11 Best Baby Lounger Pillows | Newborn to 12+ Month Old Infants

Whether you're looking for a cozy waterproof lounge pillow for baby or the safest baby lounger to rest your newborn to give you a few moments to take a shower or eat, we've got you covered!

Below, discover the best portable baby loungers from organic to waterproof plus how to choose the best baby lounger for your needs and things to consider for safety as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend not letting babies sleep in loungers as they do not comply with federal safety standards for infant sleep products and pose a risk of suffocation and/or a fall hazard to infants. (Source 1, 2)

Best Overall + Safest Baby Lounger: Babymoov Lounger

One of the biggest concerns around loungers is that they can pose a suffocation or injury risk if your baby rolls or shifts into a dangerous position. The Babymoov Newborn Lounger is made in Europe from ultra-soft breathable materials and one of the few baby loungers recommended by physicians and it was designed by an osteopath.

Best of all, this pick is not only portable — which makes it travel-friendly — but it’s machine washable and weighs less than a pound.  

Best Baby Lounger Bassinet: Design Dua

If you LOVE those cute Instagram photos of babies in moses baskets you'll love the Design Dua's Moses Baskets which doubles as a baby lounger AND bassinet for the fourth trimester, or until your baby reaches 18 pounds or starts rolling.

You can choose from a few designs, including a bassinet rocker, and they have organic options available for the bedding.

Parents can also appreciate that once baby outgrows the moses basket, it can be used for storage of things like bedding, toys, or books.

Best Organic Baby Lounger: Snuggle Me

If you've ever searched for nontoxic and organic baby products (or even just been on Instagram or Pinterest looking at new baby products!) you've definitely come across the aesthetically pleasing Snuggle Me Organic Lounger.

Along with being comforted, the patented design is intended to prevent your baby from rolling for added safety and keep them on their backs. And in many cases the Snuggle Me can prevent triggering the Moro (startle) reflex which can often cause babies to fuss.

While some families may want to stop using it once baby's legs hang over the edge (typically around 9 months) it can actually be used until baby's bottom reaches beyond the inner edge (typically once they are around 2 years old).

NOTE: A nice budget alternative to the Snuggle Me is the ZonLi. We have their cooling blankets and can attest to the great quality!

Best Baby Lounger Bouncer: ErgoBaby Evolve

The Ergobaby Evolve bouncer is our personal favorite baby lounger in terms of ease of use and luxury feel; you can read the full review here.

We also have the beloved Baby Bjorn bouncer which used to be our favorite baby lounger (and still is for the beach); and you can check out our full Baby Bjorn bouncer review here comparing it to the Maxi Cosi and other popular baby lounger bouncers to see just how many the Ergobaby ultimately beat out.

It also folds flat, and has easier buckles than the Babybjorn. The reason we still like the Babybjorn for the beach, is that the Ergobaby has slip-resistant grips on the base which cling sand more, but most families will like this feature as they aren't bringing it to the beach! It comes in several machine washable styles too:

Most Montessori Baby Lounger: Topponcino 

The Topponcino is a montessori at home must have baby lounger! Mama sleeps with it before baby arrives so it smells like her. It's just a flat oval shaped mat, that's firm but flexible.

Since mama uses it before baby arrives, and it can be used whether on the floor or when a new person, like a grandparent, is holding baby for the first time, it becomes baby's first environment outside the womb really. Making it a great tool for added security as baby orients to their new world!

Best Budget Friendly Baby Lounger: Boppy Nursing Pillow

The Boppy® Bare Naked Nursing Pillow is going to be one of the best budget friendly baby lounger options. Not only does it come in around $30, it doubles as a nursing pillow.

It's intended for use during the first year and should NEVER be used unattended or for sleep. Boppy loungers faced recalls and much scrutiny and even recalls due to infant injuries and deaths (not this one though).

As far as a nursing pillow, it's just okay. It's not particularly supportive so you will not be able to go hands free. However it does create much less strain and a lot more support than holding baby with just your arms. It's really one of those “you get what you paid for” options – not the best, not the worst.

Best Baby Lounger for 12 Months And Beyond: Dock-A-Tot The Grand Dock

You've definitely seen Dockatot baby loungers all over social media thanks to the unique design and prints of the out cover. While most baby loungers are intended for the first 3 to 9 months of life, some kids absolutely LOVE them and the Dock-A-Tot Grand can be the exact upgrade your baby needs as they move into the toddler years. And in my experience, they can actually make the toddler years easier than a baby lounger in the early months!

