Best 5 Baby Rockers For Your Newborn (2023 Comprehensive Reviews)

When you bring your newborn home, you have to bring home a lot of new items too. Preparing for your new arrival can be quite stressful. There are the obvious essentials that you’ll need to buy – cribs, bottles, diapers, clothes. But there are a lot of other helpful items on the market that can make the transition of having a new baby at home a bit easier.

One of those items is a baby rocker. Investing in a good baby rocker will make your life a lot easier throughout the day by providing you with a secure and soothing spot to leave your little one while you tend to daily tasks.

What Are Baby Rockers?

Sometimes, it just isn’t possible to have your baby in your arms. Whether you’re cooking, cleaning, or just need a moment to take care of yourself – a baby rocker is a perfect place to put your child. Babies love the sensation of being gently rocked or bounced and baby rockers give them that comforting feeling even when they can’t be in your arms. If your child is being fussy or having a difficult time getting to sleep, a baby rocker can also help them relax.

Baby rockers are usually set on the floor and provide that gentle rocking motion to help keep them calm. To further aid in relaxation, rockers may also vibrate or play music. Many rockers even come equipped with toys attached to promote independent play time. A baby rocker generally won’t take up a lot of space, and they are usually portable enough to bring all around the house without a hassle.

5 Best Baby Rockers Reviews

One of the first things you’ll notice when you begin researching baby rockers is that there are a ton of options to choose from. Each one is unique in its own right and looking at all of the different features available is enough to leave anyone feeling overwhelmed. But these best baby rocker reviews will help you decide which one is best for your baby and your home.

1. Best Newborn-to-Toddler Rocker: Fisher-Price Newborn-to-Toddler Portable Rocker

Some baby rockers are designed to be used over the course of your child’s first few developmental phases. This newborn-to-toddler rocker by Fisher-Price is made to grow with your baby. It features three different reclining positions one for newborns, one for infants, and one for toddlers. So you’ll be able to get a lot of use out of it. The simple frame, deep seat, and soft cloth are perfect for comforting newborns. The middle incline and engaging toy bar are perfect for stimulating infants while allowing them to be upright observing their surroundings. Later on, it easily converts into a toddler rocking chair.

The vibration setting will soothe your baby, so it’s perfect for little ones that have a hard time settling down. The toy bar has two plush hanging toys that are colorful and occupy infants with interactive playtime. This toy bar is easily removed, so there’s no need to worry that it will become a distraction when trying to get your baby to nap and it won’t get in the way when you’re tending to her. It also plays fun music and sounds to help stimulate all senses.

All of the fabric can be machine washed and dried, making cleanup simple. The frame folds for easy portability and storage when not in use. This model even converts from a rocker to a stationary seat that is perfect for feeding or sleeping. This rocker will hold toddlers up to 40 pounds, and it includes a three-point safety restraint strap, so your child will always be secure in the rocker. It is powered by 1 D battery, so you don’t have to worry about it being plugged in to an outlet. Since it will serve a purpose through several stages of your child’s development, it’s a great buy that will get plenty of use.

2. Best Multifunction Rocker: Tiny Love 3 In 1 Rocker Napper

This is the perfect buy if you’re in search of a rocker that is great for both playtime and sleep. It’s extremely easy to convert between the two functions as it only takes one click of the switch on the back to change its position. This features three different reclining positions, so it’s great for both newborns and infants.

The upright sitting position is perfect for playtime. Featuring several colorful toys and friendly characters, the attached mobile makes for an exciting and stimulating playtime. The mobile is adjustable, so it can easily be moved within baby’s reach. It also plays nine different songs, meaning you’ll never be stuck listening to the same tune over and over again. When reclined, it has a gentle vibrating function that will assist baby in relaxation. When fully reclined, the sides fold up to provide a soothing sleep environment.

This rocker is lightweight and portable, so it’s great to take between rooms, but it does not fold so it isn’t as easy to store as other options. The seat cover is machine washable so you won’t have to worry about a difficult cleanup time when the rocker gets dirty. The rocker itself will need to be rocked by the parent, but the vibrating function is battery powered.

The design of the rocker is sleek, modern, and it’s available in a few different colors – perfect for parents in search of a rocker that blends right into the furniture they already have.

3. For the Tech Savvy Parents: Fisher-Price Premium Auto Rock ‘n Play Sleeper with SmartConnect

Are you someone who enjoys having the ability to control every aspect of your home from your phone? All of the functions of this Fisher-Price rocker can be controlled remotely via an app on your smartphone. Customizing the settings from your phone means that you won’t need to worry about pressing buttons or switches to create the atmosphere your child needs, and you’ll never be disturbing their rest by fiddling with the controls. The app even controls the rocking motion, so it gives you a totally hands-off rocker that will soothe your baby for as much time as you need. Since it doesn’t require you to do anything more than adjust the settings in the app, it’s an excellent rocker for your baby to sleep in overnight. 

