However, loungers and similar baby products, including rockers, inclined sleepers, swings, baby pillows, sleep positioners, and nests, can be dangerous if used for sleeping. For example, in June 2022, the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) issued a safety alert against Fisher-Price Rockers linked to 13 infant deaths. (1) Boppy Original Newborn Loungers were recalled last September 2021 due to the risk of suffocation. (2) The manufacturers of these items and similar brands argued that these baby products are safe for babies as long as they’re supervised and not left to sleep unattended.
Are Baby Loungers Worth Your Money?
It depends on your needs. For many new parents, however, this kind of baby gear is a must-have baby essential so their baby can have a comfortable place to relax while the parents rest their tired arms for a while. These products aren’t just for lounging but are also great for tummy time to help your baby exercise and strengthen their neck muscles. They might also prevent flat-head syndrome (which happens when the baby spends too much time lying on their back). Infant loungers and similar products can be worth your money and safe for use as long as your baby is always supervised and never allowed to sleep in them.
Do Babies Like Loungers?
No studies have measured babies’ satisfaction with loungers, but many happy parents shared pictures and rave reviews about these baby products on social media and online stores.
Our Top 8 Picks For The Best Baby Loungers
DockATot Deluxe+ Dock (from 0 to 8+ months old, $175 to $205) – Luxurious lounger with Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Class 1 certification, the world-leading test for harmful substances, such as flame retardants (3)
Babymoov Cosydream Lounger (0-3 months old, $62.99) – Breathable and ergonomic lounger with built-in flat-head pillow
Infantino Prop-A-Pillar Tummy Time & Seated Support (0+ months, $40.99) – Cute lounger and seat positioner with a BPA-free teether (BPA means bisphenol-A, a toxic substance used in plastic manufacturing)
Boppy Original Support for Feeding & Milestones (formerly called Nursing Pillow & Positioner) (0+ months, $30 to $70) – Can be used as a baby lounger, nursing pillow, or seat positioner
Snuggle Me Organic Baby Lounger & Infant Floor Seat (0 to 8+ months old, $109 to $149) – Hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and breathable lounger made from organic cotton fabric with GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification, which means that it’s certified to have a minimum of 70% organic fibers and is free from toxic or harmful chemicals (4)
LaLaMe Organic & Water-Resistant Newborn Baby Nest (0-12 months, $99.99 to $129.99) – Hypoallergenic, waterproof, and odor-resistant lounger with GOTS-certified organic cotton; includes a traveling bag
Lulyboo Bassinet-To-Go (0+ months old, $89.99 to $99.99) – Waterproof, portable bassinet and infant lounger that easily folds into a backpack (straps included)
Original Topponcino Montessori Pillow (0-6+ months old, $49 to $89) – Montessori-based lounger with 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton
Continue reading below for more info about each baby lounger.
Dock-A-Tot Deluxe+ Dock
Price
DockATot Deluxe+ Dock (for 0 to 8+ months old) – $175 to $205 DockATot Grand Dock (for 9 to 36+ months old) – $275 to $310
What Makes It Special?
Flat center with a tube-shaped raised wall, which can keep your baby from rolling over Designed to grow with your baby – can be adjusted using the buckle at the bottom that opens for additional length and space Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Class 1 certification Lightweight and portable
Materials & Safety Features:
Material: 100% cotton cover and polyester fiberfill
Safety: Certified to be free from toxic chemicals, flame retardants, phthalates, and heavy metals
Age Suitability: Up to 9 months old for infant loungers and starting from 9 months old for toddler loungers
Key Features
Machine-washable Pillow/Lounger: No
Removable & Machine-washable Covers: Yes
Other Specifications & Special Features
Dimensions: 29 x 18 inches for the DockATot Deluxe+ Dock; 24 x 48 for the DockATot Grand Dock
Warranty: One year
Quality Or Safety Certifications: Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Class 1 certification, 16 CFR 1500 for durability, British Standard 4578 for breathable baby products, US CPSIA 2008 for general safety, US 16 CFR 1632 and British Standard 4578 for flammability regulations, and other tests for fabric performance, color fastness, firmness, and durability
Product Recall
None
Cons
The product has been linked to two infant deaths. (5) According to Consumer Reports, these DockATot products were marketed to be “ideal for co-sleeping.” However, these items are now recommended only for supervised lounging and playtime on their website. (5)
Babymoov Cosydream Lounger
Price
What Makes It Special?