While baby loungers do not follow the ABCs of safe sleep for babies, once your child is in that older toddler range you may be able to use the Dock-A-Tot Grand instead of a pack-n-play for sleep while traveling (way easier to travel with!).

Cross check with your pediatrician before doing so to get their thoughts for where your child is at specifically and stay tuned as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) approved a new federal rule for infant sleep products went into effect in 2022 with new regulatory standards.

It also comes in a slew of prints:

Best Portable Baby Lounger: Lulyboo  

If you like to head to the park, beach, or just get outside a portable lounger can be a great safe space to put baby down from the elements. The Lulyboo is an extremely light weight portable lounger that easily converts into a backpack.

Beyond that, we all know baby's are messy. And this pick is also a waterproof baby lounger for easy cleaning if you head to the pool or have older babies getting into a little water play.

It also comes with a removable toy bar featuring two toy loops. I like that the canopy is removable and that you even get extra pads. Best of all, this pick weighs less than four pounds. You can choose from up five colors too!

Best Cocoon-Style Nest Lounger: Mamibaby Baby Lounger Nest

Baby nests were an extremely popular style a few years back and often pose some of the greatest safety and risk hazards due to their deep plush sides and plush backing. Generally speaking, nest loungers have a history of indenting under the baby, causing them to incline and shift down. As a result, most nest loungers have been recalled and should only be used with the utmost supervision.

With that said, we know many new moms love this style so if you do go for it, we think the Mamibaby Baby Lounger Nest is a nice all around solution for most families as it checks off a lot of boxes. It's portable, machine washable, reversible, and an affordable dupe for other name brands.

Parents will also like that this pick is OEKO-TEX certified. The breathable fill and cover ensure that your baby won’t get overheated either. Best of all, the base is thicker at 1.6 inches to provide proper spine protection. 

NOTE: If sold out, consider this brand instead. While not as “clean” it's a similar shape and great price.

Best Baby Lounger For Tummy Time: Infantino Prop-A-Pillar Tummy Time & Seated Support

If your baby isn't a fan of tummy time on the floor, then the Infantino Prop-A-Pillar Tummy Time & Seated Support is the perfect tummy time baby lounger!

How it works: The center of is a C-shaped pillow with a little “mat.” From there, there are two attached pillows, the head, which can sit on top of the center C part of the pillow to create a mini-chair back, and the tail, which can curl in to create leg support when the chair is formed.

TIP: If baby is struggling with gas pain lay baby on their back and use one of the caterpillar ends under their legs to help!

Best Baby Lounger Chair: Ingenuity Keep Cozy 3-in-1

The Ingenuity Keep Cozy is also known as the “poo poo chair” in our house as well as many friends homes. We've all marveled at the sorcery of this affordable baby rocker lounging chair and can't quite figure out how it has the same effect on all of our babies.

It includes a removable toy bar and bolster pillow as your child grows. If you prefer no rocking, just engage the kickstand. Lastly, there is a battery operated soothing vibrations option (we never used/felt the need for this though!).

How To Choose A Baby Lounger:

Just like with adults or older children, babies can be picky about where they hang around. There are a few factors you need to keep in mind as you shop for the right lounger for your tot. 

Style

Baby loungers come in a few styles.

There are a few baby lounger shapes:

• Basic lounge pillow for baby,
• A “nest” with edges that sort of hug around baby,
• Oval bassinet
• Lounger chair or bouncer chair

As far as choosing a shape, it generally comes down to whether or not baby is struggling with reflux symptoms, gas, or flathead. If baby is struggling with reflux symptoms, a lounger the provides a slight incline can help. If baby is struggling with gas, a little padding under the legs can help; but a rolled up hand towel can do the same thing. Lastly, if baby is struggle with flathead spots, a baby lounger with memory foam and countered padding can help.

Safety notes:

Beyond that, there's also incline and plushness to consider. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) currently states that sleep products with an incline greater than 10 degrees are not safe. What many parents forget to consider, is that incline includes the subtle sinking from overly plush surfaces. Which is why the current safety standards recommend only putting baby down on a firm flat surface free of any bedding.

The big think to look for is whether or not baby is in a chin-to-chest position which can restrict their ability to breathe. You also want to pay attention to baby's ability to roll and get trapped under a lounge pillow.

