My husband and I have three kids and four grandbabies. We eagerly awaited each developmental milestone of each one of our children but only invested in a baby walker when my youngest was just starting to stand. We purchased a three-in-one baby walker that transitioned with her as she got older. She was able to use it as a sit-in baby walker until she got old enough to push it around. In the meantime, my daughter got a kick out of the activity panel. Later she was able to use it as a large toy. Now that she’s six years old and has clearly outgrown the baby walker, the grandbabies get to use it when they come over for a visit. And, guess what? They enjoy it just as much as she did.
One of the benefits of a baby walker is that it’s a great transitional development toy to help your baby convert from standing to walking. They don’t teach your baby to walk. However, they’re super fun activity centers that promote muscular strength and fine motor skills while giving your child some control over their mobility.
There are two types of baby walkers: the traditional sit-in walker and the push walker. The sit-in walker is typically half-exersaucer and half-walker. As you’ll see as you read through this article, though, classic walkers aren’t promoted for use because of the risk of injuries and, in extreme cases, even death. The push walker, on the other hand, is exactly that . . . a walker that your child can push around the room. Both walkers generally have some sort of activity center on them that invites learning and brain development.
Finding the best baby walker for your young child might seem like a daunting task, but don’t worry. That’s why I’m here. I’ve researched so you don’t have to. I’m going to show you what to look for in a baby walker as well as my top picks and answer some frequently asked questions. I’ll even give you a quick summary at the end of this article as a quick reference when you’re ready to make your baby walker purchase.
You can carry on reading the entire article or jump straight to our number #1 Amazon pick here.
Table of Contents
- What Should I Look for in a Baby Walker?
- Here’s How I’ve Determined the Best Baby Walker
- Our Top Picks for the Best Baby Walkers in 2024
- #1: VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker (Best Value)
- #2: Jeep Classic Wrangler 3-in-1 Grow with Me Walker (Best Premium)
- #3: Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon (Best Wagon)
- #4: Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Learn with Sis Walker (Best Low Cost)
- #5: Melissa & Doug Chomp & Clack Alligator Push Toy (Best for Wooden Baby Walker)
- #6. Bright Starts Ford F-150 3 Ways to Play Walker (Best 3-in-1)
- #7: Award-Winning Hape Wonder Walker Push and Pull Toddler Walking Toy (Best Push and Pull Baby Walker)
- #8: Joovy Spoon Walker (Best Sit-In Baby Walker)
- Safety Tips
- Will a Baby Walker Help My Baby Walk?
- At What Age Can a Baby Use a Push Walker?
- What Are Some Alternatives to Sit-In Baby Walkers?
- Verdict: Your Best Baby Walker
What Should I Look for in a Baby Walker?
Whether you buy your baby walker through online store links or at a local department store, there are several things to take into account before you make your purchase.
You should look for a baby walker that your child can safely push around the house instead of a sit-in walker. That’s because sit-in walkers can be dangerous for several reasons. Babies can roll down the stairs or trip and fall over. It allows them to reach places they otherwise wouldn’t be able to, such as hot stoves, appliance cords, or even countertops where dangerous items may be lying. The American Academy of Pediatrics has even called for a ban on these types of baby walkers and has actually already been banned in Canada. For this reason, if you’re planning on buying a walker, make sure it’s a push walker.
That said, there are certain criteria you should look for in a push walker. Consider these factors before you buy:
Criteria #1: Height and Width
Make sure the walker is the right height and width for your baby. You don’t want it to be too tall or too short. Your child should be able to reach the handle with no problem.
Criteria #2: Sturdiness
Find a sturdy baby walker. This will ensure that the walker won’t flip or fall over while your child is pushing it around.
Criteria #3: Good Wheels
Good wheels are important. Consider finding the right traction depending on if your baby will be pushing the walker on hardwood floors or carpet.
Criteria #4: Your baby’s age
You’ll definitely want to consider your baby’s age. While some of these walkers have activity centers that babies as young as four or five months can play with, typically baby walkers are for those babies that can pull themselves up using furniture or other means.
Here’s How I’ve Determined the Best Baby Walker
There are a few things I took into consideration when making this list. For example, I weighed the pros and cons of the reviews left by buyers. This can tell you a lot about children’s toys. Parents, grandparents, and other consumers tend to be extremely honest when it comes to things that have to do with the little ones in their lives, especially if they’re unhappy with the item. I looked for complaints and how the manufacturer handled these complaints. I also considered the safety of these products since we’re dealing with toys for young children.