Developed with a pediatric osteopath (alternative medicine practitioner for physical manipulation of muscle tissue and bones) Breathable and ergonomic baby support Designed to mimic the womb with a cocooning effect to soothe babies and help them transition to the “outside world” Adjustable leg roll, which the brand claims to help reduce the symptoms of colic and reflux Built-in flat-head pillow to reduce the risk of flat-head syndrome
Materials & Safety Features:
Material: Cotton and polyester covers; 100% polyurethane filling
Safety: The material is breathable
Age Suitability: 0-3 months of age
Key Features
Machine-washable Pillow/Lounger: Yes
Removable & Machine-washable Covers: Yes
Other Specifications & Special Features
Dimensions: 16 x 4.3 x 13 inches
Warranty: Not indicated
Quality Or Safety Certifications: Not indicated
Product Recall
None
Cons
The product is only suitable for babies up to three months of age. Some parents complain that the design made it easier for their babies to kick themselves off and out of the lounger.
Infantino Prop-A-Pillar Tummy Time & Seated Support
Price
$40.99
What Makes It Special?
Adorable lounger design Stacks up to create a C-shaped seat positioner for early sitters Doubles as a cuddle toy for your baby Available in different designs (caterpillar, koala, and toucan) Comes with detachable and repositionable toys: a BPA-free textured teether and crinkle-sound sun
Materials & Safety Features:
Material: Polyester lounger with a BPA-free teether
Safety: BPA-free
Age Suitability: 0+ months
Key Features
Machine-washable Pillow/Lounger: Not indicated
Removable & Machine-washable Covers: Not indicated
Other Specifications & Special Features
Dimensions: 12 x 18 x 6 inches
Warranty: Not indicated
Quality Or Safety Certifications: Not indicated
Product Recall
None
Cons
Several parents complain about the lack of support (when used as a seat positioner) and weak velcro that can easily make the parts detach.
Boppy Original Support for Feeding & Milestones (formerly called Nursing Pillow & Positioner)
Price
Bare Naked (without liner or pillow cover) – $30 Printed pillows – $45 Printed deluxe pillows – $60 Custom pillows – $70
What Makes It Special?
Can be used as a baby lounger, nursing pillow, or seat positioner 16 stylish cover designs Removable cover
Materials & Safety Features:
Material: Polyester and cotton
Safety: Free from toxic flame retardants
Age Suitability: 0+ months
Key Features
Machine-washable Pillow/Lounger: Yes, delicate cycle, 65°F – 85°F, and tumble dry low on delicate cycle
Removable & Machine-washable Covers: Yes
Other Specifications & Special Features
Dimensions: 22.5 x 18 x 6 inches
Warranty: Returns accepted 30 days after purchase date for items bought on their official site
Quality Or Safety Certifications: Not indicated
Product Recall
Three models of the Boppy loungers (different from the current one) were recalled in September 2021 due to links with eight infant deaths from 2015 to 2020. (2) Affected products:
Boppy Original Newborn Loungers Boppy Preferred Newborn Loungers Pottery Barn Kids Boppy Newborn Loungers
The recall affected 3.3 million Boppy loungers, which are no longer sold today. (2) Although they voluntarily recalled the products, Boppy stood by the safety of their loungers and explained that these were never marketed as infant sleep products. All reportedly came with warnings against unsupervised use. (2) This recall is still active but doesn’t include the current lounger model (marketed as a nursing pillow, lounger, and seat positioner).
Cons
A different lounger model from the same brand had a recall.
Snuggle Me Organic Baby Lounger & Infant Floor Seat
Price
Infant lounger (0 to 8+ months old) with regular linens – $109 Infant lounger (0 to 8+ months old) with quilted linens – $149 Toddler lounger (9+ months old): $155
What Makes It Special?
Hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and breathable lounger The special center sling design mimics cuddling to tuck your baby in. Organic cotton fabric with GOTS certification The brand claims their products have no reports of infant injury or safety incidents to their hotline, the CPSC (US Consumer Product Safety Commission), or Health Canada.
