You have probably completed everything that your baby will need right down from a crib up to a diaper pail. After months of preparing your baby’s nursery, give yourself a pat on the back, and relax for a while. Now, since we’re talking about relaxing, why not purchase something useful to help you do that?
The term “sit back and relax” is an offer that no one will turn down. Well, except for parents who are constantly doing tasks for their little one. To them, comfort can be compromised. However, you can still pamper yourself while doing such tasks.
We are talking about a nursery glider. You might be thinking, “Why should I buy a special chair for the nursery?” A nursery glider is indeed special in such a way that it can move back and forth to give you better support and comfort. And over the years, these chairs have evolved with more features tailored to every parent’s needs.
Imagine a more comfortable breast pumping session, or a nice, relaxing spot as you nap while your baby sleeps in his/her crib. Perhaps you can see the nursery as more than just a place for tasks. In the meantime, let us help you find the best nursery glider that suits your needs.
We have reviewed the best nursery glider models we can find in the market. Each of them has unique features that can appeal to different lifestyles. You can also visit our buyer’s guide beforehand to familiarize yourself with what to look for.
Best Nursery Glider Comparison Table
Model | Other Functions Besides Gliding | Available Colors | Dimensions (in) | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Babyletto Kiwi | Reclines and swivels | Coal gray, gray tweed, white linen | 28.8x38.2x40.2 | |
Babyletto Tuba | Swivels | Seafoam, winter gray weave | 39.8x35x38 | |
Delta Children Dylan | Reclines and swivels | Blush, charcoal, flax | 34.5x35.8x40.2 | |
Delta Children Emerson | Swivels | Beige, cocoa, dove gray | 35.75x34.75x39.5 | |
DaVinci Olive | Swivels | Cream, dark gray, navy | 31.5x27.8x39.2 | |
Coaster Leatherette | Reclines and swivels | Beige, black | 31x28.5x43 | |
Baby Relax Mikayla | Reclines and swivels | Beige, gray, mocha | 37x29.2x41.5 | |
Babyletto Madison | Swivels | Navy blue, ecru, mocha | 33x30x32 | |
Child Craft Forever | N/A | Cool gray, dusty heather, white | 26.5x26x39 | |
Naomi Home Brisbane | N/A | 14 color combinations | 24.8x25.8x39.5 |
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Best Nursery Glider Reviews
Babyletto Kiwi Recliner and Swivel Glider – Editor’s Choice
With Lumbar Pillow
Our first two models are both from Babyletto. But first, let us take a look at the Kiwi model from the brand. This nursery glider is available in three colors ranging from dark shades of gray to white. And upon purchase, you will also get a lumbar pillow along with the chair.
For us, this model is the best glider for nursery because of the following reasons:
Easy to Assemble
Our first impression with the Kiwi glider is that it looks like those seats in luxury cinemas. Their overall look is simple yet classy, so you won’t have a problem placing it at any room. Assembling the pieces all together is also effortless other than the slightly heavy base. In the box, you’d get the top part and the bottom part of the chair. Pretty much all the model requires you to do is attach these pieces, and it’s good to go.
Wingback Style with Reclining Feature
The Kiwi glider is a wingback style chair. This means it has “wings” at both sides of the headrest which provides added support if you opt to take a nap and rest your head. The “wings” extend down the armrest, but you won’t get a continuous look because the chair also functions as a recliner. You will also not going to be able to glide the chair back and forth once you’ve reclined it. And we think this is necessary in regards to safety.
Lowers Headrest and Raises Footrest in One Control
This feature lowers the headrest and activates the footrest for full-body comfort. The reclining function itself also works quietly, so you don’t have to worry about waking your baby up. But if you’re worried about clearance, the unit will definitely need some space, especially with the headrest lowered and footrest raised.
Hidden Control Panel with USB Port at the Armrest
We like how Babyletto placed the control panel for the recline feature hidden in the armrest. This makes it impossible for prying children to play with the chair. At the same time, you would not be able to brush the buttons and change the current recline position accidentally.
The placement is also more convenient to access, especially when you’re already relaxing. And speaking of which, the Kiwi chair also has its own USB port close to this control panel. This is an excellent addition because you don’t have to get up to get your phone when you’re lounging, pumping, or feeding your baby.
270-Degree Swivel
Other than gliding and reclining, the chair also swivels up to 270 degrees at its base. The base itself is made of metal, so the swiveling function works smoothly. The chair will allow this feature even when you recline the seat, unlike with the gliding motion.
