Babies find rhythmic rocking motions comforting and soothing. While you can certainly provide all the swinging and swaying, there will come a time when you’ll need to free your arms for non-baby care activities. Enter: the baby swings.
Like bouncers, jumper and activity centers, swings for babies are incredibly helpful in calming infants. Features like white noise and music, adjustable speeds and vibration do wonders when you have a particularly fussy baby, with some of the best baby swings offering even Bluetooth connectivity and the ability to automatically detect a baby’s crying.
To help you find the best baby swing, we’ve collaborated with paediatric experts and experienced parents to evaluate some of the top baby swings on the market. We do side-by-side comparisons and focus on durability, safety, comfort, and user-friendly features. Trust that you’ll find the safest baby swing here, one that aligns with your needs and will significantly ease the challenges of early parenthood for you.
What is the best baby swing? That is, one that will suit most families? The Graco Simple Sway Swing fits the bill with its perfect blend of functionality, ease of use, and affordability. Everyone’s favourite Mamaroo swing is the best for newborn with its unique multidirectional motions while Graco makes some of the best baby bouncer swing and baby swing rocker combinations with their DuetConnect and DuetSoothe models respectively. For those tight on spaces or are frequently on the go, Munchkin and Ingenuity are excellent portable options while tech-savvy parents would absolutely love the Maxi-Cosi Cassia and Graco SmartSense for features like automatic motion detection, Bluetooth connectivity, 360-rotating seat and the likes.
Our Top 10 Best Baby Swing Picks – A Quick Summary
What’s the Difference Between A Swing and A Bouncer?
The primary difference between a baby swing and a baby bouncer lies in their movement and size:
| Baby Swing | Baby Bouncer | |
|---|---|---|
| Movement | Back and forth / side to side. Usually powered by batteries or an electric motor by plugging into an outlet. | Up and down. Typically does not have a motor and moves with baby’s own movements or when a parent gently taps it. |
| Portability | Tend to be larger and less portable, often require a dedicated space in the home. | Usually more compact and lightweight, easy to move around the house / take on trips. |
| Extra Features | Usually fitted with more features like soothing sounds and adjustable speeds. | Some includes battery-operated vibrations and a removable toy bar. |
Each has its own set of benefits depending on what you need — whether it’s soothing and calming or interactive play and physical development, heck, you may want both in the end!
In this article:
Best Baby Swing Reviews
OVERALL BEST BABY SWING
Dimensions: 30 x 31 x 38 inches
Product weight: 19 pounds
Baby swing weight limit: 5.5 – 30 pounds
Batteries/Plugs: both
Modes: 6 swing speeds; vibrations
Sounds: 15 songs and nature sounds
- Reasonable price point
- Deep, plush seat with removable head support
- Customizable settings
- Compact baby swing with small footprint
- Plug and battery feasible
- Larger weight limit
- Non-portable design
- Side-to-side swinging only
- Stationary mobile
Why We Love It
To fit our criteria as an overall best baby swing that will suit most families, it has to be one that is effective, easy to use, and not overly priced. And we find that in the Graco Simple Sway Swing – a basic yet reliable motorized baby swing that offers excellent value for money without breaking the bank.
There are no extra or gimmicky features here – only what’s essential and necessary to calm a baby. 6 swing speeds (that sway in a side-to-side motion) for parents to find the right pace that works, 2 vibration speed settings, and 15 different sounds and music – that’s all you get and most likely, all you ever need. If you’re one who prefer a no-fuss, easy-to-operate baby product, this swing’s user-friendly and straightforward design will certainly appeal to you.
For us, we particularly like how it is not just a battery operated baby swing but comes with an AC adapter as well – it gives flexibility in how and where you can use the swing. The deep, plush seat with removable head support earns extra brownie points from us too as it gives peace of mind that even the smallest infants are snug and secure in it.
Things To Take Note Of
While it does have a rather compact frame which makes it ideal for smaller spaces, the swing does not fold up so this could be a downside if you need a portable option (or have limited storage space).
