Are you in the market for a baby walker but hoping to sidestep the common plastic variants in favor of a more sustainable wooden option? If so, you’re not alone. Many modern parents are leaning towards wooden toys and aids, driven by both environmental concerns and the timeless appeal of wood.
Fortunately, the demand has birthed a range of wooden baby walkers that are not only eco-friendly but also designed to support and enhance your little one’s first steps.
As an expert in early childhood development and eco-conscious parenting tools, I’ve curated a comprehensive guide spotlighting the top wooden baby walkers that are currently winning hearts in the industry.
Let’s stride together into this selection and assist you in making an informed decision for your budding walker’s adventurous journey.
Best All Round Wooden Walker
1. Hape Music Walker – Editors Choice
The Music Walker from Hape toys is the perfect choice for your child’s first steps. With setback wheels and a unique design that’s easy to push, this toy encourages kids to walk and roll. It’s also a busy-box on wheels, with moveable knobs, gears, and colorful balls to keep kids entertained. The rubber lining on the wheels makes it safe for kids to use, and the storage base offers room for friends to join in the fun.
Pros
- Five different activities to keep kids entertained.Develops coordination and fine motor skills.
- Rubber-trimmed setback wheels protect floors.
- Easy to assemble in just 15 minutes
Cons
- The walker can only go straight, making it difficult for kids to turn and maneuver.
- Some reviewers reported manufacturing defects with the bolts on the side not aligning with the holes.
- The wheels are prone to squeaking.
Best Eco Friendly Wooden Walker
2. Plan Toys Bird Walker – Runner Up
The PlanToys Bird Walker is a fun and engaging toy for kids learning to walk. It comes with two birds and 16 wooden blocks, and when pushed, it creates a unique sound to encourage kids to walk. PlanToys has a strong commitment to sustainability and has been consistently developing its products with a focus on the environment for over 30 years. The company was the first to manufacture wooden toys from preservative-free rubber wood, and has now introduced PlanWood, an eco-friendly material that minimizes waste and reduces the environmental impact of toy production.
Pros
- Customizable handle for the perfect fit.
- Friction knob for added control.
- Fun and encouraging sound effects.
- Sustainable and non-toxic materials for a guilt-free playtime.
Cons
- The walker may not work well on higher pile carpets or transitions between flooring types.
- Not everyone appreciates the “unique sound” the parrots make.
- Not budget friendly
Plan Toys Bird Walker
We love this unusual walker from plan toys. Strong and sturdy children can use it to pull themselves up and give them a bit of extra balance as they are taking their first tentative steps. The big roller at the front has a bell inside and so makes a pleasing jingling sound as they move forward, encouraging them to take more steps and keep the parrot noise going.
Made from a mix of sustainable rubberwood, harvested close to the factory from trees that are no longer producing rubber, and PlanWood, an ingenious product made from the sawdust from the Plan Toys factory that would otherwise be a waste product. This would make a great gift that is sure to be appreciated by eco-minded parents.
Best Wooden Walker for Activities
KIDDERY TOYS Push and Pull Learning Walker
This wooden activity center is the perfect toy for your little one’s first year of life. Made from top quality wood and designed with toddlers in mind, this push and pull walker helps develop fine motor skills, creativity, and social skills in a fun and interactive way. With multiple activities like beads, shape sorting, a musical note xylophone, and a pound drum, your child will be entertained for hours on end. The premium quality materials and attention to detail make this activity center a durable choice that will withstand the test of time. Plus, the gender-neutral design makes it suitable for both boys and girls. As an added bonus, this activity center also helps improve problem-solving and creativity skills. Get yours today and give your child the gift of fun and learning!
Pros
- Countless activities to keep your toddler entertained and engaged
- A perfect gift for baby showers or birthdays
- Premium quality materials ensure long-lasting enjoyment for your little one
- The perfect toy for boys and girls, helping them develop their creativity and imagination while improving their motor and social skills. Get yours today!
Cons
- More of an activity toy than a walker
- Some reviewers complain of difficulty assembly
- Some complaints on the noise quality on the xylophone
KIDDERY TOYS Push and Pull Learning Walker
This wooden activity center is the perfect toy for your little one’s development and entertainment. With a variety of activities like beads, shape sorting, and a musical xylophone, your child will be entertained for hours on end. The premium quality materials and attention to detail make this activity center a durable choice that will withstand the test of time. Plus, the gender-neutral design makes it suitable for both boys and girls. Not only is it fun, but it also helps improve problem-solving and creativity skills.
Customers rave about the easy assembly and beautiful design of this walker. It glides smoothly across floors and has rubber-lined wheels to protect your delicate surfaces. The tray on the back is a great touch, providing storage for the included blocks and xylophone mallets. Not only is this toy visually stunning, but it’s also practical and great for your child’s development.
