Before you know it, baby is taking a few teetering steps. While you cheer on the side at this great milestone, you can’t help but feel a litttttle anxious because well, they are quite the teetering steps! Is there some sort of toys that help babies walk which you can get to give them some support?
Yes, a baby walker. Not the traditional seated ones with wheels that you had during your childhood though – those have been found hazardous over the years (and are now strongly warned against by the AAP) – but an upright walker toy that baby holds onto and pushes forward. A stationary alternative that encourages natural walking movements, and reduces the risk of accidents.
Because of that, baby walkers are often also known as a “baby push walker”. Read on to find the best baby walker that aligns perfectly with your little one’s needs – the one that has the best features, safety and value for your peace of mind.
What is the best baby walker for most families? It has to be the HABA Walker Wagon – made in Germany passing all US and EU safety standards, parents can be assured it is the safest baby walker for their little one. The Vtech Sit-to-Stand is the best for carpet though while Melissa & Doug’s Alligator Push Toy excels on hardwood floors.
For those tight on floor space, the InspiraSpark Little Balance Box would be an excellent choice while the Fisher-Price Puppy Walker has a price that no parents can say no to. These CUTE STONE and Skip Hop ones shine with their detachable activity panel that grows with baby but of course, nothing beats the Radio Flyer Cube Walker or Small Foot Move It! when it comes to a pusher + storage combo!
Our Top 12 Best Baby Walker Picks – A Quick Summary
Are Push Walkers Bad for Babies?
Perhaps the biggest concern when it comes to baby walkers is: are walkers bad for babies?
Sadly yes, the traditional seated ones, that is. Due to all the falls (especially down stairs) and reaching for dangerous objects associated with them, they are generally advised against by paediatricians across the world with countries like Canada banning their sale altogether even.
Alternatively, a stationary walker is so much more recommended as it does not carry the same risks. Here’s why these toys to help baby stand and walk are encouraged:
| Support Natural Development | Being walking toys for babies, push walkers encourage them to use their natural body movements i.e. stand and balance on their own. This promotes muscle development in the legs and trunk, thereby enhancing their overall motor skills. |
| Encourage Proper Walking Form | Unlike seated walkers that can encourage tip-toe walking, toddler push toys encourage a more natural walking form in that babies must lift and place their feet down – the proper kind of learn to walk toys that help develop the correct walking technique. |
| Adjustable to Baby’s Growth | Many push walkers are designed to be adjustable to match baby’s height and walking ability so that they can always use it in an ergonomically correct manner that supports healthy posture and balance development. |
| Safe and Controlled Speed | As push walkers move only when baby pushes them, they allow better speed control which is why being both toys to help baby walk, they are considerably safer than faster-moving seated walkers. |
| Promote Cognitive and Perceptual Skills | As babies push these walkers, they need to guide and steer – actions that enhance spatial awareness, planning skills, and problem-solving abilities. |
| Engagement and Stimulation | Many push toys for toddlers come equipped with various sensory activities integrated, for instance, shape sorters, sound-making buttons, tactile elements etc. which provide sensory stimulation and cognitive development opportunities. |
That said, it is crucial for parents to choose well-designed, stable walkers with appropriate safety features (which is what we’re moving onto next).
Constant supervision is also essential when baby is using a push toy because even with the best design, a baby might still find ways to get into trouble without watchful eyes.
Find more information at the end of this guide:
Best Baby Walker Reviews
OVERALL BEST BABY WALKER
Dimensions: 13 x 20 x 19.5 inches
Product weight: 10.78 pounds
Material: beechwood and birchwood, rubber wheels, wooden rims
Age range: 10 months to 3 years
- Adjustable braking system
- Suitable for both carpet and hardwood
- Sturdy and robust construction
- Versatility
- Encourages open-ended play
- Made in Germany
- Passes all US and EU safety standards
- Price
- Weight
Why We Love It
It may look a little basic compared to other baby walkers but the award-winning HABA Walker Wagon stood out to us as the best baby push walker overall with its quality craftmanship and excellent child-safe design.
