home is your calm zone and you’re trying to keep it baby-friendly and stylish, mesh might suit your vibe better. But if you're setting up a playroom where function beats form, plastic’s playful features might win out.

So… Which One Should You Choose?

There’s no universal winner here — it all depends on your baby, your home, and your day-to-day routine.

If you want something lightweight, easy to fold up, and soft on little hands and knees, a mesh playpen is probably the better fit. It’s ideal for younger bubs who are just starting to explore, and it blends in nicely with modern homes. Plus, it’s a dream to pack up and take on the go.

On the other hand, if you’ve got a little adventurer who’s already climbing, or if you need something rock-solid that stays in one spot, a plastic playpen might be more your style. They’re easy to clean, super sturdy, and often come with fun features like gates or activity panels.

At the end of the day, the best playpen is the one that works for your family — and lets you take a much-needed breather while bub plays safely nearby.