The Coach SpaceMuch like anything when it comes to shopping for baby items, choosing the right baby bouncer can feel like a complex challenge. There are so many different baby bouncer variations, from ones that stay stationary to those that move, make noise, and have additional attachments.
With more innovation in design and technology, even the humble baby bouncer has had an upgrade. As such, there are now so many available on the market that choosing one, especially as a first-time parent, can prove difficult.
Despite the complexities, a lot of these baby bouncers serve the same purpose, which is to provide some form of comfort for a baby to rest and/or play in.
Let’s take a look at how to choose the right baby bouncer without it having to drive you mad in the process.
Understanding the categories
The first step in choosing the right baby bouncer is to know what categories of this baby product are common to come across. That way, you can distinguish which ones are the best for what you and your baby need.
The natural bouncer
These are baby bouncers that will move of their own accord when the baby kicks. The movement is caused by the baby making movements themselves, and as such, it is your basic, entry-level bouncer.
Natural bouncers are great because they require no batteries, they’re portable and lightweight, helping to promote motor skills.
The electric/battery bouncer
Motorized seats will offer a variety of different motions, making it helpful when you want to encourage a bit of relaxation for your baby.
Such motions may include swaying, bouncing, and vibrating. They may also come with a built-in sound machine so that they’re getting a sensory experience both in movement and sound.
3-in-1 hybrid
Products that transition from bouncer to rocker, to a stationary toddler chair are certainly a great way of providing a return on your investment. They also save on space by doubling up on functionality.
Picking the right bouncer for your baby
Next comes the core selection criteria. What is it that you should be looking out for when selecting your baby bouncer?
1. Ergonomics and physical support
First and foremost, think about the ergonomics and physical support that this bouncer will need to provide for your baby, never mind beyond into toddlerhood.
Newborn inserts matter for the sake of supporting head and neck stability. Make sure to look out for these and that they’re available to buy as an add-on, if not. It’s good to make sure that the bouncer helps in providing even weight distribution to support a developing spine, too.
2. Safety standards
Safety is the buzzword for anything when it comes to keeping a watchful eye on your little one. Anything you use or interact with needs to be made to strict safety standards. There are some must-haves when it comes to baby bouncers that are non-negotiable.
For example, a wide, non-slip base with a 3-point or 5-point safety harness is critical to keeping your baby safe when they’re in the bouncer. There are certification checks to look out for, too, depending on where you are based in the world, such as JPMA or EN 12790.
3. Portability and storage
Portability and storage are considerations to make when it comes to a baby bouncer because, much like everything a baby comes with, it can take up a lot of room if it’s excessively bulky.
Try to look for those that fold up or come apart so that they can be stored away more effectively. The weight of the bouncer is useful too, as it can help if you can carry it easily, while also holding the baby, for example.
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4. Ease of maintenance
One thing that you can rely on to happen with newborns and babies in general is that they’re going to throw up or have explosive nappies every once in a while.
Sometimes it’s on you, and other times, it’s in their crib or on their bouncer. It’s good to have a baby bouncer; therefore, that’s easily machine-washable or is a fabric that can be wiped over to clean.
If it doesn’t offer either of these fabric types, then you might find it difficult to clean and keep it in good condition over time.
The developmental perspective
Another aspect to think about when it comes to the baby bouncer is the child’s development in it.
Experts will recommend that you limit the time they spend in the bouncer so that you can continue to promote floor play and tummy time. A solid 20 minutes is probably the most at one time.
It’s also good to think about what you add to the baby bouncer to keep your child entertained. High-contrast toys fo example, can often be better than having bright lights in their face all the time and loud music playing constantly.
Safety considerations to think about
To make sure your baby bouncer remains safe for use by your little one, there are some safety considerations to think about.
Bouncers should only be used on the floor and never on tables, beds, or sofas. Bouncers aren’t for napping either, so it’s important that you don’t let them fall asleep in these bouncers and that you’re supervising them at all times.
There will come a point where a baby will outgrow a bouncer, and this is typically when they can sit up or roll over. This Baby Bouncer: The Complete Buying Guide For Parents | Newton is a great resource for delving deeper into baby bouncers and how to choose the right one.
Tips for shopping for a baby bouncer
Finally, if you’re after some useful tips when shopping for a baby bouncer, consider the following:
- Splurge on the high-tech ones.
- If you’re on a budget, then prioritize quality on safety features.
- Be wary of buying resale, checking for recalls, and fraying straps.
Every baby is different, and so choosing the right bouncer for your baby is often down to what you think your baby will like and what you find the most appealing for you as the parent, too.
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