How Do You Choose Between A Baby Bouncer, Swing and Rocker?
With so many brands in the market, choosing between a baby bouncer, swing or rocker that’s just right for your baby could take you weeks, or months even. There are so many reviews to read and comparisons to make, but don’t worry Mama, you can stop searching all over the web now because we’ve got you covered right here.
Firstly, let’s find out the differences between a baby bouncer, swing and rocker. Although they have the same purpose, which is to soothe babies, their functions differ slightly from one another.
A baby bouncer is usually non-electric, which means it requires manual movements from you or your baby. It is lightweight, space-saving, portable and mostly affordable.
A baby swing is powered mechanically and may also include vibration and sound functions. Some swing sideways, some front to back and some offer a combination of both. Baby swings are usually more bulky and on the pricier side.
A baby rocker sits right in the middle of a swing and a bouncer. They come in both manual and motorised options. They look like reclined baby seats, not too bulky and are fairly easy to move around and store.
Our Recommendation: A Baby Rocker
A baby rocker usually stands out as the more multi-functional, portable, cost-effective and space-saving choice. Here are 6 reasons why we think you should get a baby rocker:
Calm your baby and yourself down. Soothing your baby takes time and a lot of patience. Some days, you just don’t have the time and energy to cradle or rock your baby to sleep. This is where a baby rocker comes in handy. All you need to do is place your baby safely in his rocker and let him self-soothe while enjoying the motion. This way, you get to enjoy some time off or manage other things in peace.
Just like Mama’s arms. Most baby rockers are ergonomically-designed to mimic the sensation of being in a mother’s arms. That’s why babies are easily soothed in a baby rocker.
Safe and sound. Baby rockers come with safety belts, so you don’t have to worry about your baby’s safety. Just make sure that you follow the safety precautions as stated in the product manual.
Supports baby’s development. Babies love swaying movements because they resemble the feeling of being in their mother’s womb. These rocking or swaying motions are beneficial for a child’s social, mental and physical development. They also help with developing a child’s balance.
Effortless playtime. Most baby rockers come with hanging sensory toys and even music to keep your baby entertained. The toys will help stimulate your baby’s mind and encourage him to move his hands and feet. Yay to effortless playtime!
Portable and reliable. Baby rockers are mostly travel-friendly. Don’t worry if your baby gets attached to it, just pack and go!
How To Choose The Best Baby Rocker
Safety and Stability
Your baby’s safety should be your top priority, so when choosing a baby rocker, find one that is made of baby-safe materials, has a sturdy safety harness and is well-balanced to protect your wriggly baby from toppling over. If you’re getting a hand-me-down, thoroughly check that there are no signs of wear and tear or damages as well as history of product recalls.
Vibration or Swing Speeds
Motion helps soothe babies. Choose a baby rocker with a variety of vibration or swing speeds so you can experiment to see what your baby prefers. Both are great options, so it really depends on your lifestyle and preferences. If you personally enjoy rocking your baby to sleep but just need a break from carrying him all day, then a manual rocker would be a great choice. However, if you’re pressed for time and need extra help soothing your baby, a mechanical rocker is definitely it. A mechanical rocker may cost more, but we think it’s worth the investment.
Construction
Is the rocker meant for newborns up to 6 months only or does it grow with your little one? Is the height adjustable? There are baby rockers that are made for long-term use, where you can convert the seat into a toddler chair. Ask these questions and nail down the specifications that you need and don’t need so you can be sure that you’re making the right purchase.
Portability
It’s great to have a rocker that is portable so you can easily carry it from one room to another, bring it with you when you travel and store it away without much hassle.
Ease of Use
Most baby rockers are easy to assemble and use, but just to be safe, do some extra research on the settings and “what if’s" so you really know what to expect about the product. Another important criteria is to find one with a washable cover because hey, “accidents" happen ALL. THE. TIME. with babies!
Parental Feedback
Find out what other parents say about the product you have in mind. If the product is highly rated by fellow parents, chances are, you’re going to love it too. Get your questions and doubts answered by reading their reviews about the product.
Aesthetics
There are so many designs out there, so which one suits your little one? From bright and colourful prints to muted tones with modern minimalist designs and nature-inspired ones, there’s definitely something for everyone.
Comfort
How quiet is the rocker? Do the manual ones make squeaky sounds when you rock it repeatedly? Is the vibration too loud on the mechanical ones? Is the seat cool or warm enough for your baby? These are important points you need to consider because you want to make sure that your baby stays comfortable in the rocker.
Buying baby products can be overwhelming for a new parent. If you’re not careful, you might end up buying a lot of things that you don’t actually need. Based on our research and years of experience as parents, we think that a baby rocker is a useful thing to have at home, for both parents and baby, indeed.
When Should You Use A Baby Rocker?
Generally, your baby can start using a baby rocker from birth onwards. Some baby rockers are made for newborns up to 6 months, and there are also others that are designed to grow with your baby all the way till toddlerhood. However, as newborns can be so tiny, they might not fit snugly in the seat just yet, so always ensure that you follow the product’s safety precautions. Another important reminder is to never leave your baby asleep in the baby rocker. Follow the safe sleep guidelines to ensure your baby is sleeping safely at all times.
Now that you’ve nailed down all the important considerations, get ready to find the perfect baby rocker for your little one! We have narrowed down 6 of the best baby rockers in Singapore with various designs, functions and price points so you don’t have to look any further. Ready? Let’s go!
