They’re picky. They’re messy. And despite all the pickiness and messiness, they’re bottomless pits from the time they’re born until, well… I think forever (my own mother paid for my dinner just last week… thanks, mom). And if your high chair is also a seemingly endless cavern of crumbs, squashed banana, and crusty old butter noodles? You’re cooked (pun intended).

I famously* hold grudges against high chairs, because in my experience as a mom of two kids, they’re bulky contraptions that only contribute to the worst aspect of feeding kids—the mess. But I decided to give the Mockingbird High Chair a try. I’m writing this review now after six months of daily feeding and cleaning, as well as shoving the chair around into various corners of my kitchen.

Mockingbird high chair review: At a glance

Price: $249 (available only at Mockingbird)
Best for: Parents who want a modern, practical, and easy-to-clean high chair that won’t break the bank.

Fathercraft verdict: That’s a long pros list. The Mockingbird High Chair is the best high chair I’ve ever used. After 6 months of daily meals with my now 11-month-old, I’d absolutely buy it again.

In this review, we’ll cover:

• Our testing process
• Design & build quality
• Assembly
• Cleaning—where this product shines!
• Other features
• Price
• Mockingbird vs. Stokke
• Other parent reviews
• FAQs
• Final verdict

Heads up: The Mockingbird High Chair tested for this review was provided free to us by the manufacturer. They received no promises of positive words for us. Also, Fathercraft is reader supported, meaning, at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click a link and make a purchase. Details in our policies.

Our testing process

We’ve been using the Mockingbird High Chair for about 6 months with my 11-month-old (Adi), who’s deep into the messy, joyful world of finger foods. Testing involved daily mealtimes, snacks, and plenty of real-world messes—think avocado smears, yogurt splatters, and my worst nightmare: spaghetti.

Along the way, I kept notes of what I liked and didn’t like, waiting until I felt confident in the chair’s durability, comfort, and safety before writing this review.

Design & build quality

Mockingbird has made a name for itself with a feature-rich, modern single-to-double stroller, and the high chair lives up to the high expectations set by the brand. It’s compact without feeling flimsy and looks good in a kitchen or dining space (not a hulking plastic eyesore).

The chair grows with your child: the adjustable footplate and harness system work well for babies, and it converts into a toddler chair as your child grows. This kind of versatility helps justify the purchase price.

Mockingbird high chair specs

Assembly & ease of use

Confession: I don’t assemble things in my house.

I’m terrible at it. But I was excited about receiving the Mockingbird high chair, so I decided to give it a shot. Mockingbird provides extremely clear instructions, including the option to watch short videos of each step, making the process actually doable.

I put it together in about 30 minutes, in spite of with thanks to my very helpful four-year-old.

Day to day, it’s intuitive. The tray clicks on and off easily (don’t underestimate the value of this… some high chair trays require a rocket science degree), and you can also push the chair right up to the table for family meals.

One small quirk: when lifting my baby out, the chair sometimes slides a little. It’s not unsafe, but I find myself holding it down with a foot to lift Adi out.

Cleaning & maintenance

This is where the Mockingbird High Chair shines. Parents know a high chair lives or dies by how easy it is to clean, and Mockingbird nailed it:

• Straps are silicone and fully wipeable (no more wrestling with grimy cloth straps)
• The tray is dishwasher safe
• The seat itself wipes down quickly, with minimal “crevices” for food to hide
• Built-in hooks on the back keep the straps neatly stashed when not in use.

If you’ve ever owned a chair that seemed to grow its own ecosystem of crumbs, you’ll appreciate the Mockingbird.

Other features

Size, storage & portability

The footprint is modest—easy to tuck away when not in use, and it doesn’t dominate a dining area. It’s not foldable, so it won’t collapse flat for travel, but that’s rarely a dealbreaker for everyday home use.

Safety & comfort

The harness system is secure, the seat feels stable, and the adjustable footplate keeps babies comfortable and properly supported (a detail many cheaper chairs overlook). I’ve seen one review noting the curve of the chair can make it hard for a smaller baby to sit up comfortably—but my 23rd percentiler has never had an issue.

Price & value for money

At $249, the Mockingbird High Chair sits in the middle of the high chair price spectrum. It’s significantly cheaper than premium models like the Stokke Tripp Trapp (which will set you back $319, minimum) but offers many of the same perks: longevity, modern design, and family-table compatibility.

Given the build quality and versatility, we think it’s an excellent value.

Mockingbird High Chair vs. Stokke Tripp Trapp

The Stokke Tripp Trapp is a classic—beloved for its Scandinavian design and unmatched longevity (it can truly last into adulthood as a chair, and it’s on display at the MoMA… yes, forreal). But it’s also pricey, and it requires add-ons (baby set, tray, cushion) to match the out-of-the-box usability of the Mockingbird.

• Read our Stokke Tripp Trapp review

Key differences

• Price: Mockingbird ($249) vs. Stokke ($319 minimum).
• Ease of cleaning: Mockingbird has wipeable straps and simpler surfaces; Tripp Trapp straps are fabric and more prone to mess.
• Longevity: Stokke edges out here—it truly grows into an adult chair, while Mockingbird caps at a toddler chair. We’ve also heard Stokke is more durable.
• Style: Both are sleek and modern, though Stokke has a more iconic, furniture-like look.

Verdict: If you want a design piece that doubles as furniture for years to come, the Stokke may be worth the splurge. But for most families, the Mockingbird nails the balance of price, practicality, and style.

Other parents’ reviews

We’re not the only ones impressed. Verified buyers on Mockingbird’s site, plus a fair share of Redditors, consistently praise its easy cleaning, sturdy feel, and smart design. Common feedback echoes what we’ve seen: “wipes clean in seconds” and “surprisingly affordable compared to Stokke.”

A few note the same quirk we experienced—slight sliding when removing a child—but overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.

FAQs about the Mockingbird High Chair

Is the Mockingbird High Chair worth it?

Yes—for most families, it strikes the best balance of affordability, modern design, and ease of cleaning.

What material is used for the Mockingbird harness system?

