Most swings are recommended for children from newborn age up to 30 pounds, though there are a few swings mentioned that have a lower age and weight recommendation. Below, we’ll take a look at contenders for the best baby swing and give you our Experienced Mommy advice on how to choose a baby swing.
Best Graco Baby Swings
Out of the Graco baby swings, the Simply Sway Swing is the most popular swing for parents who are okay with 6 swinging speeds and 2 vibration speeds at an inexpensive price. For the most high-tech baby swing, the Graco Sense2Soothe Swing has cry detection technology compared to the other Graco swings on this list.
Graco Simple Sway Swing
The Graco Simple Sway Swing features side-to-side swaying motions with six speed settings and two vibration settings. There is also an option to buy the larger model from Graco, which features a slightly larger design and the option to swing your baby back-and-forth or side-to-side.
In addition to the movements and vibrations, this Graco baby swing features 15 different songs and sounds. It also comes with a plush insert that gives younger babies the support they need for their heads and necks. As they get older, you can remove the insert so there’s more room in the swing.
This swing uses a 5-point harness to keep your little one safe from 5.5 to 30 pounds. The design is compact which makes moving it around easy. Additionally, the swing is easy to assemble once you take it out of the box.
While this swing is a good choice for some babies, the position of the harness is too far from the buckle near the crotch for others. You’ll want to wait to use this until your baby is long enough that their bottom will sit in the curvature of the swing if this is an issue for your child.
Pros
- Uses a 5-point harness for safety
- 15 different sounds and lullabies
- Soft, comfortable padding
- Easy to assemble
- Has six different side-to-side motions and two vibration settings
Cons
- Curve of the inside of the swing doesn’t always match the curvature of your baby’s body
Graco DuetSoothe Swing and Rocker
The Graco DuetSoothe Swing and Rocker can be used by babies ages newborn to 18 months or from 5.5 to 30 pounds. Its swing detaches from the frame to become a rocker that easily lets you carry baby from room to room as you’re getting things done.
There is a switch on the seat that lets you choose between two vibration settings in swing and rocker mode. It also plays melodies and nature sounds in both modes. The swing operates from side-to-side or front-to-back. Additionally, this has the option to use batteries or plug them directly into the wall.
While your little one is swinging, a five-point harness keeps them safe. This does slow down as your baby becomes heavier. Additionally, the rocker seat is a little heavier than some other swings so it may not be as easy to carry from room to room, especially if your baby is inside.
Pros
- Battery-operated or plug into the wall
- Rocker detaches from swing frame and can be carried from room to room
- Five-point harness for safety
- Swings side-to-side or front to back
- Has extra features like vibration settings and songs
Cons
- Rocker seat is a heavy
- Swinging function slows as your baby gets heavier
Like this swing, but want the detachable rocker to rock on its own? Then check out the Ingenuity Inlighten Swing in our review.
Graco EveryWay Swing
The Graco EveryWay Swing is an innovative swing that offers a wide range of motions for your baby. It swings in eight different ways, including the arch, figure 8, bounce, swing, circle, sway, wave, and zig-zag and two different directions.
In addition to the wide range of movements, this has six swinging speeds. It has a unique design with a rocker that sits on top of the swing base. The rocker can easily be moved from room to room in the home, though the swing itself is something you’ll want to leave in one spot because it’s heavy and a little bulky.
In swing or rocker mode, this swing also has two vibration settings and three recline positions. The swing plays 15 sounds and songs and there is also an adjustable mobile that has plush toys. Finally, this has removable head support that you can use when your baby is young.
The one downside of the baby swing is the way that it moves. Even though the wide range of motions is nice, they don’t all operate smoothly and may not be calming to some infants.
Our Graco EveryWay Soother review gives more information on this innovative baby swing.
Pros
- Has a total of 16 different motions
- Six swinging speeds
- Rocker has 2 vibrations and 2 recline settings
- Swing and a rocker
- 15 sounds and songs for your little one’s entertainment
Cons
- Swinging motion is not very smooth
- Reliability issues
Graco DreamGlider Swing
The Graco DreamGlider Swing features a unique design that looks more like a bassinet than a swing. It easily transitions from rocker mode to swinging bassinet mode with the push of a one-handed lever.