- Modern look
- Wingback style
- Comes with lumbar pillow
- Easy to assemble
- Reclines
- Activates headrest and footrest in one selection
- Swivels
- Hidden control panel
- USB port
- Requires space
Babyletto Tuba Extra Wide Swivel Glider – Best Glider for Twins
With Lumbar Pillow
The next unit we have from Babyletto is the Tuba Extra Wide Swivel Glider. If you compare its looks to the previous Babyletto chair, you can easily spot their differences. While the Kiwi model looks like a minimalistic recliner, the Tuba’s style is more leaning towards a sofa. But upon purchase, you will also get a lumbar pillow similar to the previous Kiwi model.
Durable Fabric and Upholstery
You can get this model in two finishes which are seafoam and winter gray weave. Although these colors will complement a nursery, we wish Babyletto has included darker colors. Nonetheless, the weave fabric feels soft and smooth to touch. We also like the cushioning because they feel soft yet also durable so they won’t deform over time.
GREENGUARD Gold-Certified and CPSIA Compliant
If you want more info about the materials of the Tuba, it uses polyester fabric for its cover so cleaning it is not going to be a headache. The upholstery itself is also free of chemical flame retardants and the unit has no PBDE and formaldehyde.
For certifications, the Tuba is GREENGUARD Gold-certified and CPSIA compliant for added peace of mind. Basically, the former means that the unit has been screened for VOCs and chemicals with regards to safety. Being CPSIA compliant, on the other hand, means that it is regulated for children’s use.
Heavy but No Assembly Needed
Once you purchase the chair, be ready to have someone with you as the piece tends to be heavy. But the good news is that it requires no assembly. The Tuba ships folded, with the back part folded down on the sitting area. When you’re ready to use it, you just have to raise the folded part up.
Spacious Sitting Area
The sitting area inside the armrests measures about 26 inches. It is spacious enough to accommodate you and your little one. And if you have twins, this width is perfect for those snuggling and bonding moments with both of them.
The Drawback
Swivels on Full 360 Degrees
Unlike the previous glider from Babyletto, the Tuba model does not recline. It does, however, swivels a full 360 degrees from its brushed stainless steel base. Both gliding and swiveling are fairly quiet and smooth.
We are also not surprised by the lack of recline function since the back of the chair is not that lengthy. However, some tall customers mentioned that this height is suitable for them regardless. And if you need to get your leg raised, you can also purchase the Tuba ottoman from Babyletto.
- With lumbar pillow
- Easy to clean covers
- Durable yet soft upholstery
- Guaranteed safe and free from chemicals
- No assembly required
- Spacious for twins
- Swivels and glides quietly
- No reclining feature
- May not be as comfortable for smaller users
Delta Children Dylan – Best Nursery Glider Recliner
Stylish with Nailhead Trim Detailing
Our third nursery glider is the Dylan model from Delta Children. We have to say; this chair is one of the most good-looking and stylish ones in this review. It has curved armrests complete with nailhead trim design for added style. You can also choose from blush, flax, and charcoal colors to match the unit with your little one’s nursery.
Fully Padded
The Dylan nursery glider has a padded structure with pocketed coil springs underneath. This combination leaves no hard surfaces for the user, but also makes it possible for the seat to retain its shape.
The seat itself also uses an 8.75-inch thick cushion, so it feels plush and comfortable to use. Not to mention, you’ll also get slight elevation on your lower back and head area thanks to the cushioning. However, we would’ve preferred for the armrests to be slightly higher for accommodating taller users. On the bright side, the thickness of its armrests also makes it an excellent consideration if you’re on the hunt for the best nursing chair.
Quietly Reclines
Its backrest height, on the other hand, measures 25.5 inches and even works as a recliner similar to our first nursery glider. We appreciate that the unit reclines and glides smoothly without any squeaking noise. You can choose from two reclining angles, and the chair will also provide you the leg rest for a head-to-toe support.
Has Leg Rest
Similar to our first glider from Babyletto, the backrest and leg rest works as one mechanism. Therefore, you when you recline the seat, the leg rest will automatically raise as well.
Easy-to-Reach Recline Control
You can control the model’s reclining mechanism at the pull-tab at the side of the chair. Its location is also nice because you don’t have to reach too far. However, we think it would be easier to return the chair to its upright position if this tab has a handle that you can grab. We also think that the leg rest requires a bit more effort to retract.
