Parenthood is one of life’s greatest joys, but we can’t deny that it’s also one of life’s greatest challenges. It’s no surprise that the baby gadget industry is huge — we’re all just trying to find ways to make parenting easier!
One of the biggest changes you face as a new parent is balancing your own day-to-day life by taking care of your little one. It’s a major adjustment and not one that’s easy to make. Even your babies’ nap time doesn’t give you much rest because soon enough, they’re crying out for you again.
If this sounds like you, buying a baby lounger could change your life. A baby lounger gives both you AND baby some much-needed rest…and you can do chores and work in peace. It’s hard to pick between the hundreds of baby loungers on the market. This buyer’s guide will help you choose the best baby lounger for you and your little one.
Top 4 Baby Loungers Comparison Chart
- 3 layers for maximum comfort and support
- Safety-tested in both the US and Europe
- Made of chemical-free organic cotton and virgin polyester fiber
- Unique snuggling sensation
- Adjustable sling-type design
- Removable, washable cover
- Ergonomic indented center pad
- Wipeable fabric
Table Of Contents
- Things To Consider When Buying A Baby Lounger
- Benefits of A Baby Lounger
- Best Baby Lounger Reviews
- Conclusion
Things To Consider When Buying A Baby Lounger
Many baby loungers will try and tempt you with fancy features and new technologies, which only distract you from what’s really important. Before you spend your hard-earned cash on a new baby lounger, keep in mind these major dealbreakers.
Comfort
One of the most important factors in buying baby loungers is comfort. All of the fun designs and awesome features in the world won’t matter if your baby doesn’t feel cozy and snug. The right baby lounger will be firm enough to support your little one’s weight while also being soft and gentle on their delicate skin.
Durability
Even if your baby is past their teething phase, you’ll want a baby lounger that lasts long enough to be worth the price tag. Baby loungers can and will deteriorate over time because of frequent washing and use. Some will be made of extra-strong material or have a removable cover to extend its lifespan.
Size
Some loungers can only support up to a certain size or weight. These loungers will need to be replaced as your baby grows and develops. Others are adjustable and will be able to support your baby well past their first year.
Safety
The last thing you want is for your new baby lounger to pose a risk to your baby! A good baby lounger will keep your baby safe and sound by preventing cramps, rolling over, or suffocation. Remember that most baby loungers are not recommended for sleepy time, only for supervised naps and daytime lounging.
Value For Money
A high-quality baby lounger doesn’t have to come at high prices. Find one that fits your budget so that you still have money left over to take care of the baby’s other needs. Still, a baby lounger is a great investment. While more expensive isn’t always better, don’t try and save a few bucks by going for a low-quality or unsafe baby lounger.
Benefits Of A Baby Lounger
Still not sure why you’d need a baby lounger? Here are some of the ways that a baby lounger can help you and your baby.
Have Hands-Free Quality Time
Have you ever put your baby down for just a second while you answered the phone or washed the dishes? Were you immediately greeted by loud cries from your little one? If it’s becoming a problem, then a baby lounger could be a good solution.
Nothing is as good as mama’s hugs, but a baby lounger can simulate that experience for your baby. You can provide them with some snug comfort while leaving your hands free for other things.
Bring And Use Anywhere
Unlike baby bouncers, swings, and cribs, a baby lounger can be easily packed up into a car or moved around the house. You can have much more quality time with your little one because you can bring them virtually anywhere. Bring baby outdoors or to a friend’s house while still giving them something familiar and comforting.
Support Baby’s Needs
Baby loungers are more than just a soft place for your baby to rest. It can also give them the necessary support that results in healthy, well-developed bones. Baby loungers often have neck support for their delicate spines or leg elevation that promotes proper hip development.
Plus, the baby lounger gives baby a great 360-degree view. Their surroundings will keep their mind active and prevent them from getting too bored.
Best Baby Lounger Reviews
We took a look at four of the most popular baby loungers you can buy: the Dockatot Deluxe, Leachco Podster, Snuggle Me Organic, and the Boppy Newborn Lounger. Which one came out on top? Read on to find out.
Dockatot Deluxe
On the more expensive end of the spectrum is the Dockatot Deluxe. This baby lounger is super comfortable and comes in a wide variety of different color covers that your baby will love. You’re also assured that it’s safe since it’s been tested in both the US and Europe!
| Editor’s Rating 80/100 | Overview Comfortable, breathable fabric 3 layers: base pad, cushion tube, and cover Certified safe in both the US and Europe |
Product Highlights
The Dockatot Deluxe baby lounger comes in three parts: the firm mattress pad, a soft cushion tube, and a cotton fabric cover. It features an indented center area, surrounded by elevated sides to support the baby’s head and limbs.
The Good
Besides being super lightweight, comfortable, and portable, the Dockatot Deluxe also comes in many different designs and colors. All of the parts can be bought separately to replace the old ones, effectively extending the lifespan of this incredible lounger. Plus, the materials and construction are guaranteed safe for your baby.