Even though this does have a rocker mode, the rocker is not detachable like it is with other 2-in-1 baby swings. It lays flat or has the option to prop it up. A five-point harness keeps your little one safe while inside and an infant insert provides head and neck support.
Some other extra features of this baby swing include six swinging speeds, two vibration settings, songs, and nature sounds. It can be plugged in or powered using batteries. Something to note is that there is a slight clicking sound, especially on higher speed settings, but this is a common problem with swings.
It is also a little difficult to assemble because the directions are not as clear as they could be. See our DreamGlider review for more info.
Pros
- A one-hand lever to transition between swing mode and rocker mode
- Lays almost flat unlike many other swings
- Uses five-point harness and head and neck insert for safety
- Has six swinging speeds and two vibration settings
- Plays melodies or nature sounds
Cons
- Makes a clicking noise on higher speed settings
- Difficult to assemble
Graco Glider Swing
The Graco Glider Swing is ideal for parents who want the option to move their baby’s swing from room to room in the house. It has a lightweight frame and does not take up too much space.
This Graco baby swing uses a gentle back-and-forth motion to soothe your little one. It has six speed settings that glide smoothly and continuously and the seat is roomier than the typical swing seat. The seat also has plush fabrics and head/neck support for your little one. Additionally, it reclines in three different positions.
For your baby’s entertainment, this comes with ten melodies and five nature sounds. The swing also has a removable toy bar that is within baby’s reach but easy enough to take off when you want to take your baby out of the seat. It is powered using batteries or an AC adapter.
The swing is easy to assemble overall, however, the screws could be sturdier. They’ll sometimes strip during assembly, though there are not a lot of them.
Pros
- Works using batteries or a plug-in
- Lightweight and not especially bulky
- Six speed settings that rock your baby gently
- Three different recline positions
- Plush fabrics, roomy seat, and added head/neck support
Cons
- Screws can strip easily
Graco Sense2Soothe Swing
The Graco Sense2Soothe Swing is unique because of its cry detection technology. It is a 2-in-1 swing and rocker that detects when your baby is crying and adjusts the settings accordingly until they are soothed. The swing can be used up to 18 pounds in rocker mode and from 5.5 to 25 pounds as a swing.
Like a few others on the list, this offers a multi-directional motion that makes it easier to soothe your little one. It also has two vibration settings, three swing speeds, and a three-position recline. This Graco baby swing also has the option to turn the cry sense on or off. When it’s on, the function detects your little one’s cry and adjusts the swinging motion and speed, the sounds, and the vibration setting until they are calm.
In addition to the movement features, this seat also has sounds, including music, nature sounds, or white noise. An overhead toy bar with two plush toys visually stimulates your little one. Finally, the seat padding is comfortable and there is a five-point harness with pads that will keep your little one secure in their seat.
This 2-in-1 also features a very compact size, which is not common in swings with multi-directional movement. Something to note is that even though the swing is multi-directional, it does not have the same wide, swinging motions as a fuller size swing. It can be a little bit jerky on higher speeds as well.
We’ve done a full Graco Sense2Soothe review here at Experienced Mommy. Check it out!
Pros
- Multi-directional swinging
- Compact design
- Cry sense adjusts settings as needed until your baby is soothed
- Three recline positions
- Comfortable padding
Cons
- Can move a little jerkily on higher speed settings
Graco Slim Spaces Swing
The Graco Slim Spaces Swing is perfect for parents who might not have a lot of space in the home. The swing is portable and lightweight. It also features a slim design and adjustable legs that allow parents to adjust from compact to full-size.
In addition to its compact size, this features a carrying handle that makes it effortless to carry the swing from room to room. Your little one can use this from 5.5 to 25 pounds. The seat padding comes with removable head support and a five-point harness that keeps your child safe and secure. Additionally, the seat padding is machine washable.
Some other features of this Graco baby swing are an overhead toy bar for visual stimulation, padding for the harness, and adjustable swing speeds. Something to note is that the slowest swing speed is still a little intense for some babies. This swing uses batteries without the option of an AC adapter. It also does not have any sounds and the toys are not especially stimulating.