Made in Germany of a beechwood/birchwood combination and treated with water-based stain, it has a robust construction that ensures stability and offers safe support to little ones while shielding them from any toxin exposure. The best part is it encourages open-ended play with a versatile design that is actually both practical and fun – the seat in front can house a favourite doll or stuffed animal while the back can double as a toy storage container.
The shining beacon has to be its adjustable braking system though – parents can control the speed of the walker by either tightening or loosening the rubber wheels according to their child’s walking skills. Increase the friction for early walkers who require a slower pace to prevent the wagon from rolling away too quickly, and then adjust accordingly as they grow.
Primarily intended for indoor use (although the silicone wheel treads make it outdoor-viable too), it is safe on both wood floor and carpet as a first walker for a child who just started to walk.
Things To Take Note Of
While the sturdiness is a plus, the walker’s weight might make it a little difficult for smaller toddlers to manoeuvre easily so this baby walking toy works best for children who have already developed some strength and stability in their walking.
Also, the price (although justifiable by its quality) may be something that budget-conscious shoppers would want to consider.
VERDICT: The HABA Walker Wagon is particularly fitting for families who are willing to invest in a high-quality piece that not only aids in physical development but also offers practical utility and promotes a tidy play environment.
If you’re looking for a long-lasting baby push toy that can withstand heavy use and potentially serve multiple children over the years, this is the best push walker for baby to get.
BEST BABY WALKER FOR CARPET
Dimensions: 16.5 x 14.2 x 18.1 inches
Product weight: 2.2 pounds
Material: plastic
Age range: 9 months to 3 years
- Interactive learning features
- Adaptability for stages
- Durability and stability
- Two-speed control switch
- Affordable and good value for money
- Batteries included
- Speed control
- Battery dependency
- Noise level
Why We Love It
There is a reason why the Vtech Sit-To-Stand Learning Walker is a No.1 Bestseller of all times. This baby push walker grows with your child from crawling to walking in an adaptable design, starting from an activity panel for seated play before transitioning to a baby stand up walker to support your little one’s very first steps.
The detachable panel comes complete with a light-up keyboard, play phone, colourful spinners and shape sorters that not only entertains but provides developmental benefits also i.e. auditory training, hand-eye coordination, balance development etc. There aren’t that many choices when it comes to a baby walker age 4 months but with the Vtech, this is possible. Baby can start using it from as young as 4 months but of course, they will have to wait until at least 9 months before they can use it as a walking toy.
Constructed with sturdy, high-quality plastic, it is much lighter than wooden walking toys so it is easier for baby to manoeuvre on both carpeted and hard floors. That said, some parents did note that the two-speed control adjuster seems to work better on the former hence we’d lean more towards it being a baby walker for carpet.
Things To Take Note Of
The electronic features require batteries so operational costs could add up over time (although not much, and it comes with batteries for the first time).
Compared to that, the electronic sounds may be more of an issue because as engaging as it may be for children, they can be quite the thing for parents to endure especially for long hours.
VERDICT: The Vtech is well-suited for families who prioritize educational content in their infant walker.
Given its dual functionality as both an entertainment panel and a walker, it is also an economical choice for those who look for value and want to invest in a toy that grows with their child, offering prolonged use from sitting to walking.
BEST BABY WALKER FOR HARDWOOD FLOORS
Dimensions: 15 x 11.75 x 15.5 inches
Product weight: 6.6 pounds
Material: wood
Age range: 12 months to 2 years
- Non-skid wheels
- Well-placed and easy-to-grasp handle
- Clacking sound adds another layer of sensory stimulation
- Durable and well-made
- Noise level
- No speed adjuster/locking mechanism
Why We Love It
This Melissa & Doug Deluxe Chomp and Clack Alligator Push Toy makes a clacking sound through three alligators’ mouths when pushed, needless to say, it grabs the attention of any toddler and ramps up their walking practices in a fun and interactive way!
Easy to assemble, this sturdy wooden baby walker has non-skid wheels that roll forward and backward with a handle that is easy for little hands to grasp. We notice that it has a particularly strong grip on smoother floors compared to carpeted ones, which is why we think it works best on hardwood floors.
