When can a baby use a bouncer?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests parents discontinue the use of baby bouncers when their baby is 20 pounds or can sit up on their own (whichever comes first) . Your little one can start using a bouncer as a newborn, but this is only according to the manufacturer's weight limits. Otherwise, some bouncers are designed for older infants instead of newborns, so you’ll want to double-check. Dr. O'Shea tells Verywell Family that baby bouncers can assist parents and caregivers daily. “They are [a] great way for babies who are awake to spend some time on their own while you get other things done,” she says. Just keep in mind you may want to avoid them if your baby has reflux, and a hard surface will be better for them to lie on, Dr. O’Shea explains.

Can a baby sleep in a bouncer?

No, babies should not sleep in a bouncer. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends parents move their baby to a safe sleeping space if the baby is drowsy or falls asleep while in the bouncer. In addition, the CPSC's Safety Standard for Infant Sleep Products states that sleep surfaces should have a maximum inclination of "10 degrees from horizontal." “Babies should not sleep in a bouncy seat due to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Because bouncy seeds are soft and curved, there's a risk that a baby could turn their head in a way that they would re-breathe their own carbon dioxide which is the way we believe sudden infant death syndrome occurs. Even if you're sitting nearby your baby is still at risk of SIDS,” Dr. O’Shea says.

What can I expect to pay for a baby bouncer?

While the magic of a baby bouncer is priceless to tired parents and caregivers, the essential baby item is available at both low and high price ranges. Baby bouncers with more features or several purposes, like a rocker and bouncer in one, will likely cost more than a baby bouncer that covers the basics. Depending on preferences, baby bouncers typically range from $40 to $200+.

The 8 Best Baby Bouncers of 2023

Before graduating to gross motor skill-enhancing toys like tricycles and scooters, babies love the feeling of being gently bounced. The calming motion mimics what they were used to in the womb, which ultimately helps soothe them, especially if they’re fussy. (Bonus first-time parent tip: So do swings and teethers!)

Reviewed & Approved

The Ingenuity SmartBounce Automatic Bouncer bounces automatically to mimic natural movement and features 12 melodies, three songs, and white noise. If you want to splurge, we recommend the BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft.

“Parents need ways to keep their baby eye to eye while they do other things,” Molly O’Shea, MD, FAAP, a pediatrician at Birmingham Pediatrics in Michigan, explains to Verywell Family. “A bouncy seat is a great way to keep your baby entertained and safe while you either get some alone time or get things done [while still watching them].”

When all safety guidelines are followed, these little bouncing seats can do wonders for a crying baby while engaging them in sensory play and promoting their gross and fine motor development. We carefully considered design, value, material, ease of cleaning, and other features when reviewing products.

Important Safety Note

Bouncers are not meant to be used as a substitute for a baby crib and shouldn’t be slept in. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission's (CPSC) Safety Standard, infant sleep products must have a sleep surface angle no "greater than 10 degrees from horizontal." If your little one does fall asleep in a bouncer, move them immediately to a sleep surface on their back, with no surrounding bedding or soft objects.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also says that "bouncers should be placed in stable locations [on the floor, not elevated surfaces], and safety restraints should be used to protect infants from falling." And you should discontinue the use of the bouncer when your baby "can sit up alone, or weighs 20 pounds, or reaches the weight limit on the label."

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Ingenuity SmartBounce Automatic Bouncer at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Fisher-Price Snow Leopard Deluxe Bouncer at Buybuy BABY

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Best for Travel:

Baby Delight Go with Me Baby Bouncer at Amazon

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Best Lightweight:

Maxi-Cosi 2-in-1 Kori Lightweight Bouncer at Amazon

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Best Reclining:

Ingenuity Boutique Collection Rocking Seat at Amazon

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Best Splurge:

BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft at Babybjorn.com

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Best Multi-Function:

Summer Infant 2-in-1 Bouncer & Rocker Duo at Amazon

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Best Tech:

Ingenuity Twinkle Tails Bouncer at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Family

Courtesy of Walmart

Pros

Auto-bounce option
Long-lasting battery
Lightweight

Cons

Bouncing movement is light

With its compact, lightweight design, this bouncer has two automatic bouncing speeds, a safe and cozy foundation, and a bar across the top with plush toys for the baby to grab. If your baby needs a little more soothing, you can choose from eight songs or sounds to help.

The bouncer features a head cushion that can be removed when the baby outgrows it, a three-point harness that can be adjusted to fit the baby, and the lining of the seat can be removed and thrown into the washing machine and dryer.

