Many underestimate the nursery gliders, thinking that a regular chair can do the job just as well. They even end up buying a cheap and uncomfortable chair that causes them backaches. A glider is a great investment, as it will make your life easier and more comfortable, especially during those late-night feedings.
When shoppin for the best nursery glider, make sure you consider the weight capacity to determine its ability to accommodate both you and your child. Considering the time usually spent in the glider, we assessed the height and adjustability of its back to ensure parents can comfortably rest their head on it without straining their neck. Feeding will be a standard activity on the nursery glider, and it is bound to be messy, so we looked at the type of cover material that is durable and easy to clean. We looked at 43 different models and came up with the 7 best ones, where the Davinci Owen Glider and Ottoman just tops them all.
More features: side storage pocket; upholstered ottoman with removable bin top for extra hidden storage
This is one of the best nursery glider and ottoman models. The glider swivel chair comes with a matching upholstered ottoman whose bin top can be removed to access the spacious hidden storage for toys or toiletries. Additional room for nursing tools and other baby essentials is provided by the pocket conveniently located on the side of the seat.
The cover is made of heathered polyester fabric with piped edges and four button tufts for cushioned back support. This material is easy to spot-clean, free of chemical retardants, and conforms to CA TB117-2013 flammability requirements.
An adjustable lumbar pillow is provided for additional lower back support. The high back of 27 inches is convenient for tall and long-legged parents, but shorter parents might actually find their feet dangling in the air. The back sits a bit upright, and you cannot recline it, which may be inconvenient if you enjoy laying back further.
The metallic base gently glides smoothly forwards and backward, and the swivel can rotate at 360 degrees to give you the full range of movement for easy access and guaranteed comfort at all times.
When you first receive it, you may notice a chemical smell which dissipates after airing the chair for a couple of days.
More features: button tufting on the backrest; built-in pull mechanism
Exhausted parents will appreciate this model as the best chair for a nursery glider because it stands out in design and functionality and provides great value for money. It features a sleek modern style and combines a glider, swivel and recliner in one unit to provide you and your baby with maximum rest and comfort.
The seat is spacious, and the high back can easily accommodate tall parents for cuddling, feeding and bedtime stories with their baby. It is 89 pounds itself and can hold up to 225 pounds of weight.
The backrest features button tufts for a clean finish while the seat is filled with supportive spring core foam for a bouncy, soft and comfortable feeling. Springs are also better at absorbing shock. The cover is made of gray linen fabric. Other available fabrics are gray and mocha microfiber.
You can quickly change the position of the seat with the swivel which spins at 360 degrees, or recline the back like a zero gravity chair for extra comfort by simply pressing the button which also has an integrated pull-in feature. The metal base consists of enclosed ball bearings which provide smooth and quiet movement that will not wake the sleeping baby up. A few customers have complained of the ball bearings wearing out with usage and creaking which they fixed by lubricating them.
This multifunctional Swivel Gliding Recliner is a great investment that can be used in other rooms once the baby outgrows the nursery. It does not come with an ottoman because it has a comfortably padded leg rest. Assembly is required, but you can do it without needing a professional.
More features: formaldehyde free; lumbar pillow included
This is one of the best nursery gliders because of its spacious seat which allows positional adjustment and its versatility as a model which can smoothly glide back and forth to rock the baby to sleep and ensure they stay asleep, or rotate the swivel at 360 degrees for easy movement. A matching ottoman and lumbar pillow are included for a comfortable elevated footrest and lower back support respectively.
The swivel glider is made of a metal base and heathered polyester fabric which is durable, easy to clean, and free from formaldehyde and flame retardants.
The seat is tall enough to fit adults that are up to six feet tall comfortably, and the back is high enough to provide them with adequate head and neck support. It can hold up to 300 pounds of weight.
This model which comes fully assembled is rated favorably by a majority of buyers, with only a number of them complaining of the stiffness of the seat and the stationary ottoman which they would prefer gliding along with the seat. A stationary ottoman can be a good thing, though, because it can be an additional storage for baby books, beddings, toys, and feeding equipment.
