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Our guide will help you choose the best baby swings with all of the necessary features for your little one’s comfort and safety.
Nothing beats rocking your baby in your arms and feeling that physical connection between you and your little one. Skin-to-skin contact is crucial to your child’s development, and having your baby in your arms is indeed an amazing feeling, but sometimes you need a little break and must temporarily separate from your baby.
The ideal situation is that your baby synchronizes their naps with the times you need to get some work done, but every new parent knows that it never works out that way.
Sometimes, your baby is awake and alert, and there’s no way you’ll be able to force nap time. Luckily, there are different types of baby chairs meant for this situation that will keep your baby safe, soothed, and secure while you do your thing. One of those chairs is a baby swing.
Read on to learn about what a baby swing is, how they work, and the best baby swings to buy for your baby this year.
What are baby swings, and how do they work?
Baby swings are chairs that soothe your baby by swinging them in a slow, continuous motion. That motion is usually either front to back or side to side. Some swings have a combination of both or an added circular motion.
Baby swings used to be manual and require a push from an adult, but luckily, most swings are now automatic. You can even control some from your phone! Most baby swings have a variety of settings to control the motion to suit your baby’s comfort level.
Baby swings often include other features, such as added vibrations, melodies, and toys on an overhead bar to entertain and distract your baby while you work. You’ll also find models that are operated remotely or through an app on your phone.
So, if you’re in the middle of doing something from a distance and you notice your baby getting fussy, you can easily adjust the settings to your baby’s desired comfort level. You’ll also find baby swing baby swings that connect to your phone’s music library through Bluetooth, allowing you to play your tunes to soothe your baby.
Baby Swing vs. Baby Bouncer
Baby swings and baby bouncers are both baby chairs that serve the purpose of soothing your baby while you are unable to hold them in your arms. They are a safe and secure alternative to cradling your baby when your hands are busy getting something done around the house or when you need a quick 20-minute break.
The main difference between baby swings and baby bouncers is the motion: baby swings rock your baby either front to back (head-to-toe) or side to side, while baby bouncers, as the name suggests, bounce your baby up and down.
Baby swings are for young infants unable to sit up on their own. Therefore, baby swings are suitable for newborns and infants up to about six months old. They do make baby swings for older babies, but older babies may benefit more from chairs that give them more autonomy, like a bouncer. Most pediatricians recommend retiring the baby swing once your baby can sit upright, at around the age of six months.
Baby bouncers can support a wider variety of ages depending on the product, from newborns to toddlers. Although traditional bouncers required manual effort from either the parent or the baby to initiate movement, just like modern baby swings, many bouncers are now plug-in or battery-powered and equipped with smooth vibrations to soothe your baby while they bounce.
As your baby grows and starts moving a bit more, they might figure out how to make the bouncer move themselves, which has the added benefit of helping your baby gain motor skills when they may be able to keep themselves entertained for longer.
We recommended having both a baby swing and baby bouncer for your baby to get them used to the different motions and grow with them.
What to Look For In a Baby Swing
Finding the best baby swing for your baby can be daunting, especially if your baby isn’t born yet. Luckily, they make a wide variety of baby swings to satisfy any baby, and most range from $50 to $200, so you’re bound to find the best baby swing for your little one.
Here are some factors to consider when looking for a baby swing:
- Size of swing: Baby swings can be large and take up quite a bit of space. Are you okay with a full-sized baby swing, or will you require something compact to fit in a smaller space? Some baby swings can fold to be tucked away in smaller places or used for travel.
- Portability: Maybe you’ll always keep your baby swing in the kitchen because you only need it while cooking. Or maybe you need to be able to move it around from room to room. Determining when and where you will be using your baby swing can affect whether you want one powered by batteries or electricity.
- Type of motion: Newer models of baby swings incorporate different motions, ranging from head to toe, side to side, circular, or a combination of all three. Figuring out the best motion for your baby can be difficult if they aren’t born yet, so you may want to consider a swing that has several settings for motion.
- Recline: Younger infants need to be as reclined as possible. Although most baby swings are for newborns, be sure to double-check and choose one that reclines far back enough for your baby. You might also want one that includes a headrest for added support for your baby.
- Bluetooth enabled: Some baby swings come with remotes so that you may change the settings from a distance. You may find it more convenient to have a baby swing compatible with your phone, especially if you tend to lose remotes! With this feature, you can also play music from your playlist to soothe your baby while they’re in the swing.
Although baby swings are a great way to get your baby to sleep, most baby swing manufacturers advise against keeping your sleeping baby in the swing. We recommend moving your baby from their swing to their crib as soon as they fall asleep. Consult the manufacturer and your pediatrician to ensure that you are using the swing safely.
Are Baby Swings a Must-Have for New Parents?
Yes, new baby questions answered now. Baby swings can be a lifesaver for new parents, providing a safe place for babies to rest and play. They offer soothing motions that can help calm fussy babies and give parents a much-needed break. Many parents find them to be a must-have item for their nursery.
