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Speaking from experience, finding a bouncer was a godsend when I needed a safe place to pop my son down. Ours quickly became a practical helper in those early days, and later on. Choosing between a bouncer and a rocker can be tricky though. Bouncers are lightweight, portable, and often foldable – so easier to move from room to room – but they don't usually have automated rocking. Rockers are similar to baby swings – mimicking womb movements that help calm and soothe. As little one grows, you can offer more variety with baby door bouncers or baby activity jumpers.
Even after coming to a decision between bouncers and rockers, there is still so much to consider! From brand and features to size, safety, and of course, price – shopping can quickly become overwhelming. We found that some of the budget-friendly bouncers were the most popular. They came with features like vibration, music, light and toys. The premium options, however, had a few extra things, like adjustable seat positions, swing speeds and plush padding.
Ultimately, the best bouncers and rockers need to be safe, secure and comfortable for your little one. So, to get some expert insight, we spoke to Jenny Ward CEO at The Lullaby Trust. She shares safety advice on baby bouncers and rockers later in the piece. We've also put together this expert-reviewed, data-driven shortlist for 2025, helping you choose from the best baby bouncers and rockers. We've included options that cater to all of the above and more.
In this article:
The best baby bouncers and rockers at a glance
How we chose and tested the best baby bouncers and rockers
We've tested six of the baby bouncers and rockers with newborns right through to two year olds. The products were tested by parents with their children over the course of a month to see how they hold up in everyday life within the family home. This amounts to over 120 hours of real-world use.
The best bouncers and rockers have been tested for safety, design, comfort, durability, ease of use, cleaning and ease of storage. Six other products were selected from trusted brands, based on real mum opinions and reviews to ensure you feel confident they’re worth a place in your home.
Each product has been given an expert star rating out of 5, based on the feedback provided according to our testing criteria below, with 5 being the best rated and 1 being the least rated. The BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss was rated 5 stars and is our best overall baby bouncer. Others with 5-star ratings include the Ergobaby Evolve 3-in-1 Bouncer (our best adjustable bouncer/rocker), and the Stokke Steps Bouncer (our best for extra comfort).
Each baby bouncer and rocker was tested on the following key areas:
• Safety – We looked at the safety features of the products to ensure that buckles and harnesses were childproof, and that the products were stable and safe to use.
• Design – We considered the aesthetic and ergonomic aspects of the design, commenting on special features and benefits.
• Comfort – We assessed the design and any padding and inserts, as well as the softness and breathability of the material when deciding how comfortable the products were for babies from newborn to toddler.
• Durability – We closely inspected the material and stitching, as well as any mechanisms, to assess how durable the product was likely to be over time.
• Ease of use – We looked at how practical products were to use in and around the home, including portability, assembly and disassembly.
• Cleaning – When looking at how easy the products were to keep clean, we took into consideration whether material was removable and washable, or wipe-clean.
• Ease of Storage – We considered how easy each product would be to store, whether they folded away or not.
We have only included the products that scored highly in our shortlist of the best baby bouncers and rockers.
Find out more about how we test and what considerations we take into account.
This table shows our top recommendations for different needs and budgets.
