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What is a Baby Bouncer?
In the simplest definition, a baby bouncer is a seat that your child can bounce, with their weight and movement. They are versatile in uses, rather inexpensive and helpful. Do you need to take a shower? Bring your newborn with the baby bouncer into the bathroom. Want to get a bite to eat? Place the bouncer beside you, so that your child can keep his eye on you at all times.
Parents can use a baby bouncer from birth up to around six months of age. The ending age will vary based on the child’s ability to sit up and weight. A majority of baby bouncers can be used up to 25 pounds or when they sit up independently. There are a few that have a maximum weight recommendation of 30lbs. There are just a few brands with higher limits.
In the beginning, your baby will enjoy the gentle (or fast) motions and stare at the toys swinging above their head. As they get older, the seat will bounce with their movement. Babies learn to kick faster for a springy motion and greatly enjoy their time.
It isn’t all fun and games in the bouncer. The gentle vibration and lullaby music can lull many babies to sleep. Instead of fun, some children see the baby bouncer as a place of calm and resting. Parents surely won’t complain about that!
What to Look for in a Baby Bouncer?
- Safety Straps
All of them have 3-point safety harnesses to prevent a fall. Some have a 5-point harness, which is, of course, safer for your baby.
- Batteries vs. Plug-In
Most of the bouncers you will find come with a battery operated motor. You can move it around without concern of finding a plug. The only downside is that you will use a ton of batteries; trust me! I wouldn’t suggest purchasing a seat that uses only a plug-in, but rather a model that has an optional plug-in. This feature allows you to use the plug to reduce battery draining when you can.
- A variety of Motions
Each baby is different, and they prefer certain movements. You can buy bouncers that vibrate, rock and glide side-to-side. Some bounce gently or fast. An ideal choice is one that offers several options of motion.
- Extras
Look for bouncers that have little toy bars, mobiles and sun canopies. You can find ones that play music or sounds.
- Removable Fabric
Babies aren’t known for being clean. Diapers have blowouts; they drool and spit up their milk. In the early months, your baby will make a mess of anything that is nearby. You want a seat with a removable and washable cover. It just makes sense.
- Sturdy Frame
Even though they are low to the ground, you want a sturdy frame. If your baby leans to one side as they get older, you don’t want a bouncer that will tip. Ideally, it could fold or easily disassemble for storage and transportation.
- Comfortable
Naturally, parents want their babies to be comfortable, no matter where they are. The seat should have padded and comfortable seats. Another nice feature is multiple reclining positions, allowing it to adjust to age. Some bouncers can convert into a toddler seat.
- Weight Limit
My children are typically over nine pounds at birth, so all of our baby products need to have higher weight limits. Take a look at the limit and decide if you think it is appropriate for your child. As mentioned above, most have a limit of 25 pounds, but there are higher options. They may come with an increased price as well.
- Safety Certification
To give you peace of mind that the bouncer is well-made, look for certifications from the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA). This certification is achieved through a voluntary process of steps that ensure it conforms to necessary safety standards.
You don’t have to look for the fanciest model on the market. There are a few that cost more, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are better. If you are purchasing a used baby bouncer, always make sure to check for recalls!
The Best Baby Bouncer Choices
1. Fisher-Price Baby’s Bouncer
Anything made by Fisher Price is sure to please both baby and parents. Their baby bouncer is budget-friendly and has some impressive features!
PROS:
- Children can bounce themselves for entertainment. The rate of bouncing depends on how fast they move and kick!
- When you are ready to send your little one off to sleep, switch on the calming vibrations to soothe them.
- Fisher Price includes an overhead toy bar with three different, primary colored toys. As your baby ages, he will enjoy batting at them.
- The seat is comfortable with additional padding. If your child makes a mess, the fabric is removable and can be washed in a machine.
- For safety, there is an adjustable, three-point restraint.
- It is lightweight, weighing only 5 pounds.
- The recommended weight recommendation is 25lbs.
CONS:
- This bouncer is battery-operated only. There is no option to plug it into the wall. You will go through a lot of D batteries.
- The weight capacity is lower and may not last very long for your baby!
- It only has one motion, which is a gentle vibration. While your child can bounce it himself, the seat doesn’t offer a variety of movements. It also doesn’t play music.
2. Fisher-Price Infant to Toddler Rocker
Are you looking for a baby bouncer that will last longer than just a few months? You need an infant to toddler one!
PROS:
- The obvious positive to this baby bouncer is you can use it from infancy to toddlerhood. As your child ages, it converts to a comfortable seat.
- The weight commendation is 40 pounds, much higher than the standard seat.
- When converted, it gives you a perfect place for your toddler to eat or rest before heading off to play again.
- For security, they added a three-point harness. Also, a fold-out kickstand keeps the bouncer in place as your baby goes crazy kicking!
- When a mess happens, because it will, you can remove the fabric and put it into the washing machine. It is also dryer safe; some are not so sure to check!
- There are two reclining positions, ideal for a growing baby.