The straps on the Mockingbird harness system are made with BPA-free silicone. This means the straps easily wipe clean with a cloth or paper towel.

What age is it suitable for?

From about 6 months (when your baby can sit independently) up through toddlerhood.

Does the Mockingbird high chair fold flat for storage?

No, but its compact footprint makes it easy to tuck away.

Final verdict

After 6 months of daily use, I can confidently say the Mockingbird High Chair is the best high chair I’ve ever used. It’s sturdy, thoughtfully designed, and shockingly easy to clean (those wipeable straps deserve their own standing ovation).

It’s not the cheapest chair on the market, nor the most premium, but for families who want a high chair that works beautifully without fuss, it’s a near-perfect balance of price, practicality, and style. And I have to say it one more time… It is SO easy to clean.

Would I buy it again? Absolutely.

Looking for more Fathercraft? Check out our list of baby essentials or our best travel strollers of 2025.

Ahhh, the third trimester. It’s the home stretch, but it’s also quite possibly the longest 12 weeks of your life—thanks to some of the less-than-pleasant third trimester symptoms and the general anticipation of waiting for a baby. The good(ish) news? There’s plenty you can do to pass the time. And don’t worry, we consider “napping” a part of that list. 

We noticed there are plenty of checklists that talk about yoga and baby books but not enough that cut to the chase. Yes, you should be resting… but this is also kind of the time to get your sh*t together. This third trimester checklist is built from my own experience, with the help of three pregnancy experts: a perinatal mental health counselor, a birth and postpartum doula, and a certified lactation consultant/car seat technician.

When in doubt, I use my personal third trimester philosophy: Rest when you can, prep when can’t. 

In other words, consider this your oh shi*t list… for when you look at the calendar and realize a whole human baby will be in your arms in 12 weeks (or less!). We’ll start by going over third trimester symptoms (aka, what to expect). Then, you’ll find your third trimester checklist broken down into these categories (click to skip around):

• Birth
• Baby and home
• Medical
• Education
• Work
• Taking care of you
• For dads/partners

Please note: Fathercraft is reader supported, meaning, at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you buy after clicking an affiliate link. Learn more.

Third trimester symptoms (aka, what you’re up against) 

Let’s be honest… the third trimester is no walk in the park. You trade your pregnancy glow for a bruised rib cage and lightning crotch (yeah, that’s a thing). But it helps to go in prepared, so here’s what you can expect:

Note: I’m not a doctor. If you experience anything that seems abnormal, call your doctor! And don’t be ashamed. I called in for false alarms three times before my second was born  

• Increased aches and pains: As your baby takes up more space, you start to feel more pressure on your ribs, joints, back, and lungs. For some, this gets uncomfortable. For others (myself included), it can get downright painful. Finding the right combination of movement and rest can help. 
• Lightning crotch: This is (bewilderingly) exactly what it sounds like. Baby hits a nerve, and you end up feeling like there’s lightning where lightning should not be. 
• Changes in discharge: As your body preps for birth, you may experience a change or increase in vaginal discharge. As you approach the final weeks, make sure you call the doctor if the discharge gets watery or soaks through a pad… it could be your water! 
• Swelling: A little puffiness is normal in the final weeks. But if you experience sudden and extreme swelling, call your doctor. 
• Nausea and/or heart burn: Isn’t nausea a thing of the past?! Well… not for everyone. Some people get nauseous again in the third trimester, and heart burn kicks into high gear as baby invades the space of your stomach and esophagus. 
• Braxton Hicks contractions: Unlike real contractions, Braxton Hicks are typically mild, irregular, and go away if you change positions or drink water. They don’t make any changes to your cervix (that’s the job of a real contraction). It’s just your body practicing! Fair warning—I got a TON of these with my second pregnancy. It felt like I couldn’t move without contracting, and some of them got painful. When I wasn’t sure if they were truly just BH, I called my doctor! 
• Mood swings, anxiety, and/or depression: Maybe it’s hormones, maybe it’s that you’re sick and tired of being pregnant. For me, it was both. If you start to struggle, (you guessed it) call your doctor! 
• Sleep disruption: It seems cruel, but pregnancy insomnia is a thing. Some say it helps prepare for when the baby is here, keeping you up at night. I’m not sure if I felt better prepared… mostly, I was just tired. 
• Actual labor: Eventually, it’s the real deal. The third trimester gets you closer and closer to your baby making their grand entrance! Watch out for contractions that build in intensity and follow a pattern. Or, you might be in the small percentage of women whose water breaks first (that was me!). If that happens, go straight to labor & delivery! 

Your third trimester checklist 

As you read through this checklist, keep the above symptoms in mind. While you may no experience every symptom on the list, chances are you’ll feel pretty tired. Rest when you can… but when you have the energy, chip away at the things below. 

Birth

1. Create your birth plan
2. Create a postpartum plan
3. Pack your hospital bag
4. Tour the hospital and/or ask your doctor questions
5. Create a labor playlist

The third trimester is a great time to square away your birth and postpartum plans. Create a document that lays out your preferences for birth (but keep in mind that there’s only so much you can control!). Who is on your birth team (i.e., do you want to hire a doula)? Where will you give birth? Do you want pain medication? Who is allowed in the room? Do you want to be able to move around? 

Perinatal mental health therapist, Sara Rader, also emphasizes the importance of a postpartum plan, where you sit down with your partner (if applicable) and discuss how you will handle sleep deprivation, household chores, and all the other fun stuff that comes with a new baby.

Sara recommends visiting the Postpartum Support International website and downloading their free postpartum plan template. Once you’ve done that, go ahead and pack your hospital bag. And while you’re at it, create your perfect birth playlist. Trust me, music helps! 

Baby and home

1. Get the rest of your baby essentials
2. Install your car seat
3. Wash and sanitize bottles and pacifiers
4. Order a breast pump (if you’re planning to breast feed)
5. Put together a postpartum cart or basket
6. Identify your support systems

You don’t need a fancy nursery, but you do need a few basic essentials to make sure you can feed, change, and bathe your baby. Plus, you’ll want to safely move your baby and put them to sleep. There’s a lot of people screaming “you must have this!” out there, so we’ve gathered up a list of your basic essentials here. 