Best Budget Friendly Wooden Walker
Pitpat Walker with Building Blocks
This wooden baby walker is made of premium Dutch wood and coated with a safe and harmless water-based paint. The unique design of the hole position and lower center of gravity ensures a stable handrail and prevents tipping over. With 34 brightly colored blocks included, your child will have endless fun while learning to walk and playing with the wooden blocks.
Pros
- Brightly colored blocks for walking practice and playtime
- Helps little ones learn to walk and keeps them entertained
- Made of high-quality dutch wood and safe, non-toxic paint for your child’s safety
- From sitting to standing, this toy will keep your child entertained and help them learn to walk
Cons
- Basic activities
- No rubber on wheels
- Some reviewers had issues with the durability and stability of the walker
Pitpat Walker with Building Blocks
This baby walker is a must-have for parents looking to help their little ones learn to walk. The wooden design is not only stylish, but also durable and safe for your child. The included blocks add an extra element of fun, encouraging your child to build and stack while also providing a little extra weight to help the walker stay stable. Plus, the bright colors and different shapes of the blocks make for a visually stimulating toy that your child will love.
As an added bonus, this baby walker is easy to assemble, so you can get it set up and ready for your child in no time. And with its sturdy construction and well-balanced design, you can trust that it will provide a safe and secure support for your child as they take their first steps. So why wait? Give your child the gift of independence and the chance to explore their world with this wooden baby walker.
Best Wooden Push Walker for Walking
ROBUD Wooden Baby Walker
The ROBUD Fun Baby Walking Cart is the perfect toy for little ones learning to walk. The rubber-trimmed wheels prevent slipping and protect floors, while the wooden gear and colorful building blocks provide interactive play. This multifunctional toy also includes counting balls to train cognitive abilities and improve flexibility. Give your child the support they need to take their first steps and keep moving forward with the ROBUD Walking Cart.
Pros
- This multifunctional educational activity center helps improve core muscles and standing skills while also promoting creativity through colorful wooden blocks.
- Designed for 10-24 month old babies learning to walk, this walker features non-slip rubber wheels for a smooth and steady push.
- Made of high quality, non-toxic wood with smooth edges and sturdy construction, this push walker is a safe and durable choice for toddlers.
- The ROBUD baby push walker is easy to assemble and features a noisemaker peg that can be turned off for quiet play.
Cons
- Rubber can come off the wheels
- Walker doesn’t do turns, no pivot function
ROBUD Wooden Baby Walker
As a parent, you want the best for your little one and choosing the right baby walker is an important decision. The ROBUD Wooden Baby Walker & Wooden Building Blocks 2IN1 is an excellent choice for parents who want to help their babies learn to walk and have fun at the same time. This multifunctional educational activity center is designed for 10-24 month old babies and features non-slip rubber wheels for a smooth and steady push.
The wooden blocks provide an opportunity for toddlers to engage in creative play and improve their fine motor skills, while the sturdy and durable construction ensures that this toy is safe for your little one to use. Assembly is easy with just a screwdriver needed to attach the handle, and the noisemaker peg can be turned off for quiet play.
This baby walker is a great choice for parents who want to provide their child with a fun and educational toy that will support their development as they learn to walk.
Buying Guide for Wooden Walkers
When evaluating the best wooden baby walkers, it’s crucial to ensure they are safe, supportive of developmental milestones, and are durable. Here are the three essential criteria to consider:
- Safety:
- Stable Design: The walker should have a broad base and a low center of gravity to prevent tipping.
- Non-Toxic Finish: The wood and any paint or finish used should be non-toxic and safe for babies, considering they might touch or chew on parts of the walker.
- Brakes or Resistance: Some walkers come with adjustable resistance or brakes to control the speed, preventing the walker from moving too quickly and causing accidents.
- Developmental Support:
- Adjustability: The walker should be adjustable to accommodate different heights, ensuring that the baby can use it as they grow.
- Interactive Features: Incorporating activities like shape sorters, spinners, or bead mazes can help with fine motor skills and cognitive development.
- Ergonomic Design: The walker should support the baby’s posture and encourage them to walk with confidence.
- Durability and Design:
- High-Quality Materials: The walker should be made of durable wood that can withstand regular use without breaking or wearing out.
- Aesthetic Appeal: A well-designed, visually appealing walker can be a delightful addition to a child’s playroom.
- Versatility: Some walkers double as push carts or come with storage space, adding to their utility and lifespan.
FAQs on Wooden Push Walkers
Which Walker Is Best For Babies?
As babies get close to learning to walk they start using anything and everything they can grab to pull themselves up and practise standing and balancing. The sofa, the coffee table, your legs and even the family dog are all popular choices.
Wooden baby walkers are toys that have been specifically designed to encourage this process and help little ones progress toward taking their first steps. They encourage babies to stand for longer which strengthens the muscles they need for walking, as well as keeping them stable while they learn to balance.
Once they are ready to start walking the wheels allow them to cruise independently around the room without needing to stick to the furniture.