Pros
- Folds up easily for storage or carrying
- Has carrying handle
- Lightweight design
- Option to use as a compact or full-size swing by adjusting the legs
- Padded harness
- Adjustable swing settings
Cons
- Only battery-powered
- No sound options
Graco Duet Glide LX Swing
The Graco Duet Glide LX Swing is a great multi-functional swing. Not only does it work as a swing and a rocker, but it also has different swinging motions and three recline positions so you can adjust it to your child’s preference easily.
This Graco swing glides or swings, doubling as a portable napper that you can carry around the home. It also has front-to-back or side-to-side gliding motions. Since it lies completely flat, you can safely let your little one nap inside. It also has carrying handles that make it easy to carry the rocker portion around the home.
Something to note is that it isn’t a smooth reclining transition. It will be hard to adjust the swing from upright to a full recline if your little one falls asleep while swinging.
Some of the extra features of this include adjustable swing speeds and two vibration settings. Since it lies flat or at a recline and has smooth movements, it only has a 3-point safety harness. It has a basic toy bar with two plush toys and the option of 15 different songs and sounds.
Pros
- Multi-functional swing
- Gliding or swinging
- Moves in different directions and recline positions
- Different swing speeds and vibration settings
- Lies flat for sleeping
- Carrying handles for moving the napper around the house
Cons
- Hard to adjust recline with baby in the glider
Best Ingenuity Baby Swings
Both the Ingenuity Swing ‘N Go and Soothe ‘n Delight are highly-rated and fold up, making it easy to move the swing around the home and for traveling. While both swings are similar, the Swing ‘N Go is a newer model that features battery-saving technology compared to the Soothe ‘n Delight.
Ingenuity Cozy Kingdom Swing
The Ingenuity Cozy Kingdom Swing features six speeds and a quiet operation. It also has a cute design, songs, a toy bar, and comfortable fabrics.
Unlike the others mentioned so far, this swing is only battery-operated, which is a slight downside because it runs through batteries pretty quickly. There is no option to plug it into the wall. But that does mean that you don’t have to be tied down to an outlet.
One unique feature is the TrueSpeed Technology. This helps the swing maintain a steady speed even as your little one grows. There is also a recline function with two different positions so you don’t have to worry about your child learning too far forward.
The sound function of this baby swing has volume control settings, which are nice. There is also a foam toy bar that has two plush toys. They pivot so your baby can actually play with them. The fabrics are also washable.
Pros
- TrueSpeed Technology helps maintain a constant speed as your baby grows
- Two different recline positions
- Six melodies with volume control settings
- Pivoting toy bar
- Machine washable fabrics
Cons
- No option to plug it into the wall
- Runs through batteries quickly
Ingenuity Swing ‘n Go Swing
The Ingenuity Swing ‘n Go Swing features a slim fold design that makes it easy to fold and carry anywhere. It also has several swing speeds, melodies and nature sounds, and an easy-clean seat pad.
Once you start this, you’ll need to give the swing a small push so it gets up to speed. It has a quiet operation and uses HybriDrive technology, which makes the batteries last longer when you’re on the go (4 D batteries last up to 24 hours). At other times, you can plug the swing into the wall. There is also an option to choose from 8 melodies and 3 nature sounds to play for your baby.
Another nice feature of this is the timer settings. You can program the swing to shut off automatically after 30, 45, or 60 minutes. The head support and seat pad are easy to wash.
Something to note is that babies around 5-6 pounds may not be heavy enough for this to work on its lowest speed setting. The faster setting is an option but might be too intense for a newborn.
Pros
- Batteries last longer than comparable battery-powered swings
- Swings very quietly
- Different melodies and speed settings
- Easy to wash the cover
- Automatic shut off function
Cons
- Need to push the swing to get it going
- Lowest speed setting may not work for infants
Ingenuity Power Adapt Swing
The Ingenuity Power Adapt Swing is a foldable mini swing that is perfect for taking on the go. It can be used from newborn to nine months and has the option to run on batteries or use an AC adapter.
The inside of the swing looks cozy with head and neck support, as well as plush padding on the five-point harness. Additionally, this comes with a toy bar that has two plushies to keep your little one entertained and plays melodies and nature sounds.
This Ingenuity baby swing has five-speed settings and the option to set a timer to 30, 45, or 60 minutes. It does only have a 20-pound weight limit (compared to the average of 30 pounds), so this may not last as long. However, the swing sits babies up to 9 months old and swings are usually preferred by babies when they are younger.
