Are you a new mom feeling overwhelmed with all the options while shopping for baby essentials? It can be particularly tricky to choose between a swing and a bouncer, especially when there are so many other items that demand your attention.
Do you need a baby swing and bouncer? Are they even worth it?
Finding the right place in your budget and home for a swing or bouncer may seem daunting, but knowing the key differences between them can help make this decision easier.
Read on to learn more about what sets swings apart from bouncers so that you can find the perfect option for your baby!
What Are Baby Swings and Bouncers?
Baby swings and baby bouncers are both fantastic products designed to soothe, entertain, and help care for your baby. Each has its own individual advantages that make them stand out.
A baby swing is a chair device that typically uses an electric motor for continuous swinging motion. They allow your infant to lay back in comfort snugly buckled into the swing’s seat while being swayed gently from side to side – a great source of soothing motion for the baby.
Baby bouncers, on the other hand, essentially provide a space for your infant to sit propped up safely. It is not a full recline like a baby swing. Your baby can sit in this chair from a newborn because it provides support for their back, neck, and head. You can tend to or play with your baby while they are in the bouncer. Or your baby can sit in it, while in your view, and you can do things around the home.
The major difference between baby bouncers and swings is that bouncers have no electric motor. Any rocking your baby does in a bouncer will be done manually by your hands or with your foot. Your baby can also learn how to rock a bouncer with their own movements.
With that being said, there are products that can both swing and rock, but this item would typically be called a baby swing as opposed to a bouncer only. If you see a product labeled as a combo of these functions, it’s probably a baby swing.
Is One Option Better Than The Other?
The ideal age range to use a baby swing or bouncer is anywhere from newborn up until they start sitting upright unassisted, usually around 5-6 months old.
These products can be great in aiding your little one toward development in several ways:
-The gentle swinging movement of a baby swing may help to soothe and calm them.
-They can give caregivers a much needed break from constantly holding or rocking their baby to sleep.
-Swings and bouncers also help to ease some of the major discomforts newborns experience such as gas, constipation, spit-up and colic.
-Most swings also come with soothing music and soft lights that can act as a great sleeping aid for babies.
-With adjustable speeds available on many swing models, they can be used to satisfy individual babies’ needs for comfort and relaxation.
Is a bouncer or swing better for babies?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as the decision ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the needs of your baby.
If you’re looking for a device that can help soothe and entertain your little one, then a swing may be the best choice. If you need something more portable that you can also take with you when visiting friends or family, then a bouncer may be the better option.
Choosing Between A Bouncer Or Swing
Choosing the right baby gear can be hard, and you want to feel like you’re making the best choice.
You already have many decisions like deciding between receiving blankets vs. swaddle, but these two items are fairly large and can be expensive.
So here’s what you really should consider when making this choice.
First, consider the size of the space you have in your home. If the room is small, a bouncer may be best since it takes up less space than a swing.
Additionally, assess how often you plan on using the product and if you would prefer the manual motion of a bouncer or the automated motion from a swing.
Baby swings are also more expensive compared to baby bouncers, and if you don’t plan on using it often, then perhaps a bouncer is the way to go.
Keep in mind that even with the most carefully thought out plan there is always a chance that your baby won’t like either item! Your baby could hate sitting in the swing or rocker and cry to get out!
Most stores will accept baby gear returns, for this reason, so make sure you purchase from a store with a return policy.
You can return things from your baby registry on Amazon within 365 days of purchase. Double check the return policy for other baby registries if you received your bouncer or swing as a gift.
Using Your Baby Swing and Bouncer Safely
No matter which product you choose, it’s important to make sure that you follow the safety guidelines.
Be sure to secure your swing or bouncer on a flat surface, and never leave your baby unattended in either device.
Since babies can easily become entwined in straps and safety belts, always secure them when using the swing or bouncer.
It’s also important to inspect both products periodically for any wear and tear and make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning.
Finally, never use a baby seat that has been recalled for safety reasons. Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website for more information on product recalls.
When it comes to choosing between a bouncer or swing for your baby, there is no definitive answer. It all depends on your personal preferences and the needs of your child. We’ve outlined some factors to consider when making this decision, but ultimately it comes down to what will work best for you and your family. Be sure to follow the safety guidelines for either product and inspect them periodically for any wear and tear.
Related: Free Newborn Baby Checklist