As children grow, parents are often overwhelmed with the number of baby items that no longer have any use. Of course, it is always an option to donate items or to sell them online or at a garage sale, yet many seemingly useless baby products can be given a second life by redesigning them with a variety of practical hacks.

Playpens, also known as pack-and-plays, become a headache after a toddler learns how to climb out of them. Big and bulky, playpens take up way too much space and often end up becoming a nuisance in the garage or attic. Luckily, there are a number of playpen transformations that can breathe new life into an old playpen, allowing your kids to enjoy it for several more years.

Transform Into A Tent Bed

Every child enjoys a hideout. By cutting out the mesh on the sides, you can transform an old playpen into a fun new tent bed for your toddler. After removing the mesh, place a fitted sheet over the top to close the opening. Then, use a wooden or plastic pole to raise the middle of the sheet. You can also drape curtains to give your little one more privacy. Fill the tent with your child’s favorite toys and pillows. Transforming a playpen into a tent bed is also a great way to enjoy a fun family activity. Have your child make the design decisions, such as which sheets and curtains they want to use. Great for playdates, nap time or as a tiny playroom for your child to hang out, a tent bed will give your old playpen a few more years of life.

Redesign As A Reading Nook

For older children just learning how to read, a playpen can be refurbished into a fun reading nook. Once again, cut out the mesh and place a fitted sheet over the top. Then, have your child decorate the space with their favorite books, stuffed animals and throw pillows. You can choose to hang a light from the top or simply add a cordless reading lamp. A great way to encourage your child to read, a reading nook will awaken their imagination and inspire their love of books.

Refurbish As A Ball Pit

Every child loves a ball pit. To refurbish your old playpen as a ball pit, there’s no need to make any changes to the playpen. Simply buy a bunch of colorful plastic balls online or at a toy store and fill the bottom of the playpen. A great idea for birthday parties or playdates, a ball pit will certainly be a hit with toddlers and provide some fun at-home entertainment. Once your child outgrows the ball pit, you can always transform the playpen into a reading nook or a tent bed to get some more mileage out of your old playpen.

Reuse As A Storage Container

Kids accumulate countless toys and stuffed animals as they grow. Many of these end up strewn around the bedroom floor. An old playpen can make a great storage container and will help your child keep their room tidy. You can also consider putting posterboard on the sides so your toddler can display their artwork, and thereby created a multipurpose container that won’t stick out like a sore thumb.

Repurpose As A Pet Bed

An old playpen can also be repurposed as a pet bed for your four-legged family members. If your kids have finally outgrown their playpen and no longer have an interest in any of your upcycle ideas, you can also reuse the playpen as a safe and comfy hideaway for your furry friends. Simply cut the mesh out of one side, cover with fabric and lay down a mattress or oversized pillow. Your dog or cat will certainly enjoy their new space and best of all, they won’t outgrow it. You can also use it outside on sunny days so your pets can enjoy the fresh air and the shade.

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Finally, if you truly have no use for an old playpen, consider giving it to a friend who’s just had a baby or find an organization that accepts used baby items. Donation Town, for example, is a great online resource for donating clothing, baby items and other household goods to charity. The directory features charities that offer free donation pick up service. Also, keep in mind that donated items are tax-deductible, help the environment by keeping trash out of landfills and allow you to clear the clutter from your home or garage.