The swing is easy to assemble, as most of the parts are clickable pins. Two screws are included for assembly. Something to note is that when the swing is folded, it does not lock or latch shut. This can make it awkward to carry.
Pros
- Foldable and portable for travel or moving around the house
- Good head and neck support
- Runs on batteries or using an AC adapter
- Comes with five speed settings and a timer
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Only has a 20-pound maximum weight limit
- Doesn’t lock or latch shut when folded
Ingenuity ConvertMe Swing-2-Seat
The Ingenuity ConvertMe Swing-2-Seat is ideal for parents looking for a swing and a rocker for kids from 0 to 9 months. It also folds completely flat, which makes it easy to move around the house or take on the road.
Even though this swing is only battery-powered, it has Hybridrive technology that makes batteries last three times as long as they normally would. Additionally, WhisperQuiet technology ensures you won’t hear any annoying clicking while the swing is moving back and forth. You will need to use high-quality batteries to avoid distorted sounds, malfunctioning lights, slow motorized parts.
While most swings have flimsy or unappealing toy bars, the Ingenuity Convert Me has a cute plush toy bar within your child’s reach. The bar pivots out of the way as needed and has additional loops for attaching some of your little one’s favorite toys. This also has five swing speeds and vibration settings that work in rocker mode, as well as eight songs and three nature sounds. Parents will also appreciate that the fabric can be easily removed for cleaning.
Something to note is that the vibration feature of this baby swing does not turn off automatically. If you don’t turn it off, it can quickly drain the batteries. And like we talk about in our Ingenuity ConvertMe Swing review, alignment can be a problem as well.
Pros
- Fun, entertaining toy bar
- Easy to fold flat and take on the go
- WhisperQuiet technology prevents clicking noises
- Hybridrive technology makes batteries last longer
- Fabric removes easily for cleaning
- Works as a swing or a rocker
Cons
- Only runs on batteries
- Vibration doesn’t automatically shut off
Best Portable Baby Swings
The 4moms mamaRoo Multi-Motion Baby Swing is the most high-end baby swing compared to the others on this list. Unlike most baby swings, the mamaRoo features unique movements and allows parents to control it from a smartphone. For a less expensive option, the Nova Baby Swing for Infants is similar to the mamaRoo. The Fisher-Price Snugapuppy Swing is also highly-rated but not as portable as the mamaRoo and hahaland swings.
Fisher-Price Snugapuppy Swing
The Fisher-Price Snugapuppy Swing features six swing settings, sounds, and plenty of other features. It also has two recline functions, which are perfect for keeping your little one’s head at the right angle as they grow.
This Fisher-Price baby swing is perfect for parents worried about messes because the seat pad is machine washable. It also features a plush design that is comfortable for your little one to sit in. The swing also comes with a machine washable insert that provides comfort for the body and support for your baby’s head and neck and a five-point harness for securing your infant safely.
The Snugapuppy also offers front-to-back and side-to-side movement. This works by pressing a button that lets the entire seat swivel, which lets the design of the overall swing stay compact. Something to note is that even on the fastest setting, this swing is a little less powerful than some of the others.
Babies will also love the entertainment factor of this swing. It has 16 soothing songs and nature sounds. A moving mobile is also included that spins around and has three plush stuffed animals on it.
You can read more in our Fisher-Price Snugapuppy review.
Pros
- Comfortable for your little one to sit in
- Comes with a comfortable insert
- Fabrics are machine washable
- Sways back-to-front and side-to-side
- Has sounds, songs, and a mobile
Cons
- Does not have an especially powerful swaying motion
Bright Starts Whimsical Swing
The Bright Starts Whimsical Swing is a great baby swing on a budget. It has features like a compact design, a cute toy bar, and several speed settings.
The space-saving design is perfect for busy households, apartments, and taking with you to grandparents, babysitters, family gatherings, and anywhere else you may need it. Since it is designed to be lightweight and portable, it only has the option to power the swing using batteries.
Even though this is an affordable baby swing, it has fun features including melodies and a toy bar with engaging toys that your child can play with. It also has two recline settings to keep your baby comfortable.
In addition to being able to fold and go, the initial assembly takes just minutes and is as simple as installing the batteries and setting the swing up. Something to note is that it does not have a crossbar between the legs, so it doesn’t have the same sturdy feeling as some other swings.