There are three wooden buggy beads that children can slide and spin to improve their gross motor skills, coordination, and colour recognition skills. And as with any Melissa & Doug products, you can rest assured that it is durable and well-made to withstand enthusiastic use. It is, after all, the brand that the NBC News has called “the gold standard in early childhood play”!
Things To Take Note Of
This is not one of those push toys for babies learning to walk, at least not those who just started learning because it doesn’t have any built-in locking mechanism. Nor is there any speed adjuster so this is definitely for older babies, as the brand has advised a minimum of 12 months at least.
The clacking sound can also be quite loud especially on hard surfaces so that could be a tad bothersome to some.
VERDICT: For parents looking to limit electronic devices and battery-operated toys, this push toy offers a delightful mechanical alternative that encourages physical activity and imaginative play without the need for electronics.
Cautious parents, this one’s for you too as the non-skid wheels are carefully designed to ensure safety as your little one learn to walk.
BEST WOODEN BABY WALKER
Dimensions: 16.34 x 11.22 x 16.54 inches
Product weight: 3 pounds
Material: rubberwood
Age range: 18 months to 3 years
- Classic design with wooden blocks
- Sturdy construction
- Sustainable materials and non-toxic finishes
- Doubles as a toy storage unit
- Assembly required
- Price point
Why We Love It
The Tender Leaf Toys Baby Block Wooden Walker is as classic as any wooden walker for baby can get with its array of colourful blocks. 29 in fact, sporting a garden theme in various shapes and sizes that encourage open-ended play and creative construction besides being a stable walking support tool.
Again, this is another push toy for babies 18 months and older who are already walking so… yep, not an infant walker for those who had just started. What we like most about it is the low cargo bin and open handle frame – children get an unobstructed view of where they’re going and won’t bump into any obstacles and trip themselves. The fact that the cargo bin doubles up as a toy storage unit definitely adds brownie points in our books!
We also like how Tender Leaf sources their rubberwood sustainably to make this child walker. Unlike many other walker toys where leaning is not advisable, children can lean on this one here as much as they want – the handle is sturdy enough to handle the weight without tipping over.
Things To Take Note Of
There may be some assembly required so it’s important that you make sure all parts are securely fitted.
Given the quality materials and design, this walker is also priced on the higher end of the spectrum so this could be a factor for budget-conscious families.
VERDICT: For parents who prioritize environmentally-friendly and safe products, this walker would be a responsible choice with its sustainably-sourced wood and non-toxic paint finishes.
The stylish and classic design makes this wooden walker appealing to families who appreciate aesthetically-pleasing children’s gear as well, a durable construction that offers good long-term value.
BEST BABY WALKER FOR SMALL SPACES
Dimensions: 14 x 4 x 12.5 inches
Product weight: 5.2 pounds
Material: sustainable bamboo wood
Age range: 6 months to 8 years
- Dual functionality as a walker and a table
- Sustainable bamboo construction free of BPA
- Stability and safety with spring-loaded feet
- Promotes proper development from sitting to kneeling, standing and walking
- Compact and lightweight for small spaces
- Lack of mobility on carpets
- Price point
Why We Love It
Don’t fancy an infant walker with wheels? The InspiraSpark Little Balance Box will be right up your alley with a revolutionary table design that redefines push walkers altogether.
In place of wheels are spring-loaded feet that allows it to glide smoothly on floors while still being stable enough to not roll away, and there are removable “booties” to add traction to those gloss/shiny floors. There is no need to worry about it flying fast across the floor and we especially like how instead of a handlebar, there is this spacious top that encourages natural hand and forearm movements in any direction.
One thing you would notice is that it is comparatively lower than other baby walking toys. This is purposely designed to facilitate the kneeling-to-standing transition, something other push toys do not possess. Because of that, children as young as 6 months can start using it to foster better posture before standing up and pushing it to practice their walking.
