When my children moved out of our bedroom and into their own sleep space, it was much more difficult to nurse them back to sleep or rock them. We had a noisy rocking chair in the living room that was also uncomfortable to breastfeed in. This is when I discovered the miracle of nursery gliders.
Now I know what you’re thinking: why should I spend money on something like this? Well, it’s because not only will you get more use out of it than you think, but it will become one of the most important pieces of furniture that you own. Truth be told, it is more for you than it is for your baby. Having a comfortable place to rock your baby to sleep or to breastfeed is more essential than you realize. This won’t be a product that you store after your baby grows.
So let’s cover all the key features and facts, to help you decide which nursery chair is right for you.
Carry on reading or jump straight to our number #1 pick on Amazon here.
Table of Contents
- What Should I Look for in a Nursery Glider?
- Here’s How I’ve Determined the Best Nursery Glider
- Our Top Picks for the Best Baby Nursery Glider Chair of 2024
- #1: Graco Parker Semi-Upholstered Glider and Nursing Ottoman (Best Value)
- #2: Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Recliner and Swivel Glider (Best Premium)
- #3: Delta Children Oakley Nursery Glider Swivel Rocker Chair (Best Design)
- #4: Angel Line Windsor Glider and Ottoman (Best Low Cost)
- #5: Storkcraft Tuscany Custom Glider and Ottoman (Best for Lumbar Support)
- #6: DaVinci Piper Upholstered Recliner and Swivel Glider (Best Recliner)
- Do I Really Need A Glider for My Nursery?
- What is the Difference Between a Glider and a Rocker?
- How Does a Glider Work?
- Verdict: Your Best Baby Nursery Glider
What Should I Look for in a Nursery Glider?
Here are some of the top features that parents look for when they are ready to purchase a nursery glider. They are very important and you should keep them in mind as you keep reading.
Price
Nursery gliders can get very expensive. Fortunately, I included various price ranges, so you can find one for every type of budget.
Comfort
The last thing you want is an uncomfortable glider. This is something that you will be using daily (or nightly), so of course, this is very important. Each of these nursery gliders has features to promote comfort.
Design
Believe it or not, this matters to a lot of parents. You will find both modern and traditional styles on this list, so it will be easy for you to figure out your preference.
Easy to Clean
You wouldn’t want a fabric that easily stains or is difficult to wipe down. As a mom, I’ve seen it all, and your baby can definitely have some sort of accident while you are holding them in the glider.
Ottoman
Not all gliders have one. If you know that you want the option to put your feet up, you can find a glider that has this included.
Here’s How I’ve Determined the Best Nursery Glider
The best way to decide what belonged on this list was to mix my own experience with the reviews of other parents. I compared the price to function and only chose the highest-rated, so you don’t have to worry about purchasing a nursery glider that’s low quality. Only the greatest made it into the best 6, and I made sure to include something for all types of families. There is truly a glider for everyone.
Our Top Picks for the Best Baby Nursery Glider Chair of 2024
#1: Graco Parker Semi-Upholstered Glider and Nursing Ottoman (Best Value)
Many moms use their glider for breastfeeding, myself included. It is so convenient for middle-of-the-night feedings. It gives you a comfortable place to sit and doubles as a quiet way to rock your baby back to sleep. However, this glider is unique. The ottoman was basically made for nursing moms. How cool does that sound? Read on to find out more about why this nursery glider and ottoman set takes the number one spot.
The ottoman has a breastfeeding stool
You will notice that the Graco Parker ottoman has a stool that you pull out for your feet. This makes breastfeeding more comfortable because you can adjust it until it is in the best position for you, so you can be as relaxed as possible. This can be very important during the night or if your baby is growing through a stage where they are nursing more than usual. Plus, you can slide that stool right back under when you aren’t using it. It’s really that simple.
The ottoman moves with the glider
Both the glider and ottoman have the ability to glide. They were designed to move in tandem, allowing you to use the ottoman while also gliding back and forth. This is a feature that you won’t see with any of the other glider chair sets on this list, besides the Angel Line and Storkcraft Tuscany. You will see those came in at numbers 4 and 5.
What else puts this as number 1 of the best nursery gliders?