Installing the car seat isn’t quite as simple as it sounds, and you’re required to have it installed before you leave the hospital. Go ahead and get that done, so you have time to check the installation with a car seat tech. 

The most common mistakes Heather Price, licensed car seat technician, sees?

• seats/bases that are installed too loosely in the vehicle
• seats that are installed with both latch AND seat belts (nearly all car seats require just one or the other, not both)
• straps positioned too high in infant seats
• straps that are too loose
• chest clips landing too low on the abdomen

Finally, part of prepping your home is prepping for postpartum. Get a basket with some healing essentials together—that includes your favorite snacks! Healing and taking care of a baby is hard work. As much as you can, lean on your support systems to help you navigate the first few weeks of infancy.

Medical

1. Monitor your baby’s kicks
2. Attend your prenatal appointments

Around 26-28 weeks, you should start paying attention to your baby’s kicks. Some medical experts suggest laying down at the same time everyday and making sure you can count 10 movements within two hours. Others recommend paying attention to what feels “normal” for your baby (and trust me, it will get to a point where it’s hard to ignore) and calling if anything seems off. Count the kicks is an excellent resource for this! 

The prenatal appointments will get more frequent (every other week until week 36… then it’s every week!). Make sure you attend them so that you can express any concerns you have, relay your birth preferences, and monitor your baby’s health. 

Education

1. Take a birthing class
2. See a lactation consultant (if you’re planning to breastfeed)

Birth is… wild. It’s helpful for both partners to know what to expect (and that might be the understatement of the year—it’s borderline critical, especially if you have strong birth preferences). With the right amount of education and prep, birth can also be a pretty incredible experience. 

A course can walk you through what the heck is going on throughout all those contractions. Plus, you can learn more about pain management, pushing, and what happens directly after birth (we love Tinyhood for birth education—it’s super affordable and offers so many courses to help you through the first year. And you get access to all of them!).

If you’re planning to breastfeed, seeing a lactation consultant before you birth your baby can actually increase your chances of success. According to IBCLC Heather Price, prenatal lactation consultations are a chance to review your health history, discuss goals, learn about your pump, and have a plan in place for early postpartum.

Work

1. Determine what you want in terms of work vs. staying home (or some combination of both)
2. Tour daycares and get on a waitlist (if applicable)
3. Create a maternity leave plan and set boundaries (if applicable)

For some reason, I never see work-related things on a third trimester checklist, but no matter what your plan is, you gotta figure some things out before the baby comes. 

If you’re planning to return to work, you’ve probably already told your colleagues about your pregnancy and arranged for maternity leave (if you haven’t—now is the time!). But it’s helpful to start thinking now about projects you may want to wrap up before taking off and how you’ll transition your tasks. Making a plan can make the last few weeks feel less overwhelming, especially when you should be focused on resting. Communicate your boundaries and expectations. Unfortunately, some people still think maternity leave is a vacation. But trust me, you won’t be trying to respond to emails when you’re sleep deprived and covered in spit up. 

Fair warning: The daycare situation is kind of abysmal. In many areas, there are super long waitlists. If you haven’t already, go ahead and tour some daycares and get on a waitlist. 

And if you’re planning to stay home? Discuss the division of labor with your partner. In some ways, the home becomes your workplace, and it’s just as important to figure out expectations and boundaries. And if you’re like me, and you’re self-employed… do yourself a favor and set parameters around what your “leave” will look like, even if it’s self-funded. Communicate that to your clients. 

Taking care of you

1. Rest, rest, rest
2. Hydrate
3. Eat nutritious foods
4. Do what feels good

There is a lot going on and kind of a lot to do, but please don’t forget to take care of yourself. Your body will force you to rest if you don’t allow time for extra snoozing. Call in for backup if you can and put your feet up. While you’re at it, drink another glass of water.

And lastly… just do what feels good. Light movement can help relieve aches and pains, but don’t force yourself to work out if what you really need is a nap. Maybe it helps to keep your mind occupied with a new hobby or calling up a friend. Remember: this stage is temporary, and every day brings you closer to your baby!

In fact, postpartum and birth doula, Mallory Hansen, confirms the benefits of naps and hobbies:

For dads

Alright dads, I know you want to help because you’re great dads. But if you find yourself feeling like you can’t be all that helpful, scroll up and read back through the third trimester symptoms. Anything you can do to take tasks off your pregnant partner’s plate helps. Here are some specific suggestions: 

Take care of yourself

First and foremost, make sure you’re taking care of yourself. Find support through your community and seek professional help if you need it—there’s no shame! According to licensed therapist Sara Rader, dads can also be prone to mental health challenges during the third trimester and beyond, due to the rather incomparible life changes taking place.

Attend prenatal appointments 

As much as you can, continue to attend the prenatal appointments. It’s helpful to have the extra support. 

Pack your own hospital bag

Pack your own bag, and do it before your partner reaches 36 weeks.  You’ll need a few changes of clothes and toiletries. Pro tip: Pack yourself some snacks and blanket. 

Plan to take on more of the housework/care for older children

When I was in the final weeks of my pregnancy, caring for my three-year-old felt like an olympic sport. Even if you already have a pretty equal split, you might need to take on more than your typical fair share. 

Educate yourself on birth and breastfeeding (if your partner plans to breastfeed)

Take a birthing class with your partner. There are a lot of sights, smells, and sounds. It’s helpful if you’re not shocked by any of them. The support of my partner was critical to me staying sane throughout the birthing process. 

If your partner plans to breastfeed, plan to take a breastfeeding class with her as well. According to board certified lactation consultant, Heather Price, partners have a direct impact on breastfeeding success, and I believe it! My partner helped me figure out how to latch, attended lactation consultations with me, and is Chief Pump Part Washer in our house.

Get a plan for care for older children in place 

If you have older children, take on the task of figuring out where they’re going to go when your partner goes into labor. Do you have family nearby? Close friends? If you don’t live near your support system, can someone come in town and stay for awhile? Alternatively, I’ve seen where people hire on-call sitters to be available when the moment comes. 