More features: wooden frame; polyurethane foam filling
If you are looking for the best nursery glider and ottoman set which is compact in size, light in weight, glides smoothly, and gives you a variety of color options for cushions and the finish, then this should be your choice.
It is made of a sturdy and durable solid wooden frame and the seat is filled with hypoallergenic polyurethane foam covered in 100% polyester fabric which is easy to clean.
Despite its small size which makes it one of the best gliders for a small nursery, it can accommodate up to 250 pounds. It has cushions that are well padded for additional comfort and back support.
The padded armrests provide ample support for mothers when breastfeeding. They also have spacious side pockets which serve as storage for all your babysitting necessities.
The closed ball bearings at the base provide a smooth back and forth gliding motion which can calm down a restless baby.
All the cushions are removable for easy cleaning of spills and leaks and the back is relatively high so you can lean back and lay your head comfortably.
The glider comes with the necessary tools required to assemble it and the process is simple. The only downsides are the lack of a locking mechanism to keep the glider in place when not in use and the squeaking sound made after using it for a while. This can be solved by lubricating it with oil.
More features: removable chair cushions for easy spot cleaning; white finish wood frame
This glider is not only a steal, but also among the best-rated glider rockers for a nursery. It features a comfortable wide seat that allows you to shift positions when breastfeeding as well as an ottoman where you can rest your feet.
It is available in neutral colors of grey and white which will blend in with most of the nursery décor.
The glider is made of 100% polyester and a wooden frame with a white finish and the cushions are removable and easy to clean. They can also be replaced in the future. The high back of 26 inches is convenient for tall parents.
Assembly is easy with clear instructions on how to screw it on. The metal bearings provide a smooth gliding motion that will soothe your baby to sleep.
The arms of the seat and the tall back are padded for extra comfort, with the arms having strategically-placed side pockets for storing feeding bottles, books, and other baby essentials.
The padding is a bit thin, and some customers have reported springs starting to come loose after a few months of usage. You can easily adjust them back, but it is inconvenient. There is also a slight chemical smell which requires airing the glider for it to dissipate. However, it is an affordable option that comes with the essential features you need in a nursery glider.
More features: hardwood eucalyptus frame and metal base; 360-degree swivel
This upholstered swivel glider is made of durable material consisting of a sturdy frame made of hardwood eucalyptus and a base made of metal to enhance longevity. The fabric is made of 100% polyester with a textured finish which makes cleaning any feeding mess a breeze. The back and forth gliding movement is gentle and smooth to cradle your baby to a deep slumber, and the swivel function rotates at 360 degrees to allow you to move effortlessly in any direction.
The back is 18 inches tall for sufficient head and neck support, with a pillow permanently integrated on the unit to provide lumbar support for your back. New mothers will find it useful in aligning the shoulders, hips, and pelvis for improved posture. The padded armrests offer comfortable support when you are breastfeeding.
The earth tone color can seamlessly blend with the rest of your décor which makes it easy to incorporate the chair with the rest of the furniture once the baby outgrows the nursery. Usage in multiple settings is also made possible by its compact size which takes up little space.
It comes in two pieces which can be easily assembled. Unfortunately, it does not include an ottoman. The back may be too short for tall parents. It also may feel uncomfortable because it does not recline.
More features: extra wide seat; removable lumbar pillow included
This model features a tall but angled back of 20 inches. You may have to use the removable lumbar pillow for extra support. It is also one of the high-end options which do not come with an ottoman, but also one of the most stylish gliders with the smoothest movement which justifies its price tag.
The glider features an excellent polyester-polyfiber weave cover and a swivel base made of durable stainless steel which can effortlessly spin in 360 degrees without losing its balance. It is also soft and well-padded for a plush and comfortable sitting surface, and you can easily get out of it without interrupting the baby’s sleep. Babyletto have a whole range of quality chairs (including chairs for sewing rooms), and this is no exception.
