When I was pregnant with my baby boy, I searched high and low for all the things I felt I needed for him and could afford. I really wanted a swing but never got one (yes I survived a newborn without a swing). I knew I felt uncomfortable putting him in that big old crib with him being oh so little so I wanted to find something affordable and convenient where he could snuggle up close to me without being in the bed. I so badly wanted one of those awesome co-sleepers that attach to the bed, but our bed lies on the floor and it wouldn't have worked. So this is what I came up with, despite reading majorly mixed reviews.
Positives - The rock n' play was very easy to assemble. I think it took me maybe 5 minutes, super simple. Its pretty cute and looks nice and cozy, which it was Winston loved it. Its compact, very easy to put away for storage purposes or maybe travel if you are traveling by car. I wouldn't say that its practical for packing for a trip in which you would fly though.
Negatives - Flat head syndrome, which is what so many people complain about with this thing. I really believed I would be exempt from this but unfortunately if you are using this as a bassinet it will happen. Luckily Winston's didn't seem to get too bad, at least his doctor never seemed too concerned but I was. It is really hard to break the habit of having a baby sleep where they are comfortable, you just want sleep and you do what works and for us it was this but it was hurting Winston . Luckily he is in his crib now and within just a couple of months his head has taken on a normal shape.
Overall - I give this product a C. If you are not going to use it as a bassinet regularly, this is probably a great product. Maybe for just the occasional overnight trip, or just somewhere to put the baby while you are showering or getting things done around the house. But I give it a C because so many babies have developed flat head from sleeping in here, and that I do NOT like.
