baby in a baby jumper, smiling, on a blue background

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Baby jumpers are a busy parent’s best friend. Even if you genuinely love hugging and cuddling your little one, you need to eat, take care of household chores, or — gasp — just sit down and take a break!

A baby jumper frees up your hands and safely keeps your baby occupied so you can take a breather. Plus, it’s a great way for them to start playing independently.

We will jump through the various types of baby jumpers, as well as best safety practices, and highlight some of the parent-recommended picks.

While the terms are often used interchangeably, you’ll often find jumpers lumped into the same category as baby bouncers and swings.

They are not the same even though they perform the same jobs.

“Let’s break down the different categories and discuss when it’s safe for baby to use them.”

Baby bouncers, rockers, and swings (oh my!)

A baby bouncer is a seat that is low to the ground and moves your baby to soothe them.

There are both manual and powered options. The powered options can also include lights, music, sounds, and even mobiles to keep your baby entertained.

“If the swings, rockers, and bouncers provide complete support for the newborn’s head and neck, they can be safe.”

Baby jumpers

In contrast to all of the above, a jumper is only safe when your baby can fully hold their head up unassisted. This is usually around 6 months old.

There are a variety of styles of jumpers, including freestanding, with a supporting frame, or styles that must be secured to a structure like an interior door frame.

Jumpers are great, but they are not without risks.

If you are considering adding a jumper, bouncer, swing, or rocker to your collection of baby gear, you should keep in mind the important safety precautions.

No sleeping in a jumper

“Many parents fall back on jumpers, bouncers, swings, and rockers as a napping space because they aren’t usually ideal for sleeping. This is a big no-no.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly discourages parents from using sitting devices as sleep spaces because they can increase the risk of suffocation or airway obstruction in infants. Sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS, is also a concern when a baby is in an unusual sleeping position.

Check your frames

If you choose a freestanding jumper or one that must be mounted to a door frame or ceiling, you should always make sure that the jumper is securely set up before placing your child in it.

No parent wants to imagine that their mountings will wear out.

Adult supervision required — always

Remember that your jumper is not a substitute for adult supervision.

When your baby is in their jumper, bouncer, swing, or rocker, you should never leave them unattended. It is easy for babies in mounted jumpers to knock their heads into the door frame.

Always check whether or not your current model is listed under a product recall (the Safer Products website is a good place to check). And be sure to register your bouncer so that you’ll receive product updates and recall notifications if they occur.

You can find wheeled baby jumpers. These look like a modified walker.

Though this may seem like a tool that could help baby learn to walk, the AAP has called for a ban on wheeled walkers in the United States. The largest reason for this ban is the risk of injury to children.

Some sources claim that using wheeled walkers can delay the walking milestone. At least one 2017 study found no obvious pattern of developmental delays in babies who use walkers compared to babies who don’t.

Even still, this 2018 study by the AAP suggests that not using baby walkers is an easy way to prevent injury in infants and young children.

Limit jumper time

It is not recommended to let your baby spend all day jumping. Experts recommend limiting jumper time to a few short sessions each day.

The concern is that the soft cloth seat in the jumper can put your baby in an awkward position that can delay their crawling and walking development.

We know it can be hard to pick the right jumper for your home.

Installation, jumper type, additional features, stability, ease of use, and parental feedback were some of the factors we focused on.

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $70
  • $$ = $71-$110
  • $$$ = over $110

Best baby jumper for small spaces

Outing Man Door Jumper

  • Price: $$
  • Weight limit: up to 33 lbs.
  • Pros: large age range up to 24 months, easy installation and removal, adjustable straps
  • Cons: door frame installation requires crown molding — cannot be installed on smooth entryway frames

“If you can’t fit a hanging jumper in your closet, an old-school style one can be your best bet. The Outing Man solution can accommodate children from infancy through 24 months of age.”

The included clamps can be used to attach the jumper to the beam.

The straps adjust so the jumper can grow with the baby. You can change the length of the swing from 68.6 inches to 78.7 inches.