- Microfiber cushions for easy spot cleaning
- Metal ball bearing design for smooth gliding motion
- Padded arms, back, and ottoman top
- No use of flame retardants
- Dimensions: 42.7 x 29.5 x 28 inches
This nursery glider is the best choice for a breastfeeding mom who wants to put up her feet and relax while she nurses her baby. It may not be the most comfortable position for everyone, but if this sounds like you and you want a glider, then this is the perfect match. Of course, you can still nurse in any glider, but Graco designed this glider chair specifically for breastfeeding moms. It makes the middle-of-the-night feedings a little bit easier, so that feature alone puts this product as the best all-around choice.
This swivel glider is the total package. You will notice that it has many unique features that none of the other nursery gliders on this list have. These features are what led me to eventually make a purchase, and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. What’s not to love? Additionally, if you are into very high-tech products, you will be so impressed by this glider. I know that I was. Let’s dive in and go over why this nursery chair is the best premium pick.
It has a USB port
We are all guilty of scrolling through our phones while breastfeeding or rocking our sleeping babies. So why not have the opportunity to charge your phone if you need to? This glider has a built-in USB port right on the inside of the arm. It is easy to access, even if your arms are full, so you can charge your mobile or even a tablet if you choose to, without having to get up.
It’s a power recliner
Want to lean back and put your feet up? You can do that with this glider, with just the push of a button. It’s so effortless and easy, allowing you to relax. Plus, if you want to just sit in the nursery while your little one is sleeping in their crib, it makes a great place to unwind and take time for yourself.
Here are more features worth mentioning.
- Available in 4 colors
- Kiwi Gliding Ottoman (sold separately)
- 270-degree swivel
- Free of chemical flame retardants
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Wingback style
- Dimensions: 39.5 x 29 x 39.75 inches
We didn’t purchase a glider until after we had my second son. I definitely wish I had made the jump sooner because having one was fantastic. I breastfed our youngest in it, rocked him to sleep, and I even read to my older son in it. Once they were old enough to no longer be rocked, I gifted it to an expecting family member. Of course, you can always move it out into your living area if you choose because it doesn’t lose its worth after your babies have grown. It’s expensive, but trust me, it is worth it if you have the budget. It is functional, safe, and comfortable, and I would purchase it all over again given the chance.
#3: Delta Children Oakley Nursery Glider Swivel Rocker Chair (Best Design)
This nursery chair has its own unique design, and that is one of the main reasons that many parents choose this one. Plus, it is by Delta Children, which is one of the most trusted brands. You are probably familiar with it if you have multiple children, so you know that it will provide the high quality you are looking for. Let’s go over the features that make this glider stand out.
It offers 360-degree swivel motion
This is one of the only nursery gliders on this list that provides a full range of motion with a swivel base, besides the DaVinci. The Delta Children Oakley glider lets you easily sway to soothe your baby to sleep. Smooth gliding is extremely important when you are looking to purchase a glider because it is meant to quietly and effortlessly provide you with a chair that will help your little one get back to bed faster.
It is a glider-swivel-rocker chair
You will see that this product can do it all. It is both a glider and a rocking chair, so not only can you glide back and forth and swivel 360 degrees with its metal base, but you can also rock your baby. All while still enjoying the whisper-quiet of this chair. This could be one of the best options for you if you enjoy the range of motion.
What other features of this nursery chair put it on this list?
- Padded roll arms and seat cushion for comfort
- Timeless and versatile plaid design
- Sturdy wood frame
- Tested to meet industry safety standards
- East to clean fabric
- 100% non-toxic
- Dimensions: 32.25 x 36 x 37.75 inches
The best part about this nursery glider swivel rocker chair is that it’s not just for the nursery. This brand boasts that you can repurpose it and use it in any room in your home when you no longer need it for your baby. However, keep in mind that this chair does not come with an ottoman option. Yes, you can always purchase one, but there isn’t one to match or one that you can add to your purchase. But if this isn’t a deal-breaker, it is a great choice for you and your baby.
#4: Angel Line Windsor Glider and Ottoman (Best Low Cost)
You will notice that the design of this glider chair is very similar to the Graco Parker. The major differences are price and the absence of the breastfeeding stool. If that is a feature that you can do without, then this one could be a great choice for you. It is perfect for the smallest budget. Keep reading to see why this nursery baby glider and matching ottoman is our pick for the best low cost.