| Product | Suitable for | Price (RRP) | Rating | Max Child Weight | Dimensions | Weight of product | Material | Foldable | Batteries required |
| BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss | Birth – 2yrs | £209.90 | 5 stars | 13 kg | 89.5D x 10W x 39H cm | 2.3kg | Cotton, metal | Yes | No |
| Ergobaby Evolve 3-in-1 Bouncer | Birth – 3yrs | £189.90 | 5 stars | 13.2 kg | 41.5 x 84.5 x 56 cm | 4 kg | Polyester, cotton, twill | Yes | No |
| Stokke Steps Bouncer | Birth – 6months | £159.00 | 5 stars | 9kg | 79.6 x 54.4 x 11.1 cm | 4.61 kg | Polyester, metal | Yes | No |
| BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance | Birth – 3yrs | £184.90 | 4.5 stars | 13.2 kg | 79.6 x 54.4 x 11.1 cm | 4.61 kg | Polyester, metal | Yes | No |
| Joie Serina 2in1 Rocker | Birth – 6months | £160.00 | 4.5 stars | 9 kg | L91.5 x W73 x H81 cm | 10.94 kg | Metal, cotton | No | No |
| Badabulle Easy Baby Bouncer | Birth – 6months | £49.99 | 4.5 stars | 9 kg | 76D x 39W x 67H cm | 2.5 kg | Plastic, metal | Yes | No |
| Ingenuity Soothing Baby Bouncer Chair | Birth – 6months | £54.99 | 4 stars | 9 kg | 68 x 51 x 40.39 cm | 1.39 kg | Metal, cotton, polyester | No | Yes |
| BabaBing! Float Baby Bouncer | Birth – 6months | £40.00 | 4 stars | 9 kg | 7.5D x 52.2W x 54.4H cm | 2 kg | Metal, polyester | Yes | No |
| LADIDA Soft Padded Grey Lamb Newborn Bouncer | Birth – 6months | £56.99 | 4 stars | 9 kg | 64D x 60W x 50H cm | 3.5 kg | Metal, polyester | No | Yes |
| Chicco Hoopla Baby Bouncer | Birth – 2yrs | £90.00 | 4 stars | 18 kg | 80 x 43 x 32 cm | 5 kg | Metal, polyester | Yes | No |
| Ingenuity Keep Cozy 3-in-1 Grow with Me Bounce and Rock Seat | Birth – 30months | £69.99 | 4 stars | 18.14 kg | 49.5D x 67W x 62H cm | 2.57 kg | Metal, plastic, polyester | No | Yes |
| Bright Starts Baby Bouncer Soothing Vibrations Infant Seat | Birth – 6months | £29.99 | 4 stars | 9 kg | 48.3D x 53.3W x 42.2H cm | 962 g | Metal, plastic polyester | No | Yes |
The best baby bouncers and rockers 2025
1.
BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss
Specs: Suitable from: Birth to two years | Maximum child weight: 13 kg | Dimensions: 89.5D x 10W x 39H cms | Weight: 2.3kg | Material: Cotton, metal | Foldable: Yes | Batteries required: No
Despite having no musical or vibrating features, this ergonomic bouncer chair is a popular choice for good reason. The chic, minimalist design appealed to our style-minded mums, and they loved that it folds away easily when not in use and the seat is washable. One mum said, “You can easily move the bouncer into the various positions without any trouble, and it folds away really easily. It feels and looks like an expensive product and would look great in anyone’s home".
This chair converts to a seat for children up to two years, so while it’s one of the more expensive bouncers on the market, it will last longer than others. The three different positions also make it versatile when your baby is small. Our tester mum, Lucy, found this with her son, saying, “Being upright meant that he could still clearly see me, and I could see him whilst doing these things. I also found that the options for the seating position really helped as a more upright location for him to be after feeding. This reduced his wind and the spilling up."
Parents particularly praised the softness of the fabric cover, which has the bonus of being easy to remove and machine washable. Jo said her little one loved it. "The enjoyment of my little one using it makes it all worthwhile. I love how it moulds to my baby's shape, making my baby feel comfortable at all times. I have noticed that she even whines less as well - so that is a win-win situation for me!" She said.
Read our full BABYBJÖRN Bouncer Bliss review
Pros
- Available in a choice of colours and materials to suit your home
- The ergonomic design makes it comfortable for your baby and their growing body
- It folds flat and is easy to move around
- It can last from newborn to 2-year-olds, so it offers value for money over the years
Cons
- Some parents may prefer a rocker with more features
- Toys bar has to be purchased separately
- Wooden toy features included
- Natural rocking
- Ergonomic design
- Comes in mesh, woven, 3D Jersey and cotton
Specs: Suitable from: Birth to 3 years | Maximum child weight: 13.2 kg | Dimensions: 41.5 x 84.5 x 56 cms | Weight: 4 kg | Material: Polyester, cotton, twill | Foldable: Yes | Batteries required: No
This sleek baby bouncer from Ergobaby comes with a removable ergonomic newborn insert and can be adjusted easily with three heights tailored to each stage of development. This means it will grow with your baby and is suitable from newborn until they’re a toddler, when it can be used as a comfy seat. As it was created with guidance from a paediatric orthopaedist, it supports your baby’s body in all the right places – it creates an ergonomic M-shaped positioning in the baby's hips and helping to prevent flat head syndrome.
