Baby walkers

Baby walkers: the basics

Baby walkers allow a child greater mobility, and faster access to other objects, than they would normally have. Baby walkers can increase the risk of your child having an accident.

Playing on the floor is better for your child’s development.

If you buy and use a baby walker, think carefully about the safety of your home environment.

Other people like parents and siblings share that environment and it is not always possible to completely remove all other hazards or to focus undivided attention on one child.

Before you buy a baby walker

Baby walkers must meet product safety standards, even if they are second-hand. The standard sets out requirements for the stability of the walker, its performance over steps, and safety warnings.

When buying a new baby walker, look for a statement showing compliance with the American Standard ASTM F977 or the American JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) logo.

Find out more about the baby walker product safety standard.

Do not use a baby walker if it is second-hand, a hand-me-down, or made before 2002, or you are not sure if it meets the standards. Throw it away and buy a walker you are sure complies with the standards. A reliable retailer can help you select a safe walker.

Look for these safety features:

• recessed wheel mouldings
• friction strips on the base
• warning labels
• grips round corners.

How to use baby walkers safely

Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly and use.

Use the walker only for short periods of time – they are designed only for occasional short use.

Always supervise a baby in a baby walker – it is not a safe place to leave a baby alone.

Check the environment.

Make sure:

• hazards such as stairs, heaters, and fireplaces are well guarded
• the walker is on a flat, stable surface like a floor
• outer doors are shut
• electrical and blind cords are out of reach
• hot foods and liquids are out of reach
• toys or beads attached to the walker are well fastened, and the toys comply with safety standards

Secure all large and heavy objects in your home to prevent them falling. The Earthquake Commission's website EQ-IQ provides excellent advice on what you should do to quake-safe your home, making it safer for babies and your family.

Read the Earthquake Commission's advice on securing furniture.

Got a problem with a baby walker?

If a shop is selling a baby walker that does not meet the mandatory standard you can report it to the Commerce Commission.

The Commerce Commission enforces the Baby Walker Product Safety Standard.

You can contact them:
Phone: 0800 943 600

Website www.comcom.govt.nz or email.
Address: PO Box 2351, Wellington