Call insurance 

Call your insurance company and make sure you know what to do to add your new human to your insurance plan when they’re born.

Take a parenting class

To state the obvious: Once you get through birth, you have to actually be a parent. You may find that some of it comes naturally, but not all of it. A new parenting class can help you navigate everything from the pure basics (i.e., how to actually hold a baby who can’t support their own head) to more complicated matters like how do I get this baby to sleep.

Shameless plug: Check out the Fathercraft New Dad class. You go at your own pace, you get practical tips and lessons, and if you don’t feel like it’s helping you, you can get your money back within 60 days.

What’s next?

Hi, we’re Fathercraft! If you’re prepping for a baby, make sure you check out our free baby prep checklists and product reviews. We’re on a mission to make cool stuff for awesome dads and families, and we hope you’ll tag along.

But I wasn’t originally convinced this would be the stroller for me. Even though the Mockingbird has always been highly rated, a voluntary recall in 2022 left some customers wary of cracks in the frame, and Reddit almost had me convinced to try something else (I’m glad I gave it a shot anyway). 

In this Mockingbird stroller review, I chat about the great and the not-so-great… and how the Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0 ultimately won me over. 

Read straight through or skip to what you need:

• What’s so special about the Mockingbird stroller?
• What’s new with the 2.0?
• My setup
• Where I use this stroller
• The pros and cons
• Pricing
• Mockingbird vs. UPPAbaby
• What about that recall?
• The final verdict

Heads up: The Mockingbird stroller tested for this review was provided free to us by the manufacturer. They received no promises of positive words for us. Also, Fathercraft is reader supported, meaning, at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click a link and make a purchase. Details in our policies.

What’s so special about the Mockingbird stroller?

Mockingbird’s biggest flex is how easy it is to customize and change your setup with Mockingbird’s accessories. Kids seated and facing you? Check. Facing each other? Check. Riding board? Bassinet? Car seat? Check, check, and check.

The base model price is $450, which makes it a more affordable option than something like the UPPAbaby Vista 2. But full disclosure… my setup came to a grand total of $935 (more on that later). 

Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0 specs 

The base model comes with: 

• a stroller frame
• four wheels
• one seat with a detachable child bar
• an extendable canopy
• The storage basket underneath 

That means second seats, organizers, and, yes, even cupholders, are sold separately. Pro: You can save a bit by only purchasing what you need. Con: You’ll probably need to purchase a cupholder.

With one seat, the stroller is 27 pounds… with two seats, that becomes 35 pounds. Frankly, it’s a little heavy, but I wasn’t necessarily expecting a heavy-duty double stroller to feel like a lightweight compact stroller. So, I don’t personally have a problem with the weight. 

Other dimensions: 

• Unfolded: 25.5” (widest point) x 40” (wheels to handlebar) x 33” (front to back wheel)
• Folded: 34” x 25.5” x 18”

What’s new with the 2.0?

The Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0 was released in 2024. Its basic design and concept are all the same as its original model, but the 2.0 has the following improvements:

• Larger sun canopy
• Easier-to-use straps 
• More intuitive fold
• Smoother ride

As a heads up, we reviewed the original Mockingbird single-to-double in 2021. You can find the 9-minute video review of the original at the bottom of this page.

My setup

I have two kids—a three-year-old and (at the time of writing) a 10-week-old infant. So, I needed some configuration options. 

These are the accessories I received with my Mockingbird stroller: 

• Second seat: $145
• Carseat adapter: $45
• Riding board: $95
• Bassinet: $140
• Snack tray: $40
• Cup holder: $20

Grand total: $935

The biggest reason I love my Mockingbird? How much I can do with just those accessories. 90% of the time, my infant is in her car seat and my three-year-old is on the riding board. Sometimes, she’ll opt for the seat (and I like having the option of having them both in a seat when my infant is older). 

I’ve also done this:

• Just the riding board—if I’m out with just my three-year-old, sometimes I’ll push her around on the board so that I can have the storage basket. Looks weird, works great. 
• Just the infant seat—a lighter option when I just have the baby
• Bassinet + toddler seat—I honestly only used the bassinet once or twice. It’s probably the only accessory I wouldn’t purchase again. Nothing wrong with it! Just hasn’t been used as heavily as the car seat adapter.

Mockingbird: It’s best for sidewalks

Just because I love this stroller, that doesn’t necessarily mean you will. I think stroller choice should larely depend on lifestyle and where/how you’re going to be using it. So, let’s see how much we have in common! 

I live in a suburban neighborhood with a bunch of other kids. I frequently walk the neighborhood with my two kids to meet up with other families (or just to get some exercise), and that’s where I use my stroller the most—on the sidewalk.

I’ve also taken the stroller to festivals, markets, parks, and the local Target. I take up a bit of space at a market or a festival, but I can navigate it pretty easily and without feeling like I’m taking up more than my fair share. Below, I’ve detached the second seat altogether for a lighter stroll through a local festival (P.S., check out the Fathercraft diaper bag fitting perfectly into that storage basket).

I wouldn’t go off-roading in this thing, but you can lock the front wheels if you need to cut through some grass, which works well enough. 

What about the sidewalk cracks? 

For some reason, I’m seeing a lot of flack online about the Mockingbird not being able to handle a sidewalk crack. I’ve not found that to be true (and I live in a neighborhood with some construction, so we have some rough sidewalks at times). I’m thinking this is an improvement they made with the 2.0.

My official Mockingbird stroller review

The pros

Change things up with ease 

I love that this stroller works for basically any situation I’m in. I can stroll with one kid or both. It grows with them as they age. They can face each other (or not). There are 19 official configurations, but the options honestly feel a bit endless. 

The best part? Changing up the configurations is easy. Accessories snap on and off intuitively (and safely). 

Everyone enjoys a smooth ride 

The first thing I noticed is that this stroller glides so much smoother than the Graco stroller I bought for my first. It’s kind of fun to push. Oh, and the handlebar is adjustable, so it’s comfortable for everyone. 

Accessories are high-quality 

Yes, you have to buy accessories. Yes, I wish they would just include the cupholder. But, at the very least, all of the accessories seem to be of super high quality. The cup holder is flexible, so it fits my knock-off “Stanley.” 

