Best Baby Walkers 2024 – A Guide to Our Eco-Friendly Favorites!
Many parents worldwide will view their baby’s first wobbly steps as an incredible achievement. Watching your child learn to walk is filled with joy and excitement. Baby walkers have become a popular choice among parents to aid them in this important milestone. These walkers not only provide children with a sense of mobility but also keep them entertained during their walking journey. If you’re looking for the perfect fit for your baby, we have compiled a list of the best baby walkers available. In addition, we will explore eco-friendly options, specifically wooden baby walkers, which align with sustainable practices and promote a healthier environment. Witnessing your child or grandchild take their first steps using a baby walker is a magical experience. It’s as if time stands still momentarily, and the whole world joins in to cheer on the little one. As they gain independence and explore their surroundings from a different perspective, their confidence grows, and they become little explorers and independent learners. This newfound freedom also contributes to the development of their gross motor skills. Toddlers are excited about their new walking skills, and their coordination rapidly improves during this phase.
Consider Sustainable Options!
When choosing a baby walker, it’s essential to consider sustainable options. Wooden baby walkers are a fantastic choice as they offer durability, safety, and an eco-friendly alternative to plastic walkers. In this article, we have carefully selected our top ten best baby walkers and ten wooden baby walkers specifically designed for babies. This guide will assist you in making an informed decision and introduce you to excellent sustainable toy companies that prioritize environmentally friendly manufacturing practices. To learn more about the best baby walkers and explore the top sustainable toy companies, we highly recommend checking out the in-depth article “Top Sustainable Toy Companies.” This comprehensive resource will provide you with detailed information on the best baby walkers available in the market and insights into the sustainable practices employed by these exceptional companies. By incorporating sustainable products into your baby’s life, you contribute to a greener future while ensuring their safety and well-being. Be sure to dive into our article and gain valuable knowledge about the best baby walkers and the incredible sustainable toy companies that make them. We are confident that this information will empower you to make an informed decision while supporting environmentally-conscious brands. Firstly, we will lay out the Best Baby Walkers that are Eco-Friendly and then dive into an FAQ about common baby walker questions that come up often.Best Baby Walkers – Eco-Friendly Edition!
1. Woodpecker Wooden Baby Walker | Push & Pull (5720)
- Watch as the pair of woodpeckers take turns pecking the walker as it is pushed.
- Inspire children to move on two legs with the engaging woodpeckers.
- Somewhat of a half walker.
- Enjoy the playful sounds associated with your little one moving about independently.
- Sustainably made in Thailand using chemical-free rubberwood, formaldehyde-free glue, organic pigments, and water-based dyes.
- To learn more about PlanToys and their sustainable mission, see our Brand Spotlight HERE.
2a. Wooden Bird Baby Walker | Push & Pull (5176)
- Bring the birds to life by walking and listening to the pleasant sound they make! In other words, it will play music!
- Walker features 2 birds, 10 colored blocks, and 6 natural wooden blocks
- Develop gross motor skills and become more comfortable on your own two feet through play
- Sustainably made in Thailand using chemical-free rubberwood, formaldehyde-free glue, organic pigments, and water-based dyes.
- To learn more about PlanToys and their sustainable mission, see our Brand Spotlight HERE.
2b. Baby Walker – Orchard with Building Blocks Set
- It is sustainably made in Thailand with chemical-free rubberwood trees, formaldehyde-free glues, organic pigments, and water-based dyes.
- To learn more about PlanToys and their sustainable mission, see our Brand Spotlight HERE.
3. Wooden Baby Walker | Push & Pull (5123)
- This falls under top-rated baby walkers. It has flexible headlights that bend and act like bumpers when the baby inevitably walks the walker into a wall or hard surface.
- Baby Walker has an adjustable tension knob so that wheels roll comfortably and safely for the baby’s walking ability.
- It comes with 1 baby walker and 24 blocks.
- Sustainably made in Thailand using chemical-free rubberwood, formaldehyde-free glue, organic pigments, and water-based dyes.
- To learn more about PlanToys and their sustainable mission, see our Brand Spotlight HERE.
- Included in my top Sustainable Toy Companies.
4. Wooden Van Walker | PlanToys (5719)
- Inspire children to practice walking independently and watch as they gain physical strength through play.
- Store your favorite toys in the van’s central storage center, so you always have them with you.