The Bad
The Dockatot Deluxe is more expensive than the other loungers on this list. Also, it’s non-expandable, which means that you can’t adjust the lounger to accommodate your baby’s growth and development.
Buyer Reviews
There’s no shortage of positive reviews for this product! Other parents found that it delivers on its promises of comfort and safety. The major downside is really the price and how it’s not adjustable, but many still agree that it’s still worth all the other benefits.
| Pros | Cons |
| Super comfortable construction Guaranteed safe for baby’s use Replaceable parts | Expensive Not adjustable |
Snuggle Me Organic
If you’re the kind of mom who loves the healthy, organic lifestyle, then the Snuggle Me Organic is a good choice for you. This soft lounger/pillow has a cozy, ergonomic design that pulls inward and “hugs” your baby.
| Editor’s Rating 85/100 | Overview Strapless/zipperless design Completely machine-washable |
Product Highlights
Manufactured in the US and certified organic by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), the Snuggle Me Organic cushion is a safe and comfortable option for your baby. The lounger comes in baby blue, pink, green, and natural.
The Good
This lounger is made only from high-quality natural materials like organic cotton. This material is lightweight, breathable, and completely free of any toxic chemicals that might harm your baby. It also creates a very unique sensation of being cuddled which can comfort your little one while you are busy.
The Bad
Like the Dockatot Deluxe, The Snuggle Me Organic is one of the pricier options. It also can’t be expanded, so you’ll likely have to get a new lounger once your baby hits the 10-month mark.
Buyer Reviews
Buyers were initially skeptical about the cost but don’t regret buying it in the long-run. It’s still an incredibly safe and luxurious cushion that their babies enjoyed relaxing in.
| Pro | Cons |
| Safe, organic materials Zipperless design Machine-washable | Expensive Not adjustable Limited colors |
Leachco Podster
Our top pick (and arguably the best baby lounger hands-down) is the Leachco Podster. It won out in every category, especially in comfort, durability, and washability. It’s so reliable that even infant daycare centers use this to provide somewhere oft and relaxing for babies to play and nap in.
| Editor’s Rating 86/100 | Overview Durable fabric Expandable sling seat Removable washable cover |
Product Highlights
The biggest difference between the podster and other loungers is that it has an expandable design. You can adjust the sling-type center and tabs to create a good fit for your baby, even as they get a little bit older and bigger.
The Good
The Leachco Podster is a super-secure, super comfortable baby lounger. Featuring an elevated neck support and sides, the podster is a good choice for babies with reflux, breathing problems, or a tendency to roll over. There’s also a removable washable cover that makes clean up quick and hassle-free.
The Bad
This baby lounger isn’t recommended for baby to sleep or nurse in. Its bulky size is also not ideal for transporting. However, this is a downside to most baby loungers, so we’ll give Leachco a pass on this one.
Buyer Reviews
There isn’t much you can dislike about the Leachco Podster. Some reviewers say it’s actually so comfortable that their babies fall asleep in it too easily. Others just say that their babies didn’t take to it. Overall, it’s a good fit for most families, especially because of its affordable price tag.
| Pros | Cons |
| Reasonably-priced Adjustable sling-type design Removable washable cover | Can’t be used for sleeping or nursing Bulky |
Boppy Newborn Lounger
From the famous baby gear manufacturer Boppy, the Newborn Lounger is an affordable baby lounger that lets you enjoy quality time completely hands-free. Smaller infants will enjoy its snug, cozy fit while bigger babies can go for the Original Boppy Pillow instead.
| Editor’s Rating 77/100 | Overview Adjustable design Carry strap Machine-washable |
Product Highlights
The Boppy Newborn Lounger is a small cushion with a firm inner padding. The indentation ensures that your baby’s body is properly supported while preventing them from injury or risk. You can choose from a wide range of fun yet tasteful unisex designs.
The Good
The whole lounger is completely machine washable, so you can just throw it in the wash to clean it up. The carrying strap makes it a lot easier to bring your baby to different parts of the house or even outdoors. The center indent is a smart design that easily secures your little one in place, so you don’t have to worry about their safety.
The Bad
As the name implies, this baby lounger can only handle small infants up to 16lbs. There’s also no removable fabric cover, so the lounger tends to deteriorate with each use and wash.
Buyer Reviews
With over a thousand reviews and an almost perfect 5-star rating, the Boppy Newborn Lounger is a solid pick for the mom on a budget. We have to dock some points for the non-removable cover, especially since repeated washing can wear it down. However, this can be avoided by washing it on a gentle cycle or by putting a water-proof blanket between your baby and the cushion.
| Pros | Cons |
| Ultimate head and neck support Easy carry strap Affordable price | Supports only babies up to 16lbs No removable covers |
Conclusion
A baby lounger is a great investment. Not just for your baby, but for you as well! You can spend more time with your little one without sacrificing your everyday responsibilities.
The Leachco Podster came out as the best baby lounger because of its adjustable design, competitive price, and removable washable covers. But if you want to splurge a little, go for the Snuggle Me Organic to give your baby a healthy, happy cuddle each time you use it.