Also, the swing sways side-to-side only which … isn’t a big problem for most babies, but could be an issue if your little one requires something more. Go for this multi motion baby swing model if that’s the case – it’s from Graco as well and goes front-to-back besides side-to-side, and allows baby to face right, front or left while swinging.
Lastly, and this is a small issue but the included mobile is stationary so if your little one prefers moving objects, this is not going to do it for them.
BEST BABY SWING FOR SMALL SPACES
Dimensions: 23.6 x 23.6 x 15 inches
Product weight: 8.6 pounds
Baby swing weight limit: 5 – 20 pounds
Batteries/Plugs: plug
Modes: 5 swing speeds
Sounds: 4 classical music songs and 8 ambient sounds; unlimited via phone Bluetooth
- Super lightweight
- Compact baby swing folds flat
- Remote control included
- One-step assembly
- Bluetooth compatible
- Digital touch display
- Timer equipped
- Lower weight limit
- Toy bar not included
- Pricier than other baby swings
Why We Love It
Quite the opposite of Graco’s Simple Sway is the Munchkin Bluetooth Enabled Lightweight Baby Swing, which sports a sleek and smart outlook and weighs less than 9 pounds.
This small baby swing stands out with a compact design that breaks down conveniently into two parts so you can store it flat or take it along on the go. For this reason, it is regarded the best compact baby swing for families who live in small spaces. What stood out to us though is how easy it is to assemble – this is one of the few swings that we can actually unbox and have it up and running in less than 10 minutes.
It comes with four classical songs and 8 nature sounds but you can also pair it with your device via Bluetooth to customize your song selections. Tech-savvy parents will enjoy the digital controls for swing speed, sound, and timer – they’re all accessible via a user-friendly touch display. Or, you can use the remote control which makes things even more convenient (it comes with batteries which we’re pleasantly surprised).
Things To Take Note Of
Given the high-tech features, we are not surprised at the higher price tag but it is a little unexpected to find that it doesn’t come with a toy bar. Due to the higher investment, parents also say they wish to get longer use out of it but the Munchkin has a lower maximum weight compared to other baby swings on this list.
This is one of those plug in infant swings only so there is no battery option, and it moves side-to-side only.
BEST BABY SWING FOR NEWBORN
Dimensions: 26.25 x 23.5 x 35.5 inches
Product weight: 15 pounds
Mamaroo weight limit: 25 pounds
Batteries/Plugs: plug
Modes: 5 swing speeds; 5 motions
Sounds: 4 pre-set songs; unlimited via phone Bluetooth
- Unique multidirectional motions
- Highly customizable
- Bluetooth functionality – app control
- Wi-Fi smart home integration
- Adjustable recline
- Tool-less assembly
- 3 to 5-point convertible harness
- Removable toy bar included
- Expensive
- No battery options
Why We Love It
What “best infant swing review” is complete without a Mamaroo swing? Easily one of the top rated baby swings of all time, the 4moms MamaRoo Multi-Motion Baby Swing stood out as the best newborn swing thanks to a unique motion technology that mimics the natural movements of a human in a more realistical way than traditional baby swings.
Instead of swaying back and forth or side to side, the mamaroo adopts settings such as car ride, kangaroo, waves and the likes to soothe baby – motions that newborns are used to in the womb. What’s even better is that it can mimic the way you rock baby in the exact same way – just rock your phone in said motion and the 4moms app will copy and suggest which motion settings to use.
The same app allows you to adjust the intensity and speed of these motions as well as sound settings and recline positions, with intuitive controls that are easy to operate. In other words, the app is your remote control, operational directly from your smartphone. Once the ideal motion setting is found, it can be saved directly within the app so you can easily access them for future use.
What the 4moms amazes us most though is that the app can learn from baby’s responses to different motions and suggest new combinations/adjustments that might be more soothing based on previous successes. This level of intelligent customization helps parents better understand baby’s preferences and refine the motion settings accordingly, especially for newborns who may be particularly sensitive to movement and positioning.