Of course, it being literally a table gives the option of using the top as a standing desk, a versatility that makes it ideal for small spaces. The small footprint certainly contributes to that, but it is predominantly the design as it does not require the same range of motion like wheeled walkers do. It can also stay stationary without rolling away, which is perfect for keeping the play area contained and safe in limited spaces.
Things To Take Note Of
While the Little Balance Box suits all kinds of floors, the sliding mechanism works best on hard surfaces so homes with carpeted floors may find it a little limiting.
It is also priced higher than some push walkers but many find the innovative design and functionality justify the cost.
VERDICT: The Balance Box is suitable for families living in smaller homes or apartments where space is at a premium.
It is also the best walker for baby learning to walk in the early stages and parents who are especially concerned about the risks associated with more mobile walkers? This would be particularly appealing to you.
BEST BABY ACTIVITY WALKER
Dimensions: 6.2 x 10.83 x 16.93 – 17.72 inches
Product weight: 4.45 pounds
Material: ABS plastic
Age range: 12 months and up
- Offers multiple ways to play
- Anti-slip and lockable wheels
- Adjustable handle height
- Speed adjustment
- Scientific ergonomic design
- Safe, non-toxic materials
- Noise level
- Stability and weight
Why We Love It
Detach the activity panel from the walker and place it either on the floor or hang it up for baby to play with, or turn it into an activity table before reattaching it back to the walker for on-the-go fun while baby learns to walk. A versatility like no other, this is the CUTE STONE Sit-to-Stand 2 in 1 Learning Walker, a multifunctional baby activity walker jam-packed with music, lights, spinning gears, shape recognition blocks and even a detachable basketball frame!
What we like most about this activity walker is the adjustable handle though – you can adjust it according to baby’s height to ensure they always have an ergonomic grip, which is beneficial to their overall posture. Speaking of which, the triangular structure frame shares the same purpose, that is, ensure ergonomic walking posture and help prevent issues such as bow legs by providing stable and balanced support for baby.
Solidifying its status as “best activity walker for baby” for us is the anti-slip pads/rubberized wheels and adjustable speed settings. The former enhances grip on various floor surfaces to prevent it from slipping out from under the child while in use while the latter allows parents to customize the resistance of the walker to match their child’s walking pace and skill level. And oh, the wheels can be locked, too!
Things To Take Note Of
Like many plastic walkers for babies, it may be a bit lightweight which could affect its stability when used by more vigorous toddlers. If you find this an issue, simply fill the weight box underneath with sand or water to increase its weight.
The electronic sounds and music can be quite loud also so that may be a consideration for families who prefer quieter toys.
BEST MUSICAL BABY WALKING TOY
Dimensions: 16.34 x 19.69 x 15.94 inches
Product weight: 7.9 pounds
Material: wood, plastic
Age range: 10 months and up
- Engaging musical features
- High-quality wooden construction
- Adjustable sound
- Adjustable speed
- Weight and mobility
- Noise level
Why We Love It
The Hape Wooden Push and Pull Music Learning Walker is one of the best infant walkers for very young learners. It is petite, has adjustable speed settings, and engaging musical features that not only stimulate auditory senses but encourage an interest in music from a young age.
We especially like how there are different musical instruments that encourage infants to use different fine motor skills (like grasping or hitting the drum) so their dexterity and control can be refined. Pushing the walker is a gross motor skill development in itself and the fact that it plays music when pushed around is a bonus to keep them engaged. Don’t worry, you can turn the sound off if you want.
The Hape is another baby toy walker that employs the triangular structure with a broad base design. In addition, there are four distinct contact points with the ground which is particularly important on uneven surfaces or slight inclines where tipping risks are higher – with a wider footprint on the floor, weight is distributed more evenly and the center of gravity is lowered so risks of the walker tipping sideways, which is a common concern with narrower designs, are greatly reduced.
Things To Take Note Of
As with many wooden push toys, the Hape is on the heavier side of things so younger toddlers may find it slightly challenging to manoeuvre with ease. This could require more supervision and assistance until they gain more strength, but the good thing is you can have peace of mind that it won’t go flying off fast with its sturdy design.
As a musical toy, noise will be inevitable but you can always switch it off when it gets overwhelming or bothersome as mentioned above.
