If you’re expecting, you’ve probably thought about how your life will change with the arrival of your new baby. The good news is that there are products to help make those first few months easier and more fun, including baby bouncers and rockers.
Why are baby bouncers and rockers used?
They’re both used for similar reasons, but bouncers can help soothe your baby without being confined in one place. You can move it around your house or take it with you when you travel. A rocking motion has many of the same soothing effects as bouncers but some parents prefer them because they don’t go back and forth like some models do. If you feel like moving around while holding your baby, that’s an option with a rocker too. That said, many rockers are stationary which means your baby won’t be able to see much from one place.
1) Safety First
As with all baby products, safety should be your top priority. It may seem obvious, but make sure that any bouncer you purchase is durable and has ample padding on all sides. Also check that it’s not too big for your space and that it won’t fall over if jostled or bumped by an overzealous child.
2) Comfort of the Child
The first thing you should look for in your baby bouncer is a comfortable place for your child. Look for padding, support and sturdy materials that won’t cause discomfort to your child. Look for things like straps and belts so that if he or she moves too much, they don’t get hurt. The best products are those made with soft fabrics, thick padding and sturdy frames that will hold up when faced with rough play from small children.
3) Ease to Clean
Your newborn may be small, but she won’t stay that way for long. Before you commit to a bouncer, make sure it’s easy to clean—you’ll thank yourself later when that spit-up accident inevitably happens. A model with removable parts and covers is ideal.
4) Portability
The concept of portability comes into play when considering how you’ll be moving your baby bouncer around. Will you be using it in one place, or will you be carrying it from room to room? If portability is important for you, look for a lightweight bouncer that easily folds up and can be moved from place to place with ease. Some bouncers even have wheels so they can be pulled behind you as you travel from room to room.
5) Price
One of, if not THE, most important thing to consider when buying a baby bouncer is price. Not only are you looking for something that looks great and is of quality, but you want it at an affordable price. Luckily, Aussie Baby has many bouncers for less than $60. With prices like these, your search for one can be narrowed down drastically.
Precaution of using a baby bouncer
Parents often use a bouncer as a space for letting their little ones snooze, but pediatricians and medical experts highly discourage this. The angled position can potentially contribute to SIDS. While these are considered safe from the get-go, that’s when they’re used properly. Always supervise your baby when they’re in a bouncer.
Before using your baby bouncer, there are certain things you should pay attention to. If your bouncer has wheels and handles, make sure they’re not loose or damaged in any way. Also, remember that toys and attachments may contain small parts that can be chewed off and swallowed by your baby. Don’t leave your baby unattended with bouncers or attachments of any kind on their own. It is also important for you to check and ensure all moving parts of a bouncer are working properly before use. Make sure there are no signs of wear or weakness on any part of it. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to replace it with another one right away.