It makes a great travel stroller but it sits fairly low to the ground and parents don’t always prefer it for daily use.
Pros
- Budget-friendly baby swing
- Cute toy bar and music
- Lightweight and easy to fold
- Several swinging speeds
- Two recline settings
- Easy to travel with
Cons
- Sits low to the ground
- Doesn’t feel as sturdy as some other swings
4moms mamaRoo 4 Swing
The 4moms mamaRoo 4 Swing is ideal for parents who don’t mind spending the money on a high-tech, advanced baby swing. It has extra features that you don’t see on a lot of other baby swings like Bluetooth, an MP3 plug-in, and luxurious fabrics.
The one downside of the 4moms baby swing is the cost–it is one of the most expensive because of its extra features. It also can only be used by your little ones until they are six months old.
The swinging motions are unique to the mamaRoo, featuring car rides, kangaroo, tree swings, rock-a-bye, and waves. These motions let you choose between rocking, swaying, and bouncing your little one in different motions. You can also adjust the seat recline from a slight recline to a near-flat recline.
This swing is powered using an AC adaptor and does not have a battery option. It comes with interactive toy balls that can be attached to a mobile or played with–there is a rattle, mirror, and crinkle ball. The mamaRoo 4 has washable seat fabrics. The material is soft, velvety, and blanket-like for added comfort.
One nice feature is that you can link your smartphone to the swing and adjust the motion, speed, sound, and volume without getting up or disturbing your little one. It has five speeds and four built-in sounds in addition to being Bluetooth and MP3 compatible.
See our full take on the 4moms mamaRoo.
Pros
- Comfortable, machine washable fabrics
- Offers smooth, unique motions that bounce, sway, and swing baby in five speeds
- Control using your smartphone
- Option to use built-in-sounds or play your own music
- Wide range of recline options
- Comes with fun, engaging toys
Cons
- Expensive
- No vibration settings
Did you know that 4moms also makes a rockaRoo? It’s similar, but smaller and just does the front-to-back rocking chair motion.
Nova Baby Swing
The Nova Baby Swing works as a soothing seat or a rocker with a maximum weight of 20 pounds. It has five speeds that work with one gliding motion.
This Nova baby swing comes with plenty of features for your baby’s entertainment. The speaker plays 10 songs or you can use Bluetooth or USB for your own music. Additionally, the bar has loops to attach the removable toys too which gives you the option to replace them with any favorites your baby may have.
This has a five-point harness because of the gentle swaying motion and the incline of the swing. It also has calming vibrations to soothe your little one in swing or rocker mode. The swing also connects to Bluetooth for more music options. You will need to use batteries for the rocker portion of the swing and to make the swing vibrate.
The basic seat pad can easily be removed and washed. There is also machine washable plush body and head support that can be removed as your infant grows. Something to note is that the whole structure is a little wide, but sits low to the ground. This swing won’t be a good choice for parents who want their little one at waist-level when they are sitting down.
Pros
- Five speeds and one motion
- Built-in songs, Bluetooth, or USB
- Toy bar with removable toys
- Power using AC adapter or battery
- Seat fabrics are washable
- Five-point harness.
Cons
- Sits low to the ground
- Low birth weight only works for a few months.
How These Baby Swings Compare
The table below compares only the recommended products on this page. A low or high Price means it is low or high compared to the other products listed. The Popularity Score reflects how often readers click on and buy the product. The Quality Score is our assessment of the overall performance and satisfaction with the product compared to others in the table.