Our Dad tester, Ash, was impressed by “how intelligently designed this bouncer was. Bouncing is so easy and uses your baby's natural movement, so it's really easy to use, and make sure that as a parent, you're comfy and confident too”. Ash appreciated the three different height settings. He said they “let you choose the most suitable, the highest for when your baby is awake and looking around, and the lowest is great for helping relax them before putting them to bed”. He also felt this was particularly easy as you can “adjust the height using a foot pedal which means you can easily do it one-handed when holding your child”.
The simple but sturdy buckle closure and padded harness keep your precious little one safely secured. The breathable cover keeps them cool and is removable, which is reassuring in case of leaky nappies! Our tester was pleased that it just used the baby’s natural movement to bounce, so you don’t need to worry about batteries. Plus, the seat cover and newborn insert are machine washable.
Pros
- Stylish design
- Designed in collaboration with a paediatric orthopaedist to support your baby’s body
- The removable newborn insert and three settings mean it will last longer than others
- Turns into a comfy chair for your toddler
- Machine washable cover makes it easy to clean
- Three different heights are controlled by a step pedal; easy to operate while holding your baby
- Lightweight and travel-friendly as it folds flat
Cons
- The price could be off-putting, though it should grow with your baby and last longer
- Easy to adjust and fold
- Support from head to hips – prevents flat head syndrome
- Converts to a comfy chair for your toddler
3.
Stokke Steps Bouncer
Best bouncer for extra comfort
Image: AmazonSpecs: Suitable from: Birth to 6 months | Maximum child weight: 9kg | Dimensions: 79.6 x 54.4 x 11.1 cms | Weight: 4.61 kg | Material: Polyester, metal | Foldable: Yes | Batteries required: No
This bouncer chair can be used on its own or in combination with the Stokke Steps highchair, making it a versatile option, whatever your needs. It’s suitable from birth, and the cosy, padded newborn insert offers extra support and comfort. The multiple seat-recline settings allow you to change the seat position to suit your baby. We love that it’s designed in collaboration with a paediatric physiotherapist to mimic the sensation of being held in the parent’s arms. It gave us the confidence that the baby was properly supported.
Our parent testers found it particularly beneficial when combined with the Stokke Highchair (sold separately). Dad, Tom, said, “I love that your baby can sit with you at the table, at your level and join in the action. This is really useful in the early stages, when babies are not in a routine and still awake with you in the evening!“
It folds away compactly and offers a soothing, gentle bounce without the need for batteries. The detachable toy hanger is a lovely extra touch, allowing you to clip your baby’s favourite toy on to keep them happy. The Stokke Bouncer cover is washable and the bouncer is available in several colours and prints to suit all tastes and homes.
Pros
- Developed with a paediatric physiotherapist to ensure your baby is properly supported
- The cradling movement mimics that of a parent's arms to add comfort and support
- It can be combined with the Stokke Highchair to allow the baby to sit higher
- The detachable toy clip gives you the freedom to add your baby's favourite toy
- Base prevents sliding
- The entire design folds flat for easy storage and transport
- Three-year guarantee for peace of mind
- Bouncer offers multiple seating and sitting positions
Cons
- The Stokke highchair needs to be bought separately
- Cushioned Stokke Steps Bouncer lets your child bounce independently
- Newborn Insert helps properly support baby when placed in the bouncer
- Mimics the feeling of being cradled in mother’s arms
4.
BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft
Specs: Suitable from: Birth to 3 years | Maximum child weight: 13.2 kg | Dimensions: 79.6 x 54.4 x 11.1 cms | Weight: 4.61 kg | Material: Polyester, metal | Foldable: Yes | Batteries required: No
This chic bouncer may look quite simple, but it’s packed with clever features – including an ergonomic design to support your baby’s body with its hammock-style head and back support. This is another one that’s developed in collaboration with medical specialists, so you can be confident it’s safe for your baby. It also has three heights. Our mum tester, Danielle, found this was good for her son, who “has reflux so needs to stay upright as much as possible.”
While some testers thought it could be improved with toys (these can be bought separately), another felt this was better for her baby. She said her baby “gets overstimulated with vibrations etc, and this really seems to keep her happy as she can control the movement.”
