11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (2024)

Welcoming a new baby is a joyful time. It’s also a period of huge change. Some pieces of baby kit can make the transition into new parenthood easier and this includes a baby bouncer or rocker.

The best baby bouncer should be a safe, secure and cosy place for your infant to relax and play. Some baby bouncers are lightweight and portable so you can keep your baby close by at all times. Others are entertainment centres with music, lights and vibration settings, providing stimulation and fun well into your child’s toddler years. Many options also include a bar overhead with fun baby toys attached, dangling and ready for your child to reach for to practice their motor skills and hit those all-important baby milestones.

Much like a baby jumperoo (for babies between the ages of six to 12 months), investing in a baby bouncer can give you moments of much-needed peace - it's somewhere you can lay them down when they can't yet sit up by themselves - but also help your little one learn and develop.

As the largest online network of parents in the UK, we've drawn on the vast wisdom of Mumsnet parents on our forums to collate a list of the top baby bouncers for every family, from budget and travel-friendly options to those that will grow and change with your child.

We also scoured bestseller lists, consulted child development experts and tested a variety of baby bouncers ourselves with mum of two, Luci, and first-time mum Rachel who put each one through their paces with their newborns to determine which were best in class.

After months of in-depth testing, here are the best baby bouncers to buy right now.

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Best baby bouncers at a glance

  • Best overall baby bouncer: BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss | Buy now

  • Best budget baby bouncer: Chad Valley Jungle Friends Bouncer | Buy now

  • Best baby bouncer for newborns: Tiny Love 3-in-1 Rocker Napper | Buy now

  • Best baby bouncer for style: Maxi-Cosi Kori Rocker | Buy now

  • Best baby bouncer, swing and rocker: Joie Serina 2-in-1 Swing and Rocker | Buy now

  • Best baby bouncer for longevity: Nuna Leaf Grow Bouncer | Buy now

  • Most supportive baby bouncer: BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft | Buy now

  • Best baby bouncer with smart technology: 4Moms MamaRoo 5.0 | Buy now

  • Best lie-flat baby bouncer: Chicco Hoopla | Buy now

  • Best practical baby bouncer: Red Kite Cozy Bounce Linen | Buy now

  • Best multi-functional baby bouncer: Stokke Steps Bouncer | Buy now

1

Best overall baby bouncer

  • 11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (7)

BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from BabyBjörn Buy now from Mamas & Papas Buy now from John Lewis

What we like

  • Portable - lightweight and it folds flat for travel

  • Converts to a toddler chair so lasts till age two

  • Removing and re-attaching the cover takes seconds

  • High-quality and super soft machine-washable cover

  • Comes pre-assembled

  • Sleek design

What we don't like

  • Expensive

  • Not quite upright enough for older babies

  • Toy bar comes at an additional cost

Key specs

RRP: £210 | Suitable from: Birth to two years (3.5-13kg) | Fabric sling removable and machine washable: Yes | Additional features: None | Dimensions: 56 × 79 × 39cm (highest position) and 11 × 89 × 39cm (transport mode) | Weight: 2.4kg | Batteries required: None

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss review

The BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss comes pre-assembled, and it’s exceptionally simple to fold down and transport. While it's impressively lightweight at just 2kg, the Bliss feels sturdy, supportive and well-made, which is why we think it's the best baby bouncer to buy right now. We tested it on carpet and tiled floors in four different rooms.

Our parent tester, Luci, says, "It can be used from birth as there are various heights that you can adjust the bouncer to so that it suits a newborn. My eight-week-old was happy in it! It gives great support to baby’s neck, back and head." She also found the harness to be soft and comfortable.

This nifty seat is ergonomically designed to react to your baby’s movements, so it will bounce when they start kicking their legs and waving their arms. This feature is excellent for teaching your little one about cause and effect as well as improving their balance and motor skills. As they grow, the three-position recline provides support for your child for up to two years if they want a break from their play mat or playpen.