The riding board is honestly my favorite thing about the whole setup. My three-year-old loves it, and it’s made toting her places much much easier (she typically protested my old stroller). 

Large storage basket 

Multiple kids need lots of things. All of those thingsl fit in the Mockingbird’s generous storage basket. Enough said. 

I could have more kids and not need another stroller 

A third child would change a lot of things. But not my stroller. The Mockingbird single-to-double can accommodate a “squad” with a total weight limit of up to 90 pounds in the seats (45 pounds in each seat)… and then there’s the riding board. 

The cons

Heavy / bulky to store 

The stroller is heavy and takes up a fair bit of space, even when folded. Also, the second seat has to pop off before you can fold it (in fact, I pop most of the accessories off). That said, it’s a permanent fixture in the trunk of my minivan, so if you’re extremely cool like me and rock a minivan, you’ll have plenty of room. 

The lever to break it down gets a little jammed 

I’ve been using this stroller for about four months, and the lever used to collapse the stroller recently started jamming a little. It still works, but I wouldn’t call it a flawless, one-handed fold. 

You’re not going off-roading with it 

The front wheels lock, but I’m not going to do a lot of off-roading in this stroller. To be fair, I probably wouldn’t do a lot of off-roading in any stroller. That’s what a carrier is for. 

Pricing and where to buy

The base model is $450 and can be purchased directly from the Mockingbird website. You won’t find it in most stores, because Mockingbird sells directly to the consumer, which helps keep the cost down. But Mockingbird has provided a few ways to try the stroller:

• Try it at home risk-free for 30 days: If you purchase the stroller through Mockingbird’s website, you can return it within 30 days, no questions asked. 
• Check it out at Target: Mockingbird recently partnered with Target, so you can try out the base model and purchase it in store. 
• Connect with a “parent host”: Mockingbird now has official “parent hosts.” You can use this tool on their website to find a parent near you that will let you try out their stroller.

The face-off: Mockingbird stroller vs. UPPAbaby Vista

If you’re picking between these two double-converting stroller options, which is better? We picked the Uppababy Vista V2 for our favorite luxury stroller in 2024, but we prefer the Mockingbird as a more practical, affordable option. Here’s a quick comparison between the two: 

• The price: $450 for the Mockingbird base model, $799 for the Vista V2 (and $899 for the new Vista V3). Adding a second seat is another $145 for the Mockingbird and $249 for UPPAbaby.
• The kid’s dimensions: The Mockingbird can actually support a taller child (42″) than the Vista (40″). However, a single seat on the Uppababy can support a child up to 50 pounds, while the Mockingbird only supports up to 45 pounds. 
• The stroller specs: Both weigh the same at just over 26 pounds. They also fold to about the same size, but the Mockingbird is three inches shorter unfolded.
• Configurations: The Uppababy actually has more configuration possibilities than the Mockingbird (30 vs. 19). 

Both are pretty similar in features like maneuverability (although our Uppababy tester had a hard time with it at the mall), adjustable handlebars, and standing ability while folded. But we ultimately sided with Mockingbird because of its affordability.

What about that recall?

I mentioned a recall earlier—so what was that about? 

In 2022, Mockingbird issued a voluntary recall of several lots of their original Mockingbird single and single-to-double stroller. Approximately 0.1% of customers had reported hairline cracks in the frame, which could have posed a fall risk to children. No injuries or fatalities were reported, and Mockingbird supplied customers with a “reinforcement kit.” 

Mockingbird made improvements to the 2.0 frame, which not only helps correct this issue, but also gives you a smoother ride. 

My personal opinion? I take my children’s safety extremely seriously (we still rear-face my three-year-old, and who knows when I’ll stop cutting her grapes), but I feel safe with my stroller and will continue to use my 2.0 model.

The final verdict

The Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0 is a resounding yes for me. Out of all the gear we’ve used with our second child, this stroller is easily my favorite. 

I love how easy it is to change up the configurations, and I feel like I can navigate anything from our neighborhood sidewalks to local markets and festivals with ease. 

So… don’t walk, don’t run… fly to get this stroller (sorry). 

Looking for more Fathercraft? Check out our list of baby essentials or our best diaper bags of 2024.

Editor’s note: We originally reviewed the Mockingbird Single-to-Double in 2021. We re-tested the stroller with the 2.0 model, beginning May 2024, and wrote this review. Our original video review is below:

Read straight through or jump to what you need:

• What’s in the box?
• Willow Go pros
• Willow Go cons
• My take on the Willow app
• Is it actually discreet?
• Willow Go vs. Willow 360
• How much does it cost?

Editor’s note: Is Fathercraft the best site to write a review on breast pumps? Fair question. We want to create content that’s helpful for all parents. So, for gear like the Willow Go (which we can’t test personally), we get help from trusted friends of Fathercraft. Also, Fathercraft is reader-supported, meaning, at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you buy after clicking an affiliate link. Learn more.

Willow Go: My go-to as a casual pumper

I expected to recommend this wearable to the exclusive or nearly-exclusive pumper. But what I found is that it was perfect for me—a casual, once-or-twice-per-day pumper. 

So before I dig into why I recommend the Willow Go, I think it’s important for you to know a bit more about me.

I mostly stay at home with my three-year-old and six-week-old daughters, so I usually nurse my infant straight from the tap. I pump to maintain a small freezer stash in case she needs a bottle and to occasionally relieve engorgement if she actually sleeps. So, once or twice per day. 

I’ve been down the breastfeeding road before, and I used a traditional pump that plugs into the wall. This worked well when I had one kid… but I truly don’t think I’d pump at all this time around if I had to plug myself into the wall. 

I’ll detail all the pros and cons, but my bottom line is this:

The specs

The Willow Go is Willow’s bestselling pump, outperforming the company’s pricier offering, the Willow 360 (read our Willow 360 review here). Like Willow’s 360 pump, the Willow Go is a wearable, cordless breast pump. So, you can pump while walking around, doing the dishes, pretending to be Elsa with your three-year-old, etc., etc. 