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Best baby jumper with added activities

Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo

  • Price: $$
  • Weight limit: up to 25 lbs.
  • Pros: freestanding design, fun activities to keep little ones engaged, fully covered springs for added protection
  • Cons: some parents may be displeased that the plastic portions contain phthalates

When a jumper comes with additional activities, it helps keep the baby engaged and gives you a break.

The option from Fisher-Price is portable. The frame is thin and durable, making it easy to transport from room to room.

Parents say that this jumper is worth it for all the built-in activities. Babies will be excited by the toys that include sounds and movement.

“The fabric-covered spring safety feature protects baby’s fingers, and parents like the three height options. This portable jumper can be assembled quickly, compared to the ones that need to be installed into a door frame.”

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Best design-friendly baby jumper

Graco Doorway Bumper Jumper

  • Price: $
  • Weight limit: up to 25 lbs.
  • Pros: simple and easy to install, adjustable straps, more structured seat provides better support, detachable toys keep little ones entertained
  • Cons: lower maximum weight limit, can only be installed on doorway frames with crown molding

Baby jumpers can be overwhelming. If you are worried about your home looking like a day care center, this jumper from Graco could be the option for you.

The hanging jumper is easy to install. You can easily move this jumper to different rooms. Reviewers say that the door frames are not marked with the clamp.

The Bumper Jumper has two toys that baby can play with, and there is an adjustment strap that you can use to adjust the height. If your door or entry frame lacks crown molding, you will need to modify the jumper to work.

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Best budget-friendly baby jumper

Bright Starts Bounce Bounce Baby

  • Price: $$
  • Weight limit: up to 25 lbs.
  • Pros: affordable option for all budgets, sturdy stationery design, 360-degree spinning chair, 3 height adjustments to grow with baby
  • Cons: lower weight limit, sharp edges on legs can pose injury risk for baby

It is natural that you would not want to spend a lot of money on a baby toy that will only last a short time in your home.

Bright Starts has a play station that is budget-friendly and still has plenty of fun for your baby to enjoy.

The play station has a bounce pad that can be adjusted to three heights to grow with your baby and a chair that can spin. The continuous toy bar is where your child can easily access all the toys. The seat pad is machine washed.

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Best baby jumper for travel

Summer Pop ‘n Jump Portable Activity Center

  • Price: $$
  • Weight limit: up to 25 lbs.
  • Pros: compact, travel-friendly design, includes UV canopy, supports indoor/outdoor use, comes with a travel tote
  • Cons: lower maximum weight capacity, lightweight fabric is prone to ripping, shorter height may make this unrealistic to use with older babies

“When you travel with a baby, space is at a premium. The portable pick from Summer’s infant line could be the solution.”

The tote bag and lightweight design of this jumper make it suitable for trips to the park, beach, or even to visit friends and family in far- flung places.

The baby is protected from the sun with a UV canopy that isremovable. Reviewers say that their children love jumping in this and that they enjoy the built-in toys, which include a rattle, teether, spinner ball, and a mirrored book.

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Best freestanding baby jumper

Jolly Jumper with Stand

  • Price: $$$
  • Weight limit: up to 28 lbs.
  • Pros: indoor/outdoor support, durable frame, easy installation thanks to freestanding design
  • Cons: product information states it can be used with babies as young as 3 months but babies need good neck/head control — a milestone that happens around 6 months

“Not everyone is comfortable with hanging jumper that needs to be mounted or put on a door frame. This jumper from Jolly Jumper is free standing. It’s a great place for your baby to play.”

The fold-flat stand has four legs for increased stability. It is designed for both indoor and outdoor use and its seat provides full spine support.

The product description says it is safe for babies as young as 3 months old. Your child needs full head control before using a jumper.

