How to Choose the Right Baby Rocker

Time to read 3 min

How to Choose the Right Baby Rocker

As soon as your baby comes out of your womb, all you would want to do is to hold and cuddle them all day!


But there will definitely be a time where you need your hands free for other tasks or chores at home. 


This is where a baby rocker comes in handy -- a safe place for your little one to relax, or nap in, and even a place to feed them. 


If you’re thinking of purchasing one, keep reading. Below, we’ll list out a few things you need to consider before buying a baby rocker for your child.

parents playing with their newborn baby in Hauck’s Alpha Bouncer

Is it safe enough?

Of course, safety is top priority when picking a baby rocker. But how do you measure exactly how safe it is?


Check if the rocker is made of high-quality, durable materials. You should also look at the sturdiness of the frame and how it’s constructed so you know that it won’t tip over easily.


Brands that manufacture baby products go through basic product testing and will be deemed certified safe if they’ve passed all safety tests and procedures. Companies like the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), as well as Juvenile Products Manufacturers Associations (JPMA) are some of the organisations that ensure safe and quality products are being used by consumers. It never hurts to check if these products are certified safe by these companies too!

mom flicking the safety mechanism of Hauck_s Alpha Bouncer

Is it easy to move around?

As you move around the house, you’re most likely going to move your baby and the rocker around the house with you so you can keep an eye on your little one. So, you may want to choose something that’s light and portable. 


This will also come in handy if you choose to bring the rocker along when you visit a friend’s home!

Do you have enough space for the rocker?

Before investing in a baby rocker, be sure that you have ample space wherever you’ll be using it the most, whether in the nursing room or living room.


It’s helpful to first measure the available space you have before shortlisting rockers you’d like to purchase! 


(Keep in mind that you may want to have it stored away when it’s not in use, so just be sure you make space for that too.)

Mom preparing meal for baby in Hauck_s Alpha Bouncer
newborn baby sleeping on Hauck_s Alpha Bouncer in the kitchen

What’s the purpose of the baby rocker?

Figure out whether the rocker is for you to put your baby down in so your hands are free, for you to put your baby in during feeds, or simply for relaxing and playing. 


This makes a difference because some rockers are basic and plain, making it purely a space for you to lay your baby in while you keep watch of him.


But some rockers come with the option of attaching toys to them to stimulate your baby’s senses, and others even come with lights and music! 


If you’re not sure which to choose, there are options that are suitable for all of these purposes -- feeding, playing, or for simply relaxing!

Is it easy to clean?

You may also find yourself feeding your baby in his rocker. While that makes it more convenient for you, your little one may just end up making a mess while being fed!


Thus, it’s best to look for a rocker that is easy to clean -- search for one that has a removable and easy-to-wash cover!

Is it versatile?


Are you looking for extra features that could come in handy like adjustable backrests or a bouncing function? 


There are rockers like the Ergonomic Baby Bouncer & Rocker from Hauck which have rocking as well as bouncing functions. This specific one even comes with a movable toy arch! 


There are also multifunctional ones like the Hauck’s Alpha 2-in-1 Ergonomic Baby Bouncer, which is a bouncer that can be attached to an Alpha+ Wooden Highchair. Now you can have your baby “seated” at the table with you while you have your own meals too!


How long can you use it for?


Most rockers last up until your child is 9 months old. Others can be transformed into seats for when your child becomes a toddler. 


So it’s best to consider whether you want something that’s good up until their toddler years, or an option that’s good for a shorter amount of time.


Check out the Doomoo Seat & Swing: Adaptable Cotton Bean Bag that can be used from birth and holds up to 25kg. This is a great option for those who are looking for a bouncer or rocker that lasts.

family eating breakfast with baby on hauck_s alpha bouncer

More on Baby Rockers

A baby rocker may not be the safest place for your baby to snooze in, so if your baby is prone to falling asleep in a rocker, consider baby cribs with rockers, like Hauck’s Dreamer Bedside Cot & Rocking Cradle. They’re bedside cots with a lockable rocking function, so you can bounce your baby to dreamland more safely! 


Visit our website, book an appointment at our ware studio, or check out our virtual showroom to discover our range of baby and nursery products!