VERDICT: This walker is ideal for families with young children who are just beginning to walk, or families where fostering a love for music is a priority.
The built-in musical instruments can aid in sensory development and offer more than just support for walking so parents who prioritize educational and developmental toys, this one is for you.
BEST BABY WALKER FOR GIRL
Dimensions: 15.2 x 18.7 x 19.7 inches
Product weight: 5.74 pounds
Material: wood
Age range: 12 months to 3 years
- Walker for girls
- Adjustable handle
- Montessori toy for open-ended play
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy and ergonomic
- Limited use without dolls
- Size and storage
Why We Love It
Although it is designed for all children, the labebe Baby Push Walker Doll Stroller is particularly suitable for baby girls due to its aesthetic and the traditional association of doll play with girls.
Doubling up as a doll stroller, it encourages nurturing play patterns often popular among young girls as they push their favourite doll or stuffed animal around, simulating real-life caregiving roles that they might have observe in their environment. This helps foster emotional development and empathy building, while the aesthetically-pleasing design further enhances attachment to the walker, making walking practices more enjoyable and engaging.
Placing a high emphasis on ergonomic postures, this push walker has a broad base design that prevents bow legs and a handle that adjusts to different heights (to ensure baby can always see where they’re going as well). Works well on both carpeted and hardwood floors, there are rubber rings on the wheels to protect your floors and let baby controls their walking speed.
Things To Take Note Of
While it is a fantastic toy for children who enjoy playing with dolls, its appeal might be limited for those who do not engage with doll-based play. If you find this to be a bit of an issue, here’s an ice-cream-themed walker baby girl by the same brand to consider instead.
On the same note, the doll stroller functionality makes it larger than some basic walkers so families with limited space may need to consider storage options when the walker is not in use.
BEST BABY BOY WALKER
Dimensions: 20.47 x 14.25 x 20.86 inches
Product weight: 10.3 pounds
Material: wood
Age range: 12 months to 3 years
- Visually appealing classic design
- Outdoor and indoor use
- Versatile play
- Robust construction
- Safety Resist Clickers on all wheels
- Noise level
- Size and storage
Why We Love It
Now it’s time for baby walkers for boys. We find the Radio Flyer Deluxe Push & Play Cube Walker to be particularly fitting for the job – the robust construction (that the brand is well known for) will be able to withstand the rough-and-tumble play that is often characteristic of young boys, while the various engaging and interactive elements will satisfy their naturally curious nature in exploring how things work.
Sporting a timeless look that is a hit among those who appreciate classic toy aesthetics, the solid construction ensures it can endure being pushed around, bumped into objects, and even occasionally being climbed on. Boys can use it for a variety of games such as transporting their favourite toys or engaging in make-believe scenarios, with features like spinning gears, flipping doors and sliding beads providing continuous learning opportunities.
One aspect that we really like in particular is that it can be an outdoor walker for baby too. Whether on a sidewalk, at the park, or inside the house, this baby boy walker adapts well to various settings and allows boys to explore different terrains and environments, fuelling their adventurous spirits. Don’t worry, there are Safety Resist Clickers on all wheels to provide resistance for speed adjustment.
Things To Take Note Of
The interactive activities can be quite noisy, which might be a consideration for families with noise sensitivity or those living in apartments.
Given its multi-functional design, the walker may take up more space than a simple walking toy too so this could be a concern for those with limited living space.
VERDICT: Aside from families looking for a walker for baby boy, it is particularly suitable for families looking for a durable product that can withstand the enthusiastic play of toddlers and potentially be used for multiple children over several years.
BEST CONVERTIBLE PUSH TOY
Dimensions: 18.7 x 18.3 x 16.4 inches
Product weight: 1.1 pounds
Material: plastic, polyester, steel, ABS, nylon
Age range: 6 months to 4 years
- 4 in 1 functionality
- 40+ play features
- Lights and sounds
- Volume control switch
- Adjustable height
- Compact and foldable design
- Stability and weight
- Price point
Why We Love It
The Skip Hop Explore & More 4-in-1 Baby Walker stands out as an exceptional convertible push toy for several compelling reasons. Versatile compatibility being the most apparent, followed by long-term usability and space-saving design that add to the whole equation.