| 4moms mamaRoo 4 Swing | 9.9 | - | 269.99 |
| Graco DreamGlider Swing | 9.7 | - | 219.97 |
| Graco DuetSoothe Swing and Rocker | 9.9 | 9.2 | 189.97 |
| Nova Baby Swing | 9.9 | - | 149.97 |
| Graco Simple Sway Swing | 9.9 | 9.2 | 89.99 |
| Ingenuity Swing 'n Go Swing | 9.9 | 9.0 | 79.99 |
| Ingenuity Cozy Kingdom Swing | 9.9 | 8.8 | 79.98 |
| Bright Starts Whimsical Swing | 9.9 | 9.0 | 54.99 |
| Ingenuity ConvertMe Swing-2-Seat | 8.6 | 9.0 | - |
| Graco Slim Spaces Swing | - | 9.0 | - |
| Graco EveryWay Swing | 8.7 | 9.4 | - |
| Ingenuity Power Adapt Swing | 8.2 | 8.6 | - |
| Graco Glider Swing | 7.7 | 9.0 | - |
| Graco Sense2Soothe Swing | 3.9 | 9.0 | - |
| Graco Duet Glide LX Swing | 7.9 | 9.0 | - |
| Fisher-Price Snugapuppy Swing | 8.3 | 9.4 | - |
Buying Criteria for Baby Swings
Safety Features
As always, the first thing to consider when buying anything for your baby is safety. Infant swings are regulated and monitored by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, which means baby swings have to meet set requirements to be manufactured and sold.
Usually, baby swings are designed with a 5-point harness. Infant baby swings have a shape similar to the inside of an infant car seat because they must provide head and neck support. Some of them also lie completely flat and may be considered safe for sleep.
Style
There are several types of baby swings and similar baby gear, with the most common being:
- Swing- A traditional swing has a back-and-forth or side-to-side movement. Your baby doesn’t have to move because the swing is usually powered using batteries or an AC adapter.
- Standard swings: These usually have basic features including speed settings and they typically do not fold easily for portability.
- Portable swings: Travel swings can fold flat or near-flat for transportation or storage.
- Budget swings: This type of swing usually has just basic functions and is affordable.
- High-tech swings: These swings have features like multi-directional swinging and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Glider- Gliding motions mimic the movement that your baby would feel when you’re snuggled up with them in a rocking chair, similar to a gentle swinging motion. They are newer than traditional baby swings.
- Jumper- Jumpers require your baby to jump off the floor. Since your little one has to be able to support their head and neck, it’s important that you wait until they are older to add it.
- Bouncer- Bouncers sit lower to the ground than swings. Your baby moves or wiggles and the bouncer moves around. Some bouncers have features like music or vibration settings.
- Rocker- Baby rockers are a seat with rocking-chair-like legs that are designed to help your baby get some gentle movement; they’re sort of like a manual swing in that you usually have to move them on your own.
Functions
The swinging function of baby swings might have one speed, though many have multiple speed settings.
It is common for sings to sway side-to-side, but some also have a back-and-forth function.
Vibration settings might also be included.
In some cases, parents choose to buy a baby swing with multiple functions, such as swings that are a 2-in-1 rocker and swing. While these are usually heavier and bulkier, they replace two pieces of baby furniture.
Size
Baby swings usually have wide-set legs because it provides balance for the swing to move back and forth without tipping over. Even so, some swings are wider than others. Consider the space you have in your house and where you’ll be using the swing most.
Size also affects portability, especially since many baby swings don’t fold easily to be moved. If you plan on using the swing in different areas of your house, you’ll want something small enough to move from room to room.
Battery-Operated vs. Electrical
Some baby swings are manual, meaning you sit with your little one and push them back and forth. Others are mechanical, usually powered using batteries or by being plugged into the wall.
If you are going to use a battery-operated one, it’s useful to read baby swing reviews and check the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding battery life (especially because batteries can get expensive). It’s also not uncommon for baby swings to have the option to run by battery or using an AC adapter.
Fabrics
If your baby loves their swing, he or she might spend several hours in it every week. For baby sweat, spit-up, and possible diaper blowouts, you’ll want to be sure you can clean the fabric easily. Consider how easily it will wipe clean and if the seat is machine washable.
You’ll also want to choose a fabric that will keep your baby comfortable. Plush or padded fabrics are going to be most comfortable and many bassinets also come with a head/neck insert that provides extra head and neck support. Usually, the support is removable as your child ages and needs more room in the swing. You’ll also want to consider breathability since some fabrics will make your little one sweat.
Assembly
When you’re buying baby furniture, the last thing that you want to do is deal with complicated assembly. This is true whether you are trying to keep a baby happy while putting the swing together or you are still pregnant.
Most baby swings require some assembly, simply because they are bulky when put together and it would be a hassle for full-size swings to be stocked on store shelves, shipped to your door, or put in your car to bring home.