Made of a breathable mesh, we found this bouncer simple to keep clean (we tested this with milk and spaghetti Bolognese). The material repels stains and can be spot cleaned and, if the mess requires it, the cover is easy to remove and chuck in the washing machine. It's quick to dry and keeps its shape beautifully.

The only downside is the price. The BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss is one of the more luxury models on the market and we were disappointed that it lacks additional features like a vibration mode and toy bar (the toy bar is available to buy at an additional cost). But if you're looking for a minimalist bouncer that your child will be comfortable in, the BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss will be worth the spend.

Read next: Top 20 baby toys from newborn to 12 months

2

Best budget baby bouncer

  • 11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (8)

Chad Valley Jungle Friends Bouncer

What we like

  • Great value

  • Simple to build

  • Lightweight

  • Removable, machine-washable cover

What we don't like

  • No additional features or toy bar

  • Only one recline position - no lie-flat position

  • Low maximum weight limit - only lasts till around six months of age

Key specs

RRP: £25 | Suitable from: Birth to 9kg/20lbs (approx. six months of age) | Fabric sling removable and machine washable: Yes | Additional features: No | Dimensions: 42.2 × 53.3 × 48.3cm | Weight: 1.6 kg| Batteries required: None

Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Chad Valley Jungle Friends Bouncer review

The Chad Valley Jungle Friends is a basic bouncer that's ideal for families on a budget. It is easy to assemble – it took our parent tester, Luci, just 17 minutes. The seat has a bounce mode that parents can initiate in the early weeks. After that, your baby will be able to kick their legs and make it move.

Unfortunately, there's no toy bar, but that's to be expected for the price. There is no newborn insert either, however the seat is deep and cosy, so there's plenty of support. Our tester liked that the shape of the seat allowed her to take her baby in and out of it without having to unbuckle the harness.

The stain-resistant and wipeable cover is super quick to remove and pop back on after a machine wash. It can be gently tumble dried too, and the frame can be cleaned with hot soapy water if needed. Our tester was thrilled with the easy maintenance of this chair, describing it as "perfect" after putting the seat through its paces and cleaning it.

Read next: The best baby jumperoos, tried and tested by families

3

Best baby bouncer for newborns

  • 11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (9)

Tiny Love 3-in-1 Rocker Napper

Buy now from Kiddies Kingdom Buy now from Very

What we don't like

  • Takes a long time to assemble

  • Heavy

  • Outer cover is tricky to remove

Key specs

RRP: £110 | Suitable from: Birth up to 9kg/20lbs | Fabric sling removable and machine washable: Yes | Additional features: Toys, music and lights | Dimensions: 74.5 × 48 × 74cm | Weight: 5.4 kg |Batteries required: Three AAA and one C

What Mumsnet users say

PrayingandHoping · Recommended Have a look at the Tiny Love 3-in-1 Rocker. It lays flat so is suitable for a newborn and then sits more upright as the baby grows. See Post

Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Tiny Love 3-in-1 Rocker Napper review

The Tiny Love 3-in-1 Rocker takes a long time to assemble. But once it’s up, it provides a safe and secure place for your baby to relax or play. During testing, our parent tester, Luci, found it stayed firmly in place on all styles of floor from carpet to tiles.

She was delighted with the versatility of this baby rocker as it also functions as an upright seat. Each mode is easy to switch between, making it useful for soothing your newborn and later keeping your baby in one place as they try their first foods.

In chic dove-grey, the Tiny Love 3-in-1 Rocker will suit most households. The fabric is soft and comfy yet durable, and it can be wiped clean with a damp cloth or machine washed at 30 degrees.

The play modes on this clever seat are superb. There are 18 melodies, two vibration settings and a rocking mode. The sturdy bar has entertaining lights and detachable soft toys, making the mobile an excellent sensory toy for babies. The arch is also adjustable and can be removed if needed.

