Traveling soon and worried your baby won’t be able to sleep in an unfamiliar, not-so-dark room?
There’s the SlumberPod for that but that portable, blackout tent can run a bit expensive.
So enter the best SlumberPod Alternatives!
They are so much cheaper, they are easier to set up and pack up, and most importantly, did I already say they are cheaper than a SlumberPod?
Anyway, if you want to know the best of the best alternatives to a SlumberPod, keep scrolling below.
Just a quick note before we dive in: if you choose to purchase through the product links provided, we may earn a small commission) to support our efforts.
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In a Hurry? We Recommend…
For those who are in a hurry and need a quick recommendation, we suggest the SnoozeShade Pack N Play Blackout Tent or the LLYWCM Blackout Cover for Pack N Play.
It offers a perfect blend of affordable price, functionality, and convenience, especially if you frequently travel or visit the in-laws every weekend.
Best SlumberPod Alternatives
Let’s delve into some fantastic alternatives that promise to provide a dark and peaceful sleep environment for your baby:
SnoozeShade Pack N Play Blackout Tent
Weighing in at just 2 pounds, SnoozeShade can easily fit into a carry-on, making it a convenient addition to your travel gear.
It can’t completely provide complete darkness (no cover does) but it can block out at least 94% of light, which can still be dark enough for your baby.
Its ingenious design strikes a balance between airflow and light reduction, making it an ideal choice for parents who prioritize both factors.
Setting up the SnoozeShade takes a mere 5 to 15 seconds, making it easy to darken a room without using blackout curtains.
A few parents, though, feel that its zipper is a little bit loud, which can disturb their baby’s sleep.
At times, some users found that it can get quite hot and stuffy inside, especially in warmer conditions.
For the majority of parents though, it’s been one of the best SlumberPod alternatives out there, that won’t break the bank!
It’s also worth noting that the SnoozeShade can cater to various sizes, such as rectangular playards up to 42″ long, triangular travel cribs up to 46″ long, and mini cribs up to 42″ long.
Compatible with:
- Graco
- Guava Lotus
- Dream on Me
- Baby Bjorn
- 4moms Breeze
- Bugaboo Stardust
- Phil & Teds
- Micralite
- Venture
- Baby Trend
- Maxi-Cosi
Pros
- lightweight and compact
- easy to assemble and pack
- can block out at least 94% of light
- machine-washable (delicate)
Cons
- zipper can be loud
- can feel hot inside
LLYWCM Blackout Cover for Pack N Play
Crafted from breathable netting, this blackout cover brings together stretchability and convenience in one neat package.
It can fit snugly over pack ‘n plays and standard rectangular playards because of its soft, stretchy fabric.
Its super stretchy and breathable material lets your baby enjoy their sleeping space without feeling stifled, though there are still some complaints from parents about how hot it can get inside the pack-n-play.
The LLYWCM blackout cover is easy to assemble and take apart and is convenient to bring on travels.
Most parents like that it can more than adequately block out light coming into their baby’s pack n play but a few said it can only block out 50% off light at least.
But other than that, this machine-washable blackout cover is a surefire bet to ensure your baby sleeps soundly, no matter where you go.
Compatible with:
- Graco
- Guava Lotus
- Baby Trend
Pros
- can block out light quite well
- lightweight and compact
- easy to assemble and pack
- machine-washable (delicate)
Cons
- zipper can be loud
- can feel hot inside
BROLEX Canopy Cover
The BROLEX Canopy Cover is breathable, lightweight, and easy to pack, making it great for travels and vacations.
It can fit a couple of travel cribs and pack-n-plays and even has some nifty windows on the side, which lets in a breath of fresh air, keeping things cool when the air gets a tad stuffy.
These windows also let you easily sneak at your little one, without having to open up the zipper.
Some parents though have noticed it doesn’t block out light that much and some even said that it only blocks out 50% of light. While a few said it’s see-through and doesn’t help to darken their baby’s sleeping environment at all!
There are also some complaints about its chemical smell and how loud the zipper can be.
But overall, if you’re on the hunt for a travel-ready buddy that keeps the light at bay and your baby snug, this might just be the one!
Compatible with:
- Graco
- Joovy Room2
- Cosco Pack n Play
- Guava Lotus
- Baby Bjorn Travel Crib
- 4moms Breeze
Pros
- lightweight and compact
- easy to assemble and pack
- machine-washable (delicate)
Cons
- can block out 50% of light
- zipper can be loud
- can feel hot inside
- some chemical smell
- mixed review on how much light it can block out
Dofilachy Blackout Cover
The Dofilachy Blackout Cover provides a breathable yet darkened sleep environment and has a stretchable fabric that can fit a regular Graco Pack n Play and some other standard-size travel cribs.
It’s also easy to assemble and pack up for most parents, which makes it very convenient to bring while traveling.
It has a side vent for better airflow but just like other pack n play covers, it has some mixed reviews on its breathability, as some parents said it can still get a bit stuffy inside.