Materials & Safety Features:
Material: Certified organic cotton and virgin polyester fiberfill
Safety: Certified free from toxic chemicals or flame retardants
Age Suitability: 0-9 months old for infant loungers; 9+ months old as long as they measure 21” (top of their heads to the base of their bums) for the toddler loungers
Key Features
Machine-washable Pillow/Lounger: Yes
Removable & Machine-washable Covers: Yes
Other Specifications & Special Features
Dimensions: 29 x 4 x 18 inches for the infant lounger
Warranty: Six months
Quality Or Safety Certifications: GOTS
Product Recall
None
Cons
The pillow section can’t be placed in the dryer. Some parents complained that the colors bled and ruined the load when they first washed the covers.
LaLaMe Organic & Water-Resistant Newborn Baby Nest
Price
$99.99 to $129.99
What Makes It Special?
Hypoallergenic, waterproof, and certified organic cover GOTS-certified organic cotton Easy-wipe, stain, and odor-resistant fabric Lightweight and portable, with a travel bag included The buckle at the bottom opens to provide more room for your growing baby
Materials & Safety Features:
Material: Certified organic cotton
Safety: Safe, non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and breathable fabrics
Age Suitability: Newborn up to 12 months
Key Features
Machine-washable Pillow/Lounger: Yes
Removable & Machine-washable Covers: The covers are non-removable, but the entire lounger can be machine-washed
Other Specifications & Special Features
Dimensions: 35.0 x 17.0 x 5.0 inches
Warranty: Not indicated, but the brand offers a 30-day return policy
Quality Or Safety Certifications: GOTS (for organic materials)
Product Recall
None
Cons
Only offered in four solid colors Only available in one size Some complaints about the cover easily ripping apart after washing
Lulyboo Bassinet-To-Go
Price
Indoor & outdoor cuddle and play lounge – $89.99 to $99.99 Indoor & outdoor cuddle and play lounge plus+ – $119.99
What Makes It Special?
Portable bassinet and infant lounger that easily folds into a backpack (straps included) Waterproof base with machine-washable fabrics Comes with a canopy to provide shade for your baby if used outdoors Includes two changing pads Features an activity bar with two plush toys Extra storage pocket on one side
Materials & Safety Features:
Material: Cotton and polyester cover with a low-density foam frame
Safety: Free from toxic chemicals and flame retardants
Age Suitability: Not indicated, but are likely to be alright for use with newborns up to a few months old
Key Features
Machine-washable Pillow/Lounger: No
Removable & Machine-washable Covers: Yes
Other Specifications & Special Features
Dimensions: 32 x 17 x 15 inches
Warranty: Not indicated
Quality Or Safety Certifications: Not indicated
Product Recall
None
Cons
The sides are taller than the other baby loungers on our list because it’s designed like a bassinet. This can increase your baby’s suffocation risk, so make sure never to leave your baby unattended in this product (or any baby lounger). Some parents complain about the sides not staying up as intended.
Original Topponcino Montessori Pillow
Price
Original Topponcino – $69 Organic Topponcino – $89 Imperfect Topponcino (with some imperfections in stitching, but still safe for use) – $49
What Makes It Special?
100% GOTS-certified organic cotton Based on Dr. Maria Montessori’s original 1940s mat-like lounger and pillow design Like Montessori-based toys, this Montessori-based lounger is simple but can be suitable for your baby’s needs.
Materials & Safety Features:
Material: Certified organic cotton and finely brushed, French-cotton twill
Safety: Meets or exceeds US safety standards (CPSC) for infants 0-3 years old
Age Suitability: 0-6+ months old
Key Features
Machine-washable Pillow/Lounger: No, spot clean only
Removable & Machine-washable Covers: Yes
Other Specifications & Special Features
Dimensions: 24 x 16 x 1 inch
Warranty: Not indicated
Quality Or Safety Certifications: CPSC
Product Recall
None
Cons
Unlike other loungers with thick, plush sides, this product is only an inch thick.
