Both types of bouncy seats can come with numerous features to enhance the experience for baby, or you can purchase a simple model that just gets the job done. Since shopping for a bouncy seat with options galore can become overwhelming, consider the following before you make your purchase:
1. Sturdiness: The baby’s safety should always come first when choosing your bouncy seat. Look for a seat with a wide base that will not pose the risk of tipping over while baby is in it.
2. Safety Straps: Choose a bouncy seat with safety straps that will keep baby secure and not allow baby to slip out the bottom or crawl out when the time comes for baby to be able to do so. Most bouncy seats come with safety straps that cross over the waist and buckle to a strap that comes up between the legs.
3. Comfort: Look for a bouncy seat that will give your baby’s body the proper support it needs, while also provides comfort for baby. Check for sufficient padding in the right areas.
4. Portability: Finding a bouncy seat that is easy to carry is important since you might often be moving the seat from room to room or carrying it with you when you travel.
5. Adjustable Speeds or Vibration: Most battery-operated bouncy seats have different speeds to choose from so that you can find the right rhythm for baby. Many of the framed bouncers come with a vibration option that is battery-operated as well. Both of these movements are hard for baby to resist when he is tired and having trouble napping in other places.
6. Sounds and Music: As mentioned before, bouncy seats can serve as toys as well as soothing devices. Bouncy seats can come with a variety of melodies to choose from as well as lights and sound effects that are sure to intrigue baby. Or, if baby is ready to relax you can choose from sounds such as heartbeats, waves or lullabies.
7. Canopy: If you think you might use your bouncy seat outdoors, look for one that comes equipped with a canopy to shield baby’s skin and eyes from the sun.
8. Toy Bar: Another form of entertainment comes in a toy bar that arches over the baby sitting in the bouncy seat. These toy bars encourage baby’s kicking and grasping skills and can provide hours of enjoyment for baby.