- An adjustable handlebar height means the toy can grow with your child. Perfect push toy for a walk from behind walker.
- Sustainably made in Thailand using chemical-free rubberwood, formaldehyde-free glue, organic pigments, and water-based dyes.
- Recommend for Ages 10m+. Seated walkers are great for siblings.
- To learn more about PlanToys and their sustainable mission, see our Brand Spotlight HERE.
- It’s included in my top Sustainable Toy Companies.
5. HABA Walker Wagon | Push & Pull Toys
- This Walker Wagon doubles as a doll stroller for added fun and versatility.
- The wagon features a handle for kids to hold onto and walk along at their speed.
- The seat is perfect for holding a favorite doll, and the back provides toy storage space.
- Wheel speed can be adjusted, and silicone wheel treads make it suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Experts and children have tested this award-winning wagon, which is considered one of the best.
- Made from beech wood/plywood and treated with a non-toxic, water-based stain.
- Crafted in Bulgaria for excellent quality and durability.
6. Wishbone Flip Red Ride-On & Rocker 2-in-1 – (Red or White)
- Award-winning 2-in-1 rock & roll toy for children from 1 to 5 years old.
- An innovative flipping mechanism that converts from a gentle rocker to an exciting ride-on toy in seconds, no tools required.
- Supports developmental milestones, including sitting up, balance, steering, and critical gross motor skills.
- Made from beautiful birch wood, available in red or white, and comes in a handy carry box.
- Perfect Baby Walker alternative to consider.
- Simple assembly by just attaching the handlebar.
- Size and weight 25.2″ x 13.8″ x 15.7″, 5.7lbs.
- A timeless toy your whole family will enjoy, designed for years of use and 100% repairable for the next generation to enjoy too.
- Available in White and Red.
- Note: Wishbone Mini-Flip Racer in Red is identical to Wishbone Flip Ride-On but only smaller. Perfect for littlies aged 12 months to 3 years. See how this compared to other Ride-Ons in my Top Ride-On Toys Articles.
7. Le Toy Van – Petilou Wooden Walker Toy for Toddlers and Babies
- Le Toy Van’s award-winning walker is a versatile 2-in-1 toy with 45 durable chunky rubberwood blocks painted rainbow-colored.
- The walker is solidly built for stability and has rubberized wheels to protect floors.
- The materials used in the walker are 80% Rubberwood, 16% Plywood, 3% Rubber, and 1% Stainless Steel.
- The colorful and unique design of the new walker, shaped like a soft cloud, encourages toddlers to stay on their feet and helps develop their confidence, balance, and stability.
- It is a creative wooden educational toy that promotes early learning, hand-eye coordination, and imagination.
- The Petilou Wooden Educational Rainbow Cloud Walker Toy makes a great gift for toddlers and supports cognitive development and color recognition.
- It is part of the Petilou Wooden Toys Collection, specially designed for small hands.
- The toy is made of high-quality, eco-friendly materials, decorated with non-toxic paints, and tested to the highest safety standards.
- It offers sensory layers of colors, sounds, textures, and discovery to foster curiosity and early learning through play.
- The walker is suitable for children aged 12 months and older.
8. Tender Leaf Toys Baby Block Walker
- Tender Leaf offers a modern version of the classic baby walker made from high-quality wood.
- The walker has a sturdy handle that toddlers can lean on, helping them develop balance and strength.
- The set includes 29 garden-themed wooden blocks for extra play and creative construction.
- Rubberized wheels ensure a quiet ride and prevent floor damage.
- Tender Leaf specializes in nature-inspired toys with modern, muted, and bright colors.
- The modern toddler walker and cart set are valuable additions to any toy box.
- It helps develop balance, strength, and creativity in children.
- The wooden blocks are made from renewable resources, and for every tree used, another is replanted.
- The toy is adorned with non-toxic water-based paint, ensuring the safety of children.
- Tender Leaf toys are designed in Great Britain and made in Indonesia, prioritizing quality and safety.
9. Award-Winning Hape Wonder Walker Push and Pull Toddler Walking Toy
- Setback wheels provide a sturdy base, and the unique design makes it easy to push.
- Moveable knobs, gears, and colorful balls offer five different activities.
- Develops coordination and fine motor skills. This falls under fun toys to have!
- Carefully designed rubber-trimmed setback wheels will protect floors.