Things To Take Note Of
The 4 moms baby swing is (understandably) on the higher end of the price spectrum, so it may not be suitable for all budgets. It needs to be plugged in to operate so it must be placed near an outlet, limiting its placement in some homes and therefore its portability.
On that note, this newborn baby swing does not fold down so although it has a relatively small footprint, it could be a consideration for those with limited space.
VERDICT: New parents anxious about soothing their newborn will appreciate the intuitive design and multiple settings that the 4moms mamaroo offers, providing peace of mind with its reliable and effective operation.
Those who enjoy using the latest technology and appreciate the convenience of controlling baby gear through smart devices will find the Bluetooth connectivity and app control of this newborn swing particularly appealing. Likewise for parents looking for durable and long-lasting gear that they can use for multiple children over the years.
BEST BABY SWING BOUNCER COMBO
Dimensions: 32 x 17 x 14 inches
Product weight: 21.8 pounds
Baby swing weight limit: 30 pounds
Batteries/Plugs: both
Modes: 6 swing speeds; 2 vibrations
Sounds: 10 songs and 5 nature sounds
- 2 in 1 swing bouncer
- Detachable seat for portability
- Multiple soothing options
- Ease of use
- Bulky size
- Side-to-side swing only
Why We Love It
Many parents actually cannot decide between a baby swing and a baby bouncer. Both seem rather indispensable during the challenging days of early parenthood, which is why the Graco DuetConnect LX Swing & Bouncer is such a popular choice – this versatile unit is a baby bouncer swing all in one, single purchase!
Standalone, there are six adjustable swing speeds for parents to find the perfect soothing motion for baby. When need be, turn on the additional vibration settings, music and sound to add another layer of calm for fussy infants. Detach the seat and you have the best infant bouncer on hand to move between rooms or take along when visiting friends and family – it is that convenient.
Parents love the multi-direction seat in particular as it allows baby to face right, front or left but for us, it is the dual power options. Having a plug-in mode helps save a ton on batteries while the battery option enhances the portability of the bouncer component, allowing parents to use it in areas without convenient access to an outlet (i.e. garden or while traveling).
Things To Take Note Of
This bouncer baby swing is on the bulkier side so it may not suit families with limited space. Also, it sways side-to-side only so if you prefer to have more swinging options, you may want to consider the DuetSoothe model below instead.
VERDICT: This is the best baby swing and bouncer for families looking for versatile, multifunctional baby gear (that can serve dual purposes) so that their home won’t be cluttered with multiple pieces of baby equipment.
BEST BABY ROCKER SWING
Dimensions: 33 x 34 x 43 inches
Product weight: 21 pounds
Baby swing weight limit: 5.5 to 30 pounds (swing) or 5.5 to 18 pounds (rocker)
Batteries/Plugs: both
Modes: 6 swing speeds; 2 vibrations
Sounds: 10 songs and 5 nature sounds
- 2-in-1 rocker functionality
- 3 swinging directions
- Sturdy construction
- Overhead mobile included
- Large footprint
- Limited portability
- Weight
Why We Love It
Graco doesn’t just make the best baby bouncers – their rockers are some of the most exceptional ones on the market as well and the DuetSoothe is particularly loved for being both a baby swing and rocker in one.
When in swing mode, you can choose either a front-to-back or side-to-side motion and this is where it excels the DuetConnect above – there are more soothing options to accommodate baby’s preference/need. Similarly, you can take the seat off to use as a rocker seat moving around the house, the vibration feature still functionable independently of the swing.
Features like music and sounds and variety of swing speeds that parents love didn’t go missing in this best baby rocker, likewise with the dual power option that we love. The roomy seat comes with a plush body support so it can be a baby swing for infants, and there is an overhead mobile added to keep baby entertained.
