Updated on April 15, 2021 by Lyric Fergusson
One of the most convenient inventions of modern-day parenthood, baby bouncers are a fail-safe when it comes to calming a fussy baby. They are also an easy and safe place for baby to rest when parents need both hands to prep a bottle or change out the diaper genie. Whether you’re looking for a vibrating rocker-bouncer duo or a bouncer that can easily travel with you on-the-go, here are our favorite baby bouncers of this year.
[ez-toc]Best Baby Bouncers
1. Fisher-Price Comfort Curve Bouncer
(Easiest to use — $)
Why it’s great: This Fisher-Price bouncer rocks gently with baby’s natural movements and includes a vibration option to gently lull baby. Two developmental toys are attached to the rocker, including a rattling racoon and a baby deer activity ring. Both toys are designed to strengthen hand-eye coordination and improve motor skills. This rocker is machine-washable and has a snug adjustable harness to keep baby fully secure.
Keep in mind: This model requires one D battery to operate the vibration function.
Good for: Babies who need a little extra entertainment as this seat includes fun toys that aid development.
2. BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft
(Highest quality — $$$)
Why it’s great: This bouncer, made by leading industry brand BabyBjörn, is chic, simple and safe. Engineered to be ergonomically correct, this bouncer has three different height positions to ensure that your baby has proper head and back support as he grows. Natural rocking motions keep baby happy and calm while the removable fabric seat is machine-washable and easy to clean. Available in a variety of color combinations, this bouncer also comes in three different types of material, including cotton/jersey, cotton and mesh.
Keep in mind: While this product is advertised for use up to two years old, the weight limitation is 29 pounds and in most cases will be best for babies under one year old.
Good for: Parents who want a simple, high-quality design from a well-known and trusted brand.
3. Bright Starts Playful Pinwheels Bouncer with Vibrating Seat
(Best value — $)
Why it’s great: This Bright Starts bouncer is a colorful and fun activity chair that offers all the bells and whistles for an affordable price. Featuring a gender-neutral pattern, this bouncer is made from machine-washable fabric and includes a removable toy bar to keep baby busy while she bounces. This bouncer’s lightweight design makes it exceptionally portable, ensuring parents can keep an eye on baby no matter what room of the house they’re in. With a vibration function and a comfy cradling seat, this bouncer is a guarantee that baby will be cozy and calm in no time.
Keep in mind: Some customers report that the toy bar is tough to insert into the chair.
Good for: Parents who want a quality bouncer without the high price tag.
4. Fisher-Price Infant-to-Toddler Rocker
(Most versatile — $$)
Why it’s great: This popular bouncer by Fisher-Price is designed to grow with your baby from infancy all the way into toddlerhood. With adjustable modes to accommodate your child’s evolving needs, this chair starts as a reclining seat for newborns that rocks and vibrates. As baby grows, a secure three-point restraint keeps him safe while a removable toy bar provides endless stimulation. This chair can also be converted into a toddler rocker and has a weight capacity of 40 pounds.
Keep in mind: Some customers report the vibration function doesn’t have a lot of power.
Good for: Parents looking for a versatile chair that will last past baby’s first year.
5. Maxi-Cosi Kori 2-In-1 Rocker
(Most portable — $$$)
Why it’s great: This bouncer, by Maxi-Cosi, features two modes of use, including a rocker setting as well as a stationary setting. With three height positions, this chair can be adjusted to support your baby as he grows beyond the fourth trimester. This rocker not only has a sophisticated and chic aesthetic but is made with high-quality materials and is incredibly lightweight. The cozy inlay is designed to provide extra support and comfort while the chair’s fabric can be removed and thrown in the washing machine for easy clean-up.
Keep in mind: Some customers report that this bouncer doesn’t work well when placed on carpet.
Good for: Transporting from one location to another as this bouncer is compact and lightweight.
6. ComfyBumpy Ergonomic Baby Bouncer Seat
(Most comfortable — $$$)
Why it’s great: Available in a minimalist black and grey design, this ComfyBumpy baby bouncer is ergonomically correct and only weighs four pounds. This bouncer has a small gear that allows parents to easily modify the height adjustments, which support play, chill, and hang modes. This bouncer can also be folded flat to easily stow away or take with you on-the-go. The mesh cover of this bouncer is designed to keep your child cool and comfortable and is machine washable. It’s also reversible, with one side featuring an adjustable strap to keep your baby secure while the other side is designed to convert the rocker into a chair for babies old enough to walk and sit.
Keep in mind: This bouncer uses the bouncing motion of a baby for its natural rocking capability and does not have a vibration function.
Good for: Parents looking for something simple, sturdy and comfortable for their little one.
7. Summer 2-in-1 Bouncer & Rocker Duo
(Easiest to assemble — $$)
Why it’s great: Available in two color combinations, this chair has a rocker mode and a bouncer mode for optimal versatility. Designed for babies age 0-6 months, this chair’s padded insert is removable and machine washable. This chair folds flat for easy transport and includes a fun toy bar with eye-catching toys for baby to play with while she rocks or bounces. This chair also includes a soothing vibration option to keep baby happy and calm.
Keep in mind: Some customers report that this chair can be hard to fold all the way down.
Good for: Younger babies as this chair is best for babies 0-6 months old.
FAQ’s about Baby Bouncers
1. What are things to consider when purchasing a baby bouncer?
With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to determine which baby bouncer is best for you and your baby. There are a few factors to consider when purchasing a baby bouncer. Depending on how much space you have in your home, you may want something with a smaller and more compact design. If you’re planning to take your bouncer with you on-the-go, you’ll also want to make sure it can be easily folded down and packed up. Lastly, if you opt for a chair with a vibration function, be sure to check to see if you’ll need batteries or electricity to operate the chair.
2. Do I really need a baby bouncer?
When putting together a baby registry, it can seem like the litany of products required for raising a child is endless. How do you know what you really need and what you can skip? While baby bouncers are not as essential as diapers and bottles, they are incredibly useful when it comes to keeping a baby calm and a parent sane. Bouncers provide a safe place for baby to relax while mom and dad get something done and the rocking and bouncing capabilities are very soothing for baby and can even help them nap better.
3. How do I ensure my baby uses her bouncer safely?
Safety should be the number one priority when using a baby bouncer. For smaller babies, make sure the restraint straps are durable and fitted to your baby’s body correctly so she doesn’t slip out. Never carry a baby in a bouncer and never leave your baby unattended when she’s in her bouncer. Parents should also read labels and instructions carefully to determine weight limits and height recommendations for specific products as these will determine their best use for babies depending on their age and size.
4. Why is the vibration function important?
The rhythmic and repetitive motions of the vibration function on baby bouncers can be very comforting and soothing for babies. Oftentimes, it’s enough to lull your baby into a calmer state of mind, or even a much-needed nap!
5. What’s the difference between a bouncer and a swing?
A bouncer is usually is a compact chair that bounces with the natural motion of a baby’s movements. A swing is often bigger and heavier and requires a power source to operate as it creates its own movement. Both a bouncer and a swing can have vibration capabilities and both should have straps or a harness to keep baby safe and secure.
Conclusion
Baby bouncers come in all sizes and colors as well as with varying levels of additional features. The simplest models rely on the natural motion of baby’s body to keep baby bouncing. These models often have a more minimalist design and are more compact and portable, which can be great for parents looking for something to move around the house or take with them on the go. Other types of bouncers have special features, including vibration capabilities and different modes that allow you to adjust your bouncer to accommodate your baby’s growing size and developmental milestones. No matter which bouncer you buy, always remember to review the product’s instructions and safety precautions to ensure you’re using your bouncer safely and effectively.
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