Bouncinette

The short definition

A bouncinette is a light chair that holds a baby in a propped-up position and bounces or rocks. It is for supervised play, never for sleep.

What it actually means

Rockers and bouncers are chairs designed to let a baby bounce or rock in an inclined position.

Use them for supervised playtime only. They should never be used unsupervised, and never for sleeping or as a substitute for a safe sleep space.

The reason is the angle. An inclined position can block a baby's airway and reduce airflow. When a baby falls asleep propped up, their head can fall forward and push their chin down towards their chest. Babies are also at risk of rolling onto their tummy or side in a rocker, or becoming trapped, which is a suffocation risk.

Where Dadda will hear it

In the shop, next to the prams. Also at home, where it is the only thing that lets him put bub down and make a coffee.

Not to be confused with

A bassinet. A bassinet is a flat, firm sleep space built for sleeping in. A bouncinette is a chair.

Also look at

• The full item: bouncer or rocker
• What a safe sleep space is