Things To Take Note Of
This baby rocking swing is relatively large so it could be a challenge for those with limited space. It also lacks portability since it doesn’t fold down for easy transport or storage, which might be a drawback for families who need a more compact or travel-friendly option.
Additionally, while the swing seat can be used as a portable rocker, some parents find it heavy to move around, despite its flexibility.
VERDICT: The DuetSoothe baby swing rocker is a good fit for homes where space is not a constraint, allowing it to be set up and used without needing to be moved frequently. Families with varying baby soothing needs will find the swinging options particularly helpful, as well as parents looking for multi-functional baby gear that reduce the need for multiple items.
BEST BABY GLIDER SWING
Dimensions: 25 x 28 x 26.5 inches
Product weight: 22.8 pounds
Baby swing weight limit: 30 pounds
Batteries/Plugs: both
Modes: 6 swing speeds; 2 vibrations
Sounds: 10 songs and 5nature sounds
- Gentle gliding motion as nursery glider
- Timer mode helps extends battery life
- One-handed recline lever
- Small footprint
- Dual power options
- Limited manoeuvrability
- Expensive
Why We Love It
You may have seen Graco Glider LX Baby Swing recall news while doing your research – don’t worry, this is not it. This is the Graco DuoGlider, a baby glider swing that moves back-and-forth like that of a nursery glider chair, a solution for babies who reject the side-to-side swinging motion.
With their body placed in a more even level, baby gets to experience the feeling of being cuddled in your arms instead of being swayed from side to side. Parents love that they can recline the seat to a rocker single-handedly without moving baby at all, and there are vibration settings built in for additional soothing options.
Despite its roominess, the DuoGlider actually takes up less floor space than other baby swings so size is not a limiting factor here. Again, as with all Graco baby swings, it gives the option to plug in or use batteries for convenience too and there is a timer mode to help extend battery life by keeping the glider on for only as long as you need it.
Things To Take Note Of
Despite the smaller footprint, the baby swing glider itself is on the larger side so it can take a bit of effort to move from one room to another (its weight doesn’t really help either).
This is also one of the most expensive swings for infants we have reviewed so far, so budget-conscious parents may want to find other options on this list.
BEST BABY SWING WITH REMOTE CONTROL
Dimensions: 27.95 x 26.77 x 35.04 inches
Product weight: 10 pounds
Baby swing weight limit: 20 pounds
Batteries/Plugs: both
Modes: 5 swing speeds; 2 recline positions
Sounds: 12 songs and sounds
- Seat rotates 360 degrees
- 2 reclining positions
- Optional automatic motion detector
- Smart built-in touch screen
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Mobile with 2 felt toys included
- 5-point harness
- Newborn inlay provided
- Controls are pretty low (almost at ground level)
- On the expensive side
Why We Love It
If we are to pick one best electric baby swing that enhances convenience and maximizes ease of use to modern parents, it has to be the Maxi-Cosi Cassia Baby Swing Classic. Sleek and minimalist-looking, this baby swing is equipped with an advanced automatic motion detector that responsively soothes baby when any unsettledness is sensed, automatically kick-starting the swinging motion to provide an almost-instant comfort and soothe.
The smart feature is further complemented by a user-friendly touch screen panel and remote control, the former allowing parents to easily adjust settings like swing speed, music, and timer while the latter enables them to adjust everything from a distance. This is particularly useful for times when one doesn’t want to disturb baby but need to modify the swing’s motion or sound settings.
The 360-degree rotating seat is another standout aspect in itself. Parents have the flexibility to position baby facing any way that suits the moment most – be it interacting with them or allowing baby to look around the room, this feature ensures baby can always be in parents’ line of sight. We love that it weighs only 10 pounds so it is simple to move, especially since it runs on both batteries and AC adapter.
Things To Take Note Of
The swing is pretty low to the ground so parents may find themselves having to bend over every time they want to adjust the settings, but you can always just use the remote control if this is an issue.
Do note that it is on the higher end of the price spectrum as well but we think it is justifiable with the visually appealing design and all the handy features (especially the automatic motion detector).
