Maxi-Cosi Calao Travel Playard Infant Bassinet - Lightweight, Foldable

Our review of the Maxi-Cosi Calao Travel Playard finds it best suited for parents who need a lightweight, portable sleep and play solution for newborns through toddlers. The single biggest reason to buy is its 3-in-1 flexibility: a cozy zip-in infant bassinet, a foldable mattress that converts to a toddler playard, and a packable travel bassinet with a carry bag. In real use the Calao stands out for its compact 13 lb frame and easy transition between modes, making it a straightforward choice for families who move baby between rooms or travel often.

Key Features

• 3-in-1 design: Converts from an infant bassinet to a toddler playard and a standalone play space, so the same unit serves multiple stages.
• Foldable mattress: The 2-fold mattress unzips to remove one section for the bassinet and zips back together to create a comfortable toddler sleeping surface.
• Ultra-compact and lightweight: At only 13 lb and with a quick fold, it is easy to move from room to room or pack for travel.
• EcoCare fabrics: Made from 100% recycled fabric that is soft, breathable, and designed for everyday comfort.
• Breathable mesh sides: All-around mesh provides airflow and visibility so caregivers can monitor baby easily.
• Two-way carry bag: The included storage bag can be carried by hand or worn as a backpack for easier transport.

Who It's For

The Calao Travel Playard is ideal for parents of newborns and toddlers who need a portable solution for sleep and play: it works well for at-home use where a compact playard moves between rooms and for families who travel or visit relatives. The bassinet supports newborns until they weigh 15 lb or begin to push up, and the playard is suitable until about 35 in or when the child can climb out.

Those who need a very heavy-duty or oversized playard with extra accessories may want to look elsewhere; this model focuses on light weight, easy folding, and eco-friendly materials rather than extensive add-on features or large footprint coverage.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight 13 lb frame makes carrying and moving the playard effortless around the house or while traveling.
• Versatile 3-in-1 functionality transitions smoothly from infant bassinet to toddler playard with the zip-in mattress sections.
• Premium, recycled fabrics and all-around mesh give a breathable, comfortable environment and visible peace of mind.
• Convenient carry bag with backpack straps simplifies transport and storage.

Cons

• The infant bassinet is limited to 15 lb or when baby pushes up, so it is a short-term sleep solution for newborns.
• Removable fabrics are spot-clean only, so deeper cleaning requires some effort compared with machine-washable covers.

Specifications

Brand	Maxi-Cosi
Weight	13 lb
Functions	Infant bassinet, toddler playard, travel playard
Bassinet limit	Up to 15 lb or when baby pushes up
Toddler limit	Up to 35 in or when child can climb out
Fabric	100% recycled EcoCare fabric
Sides	All-around breathable mesh with zip side access

Our Verdict

The Maxi-Cosi Calao Travel Playard is a practical, well-designed choice for parents who value portability, simple setup, and multi-stage use. Its lightweight frame, eco-friendly fabrics, and easy mattress conversion make it particularly good value for families who travel or need a flexible at-home sleep and play solution, while the modest limitations around bassinet longevity and fabric cleaning are reasonable trade-offs for its convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can the bassinet be used?
The bassinet is intended until baby reaches 15 lb or begins to push up on hands and knees, whichever comes first.

Can the playard be carried easily for travel?
Yes, it folds compactly to fit in the included storage bag, which can be carried by hand or worn as a backpack.

Is the sleeping surface safe for newborn sleep?
Yes, the Calao is designed with a firm, flat sleeping surface that meets safety recommendations for safe infant sleep.