Baby loungers can be handy to have around. They provide a comfortable spot for babies to rest or play. Some people refer to them as pillow nests, and they’re actually super comfy! The most popular brands are Snuggle Me and Dock A Tot, but which one is better? Here’s our breakdown of the Snuggle Me Vs Dock A Tot!
First, let’s go over the details about each lounger, so you know what they’re all about. Then, we can talk about what sets them apart and which one may be the best fit.
Shop Snuggle Me and Dock A Tot Below!
Things To Consider For Co-Sleeping
Before we dive into this awesome baby gear, let’s chat about safe co-sleeping. Baby loungers were initially invented as a co-sleeping tool to help parents and babies get some sleep. But then the AAP and CPSC announced a few years ago that leaving babies in loungers unsupervised is dangerous.
For example, the baby could roll out of the loungers by accident. They also pose a suffocating risk (the baby could turn to the side and have trouble with the padded sides). In other words, they’re lovely to have around, but you should still use caution with loungers.
If you’re desperate for some sleep and your baby refuses to sleep anywhere else except for the lounger– Dock a Tot has fewer restrictions for co-sleeping. Their company website explains that their lounger is “ideal for co-sleeping,” but they also advise you to consult with your pediatrician. They also encourage their customers to follow certain precautions, like making sure it’s on a firm mattress or surface with no covers nearby.
What about Snuggle Me? Their company stated that their pillow is not to be used for co-sleeping. You can still use their products to help the baby rest or play, but it should be done under supervision.
As the name says, the lounger snuggles the baby by cradling them. It reminds them of being in the womb and gives them a sense of comfort and security. Parents can use Snuggle Me for tummy time to encourage head and neck movement. There were some reports that the lounger was able to help with reflux too.
The design has a sling-type of fabric in the center, and it’s surrounded by a soft pillow. Then, a cover is placed over the entire thing. This keeps everything smooth and enclosed. Keep in mind that the space in the center sling is smaller compared to Dock A Tot.
The nice thing about Snuggle Me is they have organic versions, which means the materials are all-natural and chemical-free. And their products are made in the USA. They also come with a guarantee– if you don’t love it, you can send it back within 30 days.
Ideal for:
- Newborns and small babies
- If your baby loves being swaddled with a blanket
Pros:
- Organic
- Resembles the hugging effects of the womb
- Babies fall asleep faster and more comfortably
- Comes with a 30-day guarantee
- Can be placed in a Moses Basket on a stand to raise it off the ground safely
Cons:
- Takes longer to clean (has to be hung up to dry)
- May cause some babies to become a bit sweaty, especially during hot weather
- You should not use it for co-sleeping
The Dock A Tot is another lounger that’s designed to cradle the baby and provide comfort. It was first invented in Sweden to help babies sleep better. Thanks to its international roots, the products can come overseas to the USA.
What’s nice about this lounger is the amount of space in the center. It’s large enough where there is a bigger gap between the baby and the sides. This means older babies, even toddlers, can still fit in the Dock A Tot. Some parents consider that a big bonus.
Unlike the Snuggle Me, the larger center comes with a padded bottom, so you can put the lounger directly on the floor, and it would still feel comfortable. While being able to put it on the ground is great, I found that I really loved being able to put our Dock A Tot inside of a Moses Basket. For one, this makes it easy to pick up and move the Dock A Tot as necessary. It also allows you to raise your baby off the ground by putting the Dock A Tot + Moses Basket duo up on a Moses Basket Stand.
Check out our full review of the Dock a Tot here!
Ideal for:
- Babies and toddlers
- If your baby/toddler loves laying down
Pros:
- Easier to clean
- Padded bottom
- More room in the center
- Claims to be “ideal for co-sleeping” but advises you to ask your doctor first
- Can be placed in a Moses Basket on a stand to raise it off the ground safely
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a hugging effect like Snuggle Me
- Newborns can’t use Dock A Tot Grand (a different version)
Shop Moses Baskets + Stands Below!
Dock A Tot vs Snuggle Me
Several things set the two loungers apart. Here’s how we divided up the important pros and cons of the Doc a Tot vs Snuggle Me:
- Materials
- Comfort level
- Cleaning/washing
- Size
- Price
Knowing the differences will help you make an informed decision on which lounger is better suited for your needs.