Key features

• Wearable and cordless
• 15 levels of hospital-grade suction 
• Control with an app or the buttons on the wearables
• Collect up to 5oz per side
• Rechargeable battery
• Dishwasher safe
• FDA-approved and BPA-free

What’s in the box

• 2 Willow Go pumps
• 2 21mm flanges
• 2 24mm flanges
• 2 reusable breast milk containers 
• 2 container backs
• 2 pump diaphragms
• 2 duckbill valves
• 2 USB charging cables (note: does not include the power adapter, aka the charging block)

The box also comes with some helpful resources, including a quick start instruction manual and a nipple sizing guide. The sizing guide is especially helpful for figuring out what size flange to use and/or if you need to order an insert.

My Willow Go review

Here’s what I loved and what I would have changed:

The Willow Go pros

Suctions well for me:

One common complaint with wearable pumps is the weaker suction. I’m not sure if the Willow Go actually feels hospital-grade, but I’m able to easily pump what I need—and fast! Some of this is likely due to subjective factors like milk supply, but I personally get 4-5oz in less than 10 minutes. 

Cleans easily once you get the hang of it:

It took me a couple of tries to get the hang of reassembling the pump, but once I got it, it was easy. The parts are easy to clean by hand, but you don’t even have to do that—and they’re dishwasher-safe. 

Charges fast:

I can fully charge the pump in between pumping sessions, which is nice. The Willow website says the charge lasts up to three pumps, and I found this to be true. 

Cheaper than the Willow 360:

This pump is $150 cheaper than the Willow 360, and it seems to have a better reputation. If you have insurance, you can likely get some of the $350 cost taken care of (up to 40%, according to the Willow website).  

Not connected to the wall:

The most obvious Willow Go pro… you’re not connected to the wall. Truthfully, I underestimated how valuable this would be to me as a second-time mom. Of course, there are other wearables out there. But I know this one works.

Willow Go cons

Easy to place incorrectly:

Sometimes I have a hard time getting the pump placed correctly so that it will “latch.” To be honest, I’m sure Willow’s care team could help me out with tips or a different-sized flange, but I have a six-week-old baby so that feels like a hassle to even go through those steps when it works correctly most of the time. You’ll just have to pay attention to whether or not it’s latched (or be better than me and contact the customer care team). I wish they’d send more flange sizes or inserts in the box. 

I also noticed that sometimes the duck valve will dislodge during assembly, which impacts suction. So, you have to watch out for that, too.

Tough to pour out the milk without spilling it:

The Willow Go collects milk into reusable cups that have a small hole at the top, which you use to pour out the milk. It’s actually kind of tough to get the milk out without spilling some of it, especially if you prefer to pour the milk directly into freezer bags (which I do). With some practice, I figured out how to get this right 98.7% of the time (give or take). I included an (awkward) video below of what this typically looks like.

Would suck to forget to charge it:

To be fair, this a con for all wearables. But if you’ve left for the day and need the charger, you’re in a tough spot. 

More notes on the Willow Go

The Willow app

… I never use it. 

The Willow Go is compatible with the Willow app, but I basically set it up and never used it again. If you want to see your suction level or the exact amount of time you’ve been pumping, you’ll need the app. You can also control the pumps from the app. Personally, I prefer just to use the physical buttons built into the pump. 

After a few tries, I knew that turning the pump on, and pressing the “plus” button four times does the trick for me. 

Discretion

Is the Willow Go discreet? It’s all relative, friend. 

I’ve seen the Willow pumps get knocked because they’re not as discreet as advertised. But I think the people who claim this have never had a traditional pump hanging off their chest. There’s nothing discreet about that. I actually remember pumping in the bathroom at a wedding reception when I was nursing my first kid, because the traditional pump would have felt awkward to me. 

On the other hand, I comfortably pump with the Willow Go basically anywhere I need to pump. I would have 100% pumped at that wedding reception, probably on the dance floor (but not while dancing too aggressively, because no one likes spilled milk). 

Fun fact: My nurse was pumping with a Willow when I was in labor. I had no idea until she told me. 

Willow Go vs. Willow 360 (formerly Willow 3.0) 

The Willow Go and Willow 360 are both cordless, wearable breast pumps. So, what’s the difference?

For $150 more, the Willow 360 offers a few more bells and whistles. It’s supposed to be leakproof from any angle, meaning you could, in theory, lay down and pump (but our Willow 360 tester didn’t quite find this to be true). You can also pump directly into single-use freezer bags with the 360, which was a strong point for us at Fathercraft. 

That said, the Willow 360 is expensive, especially if you don’t have insurance, and the bags add to that cost. The Willow Go also seems to have a better reputation online, because some people have found the 360’s smart technology doesn’t always work (and it doesn’t come with physical buttons, like the Go). 

P.S. Curious about the Elvie? Check out our Elvie pump review here.

Pricing and where to buy

Price: $350 

You can purchase the Willow Go directly from the Willow website, as well as a handful of third-party retailers. At the time of writing, the Willow Go is listed for $322 on Amazon (an 8% discount). You can also get it at Target or Babylist (interestingly, you can buy a single Willow Go pump for $200 on Babylist—but I’m not sure it’d be worth the savings for me to not be able to pump both sides simultaneously). 

Purchasing Options:

• Willow website
• Amazon
• Target
• Babylist

Willow Go parts and accessories

If you’re thinking about purchasing the Willow Go, it’s worth considering the cost of replacement parts and any accessories you may need. For example, a case will put you out $60. A whole cooler bag? $180.

Now, you don’t need those things necessarily (I don’t have either of them right now, but I would likely purchase a case if I were out and about a lot). But you probably will need to replace all pump parts at some point (it’s recommended to replace any pump’s parts after three months). A replacement bundle will cost you $33.

A strong point of the Go is that you don’t need to purchase Willow’s bags, so you at least save a bit there.

What about insurance? 

The Willow Go is typically an “upgrade” option through insurance. You won’t get the cost fully covered, but you’ll be able to save some money. The pump is also HSA/FSA eligible. 

Can you return the Willow Go? 