Our Top Picks for the Best Baby Walkers in 2024
#1: VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker (Best Value)
Recommended age: 9 months to 3 years old
The VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker is the best baby walker for its value. It’s interactive and fun for babies. They’ll be moving all around the house in no time. Your baby is sure to love this early learning play toy.
Removable Play Panel
The play panel is removable so your baby can play with it during tummy time or while sitting.
Learning Center
The learning center on this sit-to-stand walker features five piano keys that not only play music but also encourage creativity for hours of fun. The pretend handset and mechanical elements promote role-play excitement.
Developmental Fun
Your baby will have fun playing with the two colorful spinning rollers, three shape sorters, and three light-up buttons that help to develop motor skills.
Sound Effects
There are over 70 sing-along songs, music, sound effects, and fun phrases that your little one is sure to love.
Use on Carpet or Hardwood Floors
The wheels of this learning walker work well on both carpeted and hardwood floors.
Batteries
This toy requires AA batteries. Thankfully, these are included with the product so you won’t have to worry about running to the local convenient store to buy them right away.
Reviews
This is a great sensory toy and walking aid for babies. It keeps babies and young toddlers entertained for hours. Parents agree that this is a great value.
Recommended age: Up to 25 pounds, less than 30 inches tall
The Jeep Classic Wrangler 3-in-1 Grow with Me Walker is the best baby walker if you’re looking for the best of the best and money isn’t an issue. This is also the best baby walker for die-hard Jeep fans since it looks like an actual Jeep Classic Wrangler.
Height Adjustments
This baby walker has adjustable height settings that you can change as your baby grows.
Convertible Design
The 3-in-one design lets this walker convert from a baby walker into a push walker, and then finally a rolling toy car with storage.
Looks Like a Jeep Wrangler
Just like the Jeep Wrangler, this has the iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and flat fender flares. Your baby will be cruising in style with this baby walker.
Interactive Features
The toy tray features a steering wheel that turns right and left with realistic horn and engine sounds and the turn signals light up. The tray is also removable for a convenient snack tray.
Requires Batteries
Just like the VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker, this requires batteries. However, they aren’t included with one so you’ll want to make sure to grab some before you get this out of the box.
Easy to Clean
These baby walkers are easy to clean. Simply wipe down the seat pad and activity center with a damp cloth and let dry.
Reviews
This is a cute walker that babies love. Boys (and girls) love their Jeep. It’s a must-have for babies that are starting to stand and learning to walk.
#3: Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon (Best Wagon)
Recommended age: 1 to 4 years old
The Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon has the classic design we all know and love that is associated with the name with its natural all-wood body and removable side panels, this is perfect for babies learning to walk.
Resistance Clickers
The resistance clickers are great safety features on the Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon prevents it from moving too quickly. This will help your baby to build balance and confidence while they’re learning to walk.
Furniture Bumper
Your baby is bound to run into furniture and walls at some point in time. The round bumper on this baby walker will help to prevent scratches to your tables and furniture as well as dreaded wall damage while your little one learns to walk.
Toy Storage
Your babies can tote around their favorite toys or stuffed animals in the toy storage area for even more exciting fun.
Reviews
This is a wonderful toy that will grow well with your baby. Parents love that it looks nice and can double as a toy box as well.
#4: Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Learn with Sis Walker (Best Low Cost)
Recommended age: 6 to 36 months
Just because the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Learn with Sis Walker is listed as the best low cost, don’t discount it. It’s one of the best baby walkers that’s a sit-to-stand walker for babies at a great price.
Musical
This toy has a musical activity center that plays more than 75 songs, sounds, and phrases. Introduce your babies to the alphabet, shapes, colors, numbers, and more with these toys.
Interactive
With seven hands-on activities that include light-up piano keys, a roller, spinner, flip page, and more your little one will have so much fun whether they’re pushing the walker around or playing with the activity center.
Easy-Grasp Handle
The easy-grasp handle helps your baby to steady themselves as they take their first steps. This helps to avoid accidental hand slips that could cause injury.
Bilingual
The Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Learn with Sis Walker is also bilingual. You’ll be able to teach your baby the Spanish language. The content even changes with your baby’s age and stage with smart stages technology.