Glides Fully
Lastly, it is worth mentioning that this nursery glider also allows a full 360-degree rotation with its swivel mechanism. We don’t have any comment about this function as it works as smoothly and quietly like the reclining and gliding features.
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Comfortable upholstery
- Reclines, glides, and swivels quietly
- Has leg rest
- Convenient location for recline control
- Armrests could be higher
- Leg rest is tricky to retract
Delta Children Emerson – Best Rocker Glider for Nursery
The next model in our review is also from Delta Children. This time, the model we’re going to take a look at is the Emerson Upholstered Glider. You can choose from beige with ecru welt, cocoa with beige welt, and dove gray with soft gray welt to match it with the nursery.
And while it lacks a footrest because it doesn’t recline, you can purchase the tufted gliding ottoman from the same manufacturer.
Easy Assembly
Assembling the glider is easy because you’re pretty much just attaching the pieces together without the need for tools. You will need to slide the two rail brackets and assemble bolts which shouldn’t take too much time and effort.
Diamond Tufted Pattern with Slight Wingback Style
Physically, the Emerson has a slight wingback style since the sides of the headrest are slightly protruding. The back support even has a diamond tufted pattern that gives the chair a plushy look. We should also mention that we like the overall welt trim because it provides the glider with a neater look.
May Not Be Comfy for Taller Users
Now let’s talk about its performance. Comfort-wise, the seat, armrest, and headrest all feel nice and soft.
Removable Seat Cushion
On the bright side, the seat cushion is 6.5 inches thick and is quite firm, so getting it deformed over time is unlikely. You can also remove it in case it needs cleaning, which is a nice feature compared to those built-in.
- Easy to assemble
- Minimalistic look
- Nicely padded back and sides
- Removable seat cushion
- No recline feature
- Squeaks while rocking
DaVinci Olive – Best Glider and Ottoman for Nursery
We are halfway through our review, and our sixth model is the swivel glider from DaVinci. And this time, the unit already comes with an ottoman. As you have probably noticed earlier, some nursery gliders with reclining feature already have their own feet rest.
However, the common drawback with this additional part is that sometimes, they require some force to retract. If you are holding a baby or if you’re recovering after birth, it can be a tedious task.
Already Comes with Ottoman
That is why some manufacturers offer ottomans with their gliders. But since they are going to be a separate purchase, users tend to overlook them. With our next unit, this upholstered swivel glider already comes with an ottoman. The two have a similar look, and you can get them in cream and dark gray. DaVinci also has other colors with detailings if you want a different color accentuating the square shape of the glider and ottoman.
GREENGUARD Gold Certified
DaVinci used heathered polyester fabric for the set, which basically means it’s a mixture of fibers. And if you need to clean the unit, you can use a cotton cloth and a mild foam cleaner. Similar to our previous gliders, this model also has a GREENGUARD Gold certification.
No Formaldehyde and PBDEs
The DaVinci Olive set has no flame retardants such as PBDEs, and as well as formaldehyde. When shopping for mattresses and the like, parents have to be careful. In particular, be wary of flame retardants and formaldehyde because of their health risks. There have been studies that show the link of PBDEs to brain development interference in babies. While exposure to formaldehyde can cause irritated skin and eyes, as well as asthma.
No Assembly Needed
Back to our review, the overall structure of the nursery glider itself feels at par with our previous models. You don’t have to assemble it because the glider pretty much comes intact and ready to use right out of the box. The back part even folds onto the base, so in case you have to bring it or store it somewhere, you can save some space.
Highback with Lumbar Pillow
We like that the glider’s back is pretty high at 25.75 inches. This means you don’t have to slouch if you want to sit all the way back. You will also get a lumbar pillow, so your lower back is equally supported. The seat, on the other hand, is spacious enough for most body types. The armrests are also track style, which adds to the overall look of the set.
A Tad Firm
However, the seat could use a bit more softness. We also think that shorter people may have a hard time rocking the glider because of the chair’s height. Speaking of which, the ottoman that measures 21 x 17 x 16 inches does not glide.
Ottoman Does Not Glide
This means you have to put a bit more effort into your feet if you want to rock back and forth. The gliding feature would’ve also meant that you can just drag the ottoman towards you when you’re sitting on the chair. However, this is still a matter of preference because some users prefer their ottoman stationary.