Once the box has been opened, you can’t return the Willow Go, because it’s classified as a “single-use medical device.” In other words, Willow won’t sell you someone else’s used pump (and that’s a good thing). 

You can return an un-opened box within 60 days. 

Willow also has a 12-month warranty for the pump itsef and a 90-day warranty for all pump parts. 

The final verdict

The Willow Go is a resounding yes for me. I think its worth the price tag (even if insurance didn’t help out), and it’s likely the only reason I have a solid freezer stash. That said, if you’re exclusively pumping, I’d prioritize a pump that can effectively latch every single time, even if that means you’re plugged into the wall. If you can spring for a second pump, I’d 100% recommend this one.

What’s next?

You made it to the end of this review! If you can’t get enough of Fathercraft, here’s what we would suggest next:

Check out our extensive baby gear buying guide right over here.

Or, check out our free resources for new and expecting parents right here.

In this article: 

• How we conducted this review
• Finding the best Elvie pump for you
• Using the Elvie
  • Is it easy to find the right size? 
  • Setting up the app
  • Charging the pump 
  • Actually using the pump (i.e., suction strength)
  • Storing the milk
• Pricing and where to buy
  • How to save
• Our verdict
  • The awesome
  • The “wish-it-were-different”
  • Other considerations
• Wrapping it all up 

Editor’s note: Fathercraft is reader-supported, meaning, at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you buy after clicking an affiliate link. Learn more.

How we conducted our Elvie pump review

I’m a toddler mom with one on the way, so breastfeeding—thinking about it, planning for it, loving it, dreading it—takes up a fair amount of space in my brain. 

I breastfed my first for about eight months, and I used a Medela pump (primarily because it was covered by insurance and came with a battery pack—so I wasn’t always connected to a wall) to support my supply. I battled supply issues throughout the entire eight months, so even if I wasn’t working, I’d need to pump to help maintain my milk production. Needless to say, wireless, wearable pumps intrigue me. 

I haven’t personally gotten to test the Elvie (yet), so I asked my friend Brooke to try it out with her second child. She used the Elvie pump for about two months before we really sat down to discuss the ins and outs of it, but her first impressions were positive: 

*Yes, she tested the Willow, too. You can read our Willow 360 review here. Separately, I tested the Willow Go. You can find my review of that here.

I used a combination of Brooke’s feedback and my own experience to write up this review, which I hope doubles as a buying guide for you. You’ll find Brooke’s pros and cons, but I’ll also walk you through how to get the right size Elvie for you at (hopefully) a better price. 

Your Elvie pump options

Elvie is a women-led company, founded by a leading expert in female health (their story is actually pretty cool). At the time of writing this review, they have several pumps to choose from, including a manual pump and two electric pumps—all of them are wearable (which means they fit inside your pumping bra and don’t hang down from your chest). Here’s a quick overview:

• Elvie Pump ($299.99 for a single / $549.99 for a double): A wearable, cordless pump that uses an app to adjust suction and calculate milk output. Aka, the pump we review in this article. 
• Elvie Stride ($259.99): A hands-free, corded pump that comes with fewer bells and whistles than the “Elvie Pump.” 
• Elvie Curve ($39.99): A manual, wearable pump designed to collect milk while you breastfeed (the function is similar to the Haakaa, but it fits inside your bra).

This is a review of the Elvie Pump. We wanted to see how the pump that’s advertised as the smallest and quietest, yet smartest pump in the world measured up to its claims.

Using the Elvie

Finding your size

I didn’t know this until a lactation consultant told me—flanges (the pieces that attach directly to your chest) come in different sizes. It makes sense. After all, people come in different sizes. 

We’ve seen other reviews that mention it’s difficult to know what size you’re getting when you purchase the Elvie—but we didn’t find this to be entirely true. The shopping experience varies by retailer, but, as of writing this review, if you purchase from the Elvie site, you cannot add the pump to your cart without selecting a size. You have two options: 

• Elvie can help you select your size
• If you know your size, you can input it yourself

The size of the flange (which Elvie calls a breast shield—not to be confused with a nipple shield, which is optional and serves a totally different function) they send you is based on your nipple size:

Brooke’s flange/breast shield fit perfectly, but their website notes they send additional sizing options at no extra cost.

Setting up the Elvie app

Once you receive your Elvie breast pump, you’ll set up the Elvie app. Brooke said this was easy to do, only taking a few minutes (important if you’re also juggling a brand-new baby). The app connects to your cordless pump via Bluetooth (also reportedly easy to do) and helps you control the suction level and track your milk output. 

Charging the Elvie pump 

This is, admittedly, our first Elvie pump drawback. If you order a double pump, you’ll receive two USB charging cables in your box—this also means you’ll need two charging blocks, which are not provided. 

The pumps charge quickly, taking about 2 hours. And, according to the Elvie website, one charge lasts for five pumping sessions. However, Brooke found she needed to charge them after every two pumping sessions to maintain their full suction strength. This is no big deal if you’re only pumping a couple of times a day—but if you exclusively pump or if you pump throughout the day at work, it could become more of an issue. 

Actually using the pump (i.e., suction strength)

Brooke reported that, in general, she had to “adjust her expectations” regarding what a cordless pump can do. It has its strengths… but suction strength isn’t one of them.

She loved that she could use them while getting ready for work once her maternity leave ended and not being attached to a wall felt like a “game-changer,” especially at first. But she also recommends having a hospital-grade pump on hand (which you can usually get through insurance) to help maintain your supply if you pump a lot.

As far as claims that the Elvie is the “quietest, smallest, and smartest” pump on the market… Brooke didn’t notice anything spectacular outright. But, after I asked about it, she noted that the Elvie did, at the very least, seem quieter than the Willow.

Storing the milk

When you pump, your milk goes directly into Elvie’s reusable containers (unlike its top competitor, the Willow pump, which is compatible with storage bags). You might save some money this way, because you don’t have to purchase Elvie’s branded storage bags—for example, you could get this $23 pack of Lansinoh bags from Amazon. However, Brook also had this to say about the milk-transferring process:

“My one knock on the Elvie is the device that catches the milk is so annoyingly shaped. It feels like a game that I don’t want to play trying to get the milk out into the bag.”