Reviews
This is a great sit to stand walker for babies who are just learning to walk. Parents do say, however, that this is best to be used on carpet as the tires tend to roll too quickly on hard floors.
#5: Melissa & Doug Chomp & Clack Alligator Push Toy (Best for Wooden Baby Walker)
Recommended age: 12 months to 2 years old
Your baby will love to move around the house with this wooden baby walker. This activity walker features exciting sounds and bright colors that’ll invoke imagination and creativity in your children for hours.
Sturdy Construction
This push walker is made with high-quality materials. They are built with precision manufacturing standards in mind to ensure the safety of your children and the longevity of the toys.
Makes Sounds
As your little ones learn to stand and walk with this push walker, they’ll get a kick out of the gentle clacking sounds.
Developmental Skills
As your baby takes that first step, this toy will not only help to build fine and gross motor skills but also aids in developing hand-eye coordination.
Engaging Activities
These baby walkers feature three chomping alligators with fish on the wheels and spinning butterfly and ladybug beads. You’re going to love watching how much fun your baby has as they take their first steps.
Reviews
Parents agree that this is of excellent quality and works well for multiple stages. The strip of rubber on the wheels prevents the toy from slipping on hard floors but still travels just fine on carpeted areas.
#6. Bright Starts Ford F-150 3 Ways to Play Walker (Best 3-in-1)
If you’re not a fan of the Jeep, but love your Ford, you’re in luck. The Bright Starts Ford F-150 3 Ways to Play Walker is one of the best baby walkers that looks just like the F-150. Your little one will be styling and profiling when they’re pushing around this truck.
Three Play Modes
Your baby can sit-to-stand with these baby walkers as they can either be used as a traditional walker or a push walker, depending on your child’s developmental skills. The steering wheel is removable for even more fun floor time.
Rubber Feet
Rubber feet on the wheels are one of the great safety features of this activity walker. These “feet” can also act as a brake.
Authentic Sounds
The steering wheel of the Bright Starts Ford F-150 3 Ways to Play Walker features authentic truck sounds, lights, and a gear shifter.
Adjustable Height
You have the option of three different height settings to keep your children at the perfect height when using this as a traditional walker.
Machine Washable
These baby walkers are easy to clean. Simply wipe down the tray and let dry. The seat cushion is removable and machine washable.
Reviews
Parents are very happy with these baby walkers. They say these things are fun toys for their babies.
#7: Award-Winning Hape Wonder Walker Push and Pull Toddler Walking Toy (Best Push and Pull Baby Walker)
Recommended age: 12 months to 3 years old
The Award-Winning Hape Wonder Walker Push and Pull Toddler Walking Toy is the best baby activity center that your babies can both push and pull around the living room for all the excitement. Your baby will have so much with this baby walker as they become an expert walker.
Five Activities
With moveable knobs, gears, and brightly colored balls, your child has the option of five different activities with the activity center.
Developmental Skills
Similar to the VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker, your baby will build coordination and fine motor skills with the Award-Winning Hape Wonder Walker Push and Pull Toddler Walking Toy.
Rubber-Trimmed Wheels
The rubber-trimmed wheels will protect your hardwood floor from scratching as well as keep your baby from sliding too quickly across the floor.
Sturdy
The sturdy construction is comparable to the Melissa & Doug Chomp & Clack Alligator Push Toy. The wood comes from sustainably sourced forests.
Reviews
This is a simple, but fun baby walker that is long-lasting and well made. Parents say it’s a fantastic toy and worth every penny.
#8: Joovy Spoon Walker (Best Sit-In Baby Walker)
Recommended age: Up to 30 pounds; less than 33.5 inches
If you’re really just wanting to buy a sit-in baby walker, the Joovy Spoon Walker is one of the best baby walkers available. This is a walker meets highchair type of thing and can serve as a dual purpose.
Removable Insert
The Joovy Spoon Walker comes with a super-sized tray with a removable insert that’s dishwasher safe.
Folds Flat
This baby walker folds flat for easy storage as well as for travel, so you can take it with you on the go.
Machine Washable
Similar to the Bright Starts Ford F-150 3 Ways to Play Walker, the seat pad is removable and machine washable for easy and convenient cleaning.
Three Height Positions
The height setting can be adjusted by simply turning the rectangular button and pushing it in.
Oversized Wheels
The Joovy Spoon Walker also comes with oversized wheels and non-slip stair pads.
