Putting your newborn baby down can be difficult as hugging and cuddling is so much fun. However, you still need a safe place like a baby bouncer to lay your tiny tot when they fall asleep or you need to take a shower, have a meal, or prepare a bottle. Since your little one is soft and sensitive to everything, you must be cautious when choosing a bouncer that suffices your baby’s need for constant movement. In this guide, you will get all the information you need to find the best bouncer for your baby.
What are the Types of Baby Bouncers?
All baby bouncers are not the same. Each parent and baby need a different baby bouncer that suits their preferences due to style-based desires. Here are three different types of bouncers are available in the market:
Basic Baby Bouncer
A basic baby bouncer comes with a simple frame that allows little ones to have fun and do some physical activities by moving their legs and arms. However, this bouncer doesn’t have extra features like vibrations.
Vibrating or Battery-Operating Baby Bouncer
Unlike basic, non-powered bouncers, battery-operated bouncers generate a vibrating motion and are equipped with soft toys, flashing lights, and melodies. The main goal of this bouncer is to entertain the babies and aid their development in the long term. If your baby enjoys constant motion, then this is an excellent choice.
Convertible Bouncer
Convertible bouncers have the potential to be converted into swings. They have a detachable seat. When your newborn learns to sit, the bouncer seat can be placed into a swing frame, thus converting it into a swing.
What are the Factors You Should Consider When Choosing a Baby Bouncer?
Frame
Since the bouncer sits low on the surface or ground, the frame should have a wide base to offer stability and avert tipping over. Besides, make sure the base is made of rubber to prevent slipping off the seat.
Also, avoid the bouncers having plastic frames because even the robust plastic weakens over time and breaks if used repetitively. Instead, you must invest in a product with a metal frame. It is safer, sturdier, and more durable than the plastic frame.
Seat
When purchasing a bouncer for your tiny tot, ensure the material of the seat is soft and comfortable. Also, watch out for the seams of the seat as they can irritate your baby.
While newborn babies are more likely to feel comfortable in a reclined position, older ones prefer an upright position. So, grab your hands on a bouncer that allows you to adjust the seat according to your child’s preferences.
Bounciness
As the name implies, baby bouncers are bouncy in nature. New parents should consider the bounciness as well as the vibration because each product has a different bounce to it. Some bouncers will be slightly bouncy, while others will be extremely bouncy. So meticulously check the bounce of the product before purchasing one for your baby.
Safety
Since newborns are delicate, safety should be your priority when purchasing a bouncer for your baby. Look for the one with a three-point or five-point safety harness. Most baby bouncers have a three-point safety harness that goes around the waist of babies and in between their legs. This will save your little one from falling out of the seat. You can also find a bouncer having a non-slip base that won’t let your child slide around on wooden floors.
Entertainment
Though bouncing is entertaining enough, some brands go one step ahead to offer bouncers with extra entertainment features like a toy bar, light, and music. A toy bar allows you to hang soft and colorful toys to keep your babies occupied and amused. Some toy bars also come with lights to grab the attention of your tiny tot. Make sure to choose a bouncer with a detachable bar so you can remove it when your little one is tired and wants to relax.
Additionally, some advanced-level baby bouncers also include music and sound that play nature sounds, lullabies, white noise, and more. A bouncer that plays a variety of music will keep your baby happy but make sure you can turn it off when your baby wants to sleep.
Washability
Sometimes, you will encounter little accidents like leaky diapers and unavoidable spillages. Being able to detach the seat material and wash it will help you keep your baby’s bed look and smell good.
Portability
A baby bouncer should be lightweight and portable so you can move it from one room to another. This feature also comes in handy when you’re traveling as you can easily carry the bouncer wherever you go.
Stylish
If the garish neon pink bouncer doesn’t match your interior decoration, you don’t have to purchase it and compromise your home style. Baby bouncers come in various designs having neutral and stylish seats to complement your interior decoration. You can choose a color that you think will fit perfectly in your living area.
Final Words
Considering all the factors mentioned above can help you find the best bouncer for your baby. It will not only keep your baby happy but also give you the freedom you need to clean your living space, read a book, or relax for a few minutes.
Baby Bouncer FAQ
Q:Should I let my baby sleep in the bouncer?
A: Though baby bouncers relax tiny tots and lull them to sleep, they are not designed for long time usage. So, you should not let your baby sleep in the bouncer.
Q:Can I use a bouncer for my newborn baby?
A: Yes, bouncers can be used right from the birth of the babies. However, if your little one is premature, you must consult a pediatrician to ensure whether a bouncer is suitable for your baby or not.
Q:Can a bounce make my colicky baby feel comfortable?
A: Yes, the movements or vibrations of a bouncer can be helpful for colicky babies. Placing your infant on a bouncer will make him/her feel more comfortable than holding them in the arms.