- To entertain your baby, there is a removable toy bar with different animals hanging down. He will love to stare at their faces and laugh.
- When it is time to lull or relax the baby, switch on the gentle vibrations.
CONS:
- There is no option for a plugin, so you have to rely totally on two C batteries.
- Many parents have noted that putting it together takes some muscle. You will need a screwdriver and time, but it is do-able.
- The toy lengths are just a bit too long. When in a rocking motion, they are likely to come close to hitting the baby in the face. However, the bar is removable, preventing this from happening.
3. Fisher-Price My Little Snugapuppy Deluxe Bouncer
If you are willing to spend just a bit more money, you can get a baby bouncer with some excellent features!
PROS:
- The seat for this baby bouncer is noticeably more comfortable. It is deep with cozy, lined seats. The fabric is a soft fleece. Fisher Price includes a plush, newborn insert and a contoured head support.
- Overhead, there is a bar that holds soft, plush animals. It is a mobile, so the animals spin in circles.
- With the push of a button, the Deluxe Bounce can play 20 minutes of gentle tunes and nature sounds. There is a convenient volume control as well.
- The pad, cover, and inserts are all machine washable and dryer safe, great for babies with reflux.
- There is a variety of gentle movements and vibrations to either excite your child or to help them unwind and fall asleep.
- Parents access the different music and vibration settings with an easy touch panel, right below the baby’s feet.
- Fisher Price added a three-point safety harness.
CONS:
- The baby bouncer weighs a bit more than other brands, around 8 pounds.
- Maximum weight recommendation is only 25lbs; this is one major downside.
- It requires three C batteries and doesn’t give the option to plug it in a wall.
- The sounds will go off in about 20 minutes. The stopping of the music could disrupt your baby’s sleep if they are a light sleeper.
4. Bright Starts Playful Pinwheels Bouncer
If you want a brightly colored, budget friendly baby bouncer, the Bright Starts Playful Pinwheels is adorable.
PROS:
- There is a removable toy bar about your child’s head with colorful animals to amuse the baby.
- A few options for vibrations will keep your baby calm and comfortable.
- The pattern is gender neutral so that you can use it for all of your children.
- The fabric is removable and easy to clean.
- A three-point harness keeps your baby safe while playing in their seat!
- Parents that it is a simple bouncer. The cost is affordable. While it doesn’t come with a lot of bells and whistles, it performs its job perfectly and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
CONS:
- It is only battery powered with no choice for plugging in.
- The maximum weight capacity is only 25 pounds.
- The vibrations aren’t very powerful. Some babies like more vigorous vibrating rather than gentle.
5. Baby Bjorn Bouncer Balance Soft
Do you want a luxurious baby bouncer with some incredible features? The Baby Bjorn will impress you! In fact, you may wish you were the one sitting in it.
PROS:
- It has an ergonomic design with a soft and snug seat, suitable for use from birth up to 2 years old. Yes, you read that right – 2 years old! Once your child can sit up on his own, it converts to a chair.
- There are no batteries needed because the baby bounces the chair with their movement only. Younger children can be bounced with a parent’s foot or hand.
- Four positions are available. There is a play mode, a rest mode, sleep mode and a transportation mode. You can adjust it quickly. When not in use, the bouncer folds totally flat for storage.
- The fabric is easy to clean and totally removable. It is 100% cotton and safe to chew, as well as gentle on their skin. When the fabric is dirty, place it in the washing machine.
- You can purchase the Flying Friends Toy bar for the bouncer. The rotating toys will captivate your baby’s attention.
- It looks beautiful. In your living room, it won’t seem like another baby item. It looks like a piece of furniture that belongs.
CONS:
- For the price, the bouncer doesn’t vibrate or do anything on its own.
- It makes no sounds, and the toys have to be purchased separately.
- The weight capacity is small, even though it is recommended for two-year-olds. It only goes up to 29 pounds.
What is The Difference between Baby Swings, Bouncers, and Jumpers?
Baby jumpers, bouncers, and swings are all very popular items for new moms. Despite the different names, each has a different purpose. The main difference between all three items is the age at which your baby should be playing in them.
- Baby Swing
- Baby Bouncer
- Baby Jumper
A baby swing is best for newborn babies up to about three or four months. This is just a cotton or other soft fabric swing that you can lay your baby in and swing them back and forth.
In short, the difference between a jumper, bouncer and a swing is as follows:
- Swings: They swing back and forth without the baby needing to move and can be battery operated
- Bouncers: Bounce depending on the baby’s movements and can also be battery operated.
- Jumpers: Move the baby up and down with the help of the baby’s legs jumping up and down.
Finding the best baby bouncer doesn’t have to be complicated. These are five of the best-rated choices. All of them have some similar features, such as the removable and washable fabric; that is a must have for every parent! Do you want a brightly colored bouncer or something that will blend in with your stylish living room? Find a bouncer that fits your needs and your baby will thank you!
I hope that these choices help you. Do you have a favorite baby bouncer? Let us know in the comments!
