Childcare Ervo Play Dome first look review

The portable Childcare Ervo Play Dome is designed for use during “nap-time or playtime, at home or on the go”. Unless you see it in store, you may be surprised at how small it is when unfolded: the circular enclosure measures 78cm at its longest point and 72cm at its widest. 

It’s not a traditional playpen enclosure and is more of a play mat/bassinet combo, designed for very small babies who can’t yet sit unaided. 

And although your baby may take the odd nap in it, it’s not a replacement for a cot.

How safe is the Childcare Ervo Play Dome?

For newborns, a flat, firm surface like the Play Dome with breathable sides is definitely a safer bet than an inclined sleeper. These tilt at a dangerous angle, and have been linked to a number of fatalities in the US. Inclined sleepers can potentially restrict breathing when a baby’s head falls forward. The Childcare Ervo Play Dome is designed for babies to lie flat.

A firm mattress is crucial. Our lab experts checked the Play Dome’s padded base. It’s a folding mattress, and while it passes the mattress firmness test method, you do need to make sure it is pressed down firmly to create an even sleeping surface. The mesh sides provide breathability if your baby does fall asleep in it, but it’s not a replacement for a regular cot or bassinet.

The Play Dome also passed our strength test. If used purely for babies who can’t yet sit up unaided as per the instructions, then its 45cm depth is more than adequate. But when tested using our playpen method, it fails our depth test as it’s not tall enough to be used safely as a playpen once they start being more active. However, the product is intended as a sleep and play space for babies who can’t sit unaided and it’s far too small for any vigorous activity.

As there is no direct Australian safety standard for this type of product, we contacted the distributor, CNP Brands, who told us the product is neither a sleeping surface nor a “complete playpen”. The Play Dome was tested to particular clauses in the travel/folding cot standard, AS/NZS 2915, as this covers “playpens with floors”. It has provided us with a lab report saying it has passed these tests. (CHOICE has not tested the Play Dome as a folding cot.)

How portable is the Play Dome?

The Play Dome is foldable and suitable for taking on a trip. It has a hood with UPF50+ on the main materials but does not claim to offer complete sun protection. The mesh surrounds could keep out bugs on an outdoor trip. When folded, it measures 45 x 13 x 72cm and weighs 4.1kg with the canopy. No tools are required to assemble it, although it’s tricky to operate the unlocking button. It feels light, and keeps its circular form well.

Is the Childcare Play Dome worth buying?

For most parents, this won’t be an essential piece of baby equipment. Because it can only be used when your baby is very small, then you’ll only be using it for a few months. Consider whether you’ll be going out enough times to justify the cost. 

When you’re home, keeping your baby in their regular cot or bassinet while completing household chores may suit you just fine. 

But every family is different, and if the Play Dome is something worth considering, be mindful that it isn’t as deep as a regular playpen and can’t be used once they can sit unaided.

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Kim

I joined CHOICE as a content producer in July 2014 and am currently team leader of the household department. I write about a variety of products such as coffee machines, stick vacuums, bassinets, high chairs and ovens, which are tested by our in-house lab staff. Our reports help people make informed decisions about their purchases. We also keep manufacturers in check, regularly exposing product flaws which can result in better, safer products. Making a difference is what I enjoy most about my role. Prior to CHOICE, I spent 16 years working as a technology journalist in Sydney and London. I spent several years as a senior researcher/writer at our UK sister organisation, Which? Giving people access to robust, independent advice is something I have always felt strongly about. I'm also the author of several how-to technology books such as Spotify for Dummies and Digital Photography for the Older and Wiser and am a communications graduate of Charles Sturt University.  You can find me on LinkedIn.

I joined CHOICE as a content producer in July 2014 and am currently team leader of the household department. I write about a variety of products such as coffee machines, stick vacuums, bassinets, high chairs and ovens, which are tested by our in-house lab staff. Our reports help people make informed decisions about their purchases. We also keep manufacturers in check, regularly exposing product flaws which can result in better, safer products. Making a difference is what I enjoy most about my role. Prior to CHOICE, I spent 16 years working as a technology journalist in Sydney and London. I spent several years as a senior researcher/writer at our UK sister organisation, Which? Giving people access to robust, independent advice is something I have always felt strongly about. I'm also the author of several how-to technology books such as Spotify for Dummies and Digital Photography for the Older and Wiser and am a communications graduate of Charles Sturt University.  You can find me on LinkedIn.

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