Parents with twins will love its generous extra wide seat which provides ample space for relaxing with your babies for extended hours. Some buyers even noted that it could accommodate two adults at the same time.
The chair feels heavy but it comes fully assembled, and you only need to push the back that is folded down into an upright position.
The handmade glider complies with all CA TB117-2013 flammability requirements and is free from Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), formaldehyde and chemical flame retardants.
A baby nursery glider is a versatile piece of furniture that can be used for a wide array of purposes by pregnant and nursing mothers with their babies. Having a list of important features that you can refer to when shopping will arm you with the information you need to select the right model for you and your baby’s needs. We hope you find the FAQ segment just as helpful as the detailed review of features in this guide.
Pregnancy comes with various forms of discomfort which make it difficult to find a comfortable position for sleeping or resting. The increased hormones and metabolism rate can cause fatigue, backache, swollen and sore joints, and sleep disruption.
A recliner provides improved posture and back alignment by giving you various options to adjust and reposition yourself with a button or lever to a comfortable and relaxing position. You can add pillows for optimal comfort, and the extended footrest offers raised support to prevent swollen legs. The gentle gliding and swivel movement is soothing and capable of relieving soreness and promoting blood circulation.
Furthermore, once your baby arrives, you can both use the recliner in the nursery for feeding, cuddling, bedtime stories and cradling the baby to sleep.
Later, you can add it to the existing furniture in the living room after your baby has outgrown the nursery.
Although your final choice of the best nursery glider will ultimately be influenced by your unique needs, we believe the following vital features will simplify the process of making your decision.
While some models only have one configuration, others, such as Baby Relax Mikayla Swivel Gliding Recliner, come as a versatile combination of a swivel, glider, and recliner in one unit. Angel Line Windsor Glider and Ottoman can be used as a glider or a rocker while Storkcraft Davenport Upholstered Swivel Glider has swivel and gliding functionality. Your choice will depend on your needs and personal preference.
A nursery glider is similar to a rocking chair but it moves back and forth like a porch swing instead of the arc movement of nursery rockers. Gliders feature a stable stationary base with a sliding mechanism which requires little effort to glide smoothly.
Some gliders have a metal swivel base with enclosed ball bearings which are capable of spinning at 360 degrees to allow movement in any direction. This is convenient when you want to access or retrieve something without waking up the sleeping baby.
The best rocker gliders for a nursery include padding and upholstery which increases softness and comfort. They may also come with a matching ottoman for elevated leg support, or additional storage.
Having recliner functionality improves comfort because you can lie on the adjustable back as you gently glide and the extended leg rest provides not only support, but also extra room to accommodate tall people.
Look for a nursery glider that can be transitioned into an additional piece of furniture in the living room once your baby outgrows the nursery.
While it is common for nursery gliders to come with a matching ottoman, it is not a guarantee, as we have seen with Storkcraft Davenport Upholstered Swivel Glider and Babyletto Tuba Extra Wide Swivel Glider which do not include ottomans in their set. Recliners, more often than not, feature an extended leg rest attached to the seat instead of an ottoman.
An ottoman is a modified footstool which can either be stationary or designated to move along with the glider. It provides raised support for your legs to relieve soreness and take pressure off your back. It also acts as storage for baby books, feeding equipment, and toiletries. You can either place the baby essentials on the ottoman or in it if it’s designed as a hinged seat with a lid on. Davinci Owen Glider has an ottoman with spacious hidden storage covered with a lid.
A high back offers enough room to comfortably lay your head and provides adequate lumbar and neck support to prevent soreness. It is handy when you and your baby both want to sleep. Some models have a pillow permanently integrated on the back while others are removable for various placements to increase comfort.
Nursery gliders include several features such as wide seats, armrests, tall backs, a wide base, and an ottoman, which give them a large footprint and heavy weight. A few are foldable for convenient storage and portability from one room to another.
Knowing the overall dimensions of your intended glider will enable you to compare it with the space available in your nursery for its storage and movement to get the right fit. This is important because a nursery usually contains several other items. For instance, an upholstered reclining glider will generally occupy more space than a regular glider while a glider with a built-in footrest takes less space than a glider with a separate ottoman.