Summary & Recommendations
We recommend the following baby loungers, but always ensure your baby is supervised and awake while using any of these products. These are also great as baby shower gifts. Here’s a guide to help you choose: Choose DockATot Deluxe+ Dock (0 to 8+ months old, $175 to $205) if:
You prefer a luxurious lounger with Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Class 1 certification You don’t mind its high price tag
Choose Babymoov Cosydream Lounger (0-3 months old, $62.99) if:
You’re looking for a breathable and ergonomic lounger with a built-in flat-head pillow
Choose Infantino Prop-A-Pillar Tummy Time & Seated Support (0+ months, $40.99) if:
You’re looking for a cute lounger and seat positioner You prefer a budget-friendly lounger with extra features (a BPA-free teether)
Choose Boppy Original Support for Feeding & Milestones (0+ months, $30 to $70) if:
You’re looking for a versatile baby lounger that can also be used as a nursing pillow or seat positioner You like to have a customized pillow
Choose Snuggle Me Organic Baby Lounger & Infant Floor Seat (0 to 8+ months old, $109 to $149) if:
You prefer a hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and breathable lounger made from GOTS-certified organic cotton fabric You don’t mind the price tag
Choose LaLaMe Organic & Water-Resistant Newborn Baby Nest (0-12 months, $99.99 to $129.99) if:
You’re looking for a hypoallergenic, waterproof, and odor-resistant lounger with GOTS-certified organic cotton You need a portable lounger that comes with a traveling bag
Choose Lulyboo Bassinet-To-Go (0+ months old, $89.99 to $99.99) if:
You want a waterproof, portable bassinet and infant lounger that easily folds into a backpack
Choose the Original Topponcino Montessori Pillow (0-6+ months old, $49 to $89) if:
You prefer a Montessori-based lounger with 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton
Safety Tips and Advice For Using A Baby Lounger
AAP’s Safe Sleep Guidelines
Baby loungers should never be used for sleeping. Under the Safe Sleep recommendations of the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics), babies should sleep on a firm, flat, non-inclined surface. These can include bassinets, cribs, bedside sleepers, and play yards. (6) Parents and caregivers must never put babies to sleep in products not designed for sleeping or those with an inclined surface (inclination of more than 10 degrees):
Inclined sleepers Infant carriers Infant swings Infant loungers Rockers Car seats Strollers
Supervised Use Only
You can use these baby products for supervised tummy time, lounging, and playtime. Also, ensure that babies are never left unattended inside these loungers, even if they’re awake.
Avoid Use On An Elevated Surface
Only use the baby lounger on the floor, if possible, to avoid fall risks. When used on the bed or another elevated surface, make sure to keep it away from the edge and never leave your baby unattended or unsupervised.
Educate Other Caregivers
Inform other caregivers about the safety risks of putting babies to sleep in infant loungers, using them on elevated surfaces, and leaving babies unsupervised.
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best Baby Lounger
Safety
Always check for baby lounger product recalls and safety alerts. The CPSC plans to recall all inclined sleepers, rockers, and similar baby products in mid-2022 following the passage of Safe Sleep for Babies Act. However, they still haven’t issued the recall as of press time (July 13, 2022). Make sure that the baby product doesn’t contain toxic chemicals such as flame retardants. So, check the product description before buying.
Materials
We recommend choosing baby loungers made of certified organic cotton materials and fabrics, those that meet high safety standards, and products certified to be free from toxic chemicals. It’s for your baby’s safety because their lungs and immune system are still developing. If possible, choose a hypoallergenic, breathable lounger.
Style & Design
Baby loungers come in different designs:
Nest or cocoon – flat or bare middle with thick, plush edges that “hug” your baby Basic lounge pillow Adjustable lounger Oval bassinet Lounger and nursing pillow Lounger with seat positioner Lounger with bouncer chair Lounger with rocker
Portability
Most baby loungers are large and have thick sides to provide a cocoon effect to your little one. However, that also means that most aren’t portable. Some portable options are available, including those with travel bags (LaLaMe Organic) or can convert into a backpack (Lulyboo Bassinet-To-Go).
Length Of Use & Value For Your Money
Most baby loungers have a limited lifespan of around 3-6 months because they’re often designed to offer comfort for newborn babies until they’re ready for tummy time. So, products that grow with your baby or can be used for more than 12 months offer the best value for your money. Some of these can include:
DockATot Deluxe+ Dock (for 0 to 8+ months old) – $175 to $205 DockATot Grand Dock (for 9 to 36+ months old) – $275 to $310 Boppy Original Support for Feeding & Milestones (0+ months old, can be used as a C-shaped kid or nursing pillow) – $30 to $70
Maintenance
Many baby loungers have machine-washable covers, and some even have machine-washable pillows and inserts. These can be great for preserving your loungers and keeping them clean. However, if yours isn’t fully machine-washable, you can hand wash the covers and spot-clean the pillows and inserts. Some parents find it easier to buy at least two lounger covers so they can replace soiled ones and still have some for backup while they’re cleaning the dirty ones.