The Best Baby Swings
Now that you know what you need to look for in a swing, you can now choose the best baby swing for your child.
We compiled a list of the best baby swings to consider adding to your baby gear. Each one has unique features so this list will hopefully help you find one that best fits your baby’s needs!
1. Graco Simple Sway Swing
The Graco Simple Sway Swing is a great option if you want something simple and will do the job of keeping your baby soothed and comforted. It has a gentle side-to-side sway motion as well as custom swing vibration settings. The swing has six different speeds and ten soothing melodies, so you’ll always be able to find the right setting for your baby’s mood.
This baby swing also comes with three soft toys that hang from above to keep your baby entertained in case the swaying isn’t enough. Plus, you can either plug this swing or insert batteries to make it portable. Combined with the small frame design that fits anywhere in your home, this is one of the most convenient baby swings out there!
Specifications:
- Swing weight: 17.2 pounds
- Max weight recommendation: 30 pounds
- Battery life: 4 hours
- Side-to-side sway motion
- 5-point harness
- Adjustable settings
- Plugin and battery operated
- Removable head support
- 6 swing speeds
Pros:
- Affordable
- Available in 3 designs
- Small frame design
- Portable
- Soothing vibrations
2. Fisher-Price Sweet Snugapuppy Dreams Cradle ‘n Swing
The Fisher-Price Sweet Snugapuppy Dreams is a baby swing that is almost as adorable as your baby. It’s super cozy, and you can easily customize the settings to fit your baby’s comfort level. With six swing speeds, two comfy recline positions, and 16 melodies, your baby will always be satisfied in this baby swing!
The best thing about this baby swing is that it has the option of swinging from both side-to-side or head-to-toe. All you have to do is push a button to change the position of the swing. If even the low setting of the swing provides too much motion for your baby, Fisher-Price recommends placing one end of a blanket under the child and while the other end of the drapes down while swinging.
Specifications:
- Swing weight: 24.8 pounds
- Max weight recommendation: 25 pounds
- Side-to-side and head-to-toe motion
- 2 recline positions
- 6 swing speeds
- Plug powered
Pros:
- Convert to different positions with the push of a button
- 2 ways to swing
- Includes an overhead mobile that turns on its own
- Machine-washable seat pad
3. Graco Glider Lite Baby Swing
The Graco Glider Lite Baby Swing is the perfect swing if you’re looking for something lightweight and portable. Not only is this baby swing only 12 pounds, but it can also be powered by either plugging it in or by using batteries.
This baby swing’s five-point harness will keep your baby safe and secure as they play with the two toys hanging above that are included with the baby swing. The ten melodies and five nature sounds give your baby many sounds to listen to while they sway head-to-toe.
Specifications:
- Swing weight: 12 pounds
- Max weight recommendation: 25 pounds
- Plugin or use batteries
- 5-point harness
- Head-to-toe motion
Pros:
- Portable
- Lightweight
- Variety of melodies and sounds
- Includes 2 toys
4. Graco DuetSoothe Swing and Rocker
The Graco Glider Lite Baby Swing is the perfect swing if you’re looking for something lightweight and portable. Not only is this baby swing only 12 pounds, but it can also be powered by either plugging it in or by using batteries.
This baby swing’s five-point harness will keep your baby safe and secure as they play with the two toys hanging above that are included with the baby swing. The ten melodies and five nature sounds give your baby many sounds to listen to while they sway head-to-toe.
Specifications:
- Swing weight: 21 pounds
- Max weight recommendation: 30 pounds
- 3 seating positions
- Removable swing seat
- Battery-powered or plugin
- 5-point harness
Pros:
- Reclinable seat
- High weight capacity
- 2-speed vibration
- Sways side-to-side and front to back
- Swing seat doubles as a portable rocker with a carrying handle
5. Munchkin Bluetooth Enabled Lightweight Baby Swing
The Munchkin Bluetooth Enabled Baby Swing is a lightweight swing that emulates a parent’s natural side-to-side sway in five settings. It includes a remote control to operate the swing’s speed, the various sounds, and timer.
This baby swing is Bluetooth enabled to play your baby’s favorite tunes while they soothingly sway from side-to-side. When not in use, this swing easily breaks down to a compact size for storage in tight spots or transport while traveling.
Specifications:
- Swing weight: 8.6 pounds
- Max weight recommendation: 20 pounds
- AC adapter included, no batteries required
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Compact – easy to break down
- Remote control operated
- Bluetooth compatible
- Digital touch display
- Auto-timer
6. 4moms mamaRoo 4 Baby Swing
The 4moms mamaRoo 4 Baby Swing is a swing made for the modern parent. The swing has five unique motions, like simulating a car ride or swinging from a tree, to give your baby the most familiar and soothing experience while in the swing. Not only does the baby swing sway from side to side, but it also bounces up and down to fully simulate the motion of mommy or daddy rocking them in their arms.