There are a few different modes in the app for both sleep and playtime – each of which is completely customizable. Your favorite settings can be saved as presets providing easy access to the ones that baby loves the most.

Another feature that makes this rocker unique is the light show that can be projected onto the canopy. Three different light shows are programmed, so there will always be some variety for your baby to watch, great for both entertaining and soothing children. This canopy is also perfect for keeping direct sunlight out of a baby’s sensitive eyes. To provide further comfort, this rocker features a couple of different vibrating speeds. There are even 20 minutes of songs and sounds to accompany both play and rest. The volume of the music can be controlled right from the app as well.

Unlike some of the other options on this list, the rocker has a fixed incline, so you won’t be able to adjust it in the future. It does have a supportive plastic back and is covered in a soft cushioned fabric, so your baby will be comfortable at all times.

The rocker is simple to fold up, so it’s easy to take it with you or to store it away. It plugs into the wall and has a fairly long cord so you shouldn’t have a hard time positioning it in the room. Cleanup is made easy by the machine washable fabric.

While it provides plenty of great functions that your baby will surely love, it is quite expensive. You’ll want to consider whether or not you’re going to utilize all of the features that it offers, but if you love the convenience of controlling a rocker from your phone, this is the perfect one for your home.

4. Best Swing Combo: Graco DuetSoothe Swing and Rocker

If you know you want both a swing and a rocker for your home, but don’t want to purchase two separate products, this is the perfect product to choose. It is a fully functional swing – featuring six different swing speeds and can be set to swing side-to-side or back-and-forth. In addition to the swinging motion, it also has a vibrating feature with two different speed settings, so there are multiple ways to soothe a fussy baby. But when you need a portable rocker, the seat is easily removable and functions as a manual rocker.

The seat itself can be adjusted into three different positions, so it’s perfect for your baby through the first few stages of development. It’s a deep, secure seat that is soft as well as supportive, so your child will always feel cozy and comfortable.

The overhead mobile has three plush toys for your baby to interact with. It features ten different songs along with five unique nature sounds to stimulate and engage your child. The faster swing speeds add another fun and exciting layer to playtime.

It can be plugged in or used with batteries, so you’ll never be without a power source no matter where you take it. The rocker component is lightweight and is equipped with a handle, so it’s easy to take with you anywhere. However, it doesn’t fold up, and the swing stand is quite large, so it can’t easily be stored away. It will accommodate babies up to 30 pounds and has a five-point safety harness to keep them safe. With all of these customizable settings, you’re sure to find the right combinations to soothe and stimulate your baby.

5. An Ultra-Affordable Option: Bright Starts Jungle Stream Bouncer

This option will provide you will all the benefits of a baby rocker without breaking the bank. The seat is supportive and comfortable for baby, and the gentle vibration function will soothe fussy ones. There is also a toy bar full of stimulating and engaging toys that is easily removable.

This model is lightweight, so it’s easy to carry. The fabric is also machine washable, so it’s easy to clean. Despite not having any fancy features, it will still provide your baby with a comfortable and secure place to sit when they can’t be in your arms. Since it makes sense to try and save money on an item that your baby will only be using for a few months, this is an excellent buy for cost-conscious parents.

What Are The Differences Between Baby Rockers, Baby Swings, and Baby Bouncers?

When looking at all of your options, you’ll quickly see that there are a few different categories of items on the market that seem to serve the same general purpose. But each of these categories has their own nuances, and it’s important to understand them before you decide which one is best for your home. This overview will help you figure out what sets baby rockers, baby swings, and baby bouncers apart.

Baby Rockers

There are two different kinds of baby rockers available: bassinet rockers and inclined rockers. Many rockers on the market now convert between the two and provide the benefits of both functions.

Bassinet rockers often approved for babies to sleep in overnight, so they’re a great option if you might need to put your baby down for an extended period of time or want a portable place for your little one to sleep. These are often powered mechanically and encourage relaxation instead of play.

The inclined rockers are more like small rocking chairs and often come equipped with a toy bar and music to encourage sensory stimulation. This style isn’t meant for the baby to sleep in for extended periods of time but makes for a great place to put your child when you’re taking care of other tasks around the house. Some are powered by a motor or feature a vibrating function, but the rocking motion usually needs to be powered by an adult or the baby’s activity.