Swivels 360 Degrees
Lastly, the Olive glider is not capable of reclining. It already comes in a slight angle to support your back. However, it is capable of swiveling from its metal base. These mechanisms are all covered in upholstery underneath so you don’t have to worry about safety. The only comment we have is that after some time, the glider gives off squeaking noises when it rocks and swivels.
- Already comes with lumbar pillow and ottoman
- Ready to use out of the box
- No flame retardants and formaldehyde
- Highback and foldable
- Swivels
- Could be softer
- May be high for shorter people
- Squeaks when rocking and rotating
Coaster Leatherette Glider – Best Stylish Nursery Glider
Comes with Ottoman
The previous DaVinci model is not the only glider in this review that comes with an ottoman. This leatherette glider recliner from Coaster Home Furnishings also includes its own ottoman upon purchase. Both the recliner and ottoman have leatherette covers that give them a classy look while being also smooth to touch.
Pseudo-Leather Covers
A leatherette is basically a material that stimulates the look and texture of leather. In this case, Coaster Home Furnishings opt for vinyl and fabric for the recliner and ottoman’s covers. You can also choose from beige or brown for a personalized touch. However, the unit does require you to assemble it upon purchase which shouldn’t take much effort.
The glider of this set has a padded back with folds to create a slight indentation in the middle. Combine this design to the length of the back itself, and you’d get a nice upright support. As for the armrests, they are not as wide, but the curve they have helps in propping your arms when needed.
With Side Pockets
Another neat addition that this glider has is that it has spacious pockets at the side of each armrest. They are large enough to carry magazines or other possible baby equipment, which we’re pleased about. This location is quite convenient since it minimizes your need to get up when you need something.
Rotates and Reclines
What We Don’t Like
You will just lower this handle as you push the backside of the chair to your desired angle. However, the back of the chair doesn’t go too far back compared to other recliners. Some users also complain about a bar hitting their backside.
You can see that compared to our previous models, both the glider and the ottoman does not have a fully-cushioned look. Some of the frames at the base, including those that hold the arm rests are visible. We would’ve preferred it better if Coaster Home Furnishings opt to cover, especially the moving mechanism with upholstery.
- Leather-like look
- Comes with ottoman and side pockets
- Can rotate and recline
- Highback and curved armrests
- Visible mobile mechanism at the base
- Reclining feature is imperfect
Baby Relax Mikayla – Best Glider for Any Room
Our next nursery glider is the Mikayla model from Baby Relax. This glider comes in beige, gray, mocha microfiber, and gray microfiber. Each of them has a white button tufting on the backrest. And we also like the white welt trim that follows the shape of the recliner. We all know that there will come a time when you’ll move the glider out of the nursery. Therefore, we appreciate a model with a simple look to match any room.
Quick Assembly
When it comes to assembling the unit, all you would need to do is connect the two main pieces until you hear you hear a click. We didn’t have any complications while doing it, so we’re sure assembling is going to be easy for you.
Square and Sleek
The Mikayla glider has not much curves in its overall shape. In fact, we could say that this model has a square silhouette compared to others. However, it does have a slight wingback style similar to the previous unit.
This design adds a bit of lift for the headrest, and the cushioning on the back helps for support. The armrests, on the other hand, has a track arm style similar to the unit from DaVinci. This adds a contemporary look on the chair, and at the same time, makes it more sleek and space-saving in width.
Not for Taller Users
Speaking of width, you will get around 21 inches of sitting space in the chair. However, for the length of the back, it will be unlikely for taller users to get neck support. Nonetheless, we appreciate the upholstery itself since the Mikayla glider uses a spring core foam. Of course, this base will keep your body from sinking too much into the cushion.
Swivels and Reclines
Besides rocking back and forth, this model is also capable of rotating a full 360 degrees. Both the swivel and gliding functions are done by the enclosed ball bearing mechanism underneath the seat. To keep it short, this mechanism helps for smoother and quieter movements.
Lastly, this glider also works as a recliner. Similar to the Delta Children Dylan model, you will have the control for this function at the side of the armrest. Again, this is a convenient location because you can easily reach it. Do take note that the footrest will also extend once you recline the back of the glider. There is no feature to select only one of the two.
- Sleek and contemporary look
- Reclines and swivels smoothly and quietly
- Soft upholstery
- Easy to assemble
- Length of the back could be higher
- Undoing the recline gets tricky
Babyletto Madison – Best Glider for Small Nursery
Other than the first two gliders that we reviewed, we also happen to have a more compact-looking glider from the same brand. This time, we’re taking a look at the Madison swivel glider. You can get it in ecru, mocha, navy blue, and slate as well.
