Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 Booster Feeding and Floor Seat with Self-Storing Tray – Slate
- To assemble the Ingenuity Baby Base, remove the tray, turn seat over and remove the seat back from underneath the base (tip: chair straps are also stored under the seat), and place seat back onto the top of the base; back not removable after installation
Your Complete Buying Guide for the Versatile Baby Seat
The Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 Seat is one of the most popular baby seats on the market, and for good reason. This ingenious seat has tons of great features, converts from a bouncer to a booster seat, has a affordable price point, and most importantly – provides a safe and comfortable place for your little one to sit, bounce, and play.
But with so many baby seats out there, how do you know if the Ingenuity 2-in-1 is the right choice for you and your family? This comprehensive buying guide has the details you need to make an informed decision. We’ll cover everything from key product features, pricing and availability, reviews from real customers, cleaning and care, safety information, and more.
After reading this guide, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to decide if the versatile and budget-friendly Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 Seat should be your go-to pick for your baby’s early months and years. Let’s dive in!
Overview of the Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 Seat
The Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 Seat, as the name suggests, has two different uses. First, it operates as a full-size baby bouncer with a gentle rocking motion that babies love. The seat has three adjustable recline positions and easily folds flat for storage when not in use.
Then, when your baby outgrows the bouncer, the seat converts into a booster that can be used at the dining table. This gives you an extra year or two of use as your little one transitions to solid foods. It’s really like getting two products in one!
Some of the most important features of the Ingenuity 2-in-1 Seat include:
- Three recline positions – Adjustable seat back lets you find the most comfortable incline for your baby.
- Machine washable seat pad – The fabric seat cover can be removed and thrown in the washing machine for easy cleaning.
- Foldable design – Folds up flat for compact storage when bouncer mode is not in use.
- Hybrid frame – Combines steel and aluminum for maximum strength and minimal weight.
- Non-slip feet – Rubberized feet help keep the bouncer firmly planted on the floor.
- Converts to booster seat – Seat and tray transform into a space-saving booster for older babies.
- JPMA certified – Meets or exceeds all safety standards set by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association.
- Budget-friendly price – Offering all these features at under $50 makes this seat a great value.
As you can see, the versatility, safety, convenience, and affordability built into the design make the Ingenuity 2-in-1 a smart choice for many families. Next, let’s talk about the cost and availability.
How Much Does the Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 Seat Cost?
The MSRP for the Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 Seat is $49.99. This list price applies to purchases made directly through Ingenuity’s website as well as major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, BuyBuyBaby, and Target.
The good news is you can often find it on sale:
- Amazon frequently discounts it to $39.99 or even lower during sales and promotions. Signing up for Subscribe & Save drops the price to $37.49.
- Walmart sells it for $39.94, with possible additional markdowns in-store.
- BuyBuyBaby runs various promotions throughout the year, bringing the price down by $10-20.
- Target offers the seat for $39.99 when purchasing online. In-store prices may be discounted further with Cartwheel deals.
- Other baby gear sites like Albee Baby and Babylist often have coupons and codes that take 10-15% off the normal $49.99 price tag.
The bottom line is that while the MSRP is under $50, which is very affordable for a versatile product like this, you can often save even more money by shopping sales or scoring online deals. With a little searching, it’s possible to get the Ingenuity seat for $35-40, which is a downright bargain!
Where Can I Buy the Ingenuity 2-in-1 Baby Seat?
This popular seat is widely available both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. Here are some of the best places to buy it:
- Amazon – As the world’s largest online retailer, Amazon carries the Ingenuity seat and offers fast, free shipping for Prime members. Reliable customer service and reviews make purchasing here low-risk.
- Walmart – Found both on Walmart.com and in-store at locations across the country. Walmart’s everyday low prices may save you a few extra dollars.
- buybuyBABY – Shop online and pick up in store, or purchase in-store. buybuyBABY is a go-to for baby gear and carries the full Ingenuity product line.
- Target – Available at Target stores nationwide and on Target.com. Expect low prices plus potential additional savings by stacking discounts and promo codes.
- Ingenuity Baby Website – Purchase directly from the manufacturer’s website to take advantage of promotions, limited time sales, and bundled offers.
- Juvenile Stores – Retailers like Buy Buy Baby, Pottery Barn Kids, and Crate & Kids may have stock in-store. Call ahead to check availability.