- Sturdy wood craftsmanship from sustainably sourced forests.
- Nearly a seated activity walker!
- Non-toxic finishes and child-safe materials.
10. 2-in-1 Wooden Cargo Walker Cart Wagon with Adjustable Rubber Wheels and Removable Basket
- The Kinderfeets Cargo Walker is handmade using replenishable birch wood and sustainably-painted beechwood sides.
- It serves as both a baby walker and a wagon, offering double the fun and excitement.
- The walker promotes learning and development by helping children build confidence during their first steps.
- As the child masters walking, the back wheels can be moved forward for increased maneuverability.
- Perfect for sit to stand walker!
- The wooden rack is removable, providing storage space for toys, books, and more as the child grows up.
- The walker is designed to be house-friendly, with adjustable rear wheels and rubber-rimmed wheels to protect floors.
- The front wheels move forward to protect walls and furniture.
- The lifelike design features stylish Dutch aesthetics with beautifully painted white or red beechwood sides and a naturally stained wooden rack.
- Assembly is easy, with all the tools and instructions in the package.
- The dimensions of the Cargo Walker are 20 x 14 x 18 inches.
Our Top Picks for the Best Baby Walkers in 2023
Top Pick: Bird Walker – A Sustainable and Engaging Choice
The Bird Walker is the top pick for an eco-friendly and engaging baby walker. Designed to encourage walking, this walker features two adorable birds, ten vibrant colored blocks, and six natural wooden blocks. As your child pushes the walker, it creates a delightful sound that adds to the fun and motivates them to take more steps. This interactive feature enhances their walking experience and stimulates their auditory senses. It is a traditional walker and more! What sets this walker apart is its sustainable craftsmanship. It is made in Thailand using chemical-free rubberwood, formaldehyde-free glue, and water-based dyes. By choosing this walker, you contribute to a healthier environment for your child and future generations. In addition to providing entertainment, the Bird Walker promotes the development of gross motor skills, helping your little one become more confident on their own two feet. It combines play and learning seamlessly, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious parents who prioritize sustainability.Best Budget/Value: Wishbone Design Mini-Flip
The Wishbone Flip Red Ride-On & Rocker 2-in-1 is a versatile and valuable toy for children aged 1 to 5. This award-winning toy features an innovative flipping mechanism that effortlessly transforms it from a gentle rocker to an exciting ride-on toy in seconds without needing any tools. It supports crucial developmental milestones such as sitting up, balance, steering, and gross motor skills, providing an engaging platform for children to enhance their physical abilities and coordination. Made from beautiful birch wood, the Wishbone Flip is durable and visually appealing. You can choose the color that best suits your child’s preferences, with options available in red or white. Additionally, it comes in a handy carry box for easy transportation and storage. The simple assembly process involves attaching the handlebar, and your child will be ready to embark on hours of playtime.
My Favorite/Most Versatile: HABA Walker Wagon | Push & Pull Toys
The Walker Wagon is my favorite toy for active toddlers due to its versatility and engaging features. This wagon doubles as a doll stroller, allowing children to bring their favorite toys to explore. The handlebar is designed with small hands in mind, ensuring a comfortable grip for little ones as they navigate their surroundings. Moreover, the adjustable wheel speed feature enables children to move at their own pace, promoting independence and confidence.
BABY WALKER FEATURES TO AVOID:
Avoid VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker (Frustration Free Packaging), Orange
Avoid Too Much Plastic! (And batteries). Parents should be cautious when considering the Interactive Learning Baby Walker due to its reliance on batteries and plastic components, which are not environmentally sustainable. The activity walker requires 2 AA batteries to operate, contributing to battery waste. Additionally, the presence of plastic elements raises concerns about the long-term environmental impact, as plastic is not biodegradable and can contribute to pollution. Way to much going on here!
For parents who prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly choices, exploring alternative options that align with their values and promote a more environmentally conscious approach to child development may be advisable.
Avoid a Seated Baby Walker with Wheels
Parents should exercise caution when considering walkers allowing babies to sit in and move around. Here are some reasons why parents may choose to avoid such walkers:
- Safety concerns: Sit-in walkers can pose safety risks, as babies may easily access hazardous areas or objects they could reach while seated in the walker. They may also be more prone to tipping over or falling down stairs.
