Baby swings mimic the rocking motion felt while in the womb as Mom walked and moved around. This swinging motion can be comforting to babies and automatic baby swings help give parents a rest while keeping baby happy. As with all baby gear, look for products that meet current safety guidelines and your specific needs.
Recommended Baby Swings
Some babies are most soothed or amused by a swinging motion which is why baby swings are a great option for giving mom's arms a break. Different manufacturers have different age and weight limits, but most swings are acceptable for babies up to 25 pounds. Double check your swing to be sure of its weight and age recommendations.
4-in-1 Smart Connect Cradle 'n Swing
Trusted children's brand, Fisher Price, sells the ultimate modern baby swing with their 4-in-1 Smart Connect Cradle n' Swing. This compact swing features a single post that holds the swing in place rather than the large, bulky frame most swings have. The white and beige frame piece holds up a cream and light green cushioned swing making it a gender-neutral option.
The best feature of this high-tech swing is your ability to control its settings using an app on your phone or tablet. So, if the baby is playing in the swing listening to the music and watching the light-up bird mobile and gets bored while you are doing the dishes, you can flicker the lights and change the music without walking away from the sink. Plug the unit in or use it with batteries to rock baby side-to-side or back and forth. You can also remove the swing seat and turn it into a rocker that sits on the floor. With a price tag around $150, it's no wonder this space-age swing is the number one choice by The Bump. This option is best for parents who like modern convenience paired with a traditional style.
Portable Swing
If you've got a tiny budget or are looking for a swing you can take along with your busy family, the Comfort and Harmony Portable Swing is an ideal option. Professional baby product reviewers at Baby Gear Specialist say this is the top model for portability thanks to the compact design and easy-to-clean features. At only 23 inches tall, this small swing packs all the must-haves. The ultra-cushioned seat is white and tan with line drawings of jungle animals and pops of orange and turquoise. You choose from two reclining positions and six speed options while baby relaxes or enjoys the hanging toy bar with a plush lion and elephant. When you're ready to head out to your next location, simply fold the frame on each side and go. The best thing about this fun and functional swing is the price tag of under $50. Customers give this swing four out of five stars with one reviewer raving "it folds up to be very compact which is nice for traveling." Since the whole seat sits close to the ground you won't have any anxiety about your baby falling out or tipping the unit over, but this also means baby may outgrow it quickly.
Gliding Swing
The Graco Glider LX Gliding Swing mimics the rocking or swinging motion you make when holding your baby in a gliding rocking chair making it different from most other baby swings. Also, unique to this model is the framework which sits at the sides and under the cushioned fabric seat instead of using a tall frame that hangs the seat. Thanks to this sleek design, the gliding swing takes up less space than other models, making it great for families with small rooms. Choose from six gliding speeds that move baby in a head-to-toe direction for optimum comfort. The swing operates with batteries, but you can also use it plugged in. The Affinia style features gray and green tones for a gender-neutral look and sells for about $80. Music, sounds, and a toy bar with plush bears help keep baby happy in this smooth, comfy swing. As an Amazon Bestseller, this swing gets four out of five stars from over 700 customer reviews. If you've got limited space and are concerned about safety, this is the swing for you.
Baby & Joy Baby Hammock
If you're in the market for a baby hammock to mount on a crib that mimics the feel of the womb, check out Baby & Joy's Baby Hammock. Made with high-quality silk, the reinforced netting makes the hammock breathable. This hammock is meant to provide unrivaled comfort to support healthy sleep.
Suitable for ages 2-9 months, the Baby & joy Hammock sells for around $30 on Amazon. Since the hammock mounts on the crib, there is no need to purchase an additional frame or mount for this unit. A travel bag is included for easy storage. Baby & Joy is listed among the list of top baby hammocks by the website Bedtime Deal.
Swing Safety
While the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not warn against using baby swings altogether, the organization does state parents should not leave sleeping babies in a baby swing. Their newest sleep recommendations say babies should sleep on their backs on a firm surface. If your baby falls asleep in the swing, you should move him to his crib or another flat surface.
There are other uses for baby swings that don't involve sleep, like giving baby some safe time for independent play or giving mom's arms a break. When you use a baby swing:
- Make sure baby is awake while swinging.
- Limit time to 15-30 minute intervals to avoid flat spots on baby's head.
- Use the most reclined position for babies under 4 months old or babies who cannot hold their heads up alone.
- Ensure the swing can't tip over.
- Use shoulder straps when the seat is at a 50 degree or more angle.
- Keep baby in your sight while swinging.
- Purchase only new baby swings to ensure the highest safety standards.
- Place the swing on a sturdy, flat surface.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC) reports between 2009-2012 there were around 350 injuries reported from baby swing-related injuries. Because of this statistic, they instituted new regulations in 2013 for baby swings. Current guidelines insist manufactures perform a stability test, provide clear warning stickers, and test harness systems among other things. Take a look at the CPSC recall list to make sure your selected model hasn't been recalled.
Baby's First Playground
Every kid has fond memories of swinging on the playground or experiencing their world from the unique view provided by swings. Give your baby the comfort of the womb and the excitement of a playground with a baby swing.
