"Before my youngest was born, I hatched a simple plan for navigating life as a mom of two. I set up docking stations around my house, creating safe spots to set my baby down for a moment or two. I had a swing here and a bouncer there, all meant to keep my little one safely contained while I tended to my oldest. In retrospect, these secure spots for my youngest were what got me through those very early days juggling two kids.
For any parent who needs a minute to breathe while not physically attached to their children, a safe place to put baby down can be life-changing. Whether you need to run to the bathroom or heat up your coffee, ensuring your little one is safe and sound while not in your arms can feel like the greatest freedom.
Bassinets and Baskets
From traditional handwoven baskets to supremely packable bassinets to cozy loungers, there are plenty of options for safely stowing baby while you catch a solo moment nearby.
An endless array of on-trend patterns and a cult Instagram following make this baby lounger from DockATot a classic. We love the handles for easy portability and the zip-off covers because, well, babies.
At a fraction of the cost of the DockATot, this plush lounging pad from Dr. Talbots is an affordable alternative.
Handwoven in Ghana, this traditional Moses basket makes for a chic resting place for baby. It's portable, has leather-wrapped handles, and fits inside any standard basket stand.
This is another beautiful bassinet handwoven from natural sweetgrass by artisans in Ghana. Leather-wrapped handles make this basket an absolute dream.
The ultimate in portability, this Baby Delight must-have folds in half when not in use. With 9" sides and breathable mesh, this bassinet is an inexpensive spot for keeping an eye on baby throughout the day.
This lounger turned backpack features two of the greatest phrases known to parent-kind: machine-washable and waterproof. A sun canopy and toy bar are icing on the cake.
Source: Alaina Kaczmarski
Bouncers and Rockers
When only a soothing sway will do, pop your little one into one of these stylish seats—each gently powered by baby’s kicks and wiggles.
Feather-light and foldable, this ergonomic bouncing chair makes use of baby's wiggles for a gentle, soothing motion.
This versatile chair is lightweight and collapsible, offering two modes based on baby's ever-changing needs: a gentle rock or stationary option.
Sleek, modern, and minimalist, this lounger proves that baby gear doesn't need to be an eyesore. A five-point safety harness and carry bag bring security and practicality to this design.
This adorable rocker from Spanish company Nobodinoz features quilted organic cotton and a beechwood frame for supreme coziness and style.
Keep baby soothed and comforted with plush fabric, three recline positions, and a simple mobile churning out gentle lullabies.
Baby Gyms and Play Mats
Does someone need a little stimulation? Encourage all the wiggling, stretching, and reaching a baby needs with these padded gyms and floor mats.
A Crate and Kids exclusive, this sweet and cheerful baby gym promises to keep your little one reaching for the stars—er, sun—all while propped atop a fuzzy cloud.
The "nest" is a fitting name for this soft cushion, which features a raised outer ring to keep baby from wandering out.
This rollable and machine-washable mat may as well be a baby whisperer. White noise and a range of gentle vibration settings help keep baby fuss-free.
A machine-washable and infinitely portable play mat is a boon for any parent looking for a clean and safe place to set a pre-crawler down for a moment or two. The fact that this one is oh-so-cute and made from the softest muslin is a mere bonus.
With this gym, Tiny Love once again masterfully balances parent-friendly aesthetics with playful, practical designs kids can't help but love.