- Baby Boutiques – Local baby stores often carry popular brands like Ingenuity. Find them in the bouncer or booster seat section.
Checking multiple retailers will ensure you find the best deal on the 2-in-1 seat. And purchasing from a major site like Amazon gives peace of mind thanks to easy returns and responsive customer service.
Reviews of the Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 Seat
This versatile baby seat enjoys mostly excellent reviews across various websites, including a 4+ star average rating on Amazon based on over 5,000 customer reviews.
Here is a sampling of what buyers have to say about their experiences with the product:
“This bouncer is sturdy, adjustable, and so easy to clean. I love that it can convert to a booster when my daughter outgrows the bouncer. It was super easy to assemble too. I’d definitely recommend this as a multi-use baby item.”
“I wanted a bouncer that didn’t take up a lot of room or look like an eyesore. This one folds flat and has a nice simple design that I don’t mind leaving out. My son loves rocking in it too – the vibrations help calm him when he’s fussy.”
“This is by far the best bouncer I’ve found for the price. My son lived in this the first few months. It’s lightweight enough to move from room to room. The fabric is durable and easy to wipe clean when dirty. I would buy this again in a heartbeat!”
The few critical reviews focus on issues like difficulty assembling or flimsy fabric. However problems like these appear to be rare. Most customers find the Ingenuity seat to be conveniently portable, easy to clean, and above all – an affordable baby item their little ones enjoy.
Ingenuity 2-in-1 Seat Safety Features and Certifications
When choosing any baby gear, safety is the number one priority for parents. Here are some key details on how the Ingenuity 2-in-1 seat is designed and tested to ensure your baby’s protection:
- Meets or exceeds all safety standards set by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA). Products with JPMA certification must pass rigorous safety tests.
- Designed for babies 4 months and up who can hold their head up unassisted. Includes the maximum weight recommendation clearly on packaging.
- 3-point harness keeps baby securely positioned in the seat at all times. Easy to buckle and adjust sizing as needed.
- Non-skid feet on the frame lower the risk of tipping or sliding.
- BPA free materials used throughout the product.
- Recommended use times provided to prevent overuse and make sure babies get adequate time out of the seat.
- Thoroughly stability tested to confirm sturdiness in all recline positions.
- Meets flammability standards for baby products set by CPSC and ASTM.
You can feel confident using the Ingenuity seat knowing stringent controls are in place around safety and product testing. But always follow the manual for proper usage and supervision.
Weight and Height Limits for the Ingenuity Seat
When can you start using the Ingenuity Baby Base, and how long will your child be able to use it safely? Here are the key age, weight, and height limits to know:
- Minimum Age: 4 months old. Babies should have full head and neck control before use.
- Maximum Bouncer Weight: 20 pounds. Use the bouncer feature until baby reaches 20 lbs.
- Maximum Booster Weight: 50 pounds. The seat will support children up to 50 lbs in booster mode.
- Minimum Height: Baby’s head must be fully above the back of the seat. Taller babies fit earlier.
- Maximum Height: 43 inches tall. Child’s legs should not dangle off the edge of the booster seat.
Following these guidelines ensures your baby’s development aligns with the design of the seat for maximum comfort and security. Monitor growth milestones and transition from bouncer to booster mode between 9-12 months in most cases.
Setting Up and Assembling the Ingenuity 2-in-1
One of the most appreciated features of the Ingenuity seat is how quick and easy it is to set up straight out of the box. Here are the key steps on how to get this baby seat up and running for first-time use:
- Unpack all parts from the box. You’ll find the main seat body, the vibration unit, the legs, and the tray. Gather any tools needed for assembly.
- Identify the front and back legs based on shape, and slide them firmly into the slots at the bottom of the seat until they click into place.
- Attach the vibration unit underneath the seat in the marked compartment, secured with the provided screws.
- Insert batteries into the vibration unit if desired. Many parents skip this optional step.
- Place the fabric seat cover over the frame, smoothing into place. Thread the straps through holes.
- Pop the toy bar into the slots above the seat back. Now baby has easy access to toys!
- Slide the tray into the tracks on the side when in booster mode.
That’s all there is to it! Simple, tool-free assembly means you can start using this multi-purpose seat almost immediately after getting it home. It also folds back down just as smoothly when storing between uses.
