Preparing your baby’s nursery can be an exciting time! Between arranging those adorable, tiny little baby clothes to picking out the perfect crib you have a lot of decisions to make.
Nursery Rocking Chair 101
If your baby’s nursery is small or the existing room is tight, you may be wondering how to maximize your space.
The big furniture pieces can take up a lot of room, the crib, dressers, etc. You may be wondering, “Do I need a rocking chair for the nursery?”
If you have the space for a rocking chair, then the answer is yes. During the early months, you can use this chair for so many things. Nursery rocking chairs are useful for feeding or breastfeeding or calming a fussy baby.
Rocking chairs or recliners can also be helpful for comfort during c-section recovery. Some moms may find this chair more comfortable than other chairs.
As your baby gets older, a rocking chair can also be a place to read stories or get ready for a calming night time routine.
Rocker vs. Glider
With all the nursery rocking chair styles available, you might have seen the words rocker and glider around quite a bit. What’s the difference?
While both chairs serve the same purpose, the difference comes down to the way the chair moves.
Gliders move back and forth in a smooth motion on a stable base or track. Some gliders can swivel, allowing you to move left or right.
Rocking chairs move back and forth on two arced legs. The construction is simpler because it has no track. The movement may be a little choppier compared to a glider.
How much room do you need for a nursery rocking chair or glider?
Ideally, if you can place the chair 36 inches or 3 feet from the wall, that will give you plenty of room to go back and forth without fear of hitting the wall.
If your chair is next to another piece of furniture, say a crib or dresser, allowing for 24 inches of arm room should be enough so that you’re not elbowing the other furniture in the room.
Many gliders also come with an ottoman, so that into account when considering your small nursery space.
Shopping Tips for Nursery Chairs
If you have decided to get a rocking chair for your small nursery, here are a couple of things to pay attention to when making your purchase.
Seat Height-Make sure that your feet can comfortably touch the floor. The chair back should be high enough to support your head.
Cushioning and Comfort– You will spend a lot of time in this chair so you don’t want to sit on a seat cushion that’s uncomfortable. Too thin of a cushion will not be a pleasant sitting experience, while a cushion that’s too soft or sinks in will have you struggling to get up.
Durable Fabric– The upholstery should be easy to clean or wipe off because the chair can come into contact with anything from spills, spit up to drool. Some chairs have removable covers that you can just toss into the washing machine.
Safety– Some gliders come with a locking mechanism so that the chair doesn’t move when you don’t want it to. This can also be a very useful feature for later when your baby gets on the move.
Best Space Saving Gliders and Rocking Chairs
1. Blair Slim Nursery Glider Swivel Rocker Chair by Delta
This chair does not sacrifice comfort for space. The slim design allows it to work in many small nursery floor plans.
What’s to Love:
The chair swivels and glides, allowing for smooth rocking motion.
Thick, padded armrests for comfort.
Removable seat cushion for easier cleaning.
Available in 3 neutral colors: taupe, charcoal, or cream.
Fits a variety of bodies so the chair can be comfortable for multiple adults caring for baby.
Keep in Mind:
Some parents complained that the chair began making squeaking or creaking noises after a few months. If your baby is a light sleeper, these noises could wake them.
2. Premium Hoop Glider and Ottoman by Storkcraft
This glider with ottoman included comes in 18 colors to mix and match that will compliment your small nursery space. This nursery chair is definitely a favorite with 4 stars with over 4,400 reviews and counting.
Whats to love:
The padded arm cushions are comfortable and convenient with a storage pocket for items you need to keep at arms length.
Enclosed metal hardware for safety.
Easy to clean polyester upholstery.
Comes in many colors and patterns so you can compliment or existing nursery theme or decor.
Very budget friendly
Keep in mind:
Some parents complained about the seat cushion being too thin.
If you order this glider, check your box for all the pieces before assembling. Some reported that they were missing button covers.
3. Upholstered Swivel Glider with Bonus Ottoman by DaVinci
This slim glider has a modern design that has many comfortable elements, yet still fits into tight doorways and small nursery spaces.
Whats to Love:
The high headrest is great for support during those late night feeding sessions.
Upholstered in 100% polyester for easy cleaning.
Glides front to back and can swivel from left to right.
Includes upholstered ottoman and lumbar support pillow.
Comes assembled.
Keep in mind:
The ottoman does not rock or glide
Parents complained that chair made a squeaking or grinding noise after a few months.
4. Home Pull Recliner with Rotating 360 Swivel Glider by Ravenna
Though not originally marketed as a nursery glider, this slim chair will make all the difference in your nursery. It could also potentially be moved to other areas of the house once you’re done with it in the nursery or simply want to repurpose.
Whats to Love:
Microfiber fabric for easy cleanings.
Simple assembly.
Rocks, reclines and swivels all the way around 360 degrees.
Keep in Mind:
Some people reported that the leg rest was hard to get down and loud, which could potentially awaken a sleeping or resting baby.
5. Aspen Power Recline Nursery Glider Rocker by Westwood
This recliner is a mixture of good form and function. It takes the standard nursery glider up a notch with the power options available.
What’s to Love:
Can be reclined with a power reclining mechanism.
Can stop the recliner and get into your favorite position at the press of a button.
Includes usb outlet for charging phones and tablets.
The chair comes in two pieces for easy assembly.
Keep in Mind:
Check your box upon arrival for all pieces. You don’t want to be missing something as crucial as a power cord for this chair.
6. Rylee Reclining Glider by Baby Relax
This reclining glider would look just as great in your small nursery as it would in a living room because of its modern design and wingback design.
Whats to Love:
Discreet recline mechanism that’s located between the arm rest and seat. No sharp or exposed hardware.
Gray linen look fabric option is dark and can hide stains, can be easily vacuumed.
Tall back provides head and neck support and comfortable for range of heights.
Keep in Mind:
The discreet recline mechanism may require extra pressure or force to recline for some.
Reclining position is either all the way up or all the way down, there does not appear to be different levels or positions of recline.
7. Odelia Swivel Rocker Recliner by Naomi Home
This microfiber glider comes in a square silhouette design with button tufting and it swivels 360 degrees.
Whats to Love:
Spring core foam filled seat.
Microfiber seat is easy to clean, yet feels plush and comfortable.
Rocks on an enclosed ball bearing mechanism and swivels 360 degrees.
Easy assembly due to the chair arriving in two pieces.
Keep in Mind:
The bright white appears to be a cream color to some.
People seemed to have issues with the arm rest breaking, after putting weight on it. (I.e. using the arm rest to push up and off of the chair)
8. Swivel Rocker Recliner Chair by CANMOV
This manual recliner and glider is sold by CANMOV who provides a one year warranty guarantee for damaged or missing parts.
Whats to Love:
Modern design with tufting, trim and easy to clean polyester blend upholstery.
Recliner back can be adjusted from 90 to 150 degrees.
Easy to assemble.
Seller is very responsive and helpful.
Keep in Mind:
Some found the leg rest hard to close or get back into an upright sitting position.
There you have it, the top 8 rocking chairs and gliders for small nurseries! I hope you’re able to find the perfect one to compliment your baby’s room.
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