Play gyms - any advice?

[Mirry71]

Want to buy a play gym for DC. Can only see review for one on MN and I'm not sure what the must-haves are - ie is it more important to get a padded one, one with a big mirror or what? Dont want to spend a fortune, equally don't want to save a few quid and not get as good a one as I could...

ps no idea why this came up twice....sorry

How old is your DC? From my experience, they will only be on a playmat till they are about 6 months old but in that time (because they can't do much else!), it was invaluable! We had a baby einstein one and my DS loved the mirror and also the star that played classical music and has flashing lights. He wasn't super keen on the small furry animals hanging off it though. One option is to go to TK Maxx if you are near one, they often have really good play gyms that are just out of season for half the price.

If your DC is already a few months old, you might want to think about something that will last a bit longer. We have the Fisher Price Jumperoo and DS went into it from about 5 months and love it till now (13 months) but he doesn't go into it now, just uses it to cruise around to play with the toys on it. Good luck in deciding!

There are lots of NCT nearly new sales around at this time of year - often can get one in really good condition because they don't get too much of a beating when they are that young....

DC is a month old but think wd really enjoy it. I have just missed our local NCT nearly new sale sadly....

Mirry71 where are you? If you're near Portsmouth, I've got a Baby Einstein play gym my DS has outgrown. He really enjoyed it and used it until about 9 months or so - often just for the mat bit but he liked tearing the toys on rings down too. We also had the jumperoo which was awesome and we just sold it.

laraeo - That's very kind of you! Mirry71 - you should ask around to find out if someone will lend you one. I lent ours to my friend once my DS outgrew it but am getting it back now as her DS has outgrown it and we are expecting a second. As most of the bits can be chucked into the washing machine, it's fine to share!

I borrowed one of these Tiny Love ones from my sister, and some friends had these padded ones - I'd buy the tiny love one second hand as the base bit can go in the washing machine. They aren't worth buying new at around £40 though as you will use them for such a short time - but you will use one every day and they are a lifesaver for entertaining a baby between 2-7 months I'd say.

laraeo - what a kind offer - thank you so much - but am afraid am nowhere near portsmouth - but really grateful for the offer - i will ask around to see if anyone has got one..Thank you!

No worries, Mirry71. We started DS on his playmat at about 2 months and used it in conjunction with the jumperoo from about 6 months. I just missed the NCT sale too so I've got a room full of stuff DS has already outgrown .