The cushions are removable
If you’re the type of person that enjoys furniture that is easy to clean, then you’ll love this baby glider. You can remove the cushions from the chair, which makes spot cleaning a total breeze. The fabric is 100% polyester for both pieces, so they are equally easy to maintain.
It has pockets for extra storage
The storage pockets are great for keeping essentials nearby when you are rocking your baby. You never know what you might need for them, or yourself. So, you can keep things like burp cloths, tissues, baby wipes, literally anything you can think of in those storage pockets. This will allow you to sit back and relax in your cozy seat without worry.
Here are some more details of this nursery glider.
- Metal bearings for a smooth gliding motion
- Plenty of sitting room
- Padded arms
- Solid wood construction
- Dimensions: 24.75 x 25.75 x 39.5 inches
You would choose this nursery chair if you have a low budget. It has storage pockets and a gliding ottoman, both of which are great features. It’s also easy to clean and comfortable. You can’t go wrong with this glider. However, it is very simple, so if you like the high-tech offerings of the Babyletto, that may be a better fit if you can afford it.
#5: Storkcraft Tuscany Custom Glider and Ottoman (Best for Lumbar Support)
This chair is very similar to the Angel Line Windsor Glider and Ottoman. It has an ottoman that offers the same gliding motion. However, it is designed differently compared to some of the others. This is the only glider chair that mentions lumbar support, which can be especially helpful if you experience chronic back pain or back problems. Keep reading to learn about these features and more.
It includes a lumbar pillow
The lumbar pillow is meant to be used for your back. It offers great back support that really helps those who need it. The pillow matches the chair and the ottoman, for a personal touch.
It has a high back
Instead of the wingback style, this glider has a high back for comfort. This will provide support to your head and neck as well. It is a great option for a mom recovering from labor and delivery, for example.
What other features are important to mention?
- Soft polyester fabric
- Solid wood construction
- Dimensions: 29 x 28 x 37.5 inches
- Padded arm cushions
- Easy to spot clean
The main reason that you would choose this over the others is the support that it offers. Your time in the glider is meant to be comfortable, and back problems are common. With the matching lumbar pillow, you will have the support that you need. Just remember that this doesn’t work as a traditional rocking chair.
#6: DaVinci Piper Upholstered Recliner and Swivel Glider (Best Recliner)
A great function of a nursery swivel glider is when it doubles as a recliner or rocking chair. The DaVinci Piper swivel glider rounds out the list at number 6 as the best recliner. Sometimes it’s nice to use this chair to just sit back and relax. Every parent likes to make time in their day to find a comfortable spot to put their feet up and read a book. This could be one of the best options for you. Read on to see why you might choose this glider recliner.
It’s easy to use
No one wants to struggle after a long day with their newborn to put their feet up and take a load off. With this nursery chair, the reclining mechanism is so easy to use, making relaxing a breeze. Plus the leg rest is plush for ultimate comfort. One of the few drawbacks is that this chair doesn’t include a matching ottoman, so you wouldn’t be able to comfortably use this feature while breastfeeding.
It offers 360-degree motion
The swivel base allows for a full range of motion, much like the Delta that you will find at number 3. The metal base provides a smooth gliding experience that helps calm and soothe your baby. Quiet and natural motion are really helpful when it comes to handling a fussy baby.
What are some other features of this nursery glider?
- 4 color options
- Greenguard gold certified
- Free of chemical flame retardants
- Reclines until almost completely flat
- Dimensions: 35 x 30.5 x 39.25 inches
The real selling point of this nursery chair is the reclining feature. It is a chair that is designed with you, the parent, in mind. Yes, it is great because of its swivel capabilities for your baby, but it doesn’t stop there. You can use this product beyond the baby years.
Do I Really Need A Glider for My Nursery?
The honest answer is no. You technically don’t need one. I sure thought it wasn’t necessary for me, either. However, as time went on, I realized that having comfortable nursery furniture in my child’s room was really important. Plus, it doesn’t just stop at rocking them to sleep. A nursery glider can be used just as