Best Baby Rocker In Singapore
Best Baby Rocker for Budget
Why it's good
Fisher-Price built a very durable baby rocker that can last longer than most other chairs on the market. The Fisher-Price Infant-Toddler Rocker grows with your baby: from a very cute rocking chair up till they are 4 years old. Parents can look forward to this rocker's ability to soothe and lull our baby to sleep. For parents looking for an affordable rocker that meets all their basic needs, we recommend Fisher-Price Infant-Toddler Rocker which provides unbeatable value at its price.
Features that we love:
Functionality
- Lightweight and convertible from a rocker into a toddler rocking chair
- Infant to toddler appropriate up to 4 years old (approximately 18kg)
Comfort
- Built-in gentle vibrations that soothe your infant
- 2 reclining positions to ensure that your baby is always comfortable
Entertainment
- Removable toy bar that comes with colourful hanging toys that engage your baby, and encourage your baby to play and develop important motor skills
Best Baby Bouncer for Busy Moms
Why it’s good
For mothers who are busier, this bouncer is a perfect option to choose as it provides a cozy place for your baby to play or rest beside you while you are occupied doing work. It rocks based on fun, gently rocking when babies kick their legs or move their arms. Zero batteries are needed!
Features that we love:
Functionality
- Lightweight and portable for easy use at home
- Baby bouncer and children’s chair in one
Comfort
- Three different positions for play, rest and sleep
- Ergonomically designed
- Fitted fabric seat distributes baby’s weight evenly
Entertainment
- Able to attach colourful rotating toy bars to the sides of the Bouncer for baby to look at and play with
Best for the Busy Parent - Multi-Functional Mechanical Rocker
Why it's good
We love that the Joie Dreamer Rocker also comes with automated rocking based on the baby’s movements. In addition, the bouncer comes with 5 classical lullabies and 5 nature sounds that can quickly lull any baby to sleep. For parents who are looking for a top of the range, tried and tested baby bouncer, we recommend the Joie Dreamer Rocker.
Functionality
- Lightweight, compact and foldable for easy storage in the smallest spaces
- Easy to rock with a push or when baby moves
- Convertible into toddler chair for children up to 13kg
Comfort
- 3 position recline and 2-position adjustable leg rest provide comfort at all times
- Open top design for easy access to baby
Entertainment
- 2-speed soothing vibration pairs with 5 classical lullabies and 5 nature sounds to lull your baby to sleep
- Removable, rotating toy bar with 2 toys to entertain your baby
Best for Large Babies - most heavy duty, spacious and sturdy
Why it's good
We love that Tiny Love’s design easily converts the rocker into a little bassinet for the baby to nap in. For parents that are looking for a multi-functional rocker, Tiny Love is well worth its price.
Features that we love:
Functionality
- Converts into a napper that allows easy transition from rocking your baby to a napping bed
Comfort
- 3 reclining positions with the middle position specially designed to help babies who suffer from reflux digest easily
Entertainement
- Toy bar hones the baby’s fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination when they reach out and bat at the hanging toys
- Calming music and gentle vibrations provide a calm womb-like environment that stimulates the baby’s senses
Best Baby Rocker for On the Go
Why it's good
Lucky Baby Rocker Snoozy is designed to keep your baby comfortable no matter where you are. For parents who are always on the go, Lucky Baby is ideal for travelling, sleepovers, at home, a staycation or even camping.
Features that we love:
Functionality
- Removable mosquito net that shields your baby from insect bites so you can use this rocker no matter indoor or outdoors
- Convertible between rocker, chair or sleeper
Comfort
- 3 reclining positions that cater for feeding, playing or napping
- Adjustable canopy shade that keeps away the glare of the sun from your baby
- 3 level vibrations that create an ideal womb-like environment that soothes and lulls your baby to sleep
Entertainment
- Hanging toy bar that hones the baby’s fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination
- 16 melodies that you can select from to suit your baby's mood
Best Baby Rocker for Curious Babies - Stimulating Toys and Colours
Why it's good
For babies who love cartoons, Bright Starts offers a cute 2-in-1 rocker that features Finding Nemo. Surround your little one with all his favourite Finding Nemo friends. Crush, the sea turtle, has a little baby rattle, and Nemo himself holds a bright starfish toy. Mr. Ray leads the way and hangs out right above your little one with a baby-safe mirror on his tummy.
Features that we love:
Functionality
- Convertible into a toddler chair
- Machine washable covers that make clean up a breeze
Comfort
- Mesh panels and deep cradle seat that provides extra comfort for your baby
Entertainment
- Hanging Toy bar with 2 Finding Nemo toys that will entertain your baby for hours
Best Baby Rocker for Fussy Babies - Most Functions e.g. sounds, vibrations, mobile toys, etc.
Why it's good
We love that this is one of the few rockers on the market that has a dual motion swing that will allow you to rock your baby whichever their preference.
Features that we love:
Functionality
- Soft glow nightlight with 4 light settings that will help your baby fall asleep at night
- Removable and machine washable seat pads
- Convertible into a rocking chair
Comfort
- Dual motion rocking that swings from side to side or back to front depending on how your baby prefers to be rocked
- 3 position recline with 2-speed vibration
- 6 swing speeds that can be adjusted to your baby’s preference
Entertainment
- 5 nature sounds and 5 classical lullabies to soothe your baby
- Hanging toy bar with two toys that will keep your baby occupied
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