Materials
There are different material options for Snuggle Me, and all of them are made in the USA. For example, the Snuggle Me Original has a cotton cover with a polyester fill. But with organic products being in high demand, Snuggle Me came out with a version made of organic cotton. That means all of the materials are 100% natural and chemical-free.
On the other hand, Dock A Tot doesn’t come with organic fabrics, but its materials are hypoallergenic and breathable.
Comfort of the Snuggle Me Lounger Vs Dock a Tot
Snuggle Me is extremely comfy, no questions about it. It’s like laying on top of a cloud that hugs you from all sides. Since the pillow goes all the way around, there’s an area where you can put the baby’s feet up. However, one thing to consider with the Snuggle Me Organic vs Dock a Tot is that some parents report that the snug fit makes the baby a bit hot (and sweaty) sometimes.
Dock A Tot is flatter and broader in comparison with Snuggle Me. As a result, their lounger has more ventilation, so you don’t have to worry about babies becoming hot or sweaty. And, it opens up at the bottom to make room for growing legs and feet.
Cleaning
Cleaning the Snuggle Me or Dock a Tot is an important factor to consider. If you talk to a parent who used Snuggle Me, chances are they’ll tell you that it’s harder to clean than Dock A Tot. It’s because the pillow part of Snuggle Me can’t go in the dryer. Instead, you’ll have to wash it gently, then hang it up to dry.
Dock A Tot is much easier to clean and dry. All you have to do is throw it in the washer and dryer. It doesn’t even have to be on gentle settings. If your baby spits up or makes a mess in their lounger– no problem, just toss it in and it’ll be ready in no time.
Note: Snuggle Me does provide an optional cover to help you avoid washing the pillow part!
Size
Size is another difference between Snuggle Me and Dock a Tot. Snuggle Me comes in infant size and toddler size. The infant size is made for babies up to 8 months old and the toddler size is made for 9 months-3 years.
Dock A Tot also comes in different sizes; the Dock a Tot Deluxe and the Dock a Tot Grand. They differ a bit more from each other than the Snuggle Me options as the Grand has an open bottom.
Snuggle Me Organic Toddler vs Dock a Tot Grand
If you are looking for a lounger for your toddler, you will want to focus on the toddler-sized Snuggle Me Organic or Dock a Tot Grand. We recommend the Dock a Tot Grand because of the opening on the bottom which allows an older child much more movement.
Price of the Snuggle Me Vs Doc a Tot
Snuggle Me can run you about $99. Some parents don’t mind paying that much, especially if it means their baby will go to sleep and stay asleep. However, some parents don’t want to shell out that much and would rather save their money for a lower-priced product.
If you’re looking to save a few bucks, then look into Dock A Tot. Their price is generally reasonable. It may vary a bit, depending on which version you get. For example, the Dock A Tot Deluxe Plus is $75.99.
Snuggle Me vs Dock a Tot: Which One Is Better?
When it really comes down to it, do you go with the Dock a Tot or Snuggle Me? The recommendation is to use Snuggle Me if your baby is new, because the size and cradling effect may be more comforting. If you want something that can last longer, then the Dock A Tot would be better. But it really comes down to your preferences and what you consider a must-have in a product.
Will you go with the Doc a Tot or Snuggle Me?
You May Also Like:
Best Co-sleepers to (Safely) Sleep Next to your Little One!
16 Gestures Your Baby Should Make By 16 Months!
The Surprising Truth about the Baby Sleep Cycle
Frequently Asked Questions
What is better dock a tot or snuggle me?
When it really comes down to it, do you go with the Dock a Tot or Snuggle Me? The recommendation is to use Snuggle Me if your baby is new, because the size and cradling effect may be more comforting. If you want something that can last longer, then the Dock A Tot would be better.
Is snuggle me safe for sleeping?
No, the Snuggle Me is not intended to be used for baby sleep and is designed for supervised use only. It is a lounger and does not meet the safety guidelines that a crib/bassinet should.
Can newborns sleep in dock a tot?
The Dock A Tot is not intended to be used for baby sleep. It is meant for your baby to lounge in during awake times.
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