Are baby walkers safe?
Obviously as parents we want to ensure our children are safe, especially when it comes to baby & toddler toys.
Research suggests that sit in baby walkers may not be safe both due to potential accidents if babies are not properly supervised, and the potential negative developmental effects that can come from excessive use. If you do plan to introduce a baby walker, be aware of the guidelines of when a baby can go in a baby walker.
This style of baby walker has been banned in Canada and the NHS recommends a maximum of 20 minutes use per day.
Our No. 1 Recommended Product
Hape Music Walker
The Music Walker from Hape toys is the perfect choice for your child’s first steps. With setback wheels and a unique design that’s easy to push, this toy encourages kids to walk and roll. It’s also a busy-box on wheels, with moveable knobs, gears, and colorful balls to keep kids entertained.
Types of Baby Walkers
Push along vs sit down walkers
Push-along walkers, like all push along toys, are great for encouraging babies to practise standing and take their first steps. They can also give babies confidence and a sense of independence that can also be valuable in learning to walk.
Unlike the sit in version a push walker allows babies to see their feet, sit down on the floor when they need to, and use their muscles in the correct way for learning to walk rather than scooting.
Push along walkers come in many styles including the zimmer frame style activity walkers, push-along carts or vehicles, walkers that can be used as ride-on toys when babies get a bit bigger, and prams and shopping trolleys that will be played with for years.
Activity walkers
If you are thinking ahead to when your baby will learn to walk then an activity walker could be your best buy as they are fun, engaging and great for development long before the point of taking their first steps.
Activity walkers can be used for tummy time, can encourage babies to roll, shuffle or crawl, and are perfect for encouraging sitting which is a vital step in the learning to walk process.
They also have lots of activities that are perfect for sensory development, fine motor skills, learning about cause and effect and discovering shapes and colours.
Block walkers
A push-along wooden baby walker full of blocks is about as traditional as it gets and many parents today will have used one as a child, and are perfect for children who love building things.
The addition of a set of building blocks makes this a versatile toy that will be loved both before and after little ones learn to walk and perfect for developing fine and gross motor skills. And of course, the cart can be used to carry anything your baby wants, and we all know there is nothing toddlers love better than loading up their toys and pushing them around.
Ride on walkers
If you’re buying a walker because you feel your little one is just about ready to take their first steps then a ride-on-walker could be the best choice. Being pushed around is loads of fun, and once they’ve mastered walking, scooting about on a ride-on will mean it remains a popular toy for much longer.
Walker Wagons
Walker wagons are essentially a combination of a baby walker and a small wagon, allowing a child to push the wagon around while standing upright and holding onto the handle. The wagon typically has a low center of gravity and a wide base to help prevent tipping over, and it is often equipped with various toys and activities to keep the child entertained.
Alternatives to baby walkers
If you’re worried about getting the most out of a baby walker, you might want to consider a pram or shopping trolley. These are still great for babies to pull themselves up on and great for taking their first steps but are equally loved by three-year-olds.
There are even some decent plastic options, that come with an adjustable brake and easy access if having wooden toys is not essential for you. These usually comes at a lower price point and still provide plenty of fun for your little one.
Choosing the right activity walker for your baby
A wooden baby walker is a great toy for babies that are excited to explore the world. Obviously, they are great for helping baby find their feet, offering stability and support while they take their first tentative steps. But an activity walker will also engage sitting babies and be fun to play with even after they are walking unaided.
Due to research suggesting the negative effects of sitting baby walkers we would suggest you choose a push-along baby walker where babies can see their feet while walking, drop down onto their bums, and develop strength and balance in a natural way.
Engage and inspire
These walkers are not only great for helping with gross motor skills but also have lots of fine motor skills activities for little ones to play with.
These activities are perfect for babies to play with long before they are ready to start walking and will encourage sitting and crawling which are both vital for healthy development and learning to walk.
All these walkers are designed with a stable wide base although of course babies do still need to be supervised while playing.
Helping babies learn to walk
Once your baby can pull themselves up to standing activity walkers are a fun way to provide stability and give a little bit of support as they start cruising. They look a bit like a baby zimmer frame and work in pretty much the same way. Babies can still see their feet but are given a bit more independence than they get from holding on to you or being restricted in where they can cruise by the layout of the furniture.
You will need to support the walker to begin with to stop it running away from them before they are ready, but once babies start putting one foot in front of the other having something they can push along (even if its just a cardboard box) will provide hours of fun.
Giving your baby something safe to hold on to is great for their confidence and can go some way towards saving your back, although holding your hands is always going to be amazing.
Our No. 1 Recommended Product
Hape Music Walker
The Music Walker from Hape toys is the perfect choice for your child’s first steps. With setback wheels and a unique design that’s easy to push, this toy encourages kids to walk and roll. It’s also a busy-box on wheels, with moveable knobs, gears, and colorful balls to keep kids entertained.