- Delayed motor development: Research suggests that excessive use of sit-in walkers may impede the natural development of motor skills. Babies in these walkers rely on the support provided by the device, which can hinder the development of balance, coordination, and independent walking.
- Hindrance to natural exploration: Babies in sit-in walkers are confined to a limited range of movement and cannot explore their environment freely. This can restrict their self-directed play and learning opportunities, which are crucial for their cognitive and motor development.
- Lack of engagement: Sit-in walkers often provide babies with limited sensory and interactive experiences. They may miss out on opportunities for tactile exploration, spatial awareness, and problem-solving that come with unrestricted movement.
- Frustration and dependency: Some babies may become frustrated with sit-in walkers, as they may want to move more freely and independently. This can lead to increased reliance on the walker and hinder their motivation to develop essential motor skills independently.
Avoid Cheap China Knock-off Baby Walkers – Look Bottom Right!
To avoid cheap China knock-off baby activity walkers on Amazon, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Research reputable brands: Start by researching and identifying well-known, respected brands specializing in baby products. Look for brands that prioritize safety, quality, and ethical manufacturing practices.
- Read product descriptions and reviews: Review the product descriptions and customer reviews for the baby walkers you’re interested in. Look for details about the materials used, safety certifications, and any warnings or concerns mentioned by other customers.
- Check seller information: Pay attention to the seller’s information on Amazon. Look for sellers with a high rating and positive feedback. Genuine, reputable sellers are more likely to provide authentic products.
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Verify seller location: Check the seller’s location information. While not foolproof, purchasing from sellers in countries known for quality manufacturing, such as the United States, Canada, Europe, or Japan, may reduce the risk of receiving knock-off products.
- Compare prices: Be cautious of heavily discounted baby walkers, especially if the price seems too good. Cheap knock-offs often lure buyers with significantly lower prices compared to genuine products. If the price seems suspiciously low, it’s worth investigating further.
- Look for safety certifications: Legitimate baby walkers should adhere to safety standards and may carry certifications such as ASTM International or Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) certification. Check for these certifications in the product information.
- Avoid unbranded or generic products: Be cautious when considering unbranded or generic baby walkers, especially if the product information is limited or unclear. Established brands typically have a reputation to uphold, which may increase the likelihood of quality and safety.
- Purchase from authorized retailers: Purchase baby walkers directly from authorized retailers or the brand’s official website whenever possible. This can help ensure you receive an authentic product.
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off or the listing seems suspicious, trust your instincts and consider exploring other options. Prioritizing safety and quality over a potentially cheaper but dubious product is better.
Baby Walker FAQ and Guide to Finding the Right Walker for Your Baby and Toddler
A. How do I know when my child is ready for their first walker?
A good time to introduce a sit-to-stand walker is after a baby has learned to crawl and can pull themselves up to a sit-to-stand while holding on to something. For example, a baby can pull themselves up in a crib while holding on to the rails or on the front of the sofa. After they learn to pull themselves up to a sit-to-stand walker again, toddlers tend to take side steps while holding on to furniture or forward steps while holding a parent’s hands. In my opinion, this is an excellent time to introduce the baby’s first sit-to-stand walker. However, I feel you should ensure that the baby’s safety is stable and robust with a lot of practice standing, walking, and holding on to something stationary before introducing the walker. Parents are often excited to sit in baby walkers to move their children into the next developmental phase and provide them with endless fun together with new stimulating toys. However, it is better to ensure the child is ready to have toys and sit in baby walkers at the age range for safety reasons and to maximize educational benefits. Most wooden walkers for babies have an age range of 12 months and up, but every child develops at a different rate, and younger babies may need a walker before this or a bit of a push walker after.
B. What do I look for when buying a wooden walker for my baby or toddler (FAQ)?
Does the walker have speed control knobs?
This is a great feature to slow the entire walker behind the seated walker and down the child to a safer pace so that the seated walker doesn’t “get out” from under the toddler because the standing walker is going too fast.Is the walker made with formaldehyde-free glue?
All toy companies must be formaldehyde compliant, but that doesn’t mean their toys aren’t made formaldehyde-free. The term compliant means they have acceptable amounts of this in their glue. Companies such as PlanToys, and Tender Leaf use formaldehyde-free adhesives for their toys. Check brand websites and packaging for more information about the adhesives used.Are the paints and pigments used water-based or organic and child safe?