Compact
As we have mentioned, the Madison model looks completely different from the previous Kiwi and Tuba from Babyletto. The previous two gliders look more like a traditional standalone glider, while the Madison looks like a sofa set inclusion. And because of its size, we think the Madison glider is the perfect choice for those with limited space in the nursery. After all, some households can define the best glider chair for nursery as something that is compact.
Chemical-Free
You can assume that Babyletto also used chemical-free materials for this unit. The upholstery itself is free from flame retardants such as PBDEs, as well as formaldehyde. The structure itself also use TSCA compliant plywood, which basically means you can be confident with the safety of all the substances used.
Ready to Use
This glider already comes assembled straight out the box. This isn’t surprising because the chair itself does not have too many parts. In fact, the overall look is seamless, and you wouldn’t even think that it can glide or rotate.
The chair is pretty compact at 33 x 30 x 32 inches. And of course, it offers no head and neck support. The back itself is pretty short so taller people may not even get a fully supported back area. The armrests are also not as high, and instead, are slanted and narrow. More than providing arm support, we think the armrests are there to act as borders.
Water and Stain-Resistant Cover
As for the sitting space, the Madison is pretty spacious. We also like the padding because it’s soft. It also helps that the cover is silky to touch. But what’s unique with this cover is that it is a water and stain-resistant microsuede. Not only is it smooth and soft to the skin, but this material also makes cleaning easier. You just simply wipe any spills, and you won’t have to worry about any possible staining.
Swivels Fully
More than the gliding motion, the metal base underneath also allows the chair to swivel into a full circle. We like how smooth and steady the chair moves, and almost effortless to initiate the motion. We also don’t have any problem with creaking noises as the unit moves.
- Compact
- Soft padding
- Chemical-free
- Stain and water-resistant microsuede cover
- Glides and swivels smoothly
- No head and neck support
Child Craft Forever – Best Basic Nursery Glider
Semi-Upholstered
We are close to finishing our review, but first, let us take a look at the Forever Eclectic Cozy Glider from Child Craft. Upon first glance, you will notice that the model’s overall style is similar to the Leatherette Glider Recliner from Coaster Home Furnishings. What we mean by this is that the base of the glider is not upholstered.
Unlike the previous glider, you would need to assemble the Forever Eclectic first. The unit already comes with the tools that you’ll need. Using them, you can place the arms and the back of the chair onto its base. This step is fairly easy, and we had more time utilized when we’re putting the cushions onto the chair. Snapping the buttons takes some force to lock them into place.
Comes with an Ottoman
Other than the glider, the unit also comes with a matching ottoman. And similar to the glider, its base is also not covered. Nonetheless, the ottoman itself measures 19.5 x 26 x 13.5 inches, which is practical enough for its intended use.
Highback
Back to the glider, we appreciate that the back measures 27 x 24 x 1.75 inches. It is tall enough to give an upright support as you rock back and forth. The folds on the back padding also formed a slight indentation with the sides raised for added comfort.
Could Use More Cushions
For the seat, you can remove its cushion if you need to clean it. However, we wish Child Craft opted for a thicker padding for a more plush feel. It is also worth noting that the base for this seating cushion has no springs so you can’t expect a slight bounce when you use it.
Side Pockets
Just like the seat, we would’ve also preferred for the armrests to have thicker padding. But on the bright side, the unit allows you to remove the arm covers for easier clean-up. You could think of these covers as just extensions of the cover of the glider. And at their back, you can access the side pockets that can hold toys and other paraphernalia.
- Comes with ottoman
- Highback
- Relatively easy to assemble
- Has side pockets
- Glides smoothly
- Could use more padding
- Not fully upholstered
Naomi Home Brisbane – Best Affordable Glider and Ottoman
The last nursery glider in our review is the Naomi Home Brisbane Glider and Ottoman Set. And by the name itself, we’re giving away that this glider also comes with its own ottoman. What’s fantastic with this unit is that you get to have 14 colors and designs options to choose from. We are pleased by the number of selections compared to the typical 2 or 4 color options with other gliders.
The overall built of this set is somewhat similar to the previous glider and ottoman combo. The bottom part of both the inclusions are not upholstered. You will also do some minor assembling once you get the unit.
