Can A Baby Walker Move On Thick Carpet?
Baby walkers with small wheels or thin wheels will not be able to move on thick carpet. Although they may work on low pile carpet, they’ll likely get stuck. Larger, sturdier baby walker wheels have a better chance against thick carpet.
There are hundreds of baby walkers on the market with great parent reviews on Amazon. Not all walkers are created equal on thick carpets. A lot of homes these days have a mix of hard floors, tile, and carpet, so a versatile walker is needed to maneuver over all of these different surfaces at the same time as keeping your baby safe. Ease of movement of baby walkers on carpet can be especialy challenging.
While there aren’t baby walkers made specifically for carpets, there are many baby walker products out there that perform better than others on all types of flooring. When you invest in a new product for your family, you want to be sure it meets your needs so you don’t have to go through the hassle of returning it after the first week.
When it comes to ‘smooth sailing’ for your baby on your cozy, plush carpets or hard, low pile carpets, we’ve got you covered.
Need a walker for hardwood floors? Check out the best baby walkers for hardwood flooring.
What Are The Different Types of Baby Walkers For Thick Carpet?
Convertible Walkers
The best part about convertible walkers for carpet is their versatility and ability to grow with your child. You only need to buy one, and it will last you until your baby is comfortable walking independently. Convertible walkers start as seated walkers that can be transformed to walk-behind walkers as your baby grows.
Most convertible walkers have sensory toys, bright colors and music. Some even allow you to detach the games for floor-time play. Convertible walkers accommodate many children regardless of age, gender and size.
Push Walkers
Baby push walkers for carpet come in different shapes, colors, and designs, but one of the best features that make this type of walker great for carpets is the weight. Push walkers tend to weigh less than other traditional walkers, which makes it easier for your baby to move around on thick carpet. As the name implies, push walkers require your child to push them in order to move around. One of the key benefits of this type of walker is that it encourages babies and toddlers to use their whole body to safely carry their weight. It more closely mimics how your child would walk on their own, giving them more relevant practice to get on the move independently.
Seated Walkers
Seated walkers for carpet are the most common walkers on the market. They are designed primarily for babies that can stand on their own, but aren’t quite ready to start walking yet. For most seated walkers, babies should be between 15-20 pounds, and able to support their head and neck. These types of walkers have a shorter use time due to the weight limits and inability to convert. Most seated walkers are built with toys and games to keep your little one occupied, but be careful not to let you baby sit in seated walkers for too long due to safety concerns. With seated walkers, it’s important to take into consideration your baby’s age, weight and height.
What Makes Baby Walkers For Thick Carpet Different From Other Options?
Wheels
Big wheels are likely the most important feature to consider when selecting a baby walker for thick carpets. This is the component that creates a smooth and enjoyable ride for your baby. If the wheels are small and immobile, your baby will likely get stuck between rooms or in carpets with higher pile.
Choosing a walker with large/tall, mobile wheels is the key to providing a hassle-free ride for your baby.
Grip Strips and Bumpers
Although grip strips and bumpers are beneficial for smooth surfaces, they can hinder your baby’s movement on thick carpet. It’s important to choose a baby walker that has removable grip strips and pads if your baby will mostly be cruising on carpets. This is a simple adjustment that makes the world of a difference in your baby’s experience.
Weight
The weight of the baby walker for carpets is also a key consideration. Not only does the walker need to be heavy enough to support your baby, but also light enough for them to move around without over-exerting themselves. If you choose a heavy model, it will likely get stuck in the carpet and make it difficult for your baby to move around.
Lighter walkers make it easier for your baby to move over thick carpet, and easier to travel with as well!
Safety for Baby Walkers On Thick Carpet
Make sure your baby is safe while using a baby walker on thick carpet, with these general guidelines for baby walkers:
- Monitor your baby in a walker: While your baby is in a walker, never turn your back for a second. It might feel safe to leave your baby in a walker with bumper on all sides, but babies are way more mbile in a baby walker than you think.
- Close off Staircases: Your baby should be in an enclosed or protected space when using a walker, just in case. Stairs are particularly dangerous when babies are in a walker, even carpeted stairs. Note that baby gates may not stop accidents from happening. Babies have been known to push through baby gates in a walker.
- Hot and hazardous objects are within reach: Babies can reach more things in a walker, like tablecloths, curtains, etc.. Clear away anythign you don’t want your baby to get into when they are in a baby walker.
What Age Can You Use Baby Walkers For Thick Carpet?
Baby walkers are typically used between 5 and 15 months when baby is unable to walk, but sturdy enough to sit and stand comfortably. Depending on the type of baby walker you choose, your baby could outgrow it before learning to walk independently. Some walker options will grow with your child and can be used into the toddler years. Especially the ones that have removable toy stations for floor-time play.
To learn more about indicators that your baby is ready to start cruising, check out this article from the Cleveland Clinic.
Are Baby Walkers Good For Babies?
It’s important to note that overuse of baby walkers can lead to health issues for your baby so limiting time in the walker is important in ensuring your baby’s safety. Research shows that head and neck injuries are possible with the use of baby walkers.
While new safety standards for baby walkers have been in place since the mid-90s, accidents can still occur in a split second. With baby walkers, your child will be able to reach household items that were previously inaccessible like a hot stove or poisonous chemicals. To read more about potential hazards, you can find a helpful article here. This video also shares some potential concerns and risks.
Your baby should be supervised at all times while using a walker and you should be aware of any potential hazards, like stairs. Be sure to check all of the safety features before purchasing a walker.
What Do You Look For In The Best Baby Walker for Thick Carpet?
Design
You know your baby best, so choosing a walker for carpet your baby will enjoy should be easy with our parent-approved recommendations. Whether that means a large, empty tray for your little one to fill with favorite toys and snacks, or a model that comes with colorful and musical gadgets and accessories, one of these options is sure to meet your needs.
Durability
You want to choose a baby walker that will last even after your child plays bumper cars with the walls. Finding a product made from sturdy, well-made material will save you the headache and hassle of either returning your baby walker, or being completely disappointed in the value.
Versatility
I don’t know about you, but when I buy something I want to get the most use out of it, and I want it to last (ideally for more than one baby). Convertible walkers for carpets are a great option and offer many months of growth and play for your little one.