Waterproof Vs. Breathable
We recommend choosing a breathable lounger over a waterproof one for your baby’s safety. However, as long as your baby is always supervised in their lounger, a waterproof one is a good choice to avoid getting the inner pillow soiled with milk spills (for bottle-fed babies) or diaper leaks.
Budget
Baby loungers are available at a wide range of prices, but the cheapest doesn’t always mean it’s the best buy. Compare the products’ prices and their features to help you choose the one that offers the best value for your money but is also within your budget range.
Does My Baby Need A Lounger?
It’s not a requirement, but many new parents find it a handy product, especially for newborn babies.
Are Infant Loungers Safe?
In general, baby loungers can be safe if used with constant adult supervision and only for activities when your baby is awake. However, the AAP and lawmakers called for their removal from the market due to their links with dozens of infant deaths. (7) Although baby loungers are no longer marketed for sleeping, and manufacturers put safety warnings against their use for sleeping, many parents don’t read the labels and assume that the products are safe for that because they’re still on the market. (6)
When Is It Safe For My Baby To Start Tummy Time?
The AAP recommends tummy time beginning on your baby’s first day at home from the hospital. You can let them have a short tummy time of around 3-5 minutes up to 2-3 times a day, gradually increasing the time when your baby enjoys the activity and fully supporting their heads. WARNING: Tummy time is only for babies who are awake and are being closely watched.
Can My Baby Sleep In An Infant Lounger?
No. Babies should never sleep in an infant lounger.
How Long Can My Little OneSleep In A Lounger?
Even if you’re around to watch them, babies should never be left to sleep in a baby lounger. If you see them looking drowsy or falling asleep in one. Move them to a safe place the AAP recommends for sleeping.
Where Should My Newborn Nap During The Day?
Even if it’s just for a nap, always make sure your baby is on a firm, flat surface without any possible obstructions, such as soft toys, crib bumpers, or blankets. The recommended options are the following nursery furniture:
Cribs Bassinets Play yards Bedside sleepers
Why Are Baby Loungers Not Safe For Sleep?
Some baby loungers might have a flat middle, but most have raised sides that could increase your baby’s risks of suffocation.
How Many Infants Have Died In A DockATot?
DockATot products have been linked to two infant deaths, but the company now puts safety warnings that these items shouldn’t be used for sleeping. (5)
How Long Can A Baby Stay In A Lounger?
There isn’t any guideline on how much time your baby can spend in a lounger. You can check for cues from them instead. If they look uncomfortable, sleepy, or have difficulty in the lounger, you can pick them up and move them to a different place (such as a crib or play yard).
Is A Baby Pillow Safe For A Newborn?
No. Avoid using baby pillows for newborn babies, especially for sleeping.
Other Baby Loungers To Try
Like the baby loungers above, the following can be used for supervised lounging, tummy time, and playtime but should never be used for sleeping:
Baby Bjorn Lounger & Bouncer Mamibaby Extra Plush, Double-Sided Baby Lounger Nest & Baby Pillow Fisher-Price Infant-to-Toddler Rocker Chair Utopia Bedding Cuddling Baby Pillow/Lounger Miracle Baby Cosleeping Multifunctional Baby Pillow/Lounger KeaBabies Spine-Friendly Ergonomic Baby Pillow/Lounger Mestron Portable Baby Lounger Cosy Nation Baby Lounger Tadpoles Moses Basket Leachco Podster
REFERENCES (1) https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/fisher-price-infant-toddler-rockers-deaths-cradle/ (2) https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/shopping/2021/09/23/boppy-recall-lounger-pillows-recalled-after-baby-deaths-suffocation/5826713001/ (3) https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/apply-here/standard-100-by-oeko-tex (4) https://global-standard.org/the-standard/gots-key-features/ecological-and-social-criteria (5) https://www.consumerreports.org/child-safety/more-infant-sleep-products-linked-to-deaths-a1380476200/ (6) https://www.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/aap/2022/american-academy-of-pediatrics-updates-safe-sleep-recommendations-back-is-best/ (7) https://www.consumerreports.org/child-safety/cpsc-stopping-sale-of-dangerous-baby-sleep-products-a6728402111/
