Whether youre feeding your baby or snuggling your toddler for story time, a comfortable nursery glider creates an ideal spot for soothing little ones. Choosing a comfy chair for the nursery can be a big bonus when it comes to your [childs] bedtime routine, explains Amber LoRe, pediatric sleep consultant at Huckleberry, a baby sleep service. Calm feedings in a cozy spot lead to drowsy babies with full tummies. In other words, its the perfect mix for a good nights sleep. We think the Babyletto Kiwi is the best nursery glider overall, because its sustainably made and is an all-around crowd-pleaser thats easy to use and loaded with convenient features.
You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Tacviw.
The best nursery gliders provide a soothing and comfy seat for you and your little one.
Illustration: Forbes / Photos: RetailersMost parents spend many hours feeding their little ones, and having a dedicated and comfortable spot to do that can be really helpful. While each family must decide what items are essential to them, we think that a glider will give a special spot for parents and babies to bond for years, share Teresa Boyd and Helena Finkelstein, owners and designers of Olive Hill Design Company.
Our recommendations for the ten best nursery gliders are below. If youre still setting up your nursery, check out our other shopping guides on nursery essentials, which were researched and reviewed by our parenting team.
Amazon
Materials: Wood frame, recycled yarn, polyester, foam cushions | Type of movement: Glider | Recliner: Yes | USB port: Yes | Certifications: Greenguard Gold-certified, CertiPUR-US-certified, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified | Key features: Stain-resistant, USB port, reclines, glides
Pros:
Cons:
When it came time to select the best nursery glider, there was no competition. Of all the parents we spoke with, a majority named the Babyletto Kiwi Glider as their absolute favorite. It reclines with the touch of a button, glides and swivels effortlessly and includes a charging port to keep your pump and fully operational. Its also Greenguard Gold-certified and uses FSC-certified wood for the frame, and has eco-performance fabric, so you know its sustainably crafted and free of harsh chemicals.
What the parents say: I cant get over how convenient the charging port isprior to having a baby, I would never have understood just how many hours Id spend sitting in this thing, reports deputy editor and new mom Rebekah Lowin, who uses the Kiwi. I also love the auto-recline button. In those sleep-deprived first months, it made feedings so much more relaxing. Oh, and the performance fabric really does come in handy: Ive been able to clean spills in seconds. Its clearly just a well-made chair; the whole thing, from the frame to the fabric and filling, feels heavy duty, sturdy and reliable. We have this one, and its the best, says parent Stephanie, and mom Alani echoes the sentiment and also high recommends this pick.
IKEA
Materials: Wood veneer, polyester fabric | Type of movement: Rock | Recliner: No | USB port: No | Certifications: None | Key features: 10+ color options, optional ottoman available
Pros:
Cons:
The well-known Ikea chair is an affordable alternative to the typical nursery glider. We love that the small footprint means it can fit in the tightest of nursery spots and, unlike some of the bigger, more prominent gliders, this one is easy to relocate to a living room or home office once its time in the baby nursery is done. Several reviewers mention that the chairs narrow frame is perfect for small rooms or people with petite frames; others point out that the high back is nice for taller people to still feel supported. We like that theres an optional ottoman to add to it (a footrest is truly a must when feeding or hanging out with little ones in the chair), and the Poang chair is available in 10+ colorways, so its easy to match nursery decor. The chair doesnt scream nursery, and the arms are lacking padding, which may be a dealbreaker for some but can be remedied by using a pillow.
What the parents say: Mom Helen shares, I used the regular Poang through both my kids and found it provided enough bounce for me. And the arms were just the right height for feeding with a pillow. Another parent shares that We used the Ikea Poang (not the rocking version). Both my husband and I are tall, so a high back was essential. It "rocks," in that you can kinda bounce it with your legs if needed, but it was what fit in our teeny space.
Pottery Barn Kids
Materials: Plywood and pine frame, polyester-wrapped cushions | Type of movement: Glider | Recliner: Yes | USB port: Yes | Certifications: Greenguard Gold-certified | Key features: 3 manual reclining options or power recline
Pros:
Cons:
If youre looking for something elevated and traditional that reclines at the touch of a button and has a built-in footrest, the Charleston is for you. This glider recliner is specifically designed for use in a nursery, so you can maneuver in it while holding a baby. For example, the chair locks in place while in recline mode. Its crafted with longevity in mind to prevent sagging, wood splintering and stains. It also negates the need for an additional ottoman, which allows for more space.