When considering assembly, we looked at how easy it was to get the swing together. Often, locking pins are easier to use than screws. We also considered the diagrams included and how easy they were to follow, as well as the quality of the hardware, included to assemble the baby swing.
Functions and Extra Features
Basic baby swings are simple and might only have a swinging function. Some swings also vibrate or have different speed settings that stimulate your little one in a different way.
While the extra features aren’t necessary, they can help your child stay entertained longer. Many swings have toy bars or mobiles to keep your little one engaged. Lullabies and nature sounds are also common, though higher-end swings like the mamaRoo have Bluetooth and other capabilities.
FAQs – Baby Swings
Should I buy a baby swing for my baby?
Even though you can get by without a baby swing, baby swings can be incredibly soothing to some infants. The gentle swaying motion mimics the womb and helps your little one relax.
Here are some of the benefits so you can decide if buying a baby swing is a good idea for your baby:
- Stimulation- Baby swings stimulate the vestibular system, which is basically the human balance system. Like all parts of your baby’s body, the vestibular system is still developing when they are so young. The gentle swaying movement of swings helps this system develop without being too stimulating. Some babies can be overstimulated at this early age, however, so if your baby seems uncomfortable in the swing it might be better to leave them in it for shorter amounts of time.
- Soothing- When pregnant mothers are moving around, their baby is being gently rocked in utero. The design of baby swings cradles babies and the movement reminds them of being in the womb.
- Hands-Free- For the first few months of their lives, most babies’ favorite spot is in their parents’ arms. Even though I loved baby snuggles, there were times when I needed my arms. Having a baby swing keeps your little one entertained while you fold laundry, make yourself something to eat, warm bottles, or just relax.
- Entertainment and Learning- Some baby swings come with lights, music, toys, and other features that are fun for baby. While they aren’t necessary, they can stimulate the mind. Even something like a mobile visually stimulates your little one as they take in the world around them.
Is it safe to let my baby sleep in their baby swing?
With lullabies, vibrations, and even just the simple swaying motion, it may be easy for your little one to fall asleep in their swing. Even though the swing may seem like a nice alternative to constant rocking, especially when you are trying to work around the house, it is better used to soothe or entertain your baby than to let them sleep.
The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend sleeping in a baby swing, especially if they are under four months old. Younger babies wiggle and move. Without control of their neck muscles, they have no way to readjust their head if their airway is blocked. Most swings also do not leave babies flat on their backs, as recommended according to safe baby sleeping practices. There’s also a risk of their head falling forward or to the side at a dangerous (and possibly lethal) angle.
Even so, it’s generally considered safe to let your baby take a short nap if they fall asleep in their swing. You should stay nearby them and remove any pillows or blankets from the swing. You should also put it back in its furthest recline position to prevent their head from falling forward. Finally, turn the swing completely off.
Can I leave my baby unattended in their swing?
You should never leave your baby completely unattended in their swing. Even when they are secured properly, there’s a risk their head will fall forward or to the side. If your baby’s airway is blocked, they can suffocate. There is also a risk of your little one getting dizzy if they stay in the swing too long.
Are baby swings safe?
Like most products manufactured for babies, the Consumer Product Safety Commission regulates safety requirements and issues recall when a swing poses a risk to an infant.
You should always use baby swings as instructed, including fastening harnesses, and stay close when your baby is in the swing. Finally, be sure you follow recommendations on height and weight limits.
How long are baby swings safe to use?
Each baby swing is going to have recommendations based on how long your little one can safely use it. Even with a five-point harness, most swings are only designed to work until your child is sitting up on their own. Some swings recommend use for babies up to 30 pounds, while others have a 15, 20, or 25-pound weight limit.
It’s important to follow the guidelines provided for the baby swing that you choose carefully to keep your little one safe. Sometimes, baby swings are only recommended until your baby is moving around too much to be safe in the swing. This usually happens around 6-9 months.
How long can I leave my baby in their swing?
There’s no specific rule, but most experts recommend not exceeding one hour in the swing each day. Even though the swing can be enjoyable or soothing for your baby, it leaves them sitting in the same position. They are not being mentally and physically stimulated as they would be when interacting with you or having tummy time.
Baby swings cradle your little one. This is great for soothing, however, it doesn’t allow the muscle movement or the fine motor development that is necessary for your little one to learn to crawl, pull themselves up, and eventually walk.