Length of use

Many baby loungers have a limited lifespan. Finding a baby lounger that lasts until 6 or 12 months can feel like a huge win!

Most are recommended until baby is around 3 months, or until they can roll independently due to safety concerns. So while a 6 or 12 month old may fit in the baby lounger, many recommend discontinuing use.

However, some baby loungers are large enough to last until 12 months. If your baby lounger has edging, it's generally considered ok if their legs are over the edge, you just don't want their butt to go over it, causing stress on the lower spine.

Maintenance

Ideally your baby lounger features a machine washable cover. Some baby loungers pillow insert can also go in the washing machine, which can be a nice feature, but not necessary in my experience.

If the baby lounger you love doesn't have a machine washable cover, don't stress. In fact, opting for a baby lounger without a machine washable cover is a nice little hack to save money!

In my experience, it's easier to just place a swaddle blanket or towel over a baby lounger or infant seat and swap that out if baby makes a mess, then washing the cover every day.

So before you go out buying a bunch of baby lounger covers, which can get expensive, look around your house and put those swaddles and receiving blankets to good use!

Portability

As compared to other baby gear, loungers tend to be fairly portable. But it’s also possible to find models that can fold down to compact sizes, making them a truly travel-friendly solution. 

Waterproof

A waterproof baby lounger isn't a requirement for everyone, but can be a nice feature in some cases.

With that said, if you do not need your baby lounger to be resistant regularly, you can always get creative. I once saw a mom who didn't need a waterproof baby lounger all the time, but when she showered she liked to place her newborn on Snuggle Me Organic next to the shower. To prevent the organic pillow from getting wet, she actually just wrapped the pillow in a trash bag, then put the cover over it so there was no excess material.

Budget

Baby loungers or recliners can come in a range of price points. Determine your budget before you shop for this product, but rest assured that you can find great options at both the budget-conscious and luxury ranges. 

Safety

Currently no baby loungers are marked as a safe space for sleeping; unless it's a bassinet.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) notes that babies should only be put to bed in cribs or bassinets — spaces known for having firm sleeping surfaces.

Loungers can place your baby in awkward angles which can be especially dangerous for younger babies that haven’t mastered neck control. The concern is that your baby slips into a nose-to-chest position, thereby blocking their airway and increasing the risk of suffocation or SIDs. If you choose to do naps in a baby lounger, they should always be supervised and parents should look out for that position.

FAQS About Baby Loungers:

Do I need a baby lounger? 

Just like most other baby gear, you do not need a baby lounger. However they can make life MUCH easier!

Benefits + uses of baby loungers:

• Let's caregivers take a break! Holding a baby all day can put serious strain on your body after all!
• If mom sleeps with the baby lounger before baby arrives it can pick up her smell and become a safe/familiar environment for baby when put down; especially useful if traveling!
• Depending on the baby lounger it may help with flat head syndrome, reflux or gas symptoms
• Comfortable + convenient spot for changing diapers
• More comfortable tummy time
• Depending on the lounger, it can make a nice support for holding baby or breastfeeding too

How to use a baby lounger

While it may seem as simple as “put baby in lounger” you don't want to just leave them there unattended or all day.

Ideally, you place the baby lounger on the floor when in use. If you do use a baby lounger on an elevated surface, such as a bed or couch, you want to keep it away from the edge; especially as baby becomes more active and works on rolling over.

We recommend supervising baby at all times when using the baby lounger and always keeping an eye out for that nose-to-shoulder position which can block airways.

 Are baby loungers safe?

Generally baby loungers are considered safe for just that: lounging.

Baby loungers for sleeping are not recommended.

As long as you’re using the lounger as directed by the manufacturer, and aren’t leaving your child unattended for extended periods, yes loungers are generally considered safe.

Can babies sleep in baby lounger?

Strictly speaking, reputable scientific organizations like the AAP or the U.S. National Institute of Health (NIH) usually discourage parents from letting their babies snooze in loungers. But the truth is, many parents do it anyway.

With that in mind, know that safe sleeping in a lounger isn’t recommended, the big things to keep in mind:

Some loungers are angled. If baby slips into a chin-to-chest position, it can obstruct their airways and increase the risk of SIDS.

If using a nursing pillow or C shape, baby can slip down the incline and under the pillow – whether awake or asleep – which can increase the risk of suffocation.

Lay-flat loungers with a bumper edge may seem safer but in truth can still be risky. The bumper edge can become a suffocation risk if your baby’s face is pressed against it. This is especially true for babies that don’t have head control or are rolling over. 