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 23 x 19 x 23 inches | Product Weight: 3.98 pounds | Age Range: 0-6 months | Weight Limit: 19.84 pounds | Batteries Required: Yes}

BuyBuy Baby

Pros

Bounce assist pedal
Adjustable harness
Machine washable seat cover

Three C batteries required (not included)

Whether your baby is fussy or you need a break, the Fisher-Price Snow Leopard Deluxe Bouncer is your new best friend. It plays music, sounds, and soothing vibrations and features a toy bar for supervised awake time. A bounce assist pedal provides hands-free bouncing, while the machine washable seat pad makes cleaning it easy.

Price at time of publication: $65

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 23.62 x 15.75 x 16.14 inches | Product Weight: 8.5 pounds | Age Range: NB to 5M | Weight Limit: 20 pounds | Batteries Required: Yes}

Courtesy of baby delight

Pros

Folds flat for easy storage and travel
Three reclining positions
Three-point safety harness

Cons

Manual bouncing only

Parents who are on the go can easily bring this bouncer along with them because it folds down flat into a carrying bag for easy storage and transportation. It has a mesh fabric seat, which is great for breathability and comfort, as well as a removable toy bar. The seat has three recline positions, a three-point safety harness, and a removable cover that is machine washable.

Price at time of publication: $100

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 28 x 18 x 21 inches | Product Weight: 4.5 pounds | Age Range: NB to 6M | Weight Limit: 20 pounds | Batteries Required: No}

Courtesy of Pottery Barn Kids

Pros

Three adjustable heights
Doubles as a rocker
Folds flat

Cons

No toy bar attachment
Cover should not be tumble dried

This baby bouncer has a sleek and simple design, and is easy to use for parents and caregivers that need a way to soothe a crying baby or give their arms a rest. While the design is on the more minimalist side, we like that the seat features two different modes, rocker or stationary, for your baby to enjoy. One thing you can count on is that your baby will likely spontaneously spit up and drool while hanging out in the bouncer so the machine washable cover is a major win in our book.

Parents and caregivers will love that this bouncer folds flat for easy storage. And, if you want to raise your little one up to see you better, simply adjust the bouncer’s height with one hand. The bouncer is lightweight, weighing about 5.5 pounds, making it perfect for traveling.

Price at time of publication: $110

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 28.5 x 17 x 19 inches | Product Weight: 5.5 pounds | Age Range: Newborn and up | Weight Limit: 20 pounds | Batteries Required: No}

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Various stimulating features
Three unique reclining positions
Removable toy bar

Cons

Straps do not adjust

Your sweetie will be snuggled in comfort thanks to the three reclining positions with this bouncer. It has a five-point safety harness, a removable toy bar, and plays soothing nature sounds and melodies.

Once your baby sits up and grows out of the bouncer design, it can be converted to a stationary seat for further use. Also, it has a removable seat cover that can be safely machine-washed and dried.

Price at time of publication: $80

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 17.5 x 30.75 x 29.2 inches | Product Weight: 4.1 pounds | Age Range: NB to 12M | Weight Limit: 40 pounds | Batteries Required: Yes}

Important Safety Note

Infant rockers should only be used when a child is awake and alert and under the supervision of an adult or caregiver. They should never be used for sleeping or naps. If a child does fall asleep in a rocker, they should be moved immediately to a safe sleeping location—a flat surface (like a crib, bassinet, or playard) that is free of blankets, toys, or other items.

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Body contouring seat
Lightweight
Removable seat cover

Cons

No toys/music

With this bouncer, your baby will not only be entertained and soothed but also super comfortable thanks to the soft fabrics and ergonomic design. The seat has three recline positions and is equipped with a three-point harness.

Designed to mold to the baby’s body, your baby's head and back will be properly supported as they grow and develop. The seat cover is removable and can be machine-washed, and when the chair isn’t in use it folds down flat for easy storage.

Price at time of publication: $210

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 36.5 x 15.6 x 4.4 inches | Product Weight: 1 pounds | Age Range: NB to 2Y | Weight Range: 8-29 pounds | Batteries Required: No}

Courtesy of Walmart

Pros

Rocker and bouncer hybrid
Folds flat
Removable toy bar

Cons

Seat pad isn't attached and may slide

With this, you get a bouncer that can be easily switched over to a rocker (both with their own recline position). Baby will be safe and secure thanks to the three-point harness, entertained with the removable toy bar, and soothed with the vibration feature. When it’s not in use, this bouncer/rocker folds down flat for easy storage.