Read next: How to do tummy time with your baby

4

Best baby bouncer for style

  • 11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (10)

Maxi-Cosi Kori Rocker

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from Maxi-Cosi

What we like

  • Stylish design

  • Comfy, deep seat

  • Folds away for easy storage

  • Lightweight

What we don't like

  • Rocking motion not exaggerated enough

  • Newborns may not be able to reach the toys on the toy arch

Key specs

RRP: £99 | Suitable from: Birth to two years (0-15kg) | Fabric sling removable and machine washable: Yes | Additional features: Toy arch | Dimensions: 72 x 42 x 48cm (highest position) and 73.5 x 15cm (folded) | Weight: 2.7kg | Batteries required: None

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Maxi-Cosi Kori Rocker review

Not too dissimilar in style to the BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss, the Maxi-Cosi Kori Rocker is around half the price yet still provides comfort and quality for your little one.

We love the cosy, deep seat, and it also includes a newborn insert for added comfort for small babies. It's an attractive choice too. The sleek, Scandi-inspired design has been described as "modern and stylish" by our parent tester, Rachel. It offers three recline positions and converts from a rocker to a seat as your baby grows, so it's fairly versatile too.

Our biggest grumble is that the rocking motion isn't exaggerated enough for babies who are past the newborn stage, but for a simple, sturdy option, we rate this as a more pocket-friendly alternative to the BabyBjörn.

Read next: We’ve carefully chosen the best tummy time toys, loved by parents and their babies

5

Best baby bouncer swing and rocker

  • 11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (11)

Joie Serina 2-in-1 Swing and Rocker

Buy now from Argos Buy now from Boots Buy now from John Lewis

What we like

  • Elegant design

  • Transforms from a multi-position swing seat to a rocker

  • Extra secure five-point padded harness with adjustable shoulder straps

  • Luxurious padding ideal for newborns

What we don't like

  • Expensive

  • The covers can’t be machine washed

  • Large footprint

Key specs

RRP: £160 | Suitable from: Birth up to 9kg/20lbs | Fabric sling removable and machine washable: No | Additional features: Swing, rocker, toy bar, music, vibrations, lights | Dimensions: 91.5 × 73 × 81cm | Weight: 10.4 kg |Batteries required: One D (1.5V) battery or it can be plugged into the wall socket

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Joie Serina 2-in-1 Swing and Rocker review

The Joie Serina 2-in-1 Swing and Rocker is surprisingly easy and quick to set up. It took our parent tester, Luci, just 10 minutes to assemble. This is a heavy piece of furniture though and much of that weight is in the base, which means it has a large footprint and isn't very portable. However, it’s ideal for large families as it won't move if toddlers and pets brush past it.

As your baby starts to engage more with toys, whether that's in the tub with a bath toy or exploring on their playmat, they'll start to learn more about the world through play. With the Serina and its included toy bar, Joie has created a cosy and comfy seat ideal for playtime and peaceful moments. The swing seat is also padded and has a newborn insert that provides adequate neck support. The seat has three simple-to-adjust recline positions, however we should note that it doesn’t lie completely flat.

If you’re looking for a baby seat that will fit into the style of your front room, the minimalist Serina is an excellent option. The covers aren’t machine-washable, which is a shame, especially as the colours are light. However, they can be spot cleaned with a stain remover.

Related: The best breast pumps, tried and tested

6

Best baby bouncer for longevity

  • 11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (12)

Nuna Leaf Grow

Buy now from John Lewis

What we like

  • Long-lasting - it’s suitable from birth to 60 kg (toddler age)

  • Motion activated - no need for batteries

  • Soft and cosy newborn insert

  • Three position recline

What we don't like

  • Expensive

  • No lie-flat position

Key specs

RRP: £260 | Suitable from: Birth until 60kg | Fabric sling removable and machine washable: Yes | Additional features: Toy bar and canopy | Dimensions: 45cm (H), 71.1cm (W), 73cm (L) | Weight: 6.9 kg | Batteries required: None