This walker transitions seamlessly between four different modes: a seated activity center, a push-behind walker, a drawing or eating table, and a chair. With over 40 play features that include songs, sounds and lights on a removable toy panel with piano, bead maze, flip book and the likes, there are tailored activities that promote cognitive and motor skill development for children in each mode.
Such convertibility makes it an incredibly versatile tool that adapts to a child’s growing needs and developmental stages, providing excellent value over time.
The adjustable height settings and the ability to convert into a table and chair set ensure it can be used from infancy through toddler years, extending its usability far beyond the initial walking stages. And for families with limited space, rejoice – this is a foldable baby walker, easy to store when not in use.
Things To Take Note Of
While the walker offers robust support, its lightweight nature might affect its stability when used as a push walker. This might require close supervision for younger children who are just learning to walk.
It is also on the higher end of the price spectrum among baby walkers but the multifunctional capabilities may justify the initial investment.
BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY BABY WALKER
Dimensions: 16.2 x 19.3 x 18.2 inches
Product weight: 5.2 pounds
Material: plastic
Age range: 6 months to 3 years
- Very affordable
- 75+ educational features
- Buttons, lights and sounds
- Brand trust and durability
- No speed control
- Noise level
Why We Love It
Worry that your little one may not like the baby walker as much as you thought? The Fisher-Price Baby Toy Laugh & Learn Puppy Walker will be a good buy – at just slightly over $20, it wouldn’t break the bank (and your heart) if baby decides that he prefers something else!
Easily one of the most affordable push toys for toddlers, it still offers similar interactive and educational features like other higher-end baby walkers. We’re talking about 75+ songs, sounds, and phrases that teach alphabets, shapes, colours, numbers and even Spanish words! Parents especially love the dual-mode play – seated play and walker support – as it reduces the need for additional purchases, offering great value and stretching the initial investment over a longer period.
All Fisher-Price toys are known for their durability, and the Puppy Walker is no exception. Its sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use by active toddlers (potentially across multiple children in a family) so there is no need for frequent replacement.
Things To Take Note Of
Some parents have noted that while the walker is stable, it has no speed adjuster so its wheels may not have enough resistance for some surfaces. This could cause it to move too quickly for a beginner walker so make sure to check that the wheel speed is appropriate for your child’s walking ability. If this is going to be an issue, here’s another model from the brand with speed control – slightly more expensive, but still super affordable (walker can be pushed from either side).
As with many interactive toys, the volume of the sounds and music can be relatively high. While this is engaging for children, it might be overwhelming or disruptive in some environments, so parents looking for a quieter toy might need to consider this.
BEST BABY WALKER WITH ADDED FEATURES
Dimensions: 15.35 x 15.35 x 16.54 inches
Product weight: 10.2 pounds
Material: wood
Age range: 12 months and up
- Multi-functional play features
- Robust build quality
- Made from FSC-certified wood
- Adjustable walking aid
- Designed in Germany
- Weight and manoeuvrability
- Size and storage
- Price point
Why We Love It
The best push toys can be used in a variety of ways, and versatility is definitely the Small Foot Move It! Wooden Premium Pastel Baby Walker’s biggest charm. This 5-in-1 baby walker boasts a chalkboard, shape sorter, spinning gears, colourful blocks and toy cubby, offering endless play opportunities and great value for money
In particular, we like how the chalkboard provides a fun creativity station for toddlers to express their artistic talents. The top of the push toy opens up so toddlers can store their favourite toys in it, a feat that not only helps in keeping the play area tidy but also teaches about organizing and responsibility.
Designed in Germany, it uses FSC-certified wood and all edges are made rounded to ensure safety (the whole walker is painted with safe, non-toxic water-based paint). Of course, it’s not short of adjustability to ensure it can be set at the right height, and there is a built-in brake system to keep toddlers moving at the right pace.