Baby Bouncers

Baby bouncers are designed to bounce your baby gently. They are usually simple in design, and the bouncing is initiated by the parent providing a gentle push or in response to the baby’s body movement. Most bouncers are designed to be stimulating, and since babies tend to love the bouncing motion, they are more than capable of keeping it going by kicking their legs and moving their arms. Some models come with toy bars for the babies to swat at and grab.

They’re typically quite small and very portable, making them a great choice to take on the go. Because of their simplicity, they’re usually an affordable option.

Baby Swings

Baby swings are electrically powered units that gently sway the baby back-and-forth. They are on the larger side since the swing needs a stable base and room to sway. Because they are powered by a motor, you won’t have to tend to it – making for an excellent hands-off option. This does make them more expensive than rockers and bouncers but can be worth the money if you need something that will do the work for you.

Some products actually combine these functions. You can find baby swings that are mechanically powered but have a seat that detaches and can convert to a portable baby bouncer. With these options, you’ll have the convenience of a powered swing but the portability of a rocker. Any multifunctional products like these are going to be on the expensive side but can be a worthwhile investment for the range of functions they provide.

[Read More: Best Baby Swing]

What to Look for When Buying a Baby Rocker

There are many nuances and features to consider when purchasing a baby rocker, but what’s truly important is that you have one that’s compatible with your baby’s personality. Every baby has likes and dislikes – much like adults. Some might prefer music; others might love a more visual or hands-on activity. Once you think about that you will get an idea of the different features you might want in the rocker. Of course, there are practical aspects to think about as well. This buying guide will help you decide what features are best for you and your baby when buying a new baby rocker.

The seat

Since this is a place your baby might be spending a lot of time, you’ll want to make sure it’s a seat that can provide your child with a comfortable surface and incline. Newborn babies will need to be reclined, while older babies like to look around and sit in a more upright position. An ideal rocker will have an adjustable seat incline so that your baby can comfortably continue to use it as the months go on. Deeper seats can also provide additional comfort by making the baby feel as though they are gently cuddled by the fabric.

Lights, Toys, and Sounds

What babies find entertaining will vary from child to child. If you already have a sense of what your baby enjoys, you can look for those features in your rocker. But even then, preferences can change. or you might be buying before you have your baby. A variety of toys, lights, and sounds can be ideal. Some rockers even feature an option that allows you to play music from an MP3 player or phone, so your baby can listen to their favorite music.

Stimulating or soothing?

This will depend on how you want the baby rocker to function. If you’re planning on using it as a place for your baby to calm down and nap, you probably won’t want a lot of fancy toys or sounds. A simple option can help them relax as the rocking motion helps them fall asleep. If your child is older and might benefit from some stimulation to keep them occupied, you might want to look into a fancier option that features a good variety of toys and sounds. Many rockers have toy bars that come off easily and can be used for both purposes.

Power Source

If you choose a rocker that is mechanically powered, you’ll want to look into how it’s powered. If the rocker only runs on batteries, there’s a good chance you’ll be going through the batteries quickly. One that needs to be plugged in will limit the portability that you might have been looking for. Thankfully, a lot of these rockers are powered by both, so you can have it plugged in when it’s convenient, but still, have it running on batteries when you need to move it elsewhere.

Portability

Since you’re constantly moving around the house, it can be helpful to have a rocker that is easy to pick up and take with you so that your baby is never too far away. Many rockers are lightweight and easy to move. Some can even conveniently fold up for easy packing.

Is it easy to clean?

Babies are more than capable of making an enormous mess, and they aren’t going to clean it up themselves. A rocker that is easy to clean will make your life a lot easier. Many baby rockers feature waterproof fabric that will be easy to wipe down; others have removable covers that you can put right in the washing machine for easy cleanup.

Safety

It’s important to make sure your baby is going to be safe while in the rocker. All babyrockers should have a safety strap to keep the child secure in the seat as well as a good headrest to protect the baby’s head and neck. Each one will also have age, height, and weight guidelines that are important to observe when picking out a rocker for your child.

Style

As with anything that you bring into your home, you’ll want to make sure you’re happy with the way it looks. Rockers come in fun colors and fabric patterns, but if that’s not what you’re looking for there, are plenty of rockers that are made to blend in with modern furniture styles.

Wrap-up

Taking the time to look over all the different options and features will certainly help you narrow down which baby rocker is best for your baby and your home. Overall the Fisher-Price Newborn-to-Toddler Portable Rocker is the best buy. It comes equipped with all the features a rocker needs to both engage a baby’s senses and also soothe them when it’s time to relax. Since it converts into a rocking chair for toddlers, you’ll also get more use out of this rocker than you would with many others.

No matter what you’re looking for, there’s sure to be a baby rocker that suits your baby’s needs.