What Mumsnet users say

Mumoflittles · Recommended I have the Nuna Leaf [Grow] for my daughter and it's great. The only thing I can say bad about it is that it doesn't rock for long enough, probably about two minutes before you have to give it another push. It also holds a lot of weight! My five and four-year-olds also like to sit in it, whereas if they did that in another rocker it would probably break. See Post

Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read the full Nuna Leaf Grow review

The Nuna Leaf Grow will last right from the newborn days to age three or four, which means it's great value despite the hefty initial investment. Motion-activated, one push will last around two minutes and, once your little one is strong enough, they can bounce themselves with just a kick of their legs.

This seat is streamlined in design, so there are no nooks and crannies for dirt to accumulate. The breathable mesh fabric is 100% organic cotton and can be spot cleaned or machine-washed when needed. When tested by our parent tester, Luci, she was impressed that the Nuna Leaf Grow stayed firmly in place on the different floor types in her house, including kitchen tiles, thanks to its anti-slip feet.

The Leaf Grow has three recline positions and the luxuriously padded three-point harness will keep your baby extra safe.

Read next: Don't miss our guides to the best baby shampoo and best baby toothbrushes for more essentials for your little one

7

Most supportive baby bouncer

  • 11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (13)

BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from BabyBjörn Buy now from Kiddies Kingdom Buy now from John Lewis

What we like

  • Dual use - converts from a baby bouncer to a toddler chair

  • Lightweight

  • Folds down flat for travel

  • Machine-washable seat

  • Three different recline angles

  • Simple to assemble

What we don't like

  • No toy bar included (can be bought separately)

  • Doesn’t vibrate or play music

Key specs

RRP: £210 | Suitable from: Birth to two years (3.5-13kg) | Fabric sling removable and machine washable: Yes | Additional features: None | Dimensions: 58 x 89 x 39cm (highest position) and 89 x 39 x 11cm (folded) | Weight: 2.25kg | Batteries required: None

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft review

Identical in design to the BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss but with different fabric options, the BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft is a lightweight and comfortable baby bouncer that offers great longevity.

It can be used as a bouncer up to 9kg, which is somewhere between eight and 10 months of age, after which it converts to a toddler chair to be used until your child is around two years old.

Supportive for both babies and toddlers, the Balance Soft evenly distributes your child’s weight to provide exceptional head, neck and back support. At just over 2kg in weight, it can also easily be moved around your home for use wherever you need it, and it folds down completely flat for travel.

It doesn’t vibrate or play music and there isn’t a toy bar included, but it’s the simplicity of this bouncer - and the fact that babies love it - that makes it particularly popular with families. The cover is also removable for machine washing.

MNHQ parent tester, Maaike, who has used this bouncer with both of her children for around six years, says, “The bouncing isn’t mechanical. It’s just the frame that allows for some bouncing, but it’s enough to rock [babies] gently. I used it throughout the day. It was easy to move around to other rooms or other houses if I needed to. It allowed me to keep both of my babies calm and to have my hands free to do other things when they were unable to sit up by themselves.”

Like the BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss, the Balance Soft retails at around £210, which is high considering it doesn’t have any extra features, but it can usually be found online for closer to £160. But if it’s the support and longevity you’re looking for then this bouncer is more than worth its price tag.

Read next: The best baby changing bags and backpacks Mumsnetters swear by

8

Best baby bouncer with smart technology

What we like

  • Five unique motions and five speeds

  • Bluetooth and voice control compatibility

  • Overhead toy mobile with interactive balls

  • Machine-washable cover

  • Fully adjustable recline

  • Four built-in sounds

  • Adjust motion, speed and sound using the 4Moms mobile app

What we don't like

  • Pricey

  • Doesn’t fold for storage or travel

  • Newborn insert isn’t included

Key specs

RRP: £300 | Suitable from: Birth to 9kg | Fabric sling removable and machine washable: Yes | Additional features: Bluetooth, toy mobile, sounds | Dimensions: 66.6 x 53.3 85.3cm | Weight: 6.9kg | Batteries required: No - can be plugged into the mains

What Mumsnet users say

Terriblecreature · Recommended My little boy loved this and it gave me a second to get a shower etc. Worth the hefty price tag in my opinion. See Post

Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full 4Moms MamaRoo 5.0 review

The most innovative baby bouncer on our list, the 4Moms MamaRoo 5.0 is the only baby swing on the market that mimics a parent’s natural rocking, bouncing and swaying movements.