It also has only a 75% dimming effect, which is not as dark as compared to the more popular pack n play covers.
Some parents also found the tying process a touch finicky, and there’s also a bit of complaining about securing it.
A few parents also found out the hard way that it’s best to hand wash the Dofilachy Blackout Cover, instead of machine-washing it.
But most parents don’t seem to have any complaints about cleaning this affordable blackout cover.
Compatible with:
- Graco
- Guava Lotus
- Maxi-Cosi Swift
- Dream on Me
Pros
- lightweight and compact
- easy to pack
Cons
- can feel hot inside
- can block out 75% of light
- needs to be hand-washed
- mixed review on tieing and securing it
Milliard Darkening Tent
The Milliard Darkening Tent so far, is the only blackout cover in this list that claims its darkening tent has been LAB TESTED in the USA and earned the safety stamp of approval.
Which is great for parents’ peace of mind!
Its patent-pending attachment system means your little escape artist won’t be pulling it off during bedtime antics.
What I also like about the Milliard is they have a list of compatible pack n plays and travel cribs. Which is convenient for parents, so there’s no guessing if it can fit your travel crib or playard.
This baby shade is also easy to travel with, as it comes with a carry bag.
It’s machine-washable and snugly fits over most standard-size Pack ‘n Plays and even some mini cribs, up to 44 x 33 inches.
There are some complaints about its zipper breaking easily or that it can only block out 50% to 75% of light.
So far though, there’s not a lot of complaints about it being hot and stuffy so you might want to check out this one if you prefer a cover that doesn’t make your baby a bit warm inside.
Compatible with:
- Graco Pack ‘n Play
- Evenflo Portable Playard
- Delta LX Deluxe Portable Playard
- 4moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard
- Joovy Room Playard
- Cosco Deluxe Playard
- FisherPrice Ultra-Lite Day and Night Playard
- Dream On Me Portable Playard
- Delta Folding Mini Crib
- Dream On Me Folding Mini Crib
- Baby Trend Nursery Center
- Costzon Baby Playard
Pros
- lab tested
- lightweight and compact
- easy to assemble and pack
- machine-washable
Cons
- can block out 50%-75% of light
- zipper can easily break
- mixed review on snug fit for pack n plays
The following didn’t make the cut for our recommended blackout covers mainly because of its too many mixed reviews but you still might want to check them out:
FAQ on Best Alternatives to the SlumberPod
How Do I Keep My Pack-N-Play Dark?
You can keep your pack-n-play dark by using blackout covers (like the ones mentioned in this article) or blackout tents (like the SlumberPod).
Why use a crib cover?
Using a crib cover can easily help create a cozy and dark sleep environment, promoting better sleep for your baby.
Can you use a crib cover for kids who can already stand?
Yes, you can use a crib cover for kids who can already stand, as long as you open up the top part of the blackout cover. So your little one can still freely move and stand up whenever they want to.
Other Alternatives To Darken Baby’s Sleeping Space
If you’d like to explore more options, consider these other alternatives to darken your baby’s pack n play or travel crib:
- Travel Blackout Curtains: Install portable blackout curtains to darken any room quickly.
- Aluminum Foil on Windows: A makeshift solution, aluminum foil can block out light effectively.
- Contractor Trash Bags on Windows: Heavy-duty trash bags can provide a temporary darkening effect.
Where to Get a Cheaper SlumberPod
If you’re interested in exploring more affordable options, consider checking out platforms like Babyquip.com, Goodbuygear, and Facebook Marketplace for potential deals on SlumberPod rentals or purchases.
Tips For Using A Crib Cover/ Darkening Tent In Baby’s Sleep Space
- Ensure that it’s properly sized and fits snugly on the pack n play or travel crib
- Make sure that the crib cover or tent is properly secured and that there are no loose parts that could pose a risk to your baby. Be cautious of any potential hazards like cords, ties, or loose fabric.
- Make sure there’s enough airflow by adding a small fan inside the blackout cover. You can also open the windows or adjust the AC in your room.
- Keep an eye on room temperature and ensure your baby is dressed appropriately for sleep.
- Install it in advance and teach your little one how to sleep with a cover on their pack-n-play at home. Do this a few weeks or days before your travel or vacation.
- Regularly check on your baby to ensure they’re sleeping comfortably and safely.
Best SlumberPod Alternatives: Wrapping Up
We hope this guide has shed light (or kept it out) on the best SlumberPod alternatives.
Choose the one that best suits your travel needs and your baby’s sleep preferences.
If you’ve found this article helpful, be sure to explore our other guides on:
- Best Travel Cribs, Sleep Training While Traveling Tips (Make Your Baby Sleep On Vacations!)
- Using Backpack As Diaper Bag (How-To’s, Tips & Hacks)
- Safer DockATot Alternatives
- How To Make Pack N Play More Comfortable
- Sleep Training While Traveling Tips