VERDICT: Tech-savvy parents who appreciate the convenience of advanced technology in managing baby care products will love the Maxi-Cosi Cassia.
Likewise for new parents looking for a baby swing for newborn or busy parents who multitask or need to manage multiple children – the automatic motion detector and the ability to control settings remotely mean baby can be soothed and entertained without constant hands-on attention.
Style-conscious parents who want their baby gear to complement their home décor rather than standing out as overly utilitarian will love the Cassia too.
ANOTHER SMART BABY SWING ELECTRIC
Dimensions: 18.9 x 28.35 x 32.28 inches
Product weight: 20.4 pounds
Baby swing weight limit: 25 pounds
Batteries/Plugs: both
Modes: multiple swing speeds and vibrations
Sounds: multiple songs and nature sounds
- Automatic detection and response to baby’s cries
- Four unique soothing motions
- Thousands of soothing combinations
- Removable organic cotton infant body support
- 5-point harness
- 3-position recline
- Toy bar with soft toys included
- Price point
- Complexity
Why We Love It
If Maxi-Cosi’s Cassia is considered the beacon of innovation, then Graco’s SmartSense Soothing Baby Swing is the epitome of perfection. This automatic baby swing is the latest model released by the brand (which is why you probably don’t see many reviews about it), and is by far the best rated baby swing on our list.
Understandably so, because it has probably all the extensive features you have seen in some of the best swings so far! For one, this motion baby swing rocks, glides, swings and sways – that’s basically all the human soothing motions, and this swing mimics them perfectly. It reclines into 3 positions to find the right angle for baby’s best comfort and comes with a 5-point harness instead of the usual 3 that are provided by most baby swings.
Of course, its signature has to be the trademarked SmartSenseTM feature where the swing detects and automatically responds to baby’s cries in seconds with thousands of soothing combinations. And we aren’t exaggerating – there are literally thousands of soothing combinations made up of gentle motions, calming sounds, soothing vibration and adjustable speed which the swing cycles through automatically until it hears baby is soothed. Safe to say this is no old school baby swing!
Things To Take Note Of
As this is a relatively new baby swing on the market, there aren’t that many reviews yet but this is definitely the most expensive baby swing on this list so yea, it may not fit all budgets. Also, some users may find the high-tech features slightly complex to configure initially.
Keep watching this space – we’ll provide more updates as we use the swing longer over time.
VERDICT: Families who appreciate smart technology and automated features (that adjust the swing’s settings based on the baby’s needs) will find this baby swing particularly appealing.
This is also one of the best rated newborn swings so first-time parents looking for a reliable, easy-to-use swing that offers extra assistance with calming a newborn, you’ll find the automated features particularly beneficial in that aspect.
BEST PORTABLE BABY SWING
Dimensions: 22 x 23.5 x 23 inches
Product weight: 7.1 pounds
Baby swing weight limit: 6 – 20 pounds
Batteries/Plugs: batteries
Modes: 5 swing speeds; 2 vibrations
Sounds: 8 songs and 3 nature sounds
- Extremely lightweight and easy to fold
- Small footprint
- Weight-sensing technology
- Quiet motor
- 5-point safety harness
- Removable headrest
- Timer and auto-shut off function
- Plush toys included
- Battery-saving technology
- Limited motion
- Battery only
Why We Love It
At barely 7 pounds and folds easily into a compact size, the Ingenuity Compact Lightweight Portable Baby Swing is perfect for small spaces or travelling. Despite the mini size, it can fit babies up to 20 pounds and comes with multiple speed settings and music and sounds, features that you’d expect from full-size swings.
We like its weight-sensing technology in particular, which adapts the swing speeds to the weight of a baby. As baby grows, the swing will automatically recalibrate to maintain consistent swinging speeds that are appropriate for baby’s size, ensuring that the swing provides the right amount of motion to soothe the baby effectively.