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Best baby jumper for heavy babies

Evenflo Exersaucer Fast Fold & Go

  • Price: $$
  • Weight limit: up to 35 lbs.
  • Pros: higher weight limit, 3 height adjustments, activity center, 360-degree swivel seat, a fold-flat design that saves space
  • Cons: complex process (including unsnapping toys) is required to fold this toy flat — increasing the risk of losing something in the process

This is another option that’s not a traditional jumper, but still a very fun bouncy play station. It not only folds flat for easy storage, but it also offers the largest weight capacity of all the picks in our roundup. The Fast Fold & Go can accommodate children up to 35 pounds!

The play station has a toy bar that plays sounds and a hanging mobile that is fun for little ones. The bouncy seat has different height adjustments and is able to change its position.

The fold-flat design can be used in tight spaces or to keep it out of sight. It is a great option for when you want to visit the grandparents, because it has a travel bag.

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Best musical jumper

Baby Einstein Neighborhood Symphony Jumper

  • Price: $$
  • Weight limit: up to 25 lbs
  • Pros: freestanding, stationery design; 360-degree activity center; adjustable straps to change height as baby grows
  • Cons: lowest setting (for 6-month-olds) may be too low for taller babies, more determined babies may be able to remove some of the detachable centerpieces

The Baby Einstein brand focuses on introducing classical music to children. The Neighborhood Symphony jumper can support up to 25 pounds. It has an activity center with music, sounds, and the ability to interact in multiple languages.

The bouncer can change direction. It has a tambourine mirror to keep your baby busy. There is a light-up feature, a spinning piano, and a guitar that play fun sounds.

“There are two toy bars with hanging toys that you can keep your bundle of joy occupied. As your baby grows, the jumper’s straps can be adjusted to shift its height.”

Shop now at Amazon

Best easy-to-store baby jumper

KidCo GoPod Activity Seat

  • Price: $
  • Weight Limit: up to 26 lbs.
  • Pros: lightweight and easy to assemble/disassemble, can support up to 26 lbs., portable locking design, comes with a travel case for easy transport
  • Cons: lacks any activities for baby

A baby jumper that can be folded and stowed is an advantage, whether you are on the go with a baby or trying to minimize the space baby gear takes up in common living areas.

The Kid Co Go Pod Activity Seat can be used at home and also on the road. It can hold up to 26 pounds and is easy to carry with a storage tote.

It has an oversized design which provides added stability. It is lacking in activities. You need to give your child toys to play with while in the chair. The seat is not as comfortable when the child is in it, which was misleading to some customers because the baby is standing upright in the picture.

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Best convertible baby jumper

Oribel Portaplay Activity Center

  • Price: $$$
  • Weight Limit: up to 25 lbs.
  • Pros: convertible design that grows with your baby, freestanding jumper design, activity center included
  • Cons: activity pieces may snap off, seat is not as bouncy as more traditional bouncers

“We can understand why a parent wouldn’t want a baby product that will last a few months. The Oribel Portaplay Activity Center is a luxury.”

It is designed to be convertible so that it can be used through toddlerhood. The fun part of a freestanding standard jumper is the activity center, which is the initial configuration.

As your baby grows, you can turn this jumper into a table. It comes with two toddler-friendly stools and a paper roll holder that can be upgraded with a paper roll holder.

This pick can be folded flat for easy storage.

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Best multipurpose baby jumper

Skip Hop Baby Activity Center

  • Price: $$$
  • Weight limit: up to 25 lbs.
  • Pros: convertible design that grows with baby, 360-degree swivel bouncer chair, built-in chalkboard for table format
  • Cons: expensive, star toys in activity center can pose a pinch risk, can be hard to get bigger babies into and out of

The Activity Center is designed to grow with your child. The activity components can be removed from the jumper stage. After your baby is outgrown the jumper stage, this ensures longevity.

The activity center can be used as a standing play area for early standing and little walkers.

It can be shifted into a table with two chairs for the toddler stage. The table has a built-in chalkboard that can be used for more creative fun.

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In theory, you don’t need a baby jumper. But they can be a great place to safely stow your tot while also giving you a minor break. Along with keeping little ones entertained, they can help to boost and encourage baby’s curiosity — assuming you pick a jumper with an activity center or toy attachments.

