Baby Swings and Rockers

Baby swings,  rockers  and bouncers  are an easy and fun way to soothe a fussing baby. These devices provide soothing and repetitive motion for your child when your arms are too tired to hold the baby. Whether you want to calm a baby with colic, lull a baby to sleep, or give them a place to play in your eyeline, you can find a piece of baby equipment that suits your needs and helps your baby find bliss. About.com has a great guide to these gizmos.

Types of Motion Inducing Equipment

Automatic Baby Swings 

  • Swing and calm your baby without any work on your part.
  • Requires batteries.
  • Often has many rocking speeds and music settings.

Wind Up Baby Swings 

  • Just wind it up and let baby go!
  • May still have some bells and whistles.
  • Bulky piece of baby gear.

Infant Rockers 

  • Allow them to lie down.
  • Generally for older babies who can sit up on their own (unless there are multiple recline settings).
  • Look for a model that will rock both back-and-forth and side-to-side.

Bouncers 

  • Can be used for entertainment or feeding.
  • Less jarring motion than swings or rockers.
  • Great spot for napping.
  • Seats with proper harnesses can be used for infants.
  • Oeuf Baby Lounger  no batteries involved.

Essential Safety Features

  • Wide Base  -- Will help prevent the swing from tipping over.
  • Safety Belt System -- Just as in a car seat, the 5-point harness is best.
  • Tough Seats -- Strong stitching and heavy-duty snaps are crucial for top safety. Seat cushions should be somewhat padded for extra comfort. The seat cover should be both removable and washable.

Other Features

  • Open Top & Flip-Out Tray
    • Having an open top  or flip-out tray  on your swing is an important feature to look for. It will allow for gentle and easy removal of your sleeping baby. It will also make it easier to lift baby in and out without scraping little legs or hitting delicate heads on the upper bar.
  • Recline
    • Your baby swing should have at least two recline  positions, and they should be smooth and easy to use. Newborns need to recline, and you'll find it useful for older babies when they fall asleep.
  • Canopy
    • If you plan on using your swing outside, a canopy  is essential to protect against sun and wind.
  • Removable Seat Cover
    • Makes laundering a breeze.
  • Entertaining gadgets
    • Music, vibrations, lights, dangling toys, etc.
    • These are not essential, but may entertain your baby before or during nap time.

Bottom Line?

A quality swing will cost you between $50 and $150.

Top Products from About.com's Baby Products pages

Related Guides

Playards

Baby Walkers

Rocking Chairs

High Chairs

Strollers