Reviews
Parents say their babies love this walker and that it’s the best on the market. Definitely a must-buy.
Safety Tips
Below I have listed some important safety steps you should consider to keep your little one safe while they’re using a baby walker of any type.
Gate the top of your stairs
If you have a baby or toddler, it’s a good rule of thumb to have a baby gate for the top of your stairs anyway. If your little ones are pushing around a baby walker, this is even more important. The last thing you want is for your baby to take a tumble down a flight of stairs while playing with the walker.
Look for pinch points
It’s a good idea to look for pinch points on the baby walker. Your child won’t be happy if he or she gets their little fingers pinched in one of the crevices. If you can, purchase finger pinch guards.
Protect sharp corners
While you’re picking up finger pinch guards, consider corner guards as well. That’s because babies can gain quite a bit of speed when pushing around their walkers. Corner guards will help protect them if and when they run into corners.
Consider flooring
Consider the flooring your little one will be on. Make sure the floor is smooth. Loose rugs can get tangled up in the wheels or bunch up underneath. Also, try to keep the flooring the same. If your floors transition between carpeted and hardwood, this could cause your little one to suddenly go faster than they can handle, possibly causing injury.
Will a Baby Walker Help My Baby Walk?
Traditional sit-in baby walkers won’t help your little one walk. However, push walkers might help your baby learn balance to begin walking. Push walkers also allow babies to see their legs and feet, allowing them to learn to walk more naturally.
At What Age Can a Baby Use a Push Walker?
There’s no set age for when you should get a push walker for your baby. Look for milestones. If your little one is pulling up on your furniture or using you to pull themselves to standing, that’s a good indication that they’re ready for a push walker.
What Are Some Alternatives to Sit-In Baby Walkers?
As I’ve already mentioned, sit-in baby walkers are not the way to go. These types of walkers can cause developmental delays and injuries from burns, falling downstairs or into swimming pools, pulling dangerous items down on top of themselves, the list goes on and on. They’re even banned in Canada.
But, don’t fret. There are great alternatives to sit-in baby walkers. Aside from push walkers, there are stationary exersaucers and baby jumpers. You could always just let them learn on their own with floor time and natural walking.
Verdict: Your Best Baby Walker
As promised, here is the summary of the top best baby walkers on my list.
If you’re looking for the best value on baby walkers, pick the VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker. This is the best baby sit-to-stand walker because it’s got so many great features at a price every parent will love.
If you want the best of the best baby walkers, choose the Jeep Classic Wrangler 3-in-1 Grow with Me Walker. This is one of the best of the best baby walkers because it’ll truly grow with your baby.
If you’re wanting the best baby wagon walkers, pick the Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon. This is the best baby walkers for its toy storage as well as safety features.
If you need the best low-cost, pick the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Learn with Sis Walker. This is one of the best baby walkers if you’re on a budget and not looking to break the bank.
If you want the best wooden baby walkers, choose the Melissa & Doug Chomp & Clack Alligator Push Toy. This is one of the best baby walkers for its high-quality construction and its developmental skills for the baby.
If you’re looking for the best 3-in-1 baby walkers, pick the Bright Starts Ford F-150 3 Ways to Play Walker. This is one of the best baby walkers because of its three play modes from sitting to pushing and playing.
If you’d like the best push and pull, choose the Award-Winning Hape Wonder Walker Push and Pull Toddler Walking Toy. This is one of the best baby walkers because of its activity center and rubber-trimmed wheels.
If you need the best sit-in baby walker, pick the Joovy Spoon Walker. This is one of the best baby walkers as a sit-in walker that is adjustable and can fold flat for travel.
As a parent, you’re eager to watch your child grow and hit different milestones in their young lives. You may notice that your babies are starting to pull themselves up on things such as a couch or a chair. Good news! This could mean that they may be ready to take their first steps soon.
If you’re looking for a product or some toys that’ll help your child develop their motor skills and take those steps, consider a baby walker. Just be mindful of the type of walker you’re purchasing. Remember that while sit-in baby walkers seem like a good idea, they’re not the best option. As we’ve learned, they can be quite dangerous. Look for an alternative in a push walker, an exersaucer, or even a baby jumper. These types of things will help to strengthen your baby’s muscles. Many push walkers also have activity centers for even more fun.
Also keep in mind that when you order your baby walker from Amazon links or another affiliate site, we may earn a commission.