Another feature that we’re pleasantly surprised at being included is a timer and auto shut-off function. The former allows parents to set specific durations for the swing to operate while they attend to other tasks, while the latter ensure the swing isn’t running unnecessarily when not in use. By automatically powering down after a set period of inactivity or once the timer cycle completes, it helps conserves battery life and extend the overall lifespan of the device.
Things To Take Note Of
Unlike some baby swings that offer multidirectional motions, this model may have more basic functionality with parents noting that the swing movement is comparably slower. The sound volume is also on the low side which could be a drawback for some environments or preferences, but at such a price, we have no complaints.
You’ll note that it runs on batteries only so that might be a drawback for some families but the good thing is the swing runs on Hybridrive technology which helps extend the life of batteries, making it more cost-effective and environmentally friendly to operate.
VERDICT: This is the best baby swing for families with limited space / travel frequently / love the outdoors – the compact, lightweight and foldable design will make everything so much easier and comfortable. For an additional stationary seat option, check out the brand’s ConvertMe 2-in-1 model instead.
BEST AFFORDABLE BABY SWING
Dimensions: 28.74 x 22.64 x 26.77 inches
Product weight: 6.95 pounds
Baby swing weight limit: 6 – 20 pounds
Batteries/Plugs: batteries
Modes: 6 swing speeds
Sounds: 10 songs and nature sounds
- Lightweight and foldable
- Weight-sensing technology
- Silent operation
- Removable toy bar included
- 5-point harness
- Removable head support pillow
- Batteries only
Why We Love It
The Bright Starts Portable Automatic 6-Speed Baby Swing is very similar to the Ingenuity swing above in that it is also lightweight and easy to fold for portability and storage, but this one here stood out with its affordability. This makes it a budget-friendly choice for parents who do not wish to sacrifice quality for cost, especially when it offers a range of features that are typically found in more expensive models.
We’re talking about things like multiple speed settings, soothing music options, engaging toys, and even a timer control and a patented TrueSpeed weight-sensing technology that keeps baby at the perfect swing speed as they grow. That’s significant value, especially for parents who are looking for an effective soothing solution for their baby without a high financial outlay.
We love the WhisperQuiet technology most which is specifically designed to minimize noise during operation. As one would know, the disruptive sound of the motor is one of the most common concerns with baby swings as it can sometimes interfere with the calming atmosphere parents strive to maintain – this technology ensures that the swing operates silently, providing a peaceful and serene environment that is conducive to soothing and relaxing the baby.
Things To Take Note Of
How We Come Up with Our Best Baby Swing Picks
Our selection of the best baby swings is the result of rigorous testing and thorough analysis. We collaborate with paediatric experts and experienced parents to evaluate each swing’s safety, comfort, and user-friendly features. We also consider real-world feedback from families who have used these swings in various home environments. Our recommendations are further refined through side-by-side comparisons, focusing on durability, ease of assembly, and the quality of materials.
This meticulous approach ensures that our choices meet high standards of safety and effectiveness, providing parents with reliable options for soothing and entertaining their little ones. Rest assured you are shopping only the bests here – we’ve done the bulk of research so that you don’t have to.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Baby Swing
We understand that there is no one baby swing that gets the job done – toys and sounds that soothe one infant may be rendered totally useless in front of another.
You can’t go by price also – the most expensive model may not be the best swing for baby, or at least, your baby, so here are the most important factors to consider to ensure make the best baby swing choice:
1. Size and Weight
Before purchasing a baby swing, you’ll want to measure the space you’re going to place it at to make sure there’s enough room for it to rock smoothly. For families living in smaller apartments or homes with limited room, a compact swing with a smaller footprint is ideal.
Consider whether the swing will be stationary in one room or if you plan to move it around. Some swings are designed to be more portable than others with lighter weights, which is beneficial if the swing needs to be transported between rooms or houses frequently.