The Brisbane glider and ottoman use polyester fabric. Their foam is also polyurethane, and the resulting combination of the two materials makes the glider and ottoman easy to clean. However, there are many types of polyurethane foam per se. And this material also sparks some debates when it comes to safety, particularly with the compounds they release in the air.
With Side Pockets
Back to the glider, it has a reasonably padded back that is also lengthy enough to support taller users. The cushioning on the seat and arms are also nice. Although for us, we would’ve preferred for them to be thicker. The padding on the seat’s armrests also reminds us of the previous Forever Eclectic Cozy Glider. They have the same style and thickness. And at the same time, they also have side pockets outside.
Another similarity that the Brisbane Glider & Ottoman Set has with the previous unit is that it also utilizes metal bearings for the gliding mechanism. The motion itself works nicely, although some users report of it failing after some time.
- Comes with ottoman
- Tall and padded back
- Has side pockets
- Reasonable price
- Questionable lifespan
Read also: Best Electric Breast Pump
Best Nursery Glider Buyer’s Guide
Types of Nursery Chairs
Manufacturers have come up with various modifications on the humble nursery chair. These modifications result in chair variations that you can choose from to specifically match your needs.
As you have noticed in our review, nursery gliders often have a combination of features from the chairs below. Do not be confused as these are just the basic explanations of how each chair work. One chair can be categorized into multiple types.
Rocking Chairs
We could say that rocking chairs are the more traditional type of gliders. Or better, they are the predecessors of the nursery gliders. Rocking chairs have a simple anatomy. They have rounded feet/bases to accommodate a rocking motion. However, this exact design also meant that they don’t move as smoothly like gliders.
Rocking chairs are also not as effortless to use compared to gliders. You would need to exert a bit of effort with your feet to keep the momentum of rocking. Consequently, using them for an extended period may not be comfortable for the bum.
Lastly, gliders are more often sold with cushioning compared to rocking chairs. The latter are usually made from all wood, although some manufacturers have expanded their choice of materials. Moreso, you can even find rocking chairs in the market with a wider sitting area. This way, you can bring your baby with you and soothe him/her with the rocking motion.
Recliners
Some parents opt to use living room recliners in their nurseries. There are brands that are spacious enough to accommodate both you and your baby. At the same time, their reclining feature offers better back support for extended nursing or napping sessions.
Nursery Gliders
As we have previously mentioned, you can consider a glider as an updated version of the rocking chair. Manufacturers have designed them for effortless comfort and support suited for long periods of use. Instead of having rounded feet, gliders typically use a ball bearing mechanism to stimulate gliding. You can even find other units that recline, as well as allow a full 360-degree swiveling besides the usual back and forth.
Nursery Gliders and Ottoman Sets
Manufacturers nowadays also offer a nursery glider set complete with an ottoman. An ottoman is basically a stool without back and arm support because they are only meant for resting your feet. The additional ottoman will mean that the glider set will take a larger space. However, getting your feet elevated is indeed a step-up (no pun intended) with regards to comfort.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Nursery Glider
Comfort
Of course, the first factor that every parent evaluate on the nursery glider is the model’s overall comfort. This is probably the main reason why you’re getting one anyway. But the criteria for “comfort” is too vast. What makes a model more comfortable than the others?
We have listed some features that can affect a chair’s performance in the comfort scale.
- Padding
One of the leading qualities that gliders have over traditional rockers is their upholstery. Compared to wood, nursery gliders use cushioning materials in their parts that will contact your body. This added softness makes usage for long periods undoubtedly more comfortable. Think about it this way, would you prefer to lounge on a rock hard chair over one with a soft and velvety surface? Look for a model with generous padding all over its body.
- Headrest
Some nursery gliders have headrests to soothe your neck muscles and avoid pain due to awkward positions. Just like your back, make sure to give some love higher than your shoulder area.
- Backrest
More specifically, a properly designed backrest should be able to provide you optimal lumbar support. You want to be relieving stress off your back and hips up to your shoulder and neck. And to achieve this, the chair should be capable of reclining angles suitable to your body’s requests.
You might find yourself stealing some hours of sleep in the nursery glider, especially during your baby’s first months. Therefore, a model that can recline all the way back or at least 6 inches can mean the difference between back pain and relieved sleep.
- Armrest
Other than taking a quick break or napping, you will find yourself using the glider when you’re breastfeeding or soothing your baby to sleep. For these moments, spacious armrests with paddings can assist your arms and let your muscles relax.
