14 best baby bouncers and rockers 2023

As much as we love holding and cuddling our little bundles of joy, there are times when we need to put them down so we can use both hands every now and then (although we mums are pros when it comes to one-handed tea making)! Just like with the best baby swings, the best baby bouncers and rockers are great for those very moments.

They keep our little ones entertained - especially if the chairs have toys attached to them. They're also great for those times when you need a helping hand in getting them off to sleep as the gentle bounce or vibrations of a rocker or bouncer get them quickly drift off.

There are loads of different rockers and bouncers available on the market. We've rounded up some of our favourites from the Mother&Baby awards that were rated highly by our mum testers.

The best baby bouncers and rockers

Best baby bouncers and rockers FAQs

Do you need a baby bouncer?

Yes! Having somewhere safe to lay your baby is essential. While a baby bean bag or playmat on the floor can do the job, a bouncer is a safer option – you won’t have to worry about the baby suddenly figuring out how to roll across the room when your back is turned. It’s also useful for when your baby is tired, when they may object to being popped on a stimulating playmat. A bouncer will buy you a little time hands-free, which is worth its weight in gold when you’re a new mum and your little one isn't old enough to pop into a highchair. Most are suitable from birth until around six months, although some can be used for much longer.

When your little one outgrows a baby bouncer, you can then start to look for a door bouncer or baby jumper to keep them happy and entertained.

What to look for in a baby bouncer

Seat recline position: A bouncer seat with adjustable recline settings offers much better value for money than one with a fixed chair, as you can lay it back for short naps or make it more upright as your baby grows. It’s a must if your baby suffers from reflux.

Harness: This keeps your baby safe and secure in the seat, so make sure it feels substantial. Check that you can fasten it and unbuckle it easily with one hand.

Carry handle: A useful extra if you’re likely to move the chair between rooms frequently.

Toy bar: This gives your baby something to focus on and bat at with their hands and feet, which helps to keep the momentum of the bouncy chair going. Check that they will be able to reach the toys though, otherwise, they’ll just get frustrated.

Newborn insert: This offers extra support and comfort for your newborn. It should support their head and prevent them from slouching over to one side.

Vibrating function: Many chairs have various vibrating settings, which can really help to settle some babies.

Future-proofing: Some bouncer chairs convert to seats for older children. Think carefully about whether you want this extra functionality, and if you’re prepared to pay more for it.

How much will a baby bouncer cost me?

There’s a huge difference in cost - in our round-up, the options range from £39.99 to £225. This is a piece of kit you’ll use a lot, and if you have more children, will need to stand the test of time – so do think in terms of value for money rather than pound signs. Check out the resale value on eBay when you’re setting your budget, too – some models fetch high prices secondhand.

What to consider when buying baby bouncers and baby rockers:

How sensitive is your baby?

Some bouncers convert your baby’s wriggles into soothing movement, while others do the swaying for them. What one newborn finds calming, another may find overstimulating, so consider whether they need less or more when it comes to entertainment!

How portable do you need your baby bouncer to be?

If you move around the house a lot throughout the day, a bouncer chair that’s easy to carry with you is a must – though you should always take your baby out of the seat before you move it. Some are light and even have carrying handles for this purpose, whereas others are designed to be left permanently in one spot.

Will you store it away?

Some mums like to clear the baby clutter away at the end of the day and reclaim their living rooms, and some bouncers are designed to be folded for easy storage.

Do you want it to look good?

There’s a real divide between contemporary chairs that make a design statement and more traditional-style of bouncer seats.

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.