New for 2022, the MamaRoo 5.0 features upgraded Bluetooth and voice control capabilities. It now allows you to stream music as well as use the bouncer with Google Home and Amazon Alexa. Like its predecessor, its smart technology allows for remote operation via the 4Moms app so that you can tailor the settings to perfectly meet your baby’s needs.

It has five motions and speeds to choose from. You’ll also find four built-in sounds, an adjustable recline and a toy bar to offer extra stimulation. While it’s suitable from birth to 9kg, you may find it doesn’t last longer than the six-month mark. Our parent tester Luci says, “My 11-day old (9lb 13oz) newborn is taking up three quarters of the seat already.” With that said, the hefty price tag may not be worth it for you if you only plan to use the bouncer occasionally.

It’s also not designed to be portable. Luci adds, “It’s not super heavy but it’s a solid piece of kit which you would probably keep downstairs. I would want another basic bouncer upstairs to pop baby in if I had this one.”

Despite this, parents have found the MamaRoo to be a game-changer when it comes to soothing and calming their newborns, which is why we think it’s worth the consideration if you’re looking for a bouncer that goes the extra mile.

9

Best lie-flat baby bouncer

  • 11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (15)

Chicco Hoopla

What we like

  • Converts from bouncer to toddler chair

  • Compact fold for easy storage

  • Secure five-point adjustable harness

  • Four recline positions

  • Integrated toy bar with three hanging toys

What we don't like

  • Non-automatic swing motion is difficult for babies to trigger themselves

  • No music

  • Five-point harness can be fiddly

  • Cover tricky to remove for washing

Key specs

RRP: £89 | Suitable from: Birth to 3 years (0-18kg) | Fabric sling removable and machine washable: Washable by hand in cold water (do not tumble dry) | Additional features: Integrated toy bar | Dimensions: 80 x 43 x 32cm | Weight: 3kg | Batteries required: Yes - 4 x AA batteries

What Mumsnet users say

ohidoliketobe · Recommended I had a Chicco Hoopla for my daughter and am going to buy one for when my third child arrives in 10 weeks. It’s lovely and snug, sturdy and folds down flat. See Post

Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Chicco Hoopla review

The 2-in-1 Chicco Hoopla converts seamlessly from a baby bouncer once your child reaches 9kg to a toddler chair that will last until around three years of age.

Lightweight and portable, the Hoopla can be folded flat for storage or travel, so is the ideal companion for overnight stays with the grandparents or family holidays should you wish to take your bouncer with you. Our parent tester Luci says, “The Chicco Hoopla has a compact fold. Second best to the flatter BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss but far better than all the others I tested. It lies completely flat so it’s easy to pop into the car to take to a friends’ [house].”

It has two modes - fixed and rocking - depending on your baby’s needs, and the seat is well-cushioned with a generous amount of padding. You’ll also find a cushion insert that offers additional support for newborns. Luci adds, “The main fabric is more durable but the soft insert makes it feel more baby-friendly. I would keep it in as long as possible.” Although a little high, we also like the toy bar with three hanging toys.

Both sturdy and safe, this bouncer stood up well to knocks during testing and the five-point harness offers additional safety, although you may find it a bit fiddly to click into place if your baby is particularly wriggly.