It folds flat for easy storage. Our mum tester, Jane, said this made her life easier, as she liked “how small this rocker packs away so you can slide it under a bed or sofa”. While it’s one of the more expensive options, it should last until your child is around two years old, as it can turn into a cosy toddler chair. One of our parent testers said that “it can be used for older children as well, which makes it value for money”.
Read our full BABYBJÖRN Baby Bouncer Balance Soft review
Pros
- Three different positions so it can recline or sit higher which is better for babies with reflux
- Available in a wide variety of colours to suit your home
- Rocking is controlled by the natural movement of your baby so no need for batteries
- Folds flat to allow for easy storage or transportation
Cons
- Toy bar is sold separately
- All natural rocking, no batteries or cords required
- Folds flat and is easy to move around your home
- Available in three soft materials: cotton, mesh and super-snuggly 3D Jersey
Best swing and rocker for motion ride
Image: Mother&Babywww.mamasandpapas.com
Specs: Suitable from: Birth to 6 months | Maximum child weight: 9 kg | Dimensions: L91.5 x W73 x H81 cm | Weight: 10.94 kg | Material: Metal, cotton | Foldable: No | Batteries required: No
The Serina 2-in-1 baby seat offers babies a multi-motion ride as it swings from front to back or side to side to comfort them. The six different swing speeds create versatility. The toy bar will entertain your baby to free you up to make a cup of tea. One of our mum testers said; "it was a godsend as it kept my daughter calm and relaxed, and I was able to get on with the much-needed housework!"
You’re spoilt for choice with sounds to soothe your baby, including a choice of ten lullabies and nature sounds. A night light with four brightness settings can soothe further, and the potential to change it into a rocker makes it even more versatile. One mum tester found this was particularly soothing for her baby. She said, “My daughter loved the swing, and it's so clever that it can swing side to side and forwards and backwards. It was so calming and relaxing”.
It’s easy to move around the house thanks to the wheels, integrated handle, and compact frame. Mum tester Sophie said it made her life easier as “you can use the seat as a rocker without the base, and also means if you need to pop upstairs, you can just take the seat off the base and carry your baby up with you”. Plus, the plush infant body support is washable.
Read our full Joie Serina 2in1 Rocker review
Pros
- Six swing speeds offers wide range to find perfect setting for your baby
- It can be both a swing and a rocker
- Three reclining seat positions so can suit ages from newborn upwards
- Light and sound options make it more engaging for baby
- Can wash the covers making it easy to clean
- 2 wheels and integrated handle make the swing frame easy to move
- Soft glow nightlight has 4 brightness settings to achieve the perfect mood
- Comes with carry handle
Cons
- Partial assembly and batteries required
- 5-point harness with soft lower buckle cover
- Pivoting overhead toy bar with two toys for playtime entertainment
- Removable, washable, plush infant body support and seat pad cocoon baby
6.
Badabulle Easy Baby Bouncer
Best mutli-adjustable baby bouncer
Image: AmazonSpecs: Suitable from: Birth - 6 months | Maximum child weight: 9 kg | Dimensions: 76D x 39W x 67H cms | Weight: 2.5 kg | Material: Plastic, metal | Foldable: Yes | Batteries required: No
This baby bouncer is a fantastic option for those looking for a bouncer that can be used from birth. The five adjustable positions and removable anatomical headrests can support a baby as a newborn. It’s also easy to adjust, and a three-point harness means you can feel confident that your baby is safely secured.
While it’s great as a bouncer, it can also be converted into a rocker by lifting the feet at the back to create a gentle rocking motion. One reviewer noted her son particularly liked this, and the toys. She said, “He enjoys the rocking motion and the dangly attachments, and sits safe and snug while chilling out. Definitely recommend for little ones!"
The toys are designed to encourage early learning and interaction. The toy bar tilts to make it easier for small hands to reach and explore. One parent praised the toys, noting, “This has really helped our little one to relax whilst downstairs, without relying on being held by one of us. He enjoys the rocking motion and the dangly attachments, and sits safe and snug whilst chilling out.”
When it’s not being used, the bouncer folds down easily so you can store it out of the way. this is ideal for those with more limited space. If you want to transport it when visiting friends and family, two large handles make it easy to carry too.