Babysitting is a messy affair riddled with spits, leaks, spills, and stains. This is why it is important to choose a nursery glider with a cover that is stain-resistant, easy to spot clean and preferably removable for washing or future replacement.
Polyester is a common material in covers because it is washable while microfiber covers can be wiped clean. Some of the pricier options feature leather covers.
The upholstery should also be made of durable material to ensure longevity since not all covers can be removed and replaced.
Material that comes in a range of colors and can be replaced in future offers a variety of options to match them with the design scheme of the rest of the furniture and surroundings. Patterns are also a good choice for covers when you want to camouflage stains.
Filling: The type of padding used for the seat and cushions has an impact on the level of firmness and comfort. This is important because you will be spending several hours babysitting on the nursery glider. Foam is popular as a filling because it is soft and durable. Naomi Home Brisbane Glider & Ottoman Set uses hypoallergenic polyurethane foam while Baby Relax Mikayla Swivel Gliding Recliner uses core foam with supportive springs for a bouncy effect.
Frames: The frame shapes the nursery glider, so it needs to be made of sturdy and durable material which can accommodate you and the baby without collapsing. Wood is the most common material used for frames. A finish is added for a smooth look that is also easy to clean.
Extra storage pockets: Most of the nursery gliders feature pockets on the side of the seat where you can conveniently store baby books, feeding bottles, diapers, or even your phone. This makes it easy to access them without getting out of the seat.
Quiet, smooth movement: Having a nursery glider that jerks or squeaks as it glides or swivels beats its purpose of lulling and soothing the baby to sleep. Some models have been reported to start squeaking after a period of usage. Luckily, this can be easily fixed by lubricating the movable parts with oil.
Wide seat and armrest: A wide seat avoids crumping and allows you to move out of the chair without waking your baby up. It provides enough room to add a nursing pillow or shift to multiple positions when sleeping or breastfeeding and accommodates the baby’s growth for an extended period. Since men are generally bigger, a wide seat can fit your partner, too. Babyletto Tuba Extra Wide Swivel Glider has an extra wide seat that would be ideal for twins and siblings. Padded armrests support your arm and elbows when nursing or cradling your baby above your waist.
Enclosed Ball Bearings: They make a significant difference between seamless and jerky gliding motion and prolong the glider’s life.
Ease of assembly: While some gliders come fully assembled or require only minimal effort to set up, others require advanced tools and the services of a professional. Confirm this with the manufacturer and read reviews online from verified buyers and reliable review sites to know what to anticipate.
Safety features: This includes fabric that is free from harsh chemicals, a locking mechanism which locks the nursery glider in position when not in use, or into the selected reclining position, or when you want to get out of the seat with the baby in your arms. Confirm that there are no exposed movable parts, sharp edges or gaps where the baby can be trapped. You can also check out the US Consumer Product Safety Commission website Trusted Source CPSC.gov Consumer Product Safety Commission. www.cpsc.gov to ensure your intended model is not among the products that have been recalled.
Warranty: Since nursery gliders consist of movable parts that may experience a lot of wear over time, you will need a warranty that will adequately cover you for a lengthy period in case of any defects.
While ottomans are common, ottomans with hidden spacious storage are not. This is what makes Davinci Owen Glider and Ottoman the best nursery glider and ottoman model as well as our Editor’s Choice. In addition to ottoman storage, it also offers side pockets, smooth swivel and gliding motion, extra lumbar support, a high back, and a cover that is easy to clean.
Baby Relax Mikayla Swivel Gliding Recliner ranked among the top for its versatility as a swivel, glider and recliner, and it has the features to back up those functions with a tall back, spacious seat, built-in pull mechanism, enclosed ball bearings, and padded leg support.
The DaVinci Olive Upholstered Swivel Glider is an interesting option because of its stylish look and an ottoman and a lumbar pillow included. It also comes fully assembled, so you won’t have to waste any of your time and may start enjoying this product right away.