10

Best practical baby bouncer

  • 11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (16)

Red Kite Cozy Bounce Linen

What we like

  • Easy to use

  • Lightweight and portable

  • Detachable support cushion

  • Music and vibrate settings

  • Adjustable three-point safety harness

  • Detachable toy bar with two removable hanging toys

What we don't like

  • Assembly is overly complicated and requires a screwdriver

  • No adjustable recline options

  • Doesn’t fold although it’s still relatively compact

Key specs

RRP: £35 | Suitable from: Birth to 9kg | Fabric sling removable and machine washable: Handwash only | Additional features: Toy bar, vibration and music | Dimensions: 50 x 50 x 57cm | Weight: 2.3kg | Batteries required: Yes

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Red Kite Cozy Bounce Linen review

Budget-friendly, but with impressive features such as a detachable toy bar with hanging toys as well as vibration settings and 16 soothing tunes, the Red Kite Cozy Bounce Linen is ideal if you’re looking for a no-frills bouncer with added extras.

While our parent tester Luci found it tricky to assemble, the bouncer is very simple to use once set up. It’s also lightweight enough to easily be moved around your home, although unfortunately it doesn’t fold for travel.

The seat, although not reclinable, is lightly padded and covered in a comfortable linen fabric, and has a built-in padded insert that offers comfort and support for younger babies. However, we would have liked for the insert to be adjustable to better accommodate growing babies. Luci says, “The support cushion was located too high up the seat once my daughter was two months old (approximately 10lb). As a result, she looked slumped in the seat.”

Due to the lack of recline, fixed support cushion and the inability to fold flat, the Red Kite Cozy Bounce Linen may not be the most versatile choice compared to bouncers like the BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss. But we think it’s a practical option if you’re on a tight budget, and one that will fit your home no matter the style.

11

Best multifunctional baby bouncer

  • 11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (17)

Stokke Steps Bouncer

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from Harrods

What we like

  • Overhead toy arch

  • Five-point harness for safety

  • Can be attached to the Stokke Steps high chair

  • Stylish design

What we don't like

  • Expensive

  • No toys included for the bar

Key specs

RRP: £159 | Suitable from: Birth to 9kg/20lbs | Fabric sling removable and machine washable?: Yes | Additional features: Newborn insert, detachable toy hanger | Dimensions: H53 x W67 x D80cm | Weight: Not specified | Batteries required: None

Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Stokke Steps Bouncer review

Cleverly designed to replicate the feeling of being cradled, the Stokke Steps Bouncer is a comfy seat to place a newborn baby in. The soft insert and harness will keep them safe, secure and cosy. There's also a detachable overhead arch included to clip toys onto to keep them stimulated. The toys aren't included though, so you'll need to choose and add these yourself. The design is very stylish - we love the muted colours and cloud print, but a plain grey version is available if you'd rather keep things minimalist.

The main drawback is that this bouncer is pricey. However, we're impressed that it can be clipped onto the Stokke Steps Chair so it can be used at the dinner table, keeping your baby cosy and at eye level.

What age can my baby go in a bouncer?

Most baby bouncers can be used from birth (check the manufacturer recommendations before you buy though). Your baby will get the most out of a bouncer between three and six months when they can bounce or rock themselves and play with any toys.

Bouncers tend to last up to six months (9kg) or until a baby can sit up, roll or crawl. When they start trying to escape, it’s time to stop using the bouncer.

Some seats will transform into toddler seats that can be used up to age two or even beyond. These models tend to be more expensive, but their price per use will be impressively low.

Is it worth getting a baby bouncer?

A baby bouncer can really make a difference to your life, especially in those early months when you want to keep your baby close, but also want to free up your arms to have a shower or eat your dinner while it’s still hot.

Bouncers often come with different recline settings for babies to rest, relax, play, and interact with an older sibling.

As babies love to see what’s going on around them and enjoy kicking their legs and reaching for toys, bouncers are also useful for aiding their development.

Read next: The best toys for 9-month-olds

How much will a baby bouncer cost me?