Pros
- The adjustable backrest has five positions to suit babies from newborn up to 6 months
- It can be transformed from a bouncer to a rocker by simply changing the feet
- A three-point harness offers peace of mind
- The fully removable, machine-washable cover makes it easy to care for
- Easy to carry thanks to the two large handles
- Foldable for easier storage or portability
Cons
- Some reviewers had issues with the locking mechanism
- Toys included
- Removable toy bar
- Adjustable back rest
Best bouncer and rocker for removable headrest
Image: AmazonSpecs: Suitable from: Birth - 6 months | Maximum child weight: 9 kg | Dimensions: 68 x 51 x 40.39 cms | Weight: 1.39 kg | Material: Metal, cotton, polyester | Foldable: No | Batteries required: Yes
We loved how this bouncer grows with your baby. The removable headrest makes it supportive for newborns. The cushioned foot pillow and side support make it a comfortable option, while the three-point harness and non-skid feet keep your baby and the bouncer secure. There’s just one seat position, which sets it apart from others we tested, such as the Badabulle Easy Baby Bouncer. So, this is worth considering if you want a bit more flexibility in the recline. Plus, the seat is washable.
While it may be a bit limited on seat positions, it makes up for it with 8 melodies and soothing vibrations. One reviewer praised this as “a true lifesaver," saying, It provides a gentle and soothing motion that instantly calms my baby. It's like a magic touch that lulls them into a peaceful state”. You can even control the volume, and it will shut off automatically so you can control how long the music plays.
The toy bars are entertaining but can also be easily removed so that you can get your baby in and out of the bouncer without any trouble. One reviewer agreed that it’s “safe and supportive, easy to strap him in and get stuff done.”
Pros
- Eight melodies with volume control and automatic shut-off allow you to respond to your baby's needs
- The removable headrest makes it suitable and supportive from birth
- Calming vibrations to help soothe baby
- Wipeable and washable for easy cleaning, including washable seat
- Lightweight and portable for moving from room to room
Cons
- Only one seat position so cannot be raised or reclined
- Batteries required
- Soothing seat pampers baby with plush fabrics
- Includes cushioned foot pillow, side supports & removable headrest as baby grows
- Toy bar with 2 plush toys is removable for ease of taking baby in & out of seat
- 8 melodies with volume control, calming vibrations & automatic shut-off
- Gender-neutral bouncer with adjustable 3-point harness & non-skid feet
- Wipeable & washable design for easy cleaning
Specs: Suitable from: Birth - 6 months | Maximum child weight: 9 kg | Dimensions: 7.5D x 52.2W x 54.4H cms | Weight: 2 kg | Material: Metal, polyester | Foldable: Yes | Batteries required: No
The simple design of this contemporary baby bouncer has a cute elephant print and a colourful toy bar included. These will keep baby entertained, while fitting into most living spaces. As well as looking great, it ticks a lot of boxes for practicality – it’s lightweight at just 2kg, which makes it easy to move between rooms if needed. this ticked a box for our tester Nicole. She also praised the non-slip base, which ensures it’s safe to use on hard floors.
Nicole found the bouncer spacious but said it lacked padding so it may not be a comfortable option for long periods. She also wasn't sure how practical it was for a newborn, saying, "I’m not
sure how a newborn could sit in it comfortably without head support, as there’s the risk of their head flopping sideways or slouching forward."
She also found the 3-point safety harness a little fiddly as the clips are tucked inside the material. But she did find that it was easy to use, saying, "the fabric is not only easy to wipe clean, but is also simple to remove in one piece for machine washing. This is a great feature that makes this product stand out from some other baby bouncers I have used in the past."
Pros
- Super lightweight at 2kg so can be moved around the house easily
- Three-point safety harness for peace of mind
- Grips on the base to prvent slipping
- An easy-to-remove and machine-washable cover makes it practical
- Machine-washable sling/seat for easy cleaning
- Gender-neutral pattern
- Comes with toy bar
Cons
- It has just one seat position, so better to use with older babies who have stronger neck control
- 3 point harness is fiddly to access
- Toys included and Toybar Included allowing further toys to be added
- 3 Point Safety Harness (BSEN12790:2009 compliant)
- Non-Slip Base – Perfect for Wooden/Laminate/Tiled floors
9.