2. Power Source: Batteries or AC Adapter
Think about where and how often you’ll use the swing. If you travel frequently or just prefer to have some sort of portability, a battery-operated baby swing will be the better choice as it doesn’t need to be near an electrical outlet. You don’t have to worry about cord length or outlet availability, nor do you have to sustain higher operating costs over time due to the need for frequent battery replacements.
On the other hand, if you’re going to use your swing predominantly in one place (such as a nursery), a plug-in swing could be the more practical and economical option. There won’t be any slowing down of the swing’s motion or worse, complete shut down in the midst of a soothing session due to a dying battery, and you won’t have to incur any additional battery costs.
Of course, dual-powered ones with both battery and AC adapter give the best of both worlds as you can interchange flexibly according to the situation, which is what most of the baby swings we have chosen here are.
3. Swing Motion/Modes
Different babies have different preferences, and the right swing motion can make all the difference in how soothing and effective the swing is for calming your child. The most basic would be the back-to-forths or side-to-sides (or both) which mimic the rocking motion baby experiences when swayed in a parent’s arms while standing, while others glide more than swing with some vibrating gently.
Multi-directional ones would be particularly useful for fussy babies as parents can switch between modes based on baby’s mood or preference, while advanced swings like the 4moms MamaRoo offer unique motions that go beyond the standard swinging paths. These include motions that replicate car rides, wave motions, or a combination of up and down and side to side to provide a more diverse set of options to soothe baby.
4. Extra Features
Things like Bluetooth compatibility and cry detection technology can be very helpful, although we wouldn’t say is a necessity. The former allows for more convenience in terms of remote controlling using a smartphone app and streaming music directly from one’s device, while the latter provides an intelligent hands-free solution through automatic adjustments made directly once baby’s cry is detected.
On the same note, a 360-degree swivelling seat could be helpful for parents with limited mobility or babies with disabilities while timers and auto shut-offs help conserve energy and extends the life of the swing’s motor. Meantime, convertible options that convert into a different baby gear (such as bouncer or rocker) give versatility in saving space and money by eliminating the need for multiple devices.
Other FAQs
It's generally safe to start using a baby swing from birth right up till baby reaches the weight limit of the swing, which usually ranges between 20 to 30 pounds (around 6 months or so when they start to sit up unassisted).
Always ensure the swing is set to the lowest speed with a reclined seat position to prevent slumping and support the baby's back, especially for newborns and younger infants. It is also important to always supervise your baby while they are in the swing to monitor their safety and comfort.
It’s recommended that a baby’s time in a swing be limited to about 30 minutes at a time, and no more than one hour per day. This is because prolonged periods in a swing may prevent a baby from engaging in more developmentally beneficial play on the floor (i.e. tummy time), where they can practice motor skills.
Additionally, extended use can affect baby's developing spine and might lead to flat head syndrome if they're always resting in the same position. Always make sure to balance swing time with plenty of supervised playtime on a flat surface and hold or carry your baby often to encourage physical development and bonding.
It is not recommended for babies to sleep in a baby swing. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises against allowing infants to sleep in any inclined device or in any setting that is not specifically designed for sleep, and that includes the swing.
The safest place for a baby to sleep is on a flat, firm surface like a crib or bassinet. Baby swings can increase the risk of positional asphyxiation because they can cause baby's head to tilt forward, restricting their airway. If a baby falls asleep in a swing, move them to a crib or bassinet as soon as possible to ensure their safety.
Both have their own merits and are generally safe for use with newborns so it largely depends on your baby’s preferences and your specific needs.
Often though, a baby swing is considered a better choice for newborns because they generally have a more reclined position, thereby do not require as much head and neck control. If you have a fussy baby who needs a lot of motion-based soothing, a swing is probably the better option too because they offer a smooth, rhythmic motion that mimics the rocking motion newborns experienced in the womb.
While a swing might be preferable for the earliest months, many parents find it useful to introduce a bouncer as the baby grows and begins to engage more actively with their environment. Always ensure that whichever device you choose, it is used in accordance with safety guidelines and is appropriate for your baby's developmental stage.