And then once your baby learns to roll over, there’s the concern that they can roll out of the lounger or into the edge and fall if you set the lounger on a bed. So, in short — no, don't let your baby sleep in a lounger. 

How long can you use newborn lounger?

This is going to depend on the type of lounger you select. As with other baby items, manufacturers will outline the maximum weight capacity or age range for a lounger. Some loungers like the Boppy Nursing Pillow are designed to grow with your baby and can be used as supportive seats once your child gains neck control. 

Conversely, other loungers are designed for just the newborn phase. As a general guide, you should always follow the recommended age and weight guidelines. 

When should we start tummy time?

You can start tummy time as soon as you bring your baby home from the hospital. However, the length of tummy time will change as your baby grows. Newborns are usually encouraged to only have a few minutes of tummy time per session, with multiple sessions per day. 

Specifically, the AAP recommends that newborn tummy time should last no more than three to five minutes, for a total of three sessions per day. And tummy time should always be supervised.

Speak with your pediatrician about using a baby lounger can make tummy time more comfortable. Generally the baby lounger will rest across baby's chest from armpit to armpit.

Is it safe to use a baby pillow for newborn? 

Using a pillow like you or I would, is not considered safe for newborns.

However using a lounge pillow for a newborn baby with supervision that supports baby's spine development and posture is generally considered safe.

The big think is to make sure that newborns aren't slumping into the pillow, which can cause airway obstructions and lead to suffocation. Similarly, your baby’s head can slump forward when they’re sleeping which can also increase the risk of an airway obstruction. 

Why can’t babies sleep in Boppy lounger or a DockATot type pillow?

If they haven’t mastered head turning or neck control, this can create a suffocation risk. For this reason, experts from the AAP to the NIH agree that cribs and bassinets that are free from obstructions with just a fitted sheet are the best place for your baby to snooze — even for naps. 

Boppy loungers and DockATots are popular with new parents, and they can be great places to leave your baby temporarily, but they’re no substitute for a crib or a bassinet. With both lounge pillows the concern is that your baby may have their face pressed against the plush bumper. 

How long can a baby stay in a lounger?

Loungers are intended to be used in short periods, rather than as an all-day solution for stowing your baby. 

The general rule of thumb is the more floor time the better. This encourages more freedom of movement and increases the odds that baby will reach their milestones on time, compared to babies always in “containers.”

Are infant loungers worth it?

For many parents, the answer is a resounding yes. A good lounger can give you a great temporary place to put your little one so you can take a break, stretch, or grab a snack.

While they’re not a substitute for a sleeping space, the perfect baby lounger can grow with your baby and can be an effective tool during that first year. 

Is the boppy pillow for newborns safe?

No, due to serious injury and death from some baby's sleeping in the Boppy lounger (NOT the nursing pillow suggested in this post!) they recalled the Original Boppy Newborn Lounger, Boppy Preferred Newborn Loungers and Pottery Barn Kids Boppy Newborn Loungers sold between January 2004 and September 2021 so we don’t recommend it at this time. (source)

Final Thoughts:

While baby loungers for sleeping are not recommended at this time, they can be wildly beneficial for tummy time, comforting baby while giving caregivers a much needed rest, and helping with things like reflux, gas, or flat head syndrome.

For this reason our top pick is the Babymoov Lounger which is a top recommendations amongst osteopaths and pediatricians. It has a memory foam back to prevent flat head syndrome, an adjustable leg support roll which is SO helpful for colicky, refluxy, or gassy babies as it aids in digestion by relieving tension and improve breathing. Plus the fitted design may calm the moro reflex, without the need for swaddling.

For tummy time, our pediatric occupational therapist had us use the Infantino Prop-A-Pillar Tummy Time & Seated Support which has a ton of positions and engaging features for littles.

Another good choice is the ErgoBaby Evolve which is one of our favorite infant seats that doubles as a bouncing lounger. It's the style we've gotten the absolute most use out of over the years!

Lastly, for montessori at home families the Topponcino is the must have baby lounger developed by Dr. Montessori herself! Mama sleeps with it before baby arrives so it smells like her and provides an added sense of comfort once baby arrives. It's just a flat oval shaped mat, that's firm but flexible making it a safe sleep option. Think of it as a mix between a security blanket, baby lounger, and portable crib mattress.

Originally published 11/13/21; Updated 11/1/23