LADIDA Soft Padded Grey Lamb Newborn Bouncer
Best musical bouncer and rocker
Image: AmazonSpecs: Suitable from: Birth - 6 months | Maximum child weight: 9 kg | Dimensions: 64D x 60W x 50H cms | Weight: 3.5 kg | Material: Metal, polyester | Foldable: No | Batteries required: Yes
This adorable sheep-themed rocker is as functional as it is cute. It has three soothing vibrations and eight musical melodies to choose from. It also includes a white noise function to recreate the sound of the womb and soothe your newborn. Three volume levels allow you to control the sound, and you can also control the vibration speed, with three options. Reviewers rated this versatility, with one saying, “I like the fact you can change the seating position and the multi-functions to help soothe baby.”
The three attached toys offer entertainment and keep the baby engaged. While these aren’t detachable and may be tricky to keep clean, it was described by one mum as “easy to clean”. The plush fabric and comfortable pillowed seat are sure to be a winner though, with one reviewer describing it as “soft (and) beautifully designed."
Pros
- Three soft toys attached to offer entertainment and engagement
- Eight melodies and white noise so you can find the sounds your baby likes
- Three-level volume control so you can respond to your baby's needs easily
- A removable head cushion takes it from the newborn stage to 6 months
Cons
- Requires two AA batteries, which are not included
- The attached toys may be difficult to clean if needed
- Comes with 2 reclining positions to maximum baby comfort
- White noise function included
- Eight musical melodies
- Baby swing with soft toys: 3 attached toys help baby engaged
- 3 level vibration control
Best convertible bouncer and rocker
Image: Amazonwww.vertbaudet.co.uk
Specs: Suitable from: Birth - 2 years | Maximum child weight: 18 kg | Dimensions: 80 x 43 x 32 cms | Weight: 5 kg | Material: Metal, polyester | Foldable: Yes | Batteries required: No
Chicco’s Hoopla Baby Bouncer has a four-position backrest, enabling your baby to relax, play or feed in comfort. One reviewer noted that “the positions are good for relaxing and sitting up to eat. Really pleased with this purchase.” It should also last longer as it can be transformed into their first chair and used until around 18kg.
The side buttons make it easy to adjust the seating position, while the non-slip feet give peace of mind. One reviewer said; “Good quality, comfortable and extremely good grip on the feet of the seat – no worries about it sliding or moving.”
Parents liked the swinging motion, with one reviewer saying it “was effective in getting him to settle and sleep in his first few weeks of life.” Though the feedback was mixed on the music, with some questioning why there were Christmas songs. The easily removable toy bar was designed together with a psychologist to benefit the baby’s development, and the removable cover makes life easier when it needs washing.
Pros
- Can be reclined into four positions for relaxing
- Batteries are not required
- Removable and washable cushion for easy cleaning
- It's compact and quick to close, so good for storing when not in use
- 3 point safety harness offers extra security and peace of mind
- Carry handles make it easy to transport around the home
- Can become a chair when baby is older, so better value for money
Cons
- Some reviewers questioned the choice of music, so might not be to everyone's taste
- Assembly is required
- Comes with 1 x toy arch, 3 x toys
- Reclining seat with ergonomic seat reducer and removable cushion
- Can be fixed or put in swinging position
- 3-point safety harness
- Carry handles
- In compliance with standard EN12790
Best 3-in-1 bouncer and rocker
Image: AmazonSpecs: Suitable from: Birth - 30 months | Maximum child weight: 18.14 kg | Dimensions: 49.5D x 67W x 62H cms | Weight: 2.57 kg | Material: Metal, plastic, polyester | Foldable: No | Batteries required: Yes
The Ingenuity Keep Cozy Baby Bouncer, Rocker & Toddler Seat is a fantastic 3-in-1 option, converting from bouncer to rocker to stationary seat. It is designed to grow with baby and is beautifully made to be enjoyed for years. With the option to have it as a bouncer, rocker, or stationary seat, it’s a hardworking multitasker. Parents appreciated this, with one mum saying, “My daughter-in-law loved it, (the) very clever design will grow with little one when she arrives – so versatile."