Cleaning and Care of the Ingenuity Baby Seat
As any experienced parent knows, baby messes and spills come with the territory. Thankfully, the Ingenuity Seat makes cleaning up easy breezy.
The machine washable fabric pieces can be removed and thrown in the washing machine on a cold, gentle cycle. Tumble dry low. The frame and plastic components just need an occasional wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Spot cleanings take care of small drips and dribbles during everyday use. For deeper cleanings, remove the fabric covers and wash every week or two to eliminate odors and stains.
With a fabric safe cleaner or bleach free solvent, you can also tackle tougher messes like spit up that get soaked into the material. The cushions literally come out smelling like new after a good wash.
By following these simple cleaning practices, the seat will look fresh and new for years of use across multiple children. A little regular maintenance goes a long way with the Ingenuity 2-in-1.
Is the Ingenuity 2-in-1 Easy to Assemble?
One of the most frequent praises in customer reviews of this seat is how quick and easy it is to set up and take apart as needed. For example:
- The legs simply click into place without requiring any tools or complicated connection steps.
- The tray pops on and off for transitioning between bouncer and booster modes seamlessly.
- The fabric covers are made to fit the frame perfectly, so threading the straps through the correct holes is intuitive.
- No batteries are required for core functionality, as the vibration unit is optional.
- Folding the seat flat for storage takes seconds – just pull up on a small handle.
Between the intuitive design and clear assembly diagrams included with the instructions, most parents report they can go from box to fully assembled bouncer in under 10 minutes. No special skills or prior experience required.
In a world where putting together baby gear can sometimes be a headache, the easy assembly of the Ingenuity 2-in-1 is a breath of fresh air. You’ll be up and running with this versatile seat in no time.
How Does the Ingenuity 2-in-1 Compare to Other Brands?
The Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 stacks up very favorably against comparable bestselling models from Graco, Fisher-Price, and other brands in the baby bouncer category.
The Graco Duet Soothe Swing + Rocker is similarly designed to convert between a rocker and swing. But it does not offer a booster seat function, and retails for almost 2x the cost of the Ingenuity.
Fisher-Price bouncer models like the Deluxe Bouncer offer soothing vibrations and a plush, cozy design. However, they lack the versatility of converting to a booster. They are also frequently more expensive than the value-priced Ingenuity option.
Other manufacturers like Bright Starts and Summer Infant make bouncers in this price range. However, parents often report flimsier construction, less ideal aesthetics, and fewer convenience features.
By combining useful functions like vibration and booster conversion in a thoughtfully made product, Ingenuity really differentiates itself from competitors. The price point makes it accessible for most families too.
Available Colors for the Ingenuity 2-in-1 Seat
The Ingenuity 2-in-1 Seat comes in a choice of three fabric colors to suit any nursery style:
- Everston – Neutral beige tones make this a versatile color option if you don’t know baby’s gender.
- Hayes – Light gray fabric with contrasting gray and white geometric pattern.
- Nash – Navy blue plush seat pad and details for a handsome masculine look.
The frame and plastic components are neutral white/gray on all versions so the different fabric colors are the main distinctive option. Each color scheme is gender neutral enough for use across multiple children.
Having three varied options – from classic beige, to modern geo prints, to deep navy – means you can easily select the fabric to match your existing nursery decor. The colors coordinate well with bedding, blankets, wall paint colors, and other accessories.
Using the Ingenuity Seat as a Booster
A major benefit of the Ingenuity seat is its dual functionality – the ability to convert from a bouncer to a booster when your child grows. Making the changeover is simple:
- Remove the toy bar once your baby has less interest in batting at dangling toys above.
- Switch from the reclined bouncer positions to the upright booster position. You may need to adjust the straps to keep baby snug and centered.
- Slide the tray securely into the slots on the sides of the frame so it rests in front of baby, just like a high chair.
Tip: Place a pillow or rolled towel behind baby’s back for extra support when using as a booster. And always keep them strapped in the restraint system for safety.
The booster function will accommodate children up to 50 pounds, giving you years of extra use out of the product. When outdoors or traveling, it also takes up less space than a bulky highchair while still letting baby join in at meal time.