The 4moms app is compatible with iOS and all Apple devices, as well as most newer Android devices, so you can operate this swing from your phone wherever you are in the room. The swing seat fully reclines to adjust to your newborn baby’s comfort. Plus, the swing comes with interactive toy balls–a crinkle ball, interactive mirror, and rattle– to keep your baby entertained and help with their development.
Specifications:
- Swing weight: 18.6 pounds
- Max weight recommendation: 25 pounds
- 5 motions and speeds
- Includes AC adapter – no batteries required
Pros:
- Bounces up and down and swings side-to-side
- Machine washable seat fabric
- Adjustable seat recline
- Operate from your phone
7. Bright Starts Whimsical Wild Portable Compact Automatic Swing with Melodies
The Bright Starts Portable Compact Automatic Swing is an affordable option to help soothe your baby. This swing folds easily, making it ideal for small spaces or travel. The seat has built-in taggies for your baby to tug at, and the swing has a removable toy bar to give your baby something to play with from all sides.
Don’t worry about the swing not keeping up with your growing infant–a unique feature of this swing is its weight-adapting technology, meaning that your baby will always feel the same speed of the swing, even as they grow. This swing also features Whisper-Quiet technology so that you don’t have to get tired of the melodies that your baby enjoys–all you hear are your baby’s sweet giggles.
Specifications:
- Swing weight: 4.1 pounds
- Max weight recommendation: 20 pounds
- 2-position recline
- Front-to-back motion
- 6 swing speeds
- 6 melodies to choose from
Pros:
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Great for travel
- Weight-adapting technology
- Whisper-Quiet technology
8. Ingenuity ConvertMe Swing-2-Seat Portable Swing – Ridgedale
The Ingenuity ConvertMe Swing is the ultimate 2-in-1 baby item. The baby swing converts into a vibrating infant seat, another item every parent needs for their baby. The swing folds easily to be packed for travel or stored out of sight in tight spaces. It also has eight melodies and three nature sounds for you to choose from to soothe your baby’s ears.
The swing is equipped with five swing speeds with soothing vibrations and Whisper Quiet technology, meaning that it will always be comfortable for your baby, and all you’ll hear is the sounds of their laughter.
Specifications:
- Swing weight: 9 pounds
- Max weight recommendation: 20 pounds
- Battery-powered
- 5-point harness
- Non-slip feet
- Head-to-toe motion
Pros:
- Removable headrest
- Whisper Quiet technology
- Foldable and portable
- Suitable up to 9 months
- 24-hour battery life
9. Nova Baby Swing for Infants
The Nova Baby Swing from Jool Baby is bound to soothe and calm your baby in no time. This baby swing has a modern design and is easy to assemble. Using the IMD touch panel, you’ll be able to control this baby swing’s many features, including the timer, sound, volume, and gear controls.
Choose between preset, Bluetooth, and USB sources to find the perfect sounds to calm your baby and keep them entertained while they swing. Plus, the swing comes with a protective mosquito net so that you can take your baby outside for some fresh air while keeping them unexposed to any insects.
Specifications:
- Swing weight: 12 pounds
- Max weight recommendation: 24 pounds
- Durable aluminum base
- Side-to-side motion
- Includes AC adapter and can be battery powered
- 5-point harness
Pros:
- Machine-washable seat cover
- Ideal for babies up to 8 months
- Auto-off timer
- IMD touch panel and remote control
- Includes protective mosquito net
- Portable
10. Fisher-Price Deluxe Take-Along Swing & Seat
Fisher-Price’s Deluxe Take-Along Swing & Seat is the 2-in-1 baby product that every parent needs. It converts from a swing to an infant seat so your baby can enjoy a more comfy time in it, even when they aren’t swinging. The seat easily folds, meaning you can take it with you wherever you go.
The six swing speeds and calming vibrations give you options to calm your baby while they play with the two birdie toys that hang overhead. The swing senses the baby’s weight and adjusts, so the speeds keep up with your baby’s growth.
Specifications:
- Swing weight: Not specified
- Max weight recommendation: 20 pounds
- 6 swing speeds and 10 musical tunes
- Head-to-toe motion
Pros:
- Portable and easy to fold
- Doubles as a stationary infant seat
- Machine-washable seat pad
- Weight adapting technology
The Best Baby Swings – Final Thoughts
Choosing the best baby swing for your baby can be a challenge, but we can agree that it’s a necessary one to make sure that your baby remains comfortable, even when they aren’t in your arms. Having the right baby swing will help you and your baby; your baby will remain soothed and relax while you do some chores around the house or just take a much-needed break to read a book.
When looking for a baby swing, make sure you choose one that suits your lifestyle. With all of the options out there, you’re bound to find a baby swing that fits your needs. If you like having everything accessible from your phone, you’ll find a baby swing that has that feature. If you want a baby swing that has all the motions of the oceans for your picky baby, you’ll be able to find that too!
Whether you’re expecting a baby in the coming months or your beautiful blessing is already here, it’s worth investing in a good baby swing to make sure they’re soothed and comforted when temporarily away from their favorite spot: in your arms!