You can also look for a glider that has adjustable armrests so you can customize their height according to your preferred position. Do not underestimate the weight of a pump or a baby. After some time, your elbows and arms will want to relax.
- Leg Rest/Ottoman
For a nursery glider to be comfortable for long periods, it must provide support from the head down. Other than your neck, back, and arms, you can find models with leg rest. And in some cases, the manufacturer offers a whole set complete with an ottoman.
A leg rest is a folding part of the glider that you can extend out when your feet needs elevation. While an ottoman, on the other hand, is a separate armless and backless chair.
The latter would take a bit more space since you’re going to stretch your legs and rest them on it. However, this compromise in space will provide you relief from leg pains acquired from standing around most of the day. You can also use the ottoman as a holder for other items since it’s not attached to the glider.
Just make sure that the height of the ottoman is relative to your glider so you won’t end up putting your legs in an awkward position.
Lastly, a reasonably wide seat will also allow you to switch positions from nursing to napping. Some models are even wide enough to fit in twins, which is perfect for snuggling time. Not only will you have a bonding time with them, but this is also an opportunity to get your little ones drowsy when they’re being fussy.
Safety
The main feature of a nursery glider with regards to safety is a locking mechanism. Since gliders recline, the locking mechanism will keep your chosen angle from moving. This makes going in and out of the chair smoother, and also safer when you lean your body relaxed.
Durability
The overall built of the glider also dictates the glider’s stability and safety. Make sure it can hold your weight well, and it should be free from any sharp edge or point that can cause injuries.
Another reason why durability matters is because a model with a long lifespan gives you better value for money. Once you’re baby matures, you should be able to use the glider as an ordinary resting chair for whatever room in the house. A good, strong frame with quality padding and fabric will surely be functional even after some years.
Size
Another factor that surely affects your decision with nursery additions is their size. First, will there be enough space in the nursery for it? And second, is the glider’s size proportionate to the person who’s going to use it?
With the first question, a glider should have enough clearance for it to reach your comfortable reclining angle. Keep in mind that the leg rest/ottoman will require space too if your unit has them.
At the same time, the chair itself should be large enough to accommodate your body in various positions. Be it lying down, nursing, pumping, or sitting, with all open to the possibility that your little one might lounge with you as well. And speaking of sizes, don’t disregard the chair’s height, so you don’t end up with either uncomfortably suspended or bended legs.
Ease of Cleaning
We often forget to consider a model’s ease of cleaning until it’s too late. We’re placing the glider in the nursery, and we’re going to soothe our fussy baby in it, so it’s bound to get dirty. Add these to the fact that it may also receive all the potential leaks and mess from pumping, nursing, and feeding.
Therefore, be one step ahead and look for a model with a detachable and washable covers and cushions. And while you’re at it, try to choose darker colored units if you’re very critical with stains. Not only will this save you time and effort, but in the long run you won’t have to dispose of the unit just because it’s dirty. Some manufacturers even use materials that you can wipe away for minor clean-up.
Versatility
You will find models in the market that also offer other mechanisms besides gliding. The most common one is the ability to recline, but there are also models that can swivel a full 360 degree. The latter is going to be useful because it allows you to survey the whole room as you relax or do other tasks in your chair.
Choosing among these mechanisms will depend on your personal preference. Parents will always differ when it comes to mechanisms that provide them the most convenience. Perhaps a simple back and forth motion is enough for one, while a work-at-home mom might find a swiveling glider more practical.
Additional Features
Since we’ve talked about versatility, another factor that can affect your decision when buying a glider is its additional features. More than other mechanisms, features such as extra compartments, USB ports, and side pockets are proven useful. They will keep other items neatly and organized, and most importantly, within arm’s reach. Therefore, you don’t have to make multiple trips and disturb your sleeping baby.
Read also: Best Nursing Tanks
Conclusion
The “best nursery glider” per se is something that will vary for every family. Maybe some require a reclining feature and others would rather have a separate ottoman. Depending on the factors and features that you prioritize, choose the unit that allows you to compromise less.
For us, the Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Power Recliner and Swivel Glider is our top favorite. It is capable of rocking back and forth, as well as rotating. It also reclines complete with a footrest for optimum comfort. However, the other models in this review are also worth considering.
At the end of the day, you’re the one who’s going to sit back and (hopefully) relax. Adding something as simple as a nursery glider can definitely help you power through parenthood.
Do you have any questions? Feel free to leave them below.
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