As it can take up to 18 kg, it should last from newborn to 30 months. It also has a cosy infant booster to provide extra support for babies that can be removed for older infants. Two reclining positions aid with this versatility. One parent “loved the fact it had 3 options which grow with the baby at a reasonable price.”
It’s also a convenient option, with one parent saying it was “built within 10 minutes. It pops together with no need for a screwdriver (other than to open the battery pack).” Not only that, but the 5-point harness keeps baby secure, while the machine-washable seat means it’s easy to clean.
Pros
- Accommodates infants and toddlers
- It can be a rocker, bouncer, or stationary seat, so offers plenty of uses
- Lovely elephant design is child-friendly and will look lovely in a nursery
- Reclining positions help keep baby comfortable
- Newborn cosy bolster is handy if needed
Cons
- 1 x C battery required and not included
- Included 1 detachable plush elephant playtime toy
- 5 point harness
- 3 modes - bouncing, rocking, and stationary seat
- Grow-with-me design ages up from 0-30 months
- Cosy infant bolster to give newborns extra support and comfort
- 2 reclining positions keep baby comfortable
Best budget bouncer and rocker
Image: AmazonSpecs: Suitable from: Birth - 6 months | Maximum child weight: 9 kg | Dimensions: 48.3D x 53.3W x 42.2H cms | Weight: 962 g | Material: Metal, plastic polyester | Foldable: No | Batteries required: Yes
This budget-friendly bouncer features colourful, eye-catching designs, toys and fun animal prints to keep the baby entertained. It was described by one reviewer as; “Very colourful and looks comfy”.
While it’s no-frills, another reviewer thought this was beneficial and that her son “hated the expensive swing we bought for him, but seems to love this as he can control the bounce himself.” The toy bar can be removed with one hand, making it easy to get your baby in and out. Unlike some of the others, this one only lasts up to 6 months.
Pros
- Fabric seat pad can be removed, and machine-washed
- The toy bar can be moved out of the way when you need to pick the baby up
- Two recline positions to help baby relax and sleep
- Suitable from newborn
- Comes with vibrating mode to help soothe baby
Cons
- Some assembly required
- It takes one C battery, which may be trickier to find
- Comes with 2 toys
- Gentle motions snuggle and soothe your wild one
- Toy bar removes with one hand for easier access to baby
What to look for in the best baby bouncers and rockers
Jenny Ward shares her expert advice and insight into what to look for in the best baby bouncers and rockers.
Seat recline position: A bouncer seat with adjustable recline settings offers much better value for money than one with a fixed chair. You can lay it back for short naps or make it more upright as your baby grows. It’s a must if your baby suffers from reflux.
Size: Measure your space before you buy! Some of them can take up room and it's going to be out for most of the day.
Harness: This keeps your baby safe and secure in the seat, so make sure it feels substantial. Check that you can fasten it and unbuckle it easily with one hand.
Carry handle: A useful extra if you’re likely to move the chair between rooms frequently.
Toy bar: These give your baby something to focus on and bat at with their hands and feet. This helps to keep the momentum of the bouncy chair going. Check that they will be able to reach the toys, though, otherwise, they’ll just get frustrated.
Newborn insert: This offers extra support and comfort for your newborn. It should support their head and prevent them from slouching over to one side. Check the general padding too as you want your baby to be as comfy as possible.
Vibrating function: Many chairs have various vibrating settings, which can really help to settle some babies.
Future-proofing: Some bouncer chairs convert to seats for older children. Think carefully about whether you want this extra functionality, and if you’re prepared to pay more for it.
Portability: Check the weight of the bouncers or rockers if you'll want to take it away with you or on day trips.
How easy it is to clean: It's no surprise that babies will get their bouncers and rockers messy. So, ideally look for a seat that has a removable, machine-washable cover. Also ensure that the straps, frame, and toys can be cleaned too.
Baby bouncer and rocker safety
All baby bouncers should adhere to the BS EN 14036 standard for safety, requiring features like secure harnesses and stable bases. Always check the manufacturer's age and weight recommendations for your specific bouncer or rocker and always strap them in even when they are a newborn.
"The safety standards should be stated on the product, the packaging or the website."