Things To Take Note Of
While the sturdy construction is excellent for safety, it might make the walker relatively heavy so younger toddlers may find it a tad challenging to move it around (especially on carpeted floors). Given the boxy build, it will also take up more space than a simpler walker might so storage could be an issue for those with limited space.
Also, the price may turn some people away but it is made of premium wood and has a multifunctional design. For budget-conscious buyers, this plastic option would be a good alternative.
VERDICT: Families planning for more than one child will find this push walker extremely appealing. The durable build and adjustable features make it a worthwhile investment that can be passed down to younger siblings, on the same note, families looking for products that offer more than one use will love how this walker can keep up with a child’s changing needs and interests.
How We Come Up with Our Best Baby Walker Picks
When curating our top picks for baby walkers, we prioritize safety, ergonomics, and educational value. Each product is thoroughly reviewed, considering critical aspects such as stability, ease of use, and the developmental benefits it offers to infants. During the process, we also consulted paediatricians and child development experts to understand the key features that support a baby’s growth and learning, and made sure we incorporate them when making our selections.
Additionally, we analyse customer feedback to gauge user satisfaction and identify common issues, including those of our writers and editors who are parents themselves. By integrating expert opinions with real-world user experiences, we ensure that our recommended baby walkers not only meet but exceed safety standards while fostering an engaging and enjoyable learning environment for little ones.
Rest assured you are shopping only the bests here – we’ve done the bulk of research so that you don’t have to.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Baby Walker
1. Safety and Adjustability
Look for walkers with a wide base. Not only do they prevent tipping over, they are hard to get through doorways too so this can prevent accidents. We like triangular structures like the CUTE STONE and Hape best for this reason, also, because they help prevent bow legs.
On that note, adjustable height settings are crucial in ensuring ergonomic walking posture too so choose one that you can always adjust to the right height for baby. Make sure your baby push walker has friction strips or speed reducers to prevent it from moving too quickly, too.
2. Activities and Stimulation
Baby walkers that come with engaging toys and activities can stimulate your baby’s senses and motor skills. These should be securely attached and safe for babies to handle though i.e. no choking hazards. Those with detachable activity panels like the VTech Sit-to-Stand and Skip Hop Explore & More give the best value for money because they can be used across multiple stages during baby’s growth.
3. Materials and Build Quality
Ensure that all parts of the baby push toy are made from non-toxic materials because babies often put parts of the walker into their mouths. Look for certifications that guarantee the push toy is free from harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, lead, PVC etc.
The best baby walker is one that is stable and doesn’t wobble or tip over when baby leans against it – it definitely has to be robust enough to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Check that all surfaces and edges are smooth and well-finished to avoid scratched or injuries to baby – there should never be sharp edges or exposed screws etc. that could pose a threat to baby.
These considerations will help you find a walker that’s safe, enjoyable, and beneficial for your baby’s development.
Other FAQs
Yes, push walkers are beneficial in helping babies learn to walk by providing support as they develop their walking skills. Unlike traditional seated walkers which may actually delay walking development, push toys for babies learning to walk encourage the usage of correct muscles for walking and standing upright, improving balance and muscle strength as they push along.
That said, supervision is required and the question of “when can a baby start using a walker” is a crucial point to consider.
One of the most frequently asked questions is “when can a baby use a walker?” There is no one standard baby walker age, rather, it depends on the individual child.
Generally, toddlers walker toys should only be introduced when a child is showing signs of readiness for walking (typically around 6-12 months), which includes pulling themselves up to stand and maintain balance with minimal support.
With “baby walkers banned” news circulating, many can’t help but wonder why are baby walkers bad. First things first, what health experts and paediatricians warned against is actually the traditional seated type of walkers – they raised safety concerns due to risks of falls, accidents, and access to hazardous items. A stationary walker or activity walker are better alternatives on the other hand – these ones help with standing and walking without the mobility risks of seated walkers, thereby are safer choices.
That said, always ensure that the use of a push walker is supervised, conducted on safe, flat surfaces, and the walker is adjusted to the right height for the baby to prevent accidents or misuse.