“You should not leave your baby in a jumper for hours. They can be fun and distract. They shouldn’t be a replacement for interacting with parents.”

The selection process for finding the best baby jumper will be affected by a few factors. As you shop for a baby jumper, keep in mind the following concerns.

Budget

“Baby jumpers can be either budget-friendly or splurge-worthy. You don’t have to buy the most expensive jumper in the store. You might find that you are leaning towards a certain price point depending on your goals.”

Longevity

“You won’t use a jumper for more than six to eight months in most cases. This is the length of time from when your baby is six months old to when they are no longer interested in wearing a jumper.”

“If you don’t like the idea of having a piece of baby gear for a short time, then you should consider a convertible jumper. The jumpers are often designed to be used as activity tables and toddler tables.”

Activities

“A chair that jumps may be too old for some babies. You want a jumper that comes with a few toys. It doesn’t mean items that light up or play music, but you may want to look for options that include a toy bar.”

Portability

“Even if you have a larger home, you don’t always want to leave a jumper in the room for your baby. Many options are collapsible so that they can be stored under a couch or in a closet when you don’t need them.”

Style

The jumper can be made to 888-492-0 888-492-0 888-492-0, or it can be made to 888-492-0. Consider which one you prefer more. You should wait until your child is six months old and have full head control before you introduce this device.

Name Price Best for Weight limit
Outing Man Door Jumper $$ small spaces up to 33 lbs.
Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo $$ added activities up to 25 lbs.
Graco Doorway Bumper Jumper $ simple design up to 25 lbs.
Bright Starts Bounce Bounce Baby $$ on a budget up to 25 lbs.
Summer Pop ‘n Jump Portable Activity Center $$ travel up to 25 lbs.
Jolly Jumper with Stand $$$ freestanding design up to 28 lbs.
EvenFlo Exersaucer Fast Fold $$ heavy babies up to 35 lbs.
Baby Einstein Neighborhood Symphony Jumper $$ music up to 25 lbs.
KidCo GoPod Activity Seat $ easy storage up to 26 lbs.
Oribel Portaplay Activity Center $$$ convertible design up to 25 lbs.
Skip Hop Baby Activity Center $$$ multipurpose use up to 25 lbs.

Are jumpers safe for babies?

The answer is: It depends. It is recommended that children play in a jumper with adult supervision, but always keep a time limit. It is important to make sure your baby is stable enough to support themselves in the jumper.

It is important to note the stability andDurability of the materials used in a jumper. Make sure the parts are strong and can handle a lot of movement. Asking for an expert assembly is useful for first-time caretakers.

You can also go online and check the safety rankings for the product you’re looking at for extra consideration. The International Hip Dysplasia Institute also has a list of products safe for babies that could help prevent hip dysplasia.

At what age can a baby start using a jumper?

“Babies can support their head and neck on their own, so it is the safest time to start a baby on a jumper. It could be dangerous to let your baby sit in a jumper before they are ready, because most jumpers don’t offer support for the head and neck. This applies to jumpers from classic ones that can be attached to a door frame to freestanding ones.”

How long should a baby be in a jumper?

“It is tempting to view jumpers as pieces of baby gear, but don’t. It is too easy for an injury to occur if your baby is left unattended in a jumper.”

“Most experts agree that a baby shouldn’t be left in a jumper for long periods of time. The maximum number of sessions that can be had is one or two per day.”

When should a baby stop using a jumper?

“Most manufacturers give a maximum weight limit for their jumpers, regardless of configuration. This is a good guideline when it is time to phase jumpers out of your baby’s routine.”

“If your baby is in the walking stage, even if they haven’t reached the maximum weight limit, it may be time to retire the jumper.”

A jumper is a great way to keep your child busy while giving you a break.

“If you don’t leave your baby alone or for long periods of time, there’s no reason to not invest in a quality pick that works for your home.”