Returns, Warranties, and Support for the Ingenuity Seat
Making an investment in your baby’s gear understandably comes with the assurance that you can get assistance if any issues arise. Here are the key policies to know if you need help with the Ingenuity seat:
- 30 Day Money Back Guarantee – Return for a full refund within 30 days through Amazon and most major retailers.
- 90 Day Warranty – Manufacturer provides a 90 day limited warranty against defects in workmanship. Requires proof of purchase.
- Customer Support – Contact Ingenuity’s ParentLink support 7 days a week for troubleshooting help by phone, email or live online chat.
- Returns – Initiate hassle-free returns through your retailer’s website or customer service department. Most accept used products.
- Exchanges – Exchange for a replacement product if any damaged or faulty parts are detected upon arrival.
Knowing you have multiple support avenues for the first 90 days, along with the option to easily send back if needed, provides peace of mind that your purchase is risk-free.
Is the Ingenuity 2-in-1 Portable and Easy to Travel With?
Thanks to its lightweight frame and compact fold, the Ingenuity seat delivers impressive portability and travel-friendly convenience.
Weighing in at just 11 pounds total, it is one of the lighter bouncers in its class. The hybrid steel and aluminum frame construction prevents unnecessary bulk while maintaining stability.
When collapsed flat, the seat measures a petite 6 inches high x 28 inches wide x 32 inches deep – much smaller than bulky plastic bouncers. This compact folded size means it won’t hog space in your car trunk or backseat.
The smooth wheels on the rear legs also let you easily roll the Ingenuity seat from room to room without having to carry weight. This is helpful for keeping baby comfortably occupied throughout the house.
For travel away from home, the seat pads are machine washable in case of messes on-the-go. The compact fold allows it to be transported in a suitcase for airplane trips or weekend getaways. Using in relatives’ houses is a cinch too.
Thanks to such smart portability, you need not feel tied down by this versatile seat. It can accompany you and baby wherever adventures may lead.
Ingenuity 2-in-1 Availability In Stores vs Online
The Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 is widely available both in brick-and-mortar retail stores as well as online:
In Stores
- Buy Buy Baby
- Walmart
- Target
- Best Buy
- Bed Bath and Beyond
- Juvenile specialty stores
Online
- Amazon
- Walmart.com
- Target.com
- Ingenuitybaby.com (direct from manufacturer)
- AlbeeBaby.com
- Babylist.com
- Overstock.com
- eBay.com
One advantage of buying in stores is you can see and touch the product before purchasing. However, retailers like Amazon and Walmart will ship it quickly for free, and may offer lower pricing or promotions online.
Buying online also lets you easily compare options across retailers with just a few clicks. Odds of finding a discounted price are higher as well.
Ultimately it comes down to personal preference. Try checking both local stores and internet retailers to find the best deal on the 2-in-1 Seat.
Finding the Best Price on the Ingenuity Baby Base
Here are some tips and strategies for getting the lowest price when purchasing the Ingenuity Baby Base:
- Check Amazon – Monitor Amazon pricing daily for lightning deals and coupons to save 20% or more
- Buy on sale holidays – Look for the seat to be discounted on Prime Day, Black Friday, Cyber Monday
- Sign up for retailer emails – You’ll get notified immediately when sales on baby items go live
- Use cashback sites – Companies like Rakuten give cash rewards for online purchases
- Price match – Ask retailers like Walmart to match a competitor’s lower advertised price
- Stack coupons and rebates – Combining multiple offers results in bigger discounts
- Buy gently used – Search local ads or sites like Facebook Marketplace for secondhand
- Wholesale sites – Join Sam’s Club or Costco for low member pricing
With the right combination of price tracking, sale shopping, promotional stacking and secondhand deals, you can likely grab the popular Ingenuity seat for $30-40 and under.
In Summary
The Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 Seat delivers a stacked list of must-have features for babies and toddlers in one smartly designed product. You get a full-size bouncer, booster seat, machine-washable fabric, foldable frame, and handy portability at an affordable cost.
This comprehensive buying guide outlines everything from the product details and specs to real customer reviews, safety information, warranties, and more. While the Ingenuity has clear advantages, be sure to monitor your child’s age and size to transition between modes safely.
With the right research, you can purchase the 2-in-1 with confidence and see your little one enjoy both soothing bouncer fun and mealtime independence in the years ahead. This versatile seat truly grows with baby to provide an excellent value for families.