What the parents say: Carlene Forkel, a teacher and mom to a 2-year-old, called this glider expensive, but so chic and worth the splurge. She went on to say, I like that it rocks, swivels and reclines. While it doesnt get as much use now that her son is a toddler, she will keep it for baby number two because of the quality. Her one hang-up with the chair: The white has gotten dirty, so I need a good performance fabric cleaner.
Nurture&
Materials: FSC-certified Birchwood, poplar plywood, polyester, nylon | Type of movement: Glider | Recliner: Yes | USB port: Yes | Certifications: FSC-certified wood | Key features: Reclines almost flat, adjustable headrest, power recline, performance fabric
Pros:
Cons:
The Glider from Nurture& is meant to do it all. The chair reclines to an almost flat position so that you can lie down if you need to, which comes in handy in the middle of the night. The adjustable footrest and headrest are a rare addition, and yet they feel so necessary to avoid any extra strain. The fabric is stain-resistant and easy to clean, and you can choose upgrades like a matching pillow and a storage ottoman if need be. Further customize your pick by choosing from The Glider (it reclines and glides), The Glider Plus (it reclines, swivels and glides) or the Swivel Glider (it swivels only).
What our editors say: According to senior updates editor Karen Tietjen, whos expecting her second baby, The electric controls on this chair are a game-changer. The recliner I purchased for my first baby is manual, and bringing it back to its upright position takes some forcenot ideal when you have a sleeping baby (or now, toddler) in your arms. Nurture&s control settings arent just smooth, but they also allow for comfortable positioning with headrest and lumbar-support adjustments. And this is in addition to its recline, which you can set to any angle. The firmness of this chair is also comfortably supportive, and Im so excited to use it with our newest addition.
2Modern Furniture & Lighting
Materials: Wood, steel, spring coil and foam cushions, recycled yarn, polyester| Type of movement: Glider | Recliner: No | USB port: No | Certifications: Greenguard Gold-certified, FSC-certified wood, CertiPUR-US certified | Key features: Extra-wide seat, performance fabrics, environmental and safety certifications
Pros:
Cons:
The top pick in our roundup of the best nursing chairs for twins, the Babyletto Tuba offers a roomy 35-inch seat for maximum comfort and space. For reference, its 6 inches wider than the aforementioned Babyletto Kiwi, meaning theres plenty of cuddle room for two. While the Tuba doesnt offer recline or power functions, the wide armrests provide adequate support for dual nursing (and are cushy enough to accommodate you, a toddler and a baby if need be). The textured fabric is stylish and stain-resistant, plus the chairs eco-conscious credentials are clear: In addition to various green and forest-friendly certifications, the performance upholstery is made with recycled plastic bottles.
What the reviews say: Reviewers love the extra-wide construction of this chair. One reports, The width is great for people who like to have pillows and blankets with them, and the material is super high quality. While some people [say] the backrest [isnt] high enough, Im 5 foot 5 and feel like its a good height for me to lay my head back. Another mom shares: Were having twins, and Im confident I will be able to rock at the same time comfortably with all the extra space.
Amazon
Materials: Polyester, plywood, rubber wood base | Type of movement: Swivel | Recliner: Yes | USB port: Yes | Certifications: Greenguard Gold-certified, CertiPUR-US certified, FSC-certified wood | Key features: Multi-position power recline, swivels 270 degrees
Pros:
Are you interested in learning more about Competitive Pricing Baby Rocker Manufacturer? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Cons:
The Nursery Works Sunday Power Recliner has a lot to offer, including a seat thats wide enough to fit a parent and baby plus an older sibling. Additional comforts include a power reclinewhich is especially ideal when the whole family is snuggling togethersoft sherpa-textured upholstery and a built-in USB charger for Mom or Dads convenience. Its chic aesthetic offers years of use, even if it graduates to the living room once the kiddos are grown, and the cherry on top is that its made with safe, nontoxic materials.