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 30.71 x 6.3 x 16.73 inches | Product Weight: 5.5 pounds | Age Range: NB to 6M | Weight Limit: 20 pounds | Batteries Required: Yes}

Important Safety Note

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Engaging light and toy bar
Infant support insert
Two recline positions

Cons

Requires frequent battery changes

You can choose between two recline positions with this bouncer, allowing it to support your baby’s growth. In addition to bouncing with your baby’s movement, it also vibrates, plays soothing sounds.

The light-up bar and hanging toys across the top keep your baby entertained and encourages visual engagement. There is an adjustable three-point harness for safety, a removable head support cushion, and a machine-washable seat cover.

Price at time of publication: $80

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 24.5 x 23.5 x 23 inches | Product Weight: 8.8 pounds | Age Range: 0-6 months | Weight Limit: 30 pounds | Batteries Required: Yes}

How We Selected the Best Baby Bouncers

We chose the best baby bouncers by researching reviews from customers and competitors, and we studied the features of more than 30 products on the market. We considered price, design, features, ease of cleaning, age recommendations, and material when deciding our picks. We also consulted with Molly O’Shea, MD, FAAP, pediatrician at Birmingham Pediatrics in Michigan, for any considerations or product recommendations while reviewing guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics on bouncer safety.

What to Look for in a Baby Bouncer

Safety Features

You want to ensure that the bouncer has safety features , including a strap to keep the baby in place (but that isn’t too tight), has a stable base, and is free of any sharp edges or corners that could cause injury.

Age and Weight Recommendations

Take a peek at the bouncer’s age and weight recommendations, because while they may say they’re safe for newborns, not all newborns weigh the same. You'd want to avoid putting a 5-pound baby in a seat that has a minimum weight of 8 pounds.

Functions

Some bouncers are pretty basic and straightforward while others can be converted, collapsed, or easily traveled with. Make sure to look at all of the different function options to ensure your purchase meets your individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can a baby use a bouncer?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests parents discontinue the use of baby bouncers when their baby is 20 pounds or can sit up on their own (whichever comes first). Your little one can start using a bouncer as a newborn, but this is only according to the manufacturer's weight limits. Otherwise, some bouncers are designed for older infants instead of newborns, so you’ll want to double-check.
Dr. O'Shea tells Verywell Family that baby bouncers can assist parents and caregivers daily. “They are [a] great way for babies who are awake to spend some time on their own while you get other things done,” she says. Just keep in mind you may want to avoid them if your baby has reflux, and a hard surface will be better for them to lie on, Dr. O’Shea explains.
Can a baby sleep in a bouncer?

No, babies should not sleep in a bouncer. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends parents move their baby to a safe sleeping space if the baby is drowsy or falls asleep while in the bouncer. In addition, the CPSC's Safety Standard for Infant Sleep Products states that sleep surfaces should have a maximum inclination of "10 degrees from horizontal."
“Babies should not sleep in a bouncy seat due to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Because bouncy seeds are soft and curved, there's a risk that a baby could turn their head in a way that they would re-breathe their own carbon dioxide which is the way we believe sudden infant death syndrome occurs. Even if you're sitting nearby your baby is still at risk of SIDS,” Dr. O’Shea says.
What can I expect to pay for a baby bouncer?

While the magic of a baby bouncer is priceless to tired parents and caregivers, the essential baby item is available at both low and high price ranges. Baby bouncers with more features or several purposes, like a rocker and bouncer in one, will likely cost more than a baby bouncer that covers the basics. Depending on preferences, baby bouncers typically range from $40 to $200+.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer, mom to a 1 and a 4-year-old, and she has personal experience in researching and using baby bouncers. Key considerations she focused on when selecting these products include safety features, effectiveness, functionality, and user reviews.

The 8 Best Baby Bouncers of 2023

Reviewed & Approved

Important Safety Note

Best Overall

Ingenuity SmartBounce Automatic Bouncer

Best Budget

Fisher-Price Snow Leopard Deluxe Bouncer

Best for Travel

Baby Delight Go with Me Alpine Deluxe Portable Baby Bouncer

Best Lightweight

Maxi-Cosi 2-in-1 Kori Lightweight Bouncer

Best Reclining

Ingenuity Boutique Collection Rocking Seat

Important Safety Note

Best Splurge

BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft

Best Multi-Function

Summer Infant 2-in-1 Bouncer & Rocker Duo

Important Safety Note

Best Tech

Ingenuity Twinkle Tails Bouncer

How We Selected the Best Baby Bouncers

What to Look for in a Baby Bouncer

Safety Features

Age and Weight Recommendations

Functions

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Verywell Family