Jenny Ward, CEO Lullaby Trust
Jenny adds. "These standards tell you if a product has passed a certain test, such as making sure it will not fall apart or set on fire easily. The safety standards should be stated on the product, the packaging or the website."
Are baby bouncers safe?
Yes they are safe when used as directed. The first thing to remember is that babies should never be left unsupervised in a bouncer or rocker. They should only ever be used on a solid, flat surface – never on a table or bed. Also avoid leaving any loose toys or blankets being near your baby.
How long can a baby be in a bouncer?
The NHS advice on baby bouncers is that it's best to use them for no more than 20 minutes at a time. Bouncers are suitable from birth when used with an ergonomic newborn insert.
Jenny also adds: "We would advise to supervise your baby in a bouncer or rocker so you can ensure their head doesn’t slump forward onto their chin, potentially blocking their airway (ability to breathe). And if your baby falls asleep in a bouncer or rocker, move them to a safer sleep space."
Can a baby sleep in a bouncer?
Never let your baby sleep in a bouncer or rocker (if they drift off in one, you must always move them to their baby crib or cot).
"The safest place for a baby to sleep is a firm, flat surface with a waterproof layer."
Jenny Ward, CEO Lullaby Trust
Jenny says: "We advise against letting babies sleep in anything that keeps them in a seated or inclined position, such as a bouncer or rocker. The safest place for a baby to sleep is a firm, flat surface with a waterproof layer. We know that sleeping your baby on their back, in a clear, separate, firm and flat sleep space significantly reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). But it also helps to protect your baby’s ability to breathe (their airway). Your baby’s airway can fold if they sleep in a sleeping position which can make it difficult for them to breathe."
When should a baby start using a bouncer?
Most baby bouncers and rockers are safe and suitable from birth so you can use them immediately. Just ensure your baby is strapped in so they don't slip or slide.
What to consider when buying baby bouncers and rockers
How sensitive is your baby? Some bouncers convert your baby’s wriggles into soothing movement, while others do the swaying for them. What one newborn finds calming, another may find overstimulating, so consider whether they need less or more when it comes to entertainment!
How portable do you need your baby bouncer to be? If you move around the house a lot throughout the day, a bouncer chair that’s easy to carry with you is a must – though you should always take your baby out of the seat before you move it. Some are light and even have carrying handles for this purpose, whereas others are designed to be left permanently in one spot.
Will you store it away? Some mums like to clear the baby clutter away at the end of the day and reclaim their living rooms, and some bouncers are designed to be folded for easy storage.
Do you want it to look good? There’s a real divide between contemporary chairs that make a design statement and more traditional-style bouncer seats.
FAQ baby bouncers and rockers
Everything you need to know...
Do you need a baby bouncer?
Yes! Having somewhere safe to lay your baby when you need to be hands-free is essential. They are also really useful to help baby have some resting time during the day, and they're easy to move from room to room.
How much will a baby bouncer cost me?
There’s a huge difference in cost – in our round-up, the options range from £39.99 to £225! It's a piece of kit you’ll use a lot though, and a good investment will be great value if you have more children.
Should I buy a baby bouncer or baby swing?
Both imitate rocking movement but baby swings can be more expensive and take up much more room. They aren't as portable either, and most require batteries or a power outlet.
Are baby bouncers bad for baby's hips
Baby bouncers can be bad for babies' hips if they are kept in one for prolonged periods of time, having the potential to negatively impact a baby's hip development.
Are baby bouncers safe for newborns?
Yes, baby bouncers can be safe for newborns and used from birth as long as they are used with an ergonomic newborn insert. This provides the necessary support for a newborn's head and body.
How long can my baby use a bouncer?
Your baby can use a bouncer from birth, when used with a newborn insert, all the way to around six months old, or until they reach the maximum age or weight limit recommended. this may vary between manufacturers.
What safety standards apply?
According to babydan.com: "The most stringent and latest European safety standard for baby bouncers is the standard EN12790: 2009. The harness is tested, the chair undergoes a break strength test to ensure it cannot tip over or slide, the locking mechanism must be child-proof, and there's a chemical test.
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About the expert
Jenny Ward has worked at The Lullaby Trust for 18 years. She co-chairs the Pregnancy and Baby Charity Network, collaborating with 25 charities to reduce infant and maternal mortality.
About the author
Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.