Prices range from £18 up to £300+. While there can be a big difference in design, the most expensive seats aren’t necessarily the best.

A basic bouncer can be just as effective as a luxury model and, as most seats only last until six months of age, you'll want to consider how often you will use it and what features you need before deciding how much to invest.

The more expensive bouncers tend to be multi-functional and will rock or swing as well as bounce. If you’re buying an electric model, factor in the cost of batteries.

A second-hand bouncer, rocker, or swing can be bought for as little as £5, depending on the design. Ensure the seat is not damaged or has any loose parts, the frame is sturdy and bounces safely, and the harness still clips securely.

Should I buy a baby bouncer or baby swing?

There are several styles of infant seats available, from basic bouncers to high-tech swings with toys, lights, and music.

1. Basic bouncer

These are simple seats on a wire frame that bounce when your baby kicks. They don’t usually come with a toy bar so may not keep your baby entertained for long, but the frames tend to be lightweight and portable which makes them very useful for travel and storage.

2. Regular baby bouncer

Similar to a basic bouncer, regular baby bouncers also come with entertainment – most often a toy bar, lights, or music. Some also vibrate and offer different recline settings, from lie-flat to an upright position. These seats don’t tend to take up too much room and may be folded down for storage or travel, and some even come with adjustable height options too.

3. Rocker

A rocker is a baby seat that gently rocks backward and forwards. With a gentle nudge to start the motion, it is meant to remind babies of being rocked by their parents. Rockers tend to offer different recline settings and usually come with entertainment bars as well.

4. Baby swing

A soft seat that swings back and forth, baby swings are usually motorised and offer different settings and a range of motions to suit your baby. They tend to come with a toy bar and are bulkier and heavier than a regular baby bouncer, so they may not be portable or suitable for smaller spaces. Baby swings will usually require a power source to move.

5. Electric baby bouncer

These high-tech bouncers will bounce, sway or rock your baby for you. Some even allow you to connect your phone to play music and control the seat’s movements. Electric baby bouncers sit at the higher end of the price range and are often bigger, heavier, and less portable than regular bouncers.

What to look for when buying a baby bouncer, rocker, or swing chair

  • Size: Some bouncers and swings are bulky and may need to be plugged into a wall, so consider how much space you have and where it will be stored around the home.

  • Portability: If you travel away from home a lot or want to move the seat easily around the house, you may need a lighter model that can be folded down or one that has a handle or wheels.

  • How easy it is to clean: Babies can be 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.

  • Safety: A three-point harness is the minimum a baby bouncer should have, but a five-point harness, which has shoulder straps, is even better.

  • Seat position: For newborns, check that the seat reclines almost flat. Also, look for a bouncer or rocker with a wide base that won’t be tipped over by an excitable older sibling.

  • Padding: A padded insert is useful for newborns as it will provide extra support to their head and neck. Straps and harnesses should also have cushioning to prevent rubbing and fingers from getting trapped as you fasten them in.

  • Extras: Decide whether you want a basic seat or one with fun extras like toys, music, lights, and vibrations to soothe and entertain your baby.

Read next: Newborn essentials: the ultimate baby checklist

Baby bouncer safety guidelines

When it comes to any baby product, safety should always come first. All baby bouncers should meet the relevant European safety standards, but child development expert Karen Sherr advises parents to always read the manufacturer's guidelines before using a bouncer.

  • The NHS advises that a baby should not use a baby bouncer for more than 20 minutes as it can put excessive strain on their back. Parents should balance time in the bouncer with playtime on the floor.

  • Bouncers are not suitable for sleeping in – it is recommended that a baby sleeps on a firm, flat surface. Visit The Lullaby Trust for advice on the best places for babies to sleep.

  • Never leave your child unattended – a young baby has little muscle control which can cause their head to flop forward.

  • Make sure harness straps are always done up, even if you are only putting your baby in the seat for a couple of minutes.

  • Never put your baby bouncer on an elevated surface such as a worktop or table – they can bounce off or get knocked off accidentally.

