As parents it can often feel like we need another set of arms to juggle all the tasks we need to get done along with keeping baby happy.
This can be troublesome when you’re trying to get baby to sleep as that then becomes your sole focus and means you can’t get on with anything else.
Thankfully, a whole industry has sprouted up to help you with these tasks.
In this post, we help you find the best automatic baby rocker for you and your little one.
The Best Automatic Baby Rocker Reviews
We spent a total of 12 hours putting the products below through their paces along with reading other online reviews.
Our Top 3 Picks For [datetoday]
Fisher-Price Moonlight Meadow Cradle ‘n Swing
The Fisher-Price Moonlight Meadow Cradle ‘n Swing is perfect for gently rocking baby to sleep during a midday nap.
So what do we like?
Firstly, the material is very soft and comfortable – you can tell that Fisher-Price have put thought into designing this for baby.
Speaking of which, as the cover is removable, if it gets dirty (as these things tend to) you can simply remove it and toss it in the wash.
The option of plugging it into the mains is a nice touch, meaning it won’t suddenly stop when baby is napping.
The additional head insert makes it a great choice for newborns.
The toys provided good stimulation for baby when she was awake and the music is rather soothing.
Graco Sense2Soothe Baby Swing with Cry Detection Technology
I’ll be honest, when I first heard about Cry Detection Technology I thought it was either a gimmick or a lifesaver so I was very excited when I had a chance to put the Graco Sense2Soothe Baby Swing through its paces.
So how does it work?
The Cry Detection Technology uses a built in microphone to ‘hear’ when baby cries and will then automatically find the right combination of motion, swing speed and sound to help calm baby back down.
If this sounds a bit too much for you don’t worry, the Cry Detection Technology can be overridden allowing you to set everything yourself.
It’s easy to assemble, comfortable for baby and genuinely helped rock baby to sleep.
Bright Starts Zig Zag Zebra Portable
If you’re looking for an automatic rocker for your newborn then you’ll want to take a look at the Bright Starts Zig Zag Zebra.
Suitable for babies weighing between 6 to 20 lbs, this a fantastic choice that both you and baby will love.
While baby is sure to love the bright colors and selection of toys, parents will love how easy it is to keep clean and fold down once not in use.
If we did have a criticism of the Bright Starts Zig Zag Zebra it would be that there isn’t a music option with it and the speed adjustment is rather loud making it risky to use once baby is asleep.
Commonly Asked Questions
What’s the difference between rocker and bouncer?
A baby bouncer is designed for playtime while a rocker is designed for naptime.
Another way to look at it is that bouncers go up and down while rockers go back and forth.
Are rockers safe?
Yes, rockers are safe as long as you follow the user manual supplied with the product, securely strap baby in and supervise while in use. Slate has a great article on the safety of baby products.
To learn more about baby sleep please consult this guide by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
That said, the safest place for baby to sleep is always in his or her back with nothing but a fitted sheet.
The Bottom Line
So there you have it, our guide to finding the best automatic baby rocker to help gently get baby off to sleep, freeing you up to get on with the million and one other jobs that need doing when you have a baby.
Last update on 2022-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Ellen Fetters
Ellen Fetters, is a former Children's and Young People's Nursing Practice with an BSc from the University of Sunderland. After completing her SCPHN - HV she then worked as a Health Visitor within the local community.
In 2017 Ellen left nursing to launch Parenting Click, an online parenting resource aimed at creating happier families through better parenting.
She lives with her husband, beautiful baby girl, and two darling dogs. She spends her free time writing, running and learning how to become a better parent.