Baby walkers play a huge part during a crucial transitional time for a baby, so it is understandable why choosing the best one for small living spaces can be an overwhelming task. When a baby begins to show an interest in walking and starts to become more active, then it is an indication that it is time to start looking for a baby walker.
A parent has many options to consider, such as safety, cost, and durability, the choices can become overwhelming whether you are a first-time buyer or have had the experience before. To help out, we have compiled some of our best recommendations for sit-in walkers, citing the pros and cons and how they stack up against each other.
Smart Steps Activity Walker
This activity walker is the perfect baby walker for those looking for a compact baby walker. This stylish baby walker is defined by a sturdy, square-shaped base which makes it an ideal baby walker. A sturdy base is an attractive feature and one of the most important to consider for an active and curious baby. The multi-directional wheels make it even more functional, and the model of this walker is extremely sturdy. With the ability to twist and turn easily, this makes it a great choice.
Adjustable for three different heights, it is flexible and easy to use. Every baby has their own unique needs, so the ability to adjust to different heights is extremely important, especially as babies are growing quickly during this stage! Not to mention, the feature of the simple toy tray is very helpful in keeping the baby entertained at all times. The tray is also removable, which makes for easy cleaning in the case of any spill or mess that may occur while the baby is moving around.
This walker supports 15-20 pounds, further emphasizing the durability of this particular model. In addition to attractive features, such as its sustainability of it and the ability to move on all surfaces, durability and safety are of the utmost importance to parents, which makes this model all the more attractive.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wide, sturdy base creates durability and safety
360 degree wheel rotation allows for movement on the carpet and all surfaces Height adjustment makes this walker a great option for babies of many sizes and weights |
Limited toy/entertainment options for the baby
May be bulky and harder to store than collapsable models |
Safety 1st Ready Developmental Walker
The Safety 1st Ready Walker is a baby activity walker and another popular option for baby walkers. Like the last walker, this one also features an activity tray with toys that help develop their cognitive and motor skills and is adjustable to 3 different heights. This model features sounds and flashing lights, which can be a pro or con depending on the parent’s thoughts. Although the sounds and lights may keep the baby distracted, it is not always the most enjoyable option for adults and others, and it can cause a fuss if taken away!
The baby walker is similar in design to the previous activity walker, with a square and stable base designed to be extra wide for stability and balance. This walker is created to be compact and locks together in a compact shape to store. The seat pad is also machine washable, making it a huge relief when messes inevitably occur while moving around and exploring with the walker.
The primary difference with this walker is the ease of use for the baby. Walkers that are more difficult for babies to move can make them tired, which is what sets this seat apart from its counterpart. When the baby is attempting to move the walker across all surfaces, this may not be the best option for the carpet or anything other than wood or tile. The wheels are not as multi-directional as the Smart Steps Activity Walker, which can be a setback for babies looking to explore their surroundings in a new and exciting way!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fun sounds and toys for the baby to play with and keep occupied
Collapses for easy and convenient storage Wide, sturdy base to keep the baby safe Removable seat for ease of cleaning |
More difficult for the baby to move
Wheels are not as flexible and easily moved Primarily suitable for wood/tile, not the best walker for the carpet May make the baby tired more quickly |
Joovy Spoon Walker
The Joovy Spoon Walker is noted as suitable for younger users, potentially not being quite tall enough for babies aged 8 months or over. Although it does not feature toys or play items for the baby, it has by far the widest tray of the walkers we have listed so far. This walker is very roomy and has a lot of space for the child to eat or play, and it can go much faster than most walkers.
This sit-in walker holds children up to 30 pounds, which is the most of any of the previous walkers we have reviewed. However, the walker itself is also over 12 pounds, making it a bit more difficult to transport. This can be a setback for traveling families who must bring it with them on a vehicle or plane.
The downside to this walker is that the back wheels are straight and do not rotate. The bottom rails may also run on a rug, and it is not to be considered one of the top choices for the best baby walker for carpeted floors.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wide tray for eating/toys
Easily cleaned when spills occur due to the spacious design Spacious design allows space for toys and food Moves fast and smoothly across hard, smooth surfaces |
Heavy and difficult to transport
Not suitable for taller babies Not as durable on carpet May get stuck on the carpet or on rugs Is not multi-directional |
Overall it can be determined that although all walkers are created to be suitable for all surfaces, the Smart Steps Activity Walker is going to be one of the best baby walkers for small spaces.
This is definitely not to say that there are not tons of great sit-in baby walkers suitable for small spaces, which have great features in terms of trays, toys, and entertainment, as well as safety. When selecting the best one, it will ultimately come down to the choices of the parent, who knows their baby the best. There are many options to consider for the needs of every baby!