What our writers say: As someone who writes about baby gear for work, selecting the ideal recliner for my second boys nursery was admittedly challenging, shares Lex Goodman, Forbes Vetted contributor and coauthor of this story. Ultimately, I went with the recently released Nursery Works Sunday Power Recliner because the seat is wide enough to accommodate myself and my toddler son while Im holding the baby. I can personally verify that this chair is so comfortable, Ive set up camp in it in my third trimester and have taken several naps in it. Its also high quality enough to survive my toddlers incessant pressing of the recline button. The charger works well, and the fabric is easy to clean.
Pottery Barn Kids
Materials: Polyester-wrapped cushions, pine and engineered wood, steel springs | Type of movement: Glider, recliner, swivel | Recliner: Yes | USB port: Yes | Certifications: Greenguard Gold-certified | Key features: Power recline, 240-degree swivel, 3-recline positions, plenty of fabric choices
Pros:
Cons:
Nursery gliders are generally expensive, but the Pottery Barn Kids Paxton Swivel Glider Recliner is more of a splurge than others. Parents whove made it a part of their household, however, say its well worth it. Not only is it luxurious in appearance and comfort, but its also available in a manual or a power recliner, has 45 color and fabric options, and comes complete with a 240-degree swivel and three recline positions. Its also tall enough to accommodate taller parents and has no-sag steel springs in the seat, so its a forever chair. Parents also love the white-glove delivery but note that some of the fabrics have an extremely long lead time.
What the parents say: Two moms we chatted with spoke highly of the Paxton glider and say its worth the cost. Beyond comfortable. Certainly the best we sat in, says one. But another, who opted for the manual recline, admits that it became a little more difficult to recline after several years of use.
The Home Depot
Materials: Solid wood frame, foam filling, polyester cover | Type of movement: Glide | Recliner: No | USB port: No | Certifications: None| Key features: Ottoman included, 19 colorway options
Pros:
Cons:
This classic glider and ottoman set is a perfect all-in-one buy. The solid fabric upholstery covers the seats, arms, and back, and the button-tufted details add a bit of texture making this an inviting seat for you and baby. Full assembly is required, but reviewers note its pretty easy to put together. While it may not be the most stylish of our picks, many of the parents we talked to appreciated the classic comfort of this rocker, the affordable price tag and the durability of these kinds of seats. The need for a glider may only be a year or two, so for many families it makes more sense to invest in a practical seat that can then be passed on to someone else. This chair does not have a locking mechanism and is available in 19 different colors and wood combinations.
What the parents say: As a plus-size/pear-shaped woman, I found a lot of gliders tight. It reminded us looks-wise of a family heirloom rocking chair, but had smoother movement and was more comfortable, says mom Erica. Coauthor Maya Polton also had a rocker like this for her two oldest kidsshe appreciated that it could easily be passed on when she was done using it as opposed to making room for a gigantic chair in her already decorated and designed living room.
Pottery Barn Kids
Materials: Kiln-dried hardwood frame, down-blend cushions, polyester, foam | Type of movement: Glider, swivel | Recliner: No | USB port: No | Certifications: Greenguard Gold-certified | Key features: Down filling, 360-degree glide and swivel
Pros:
Cons:
For those looking for a stunning nursery glider that works alone or with a matching ottoman, the Pottery Barn Kids Dream Swivel Glider might be the answer. Not only is it beautifully designed, but its also unbelievably comfortable and comes in 48 color and fabric combinations. That means it suits any style of nursery ordown the lineliving area. It also swivels 360 degrees, glides silently and is made from sustainably sourced materials.
What parents and experts say: Edward Ahn, dad to a 1-year-old, tells us that the down-filled padding feels like a pillow. While it does come with the option to add an ottoman, Ahns wife, Annelise Bamberg, points out that it provides enough leg support that you dont really need one. We first spoke with the Ahn-Bamberg family about their glider when their daughter was 3 months old. Many months later, Bamberg assures us that she still loves it and uses it constantly. We like the Pottery Barn Dream Glider which offers many options in size, function and fabric. It is also Greenguard Certified, shared interior designers Teresa Boyd and Helena Finkelstein.
Amazon
Materials: Plastic | Type of movement: Rocking | Recliner: No | USB port: No | Certifications: None | Key features: Portable at five pounds, two rocking functions
Pros:
Cons:
If youve got a very finicky baby, a small space or just like the idea of a portable option, this five-pound Ready Rocker could be a great addition to your life. Unlike traditional nursery gliders, this turns any chair into a rocking chair. There are two positions, so it works equally well on deep or shallow seats. The travel-friendly support is useful beyond the baby yearsmany people find it provides back support and an added level of comfort to office seats or any household chair.