So… that’s something worth considering. 

Pricing and where to buy

The Elvie pump retails at a few different places, but there are differences in the shopping experience and what’s included. In the time it took me to write and publish this review, I watched the price fluctuate multiple times on all the sites listed below. It seems like, generally speaking, the full price is $549.99, but it frequently goes on sale. So, keep an eye out!

 We break down three options below:

The Elvie website 

At full price, you can purchase the Elvie pump on the Elvie site at the following prices: 

• Single pump: $299.99
• Double pump: $549.99

But, I’ve now seen it go on sale for more than 25% off twice, including at the time of publishing this article, which brings the cost of a double down to $412.49.

If you purchase through the Elvie site, you can easily select your size and get an extra breast shield size with your order. Elvie also offers a warranty with products that are sold and shipped by Elvie (i.e., not Amazon). With that, you get a two-year warranty on the hub and a 90-day warranty on all washable parts.

Amazon 

Amazon shows the full retail price for Elvie (the same one you see on their site), but, at the time of writing this, the price is listed at:

• $229 for a single
• $440 for a double

The biggest difference between purchasing through Amazon vs. the Elvie site is that you cannot select the breast shield size. All Amazon Elvie pumps come with 24mm breast shields. In the details, Elvie says one additional size option is included, but I could not personally figure out how to add that on via Amazon. User error? Maybe. But as a 21st-century mom, I’m fairly Amazon-savvy. 

I did find additional breast shields available for purchase for $29.99. At the current pricing, my cart subtotal for the double pump + extra breast shields came to $469.99, which is still cheaper than paying full price on the Elvie site. So, it may be worth the extra steps. The only remaining downside is that you aren’t eligible for Elvie’s warranty, although you could purchase Amazon’s protection plan for another $43.99 (for two years). 

Walmart or BuyBuyBaby 

You can also buy the Elvie pump at both Walmart. Just like Amazon, you may be able to find the pump cheaper, but you won’t get the warranty or the different breast shield options for free. Walmart price: $549

How to save on an Elvie pump: 

If $500+ for a pump seems stiff, we don’t blame you. There are a few ways to save some money:

1. Insurance: Your insurance might cover all or some of the Elvie pump. In my personal experience, insurance wouldn’t cover a wearable, but it would reimburse a certain percentage. Elvie will help you get in touch with your insurance provider, but it’s worth noting most insurance companies will only cover/reimburse one pump every couple of years. So, if you’re hoping to have a hospital-grade pump, too, you’d be on your own. 
2. HSA/FSA: If you have one, you can often use money from a health savings or flexible spending account (HSA/FSA, respectively) to pay for the Elvie. 
3. Purchase the Elvie Stride instead: The Elvie Stride is $259.99 and includes a double wearable pump. The biggest difference seems to be that the Stride has a cord, which connects to a “hub” that controls suction strength (more like a traditional pump). You can clip the hub to your clothes, so that it’s still mostly hands-free. Note: we haven’t tested this pump. 

Our verdict: Is the Elvie pump worth it?

So, is it worth it? Our first impressions were positive, but because of the cost, we think it very much depends on your lifestyle. A wearable, cordless pump, like the Elvie, may be worth it if you meet one or more of the following conditions:

• You work outside the house or are otherwise on-the-go a lot
• You’re able to save some money or get this pump as a registry gift
• You know you’re going to pump for awhile
• You like the Elvie better than its competitors, like the Willow 

The Elvie pump is, at worst, a “nice-to-have” item that makes your pumping journey a bit easier—there’s nothing wrong with it outside of the cost, but you may not need it. At best, it’s a time and mental health saver, allowing you to regain some cordless freedom. Because breastfeeding and pumping are such subjective experiences, we hope you can use the information here to decide where you fall on that spectrum. 

To wrap this up, here’s a summary of what we loved and didn’t love:

The awesome

• Comfort: After finding the proper suction strength, Brooke said the Elvie was very comfortable.
• Easy-to-use app: The app is easy-to-set up, controls your suction strength without needing any cords, and clearly displays your milk production levels. 
• Pump anywhere: Maybe the biggest perk of a wearable pump—you can pump anywhere. In the car, in the breakroom, on a hike, on a plane, at your friend’s bachelorette party, you name it. 
• Correct sizing: Elvie has gotten dinged for this by some other reviewers in the past, so it’s possible they updated their shopping experience (at the time of writing, the headline on their website is literally, “99 problems but the fit ain’t one”). Regardless, it’s now extremely easy to find and select the right flange size as long as your order through Elvie’s site. 
• Discreet: The Elvie is advertised as quietest, smallest, and smartest wearable on the market—and our reviewer did find it to be quieter than the Willow. 

The “wish-it-were-different”

• Suction strength: The drawback of wearable and cordless seems to be that the suction strength isn’t as strong as a hospital-grade pump. Brooke recommends also using a corded pump, like a Medela, which you can typically get through insurance (if you have it). 
• Battery life: You have to charge your Elvie pump daily. It lasts for five pumping sessions on average, but Brooke found she really needed to charge it after every 2ish sessions to keep pumping strength up. 
• Milk transferring process: Brooke’s biggest knock on the Elvie—because of the shape of the cups, it’s tough to pour the milk into freezer bags without spilling a drop or two. 
• Cost: We probably don’t have to tell you twice that the cost kind of sucks… and it’s one of the biggest reasons we think you should only get this pump if you’re going to be pumping a lot and maybe in some not-so-typical places. 

More things to consider:

• You need to the right pumping bra: For the pump to be truly hands-free, you need a good, supportive pumping bra to hold it in place. 
• Cleaning isn’t hard, but…: Brooke said most of the parts were super easy to clean, but you probably shouldn’t boil to sterilize, because it could warp some parts. Instead, use sterilizer bags (I find these easier anyway).

What’s next?

That’s all from us for now on the Elvie. We hope you make the best decision for you and/or that you get this as a sweet baby shower gift.

Looking for more reviews? Check out our Willow Go review.

Then, head to our extensive baby essentials list.

Finally, grab our free resources for new and expecting parents right here.