Cheaply made wooden toys tend to have paint chips over time. When toys are dyed vs. painted, they don’t chip. Water-based dyes are more child-safe. Companies such as PlanToys use organic vegetable-based dyes on most of the bright colors of their toys for optimal safety features.Is the walker solid with a strong base and handle so it won’t tip when the baby pulls up to a stand?
Walkers not made solid or without substantial weight can pose a safety issue. These types of walkers do not support a baby trying to sit to stand or pull up from sitting to stand; walkers from sit stand walkers nor support their erratic movement. Buying a walker that has a sturdy construction with a solid base and can keep the baby safe is very important.
Is the walker an open-ended toy that will grow with my child or offer any other play value, such as blocks?
If the walker includes large-sized blocks or some other activity, it makes the toy 2-1. also, if the walker turns standing walkers into a wagon or stroller, that gives half the walker another purpose that will grow with your child. (To learn more about toy versatility, read my article on toy versatility).Are the wheels rubberized for a quiet ride and to protect your floors?
Wheels are hard on flooring, and the ears if not protected with rubberized materials.Will a Baby Walker Help My Baby Walk?
Typically baby walkers do nothing about your baby walking. Pushers and push walkers may also aid in becoming seated baby walkers and baby walkers more. Pusher strollers help infants see their legs and feet and teach them to become seated walker faster.What are some safety considerations for baby walkers?
Baby strollers are supervised and should be kept safe. Never allow your child to sit in walkers around staircases or hot pools. They are often severely injured when falls or accidents occur near these sites. Use seated strollers to ensure everything you use is safe from contaminants and other items. Check the floorboards or the shelf. Your child might reach higher than usual while walking. Always supervise children with babysitters. Check out our alternative strollers for suitable options.
At What Age Can a Baby Use a Push Walker?
Babies can typically use a push walker when they have developed sufficient strength and stability to support their weight and take steps with assistance. The age at which a baby can use a push walker may vary as each child develops at their own pace. However, on average, babies can begin utilizing a push walker between 8 to 10 months of age. Before introducing a push walker, it’s essential to ensure that your baby has achieved certain developmental milestones. These include sitting independently, having reasonable head control, and demonstrating signs of readiness for walking, such as pulling themselves up to a standing position and taking steps while holding onto furniture or their hands. Additionally, it’s crucial to choose a push walker that is appropriate for your baby’s size and development. Look for a sturdy, stable walker with a wide base and rubberized wheels for better traction and floor protection. Always supervise your baby while using a push walker and ensure they are using it in a safe environment free from hazards. Remember that every baby develops at their own pace, so it’s essential to observe your child’s progress and consult with their pediatrician if you have any concerns about their readiness to use a push walker.At what age should a baby use a walker?
In general, babies need walking devices from 4 to 16 months. However, the different walking devices available today have a growing number of interactive features, safety features, and advantages.Is there an adjustable handle height?
Toddlers develop and grow at different rates; having a push walker with an adjustable handle gives your baby gear and child a more custom fit and longevity with the push walker as the baby grows and they grow.Does the walker provide a reward for walking, such as a gentle noise or action movement?
Toddlers tend to learn to stand a walker and push a walker behind the walker by incentive, meaning if the walker provides a fun reaction to them pushing it, they will be incentivized not to push walkers. All the walkers I have included in this list don’t require batteries and make gentle sounds through wood contact.
Is the Walker award-winning, or has it been around for years?
Companies such as PlanToys and HABA have been making walkers for decades. These “tried and true” walkers are award-winning and never change because of their solid builds and heirloom craftsmanship.Can the walker be repurposed for pretend play during the preschool years once outgrown as a wagon, shopping cart, or doll stroller?
Walkers with features such as baskets, seats, and storage compartments are great for pretend play and will be used as repurposed toys through the baby-engaged preschool years. In addition, they can be used as a book trolly or storage for even school-aged kids! (To learn more about toy longevity, read What is Toy Longevity?Do I need a walker that can be a 3-1 toy for minimalist purposes or a compact walker due to living in a small space?
I love toys that take the place of several others. The Wishbone Design mini flip is a walker, rocker, and ride-on all in one, which is an excellent value in buying fewer electronic toys. (To learn more about toy minimalism, read my article on (Toy Minimalism HERE)