What reviewers say: We received this as a gift at our baby shower. Living in a small space and not wanting to buy another piece of furniture or a rocker we thought wed try this out. Its comfortable and versatile for nearly every sitting area in our home. It also folds down so we can travel with it, shares a reviewer.
The Forbes Vetted parenting editors who cover the kids and baby gear vertical have extensive experience testing, researching and reviewing parenting products, including baby and kids furniture. We also consulted a number of experts for guidance around what to consider when shopping for a nursery glider.
To find the best nursery gliders, we spoke with more than two dozen parents, scoured reviews and enlisted sleep and design experts to round up the best nursery gliders to make feedings and bedtimes more manageable. Our final list are the ones that came most recommended, had the highest value, garnered the best reviews and fit unique family use cases.
What To Look For In A Nursery Glider
Julieta Hernandez, a NICU nurse at Northwell Healths Cohen Children Medical Center, says that babies rely on their caretakers to help regulate their stress levels by creating a serene nursery environment. A comfortable nursery glider helps with this, particularly because it promotes skin-to-skin contact. And according to LoRe, a consistent bedtime routine often becomes a valuable tool for parents, as it can help set the course for healthy sleep habits for the whole family. Below are some of the most important features to consider when looking for the right nursery glider for you and your little one:
Comfort is key when it comes to choosing a nursery glider or chair. Youll spend a lot of time in that chair, especially in the early months, while breastfeeding and during sleep regressions or cluster feeding. Parents should look for comfort and function in a nursery glider. Designers Teresa Boyd and Helena Finkelstein recommend that parents consider whether they prefer an all-in-one glider that offers an option to recline or if they would like to pair their glider with an ottoman.
A great chair offers comfort even as your child becomes older and story time becomes an even more important aspect of the bedtime routine. Hernandez most values a nursing chair that reclines and offers good leg support so that moms have the flexibility to choose the most comfortable nursing position possible. If a recliner isnt built into your nursery glider, you may want to seek out an ottoman to use with it.
While it depends on your available space and your familys needs, its optimal if a nursery glider is versatile in its movement options (who knows which sensation your baby will best respond to?). If it reclines, glides, rocks and/or swivels, then youve checked all the boxes. The interior designers we spoke with gave us this advice to increase the versatility and longevity of your nursery glider: We recommend avoiding anything too baby or gender specific. Colors or prints that wont last through the years or with another child limit the life of your glider.
You should note the functions your family requires in a nursery glider. Do you need a USB charging port? Do you need performance fabric or a slipcover to make cleanup easier? Be sure to ask yourself these important questions when investing in a gliderin addition to whether the chair suits your nurserys style.
Boyd and Finkelstein advise, Parents should look for performance fabrics so that these heavily used chairs can be durable and easy to clean. If youre breastfeeding, a footrest and padded armrests become important as well, helping you get into the right position over and over again.
Most parents we spoke with say that a glider is an integral part of a fully functional nursery, providing a comfortable and safe place to feed an infant, lull a child to sleep or read a story. Gliding, rocking and swaying all provide a similar sensation to what babies experienced in the womb, which is why these motions are used universally by people to soothe and settle babies, says Jada Shapiro, childbirth educator, lactation counselor and founder of Boober. Gliders can also be used beyond infancy, making them a lasting addition to a childs room for story times, for example.
Baby gliders are like a modern version of rocking chairs, but they glide more smoothly and seamlessly than rockers. Thanks to their stable baseas opposed to the curved legs of a rocking chairthey are generally considered safe if used properly. Boobers Shapiro warns, however: As babies begin to crawl, be mindful of any moving parts in the base that could pinch fingers. Some gliders have a locking feature to prevent such accidents.
Nursery gliders come in a wide range of prices, with options from a couple hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. They are an investment, so its important to consider your long-term plan with your glider. Maybe you intend to have multiple children or plan to move the chair into a shared space in your home once the nursery days are over. There is a strong resale market for gliders, with sites like GoodBuyGear, as an option to buy or sell gliders.
Wirecutter is the product recommendation service from The New York Times. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing so you can make quick and confident buying decisions. Whether its finding great products or discovering helpful advice, well help you get it right (the first time).
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Multifunction Baby Rocker.