  • Most baby bouncers can be used from birth but may not be suitable for premature or low-birthweight babies.

  • Ensure you follow the manufacturer's guidelines about weight and height restrictions for your product.

  • Do not carry the bouncer around with your baby inside.

How we selected which baby bouncers to test

We commissioned Gemma Wilcock, a writer and mum of two, to research a variety of baby seats. Gemma has written extensively about parenthood, including reviews on the best cribs for Mumsnet.

Gemma spent 10 hours researching which products to put to the test. She looked at the different types of bouncers currently available, scoured the Mumsnet forums to find testimony from real-life parents, read reviews on other trusted review sites, such as Which? and Amazon, and spoke directly to parents to see which products came highly recommended.

She also spoke to Karen Sherr, a child psychologist, former play specialist at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, and founder of Musical Minis (a preschool music group focused on child development), to find out what parents should be looking for when buying a baby seat and how to use them safely.

Once the research was complete, she ended up with a shortlist of highly-rated bouncers, swings and rockers to put to the test, covering a range of parenting needs, brands and budgets.

How we tested the best baby bouncers

  • Four months of testing

  • Tested with a newborn from two weeks old

We also scoured bestseller lists, consulted child development experts and tested baby bouncers ourselves with mum of two, Luci, and first-time mum Rachel who put each one through their paces to determine which were best in class. She tested each product out in her own her with her newborn, collating comprehensive testing notes and scoring each product on six key areas: safety and stability, assembly, day-to-day use, cleanliness, aesthetics and value for money.

To ensure our testing is fair, we ask one tester to use all of the products in their own home. This reduces any potential variables in the testing process and ensures that our results are based on a like-for-like comparison.

Our tester, Luci, has a five-year-old and a four-month-old who was just two weeks old when testing started. She used each model for at least a week in her busy three-bedroom mid-terrace home.

  • Luci assessed the quality of the materials and whether the seat was supportive. She checked the harness, whether the seat could be knocked over easily or cause trip hazards, and how sturdy any toy bars were. She also had help from her son who was eager to bounce his little sister and put the bouncer's overall sturdiness to the test.

  • She scored the bouncer on how easy it was to assemble, reading the instructions to see how helpful they were and timing how long it took to put the seat together.

  • She tested the motion and whether a baby could bounce or rock it themselves. She assessed how easy it was to lift her baby in and out and tested out the recline options.

  • She considered how entertaining and soothing any toys, music, lights, or vibrations were. Luci also marked the bouncer on how big it was and whether it was portable.

  • She ran stain tests on each seat, looking at whether the covers could be removed and machine washed, and how easily everyday stains like milk, baby sick and food came off.

  • She looked at the aesthetics, whether it was a stylish baby product that would blend in with her home or a vibrant, more child-friendly design.

  • Finally, she marked each bouncer on whether the quality of the seat matched the price tag and, most importantly, whether she would recommend it to others.

About the authors

Gemma Wilcock is a freelance writer and mum of two. She has 15 years of experience working for national magazines and online publications, and has been researching and writing about baby and child products for Mumsnet for over six years - reviewing everything from buggies to bouncers.

As a busy mum of two young children, now aged eight and six, she knows just how important first-hand parenting knowledge can be, and she draws on her own experiences when writing about baby essentials, toys, health, money and lifestyle. She has also written for Prima Baby, Woman’s Own and Bella.

Laura Westerman is an editor, writer and Deputy Head of Editorial Content at Mumsnet. With over seven years' experience as a full-time editor, five of which have been spent writing, commissioning and editing product reviews and round-ups, Laura has a keen eye for what parents love and likes nothing more than putting together honest reviews to make parents' lives that little bit easier.

In addition to her work as a writer and editor, she has also appeared in a number of baby product review videos for Mumsnet's YouTube channel. She is mum to a one-year-old.

11 Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers for 2024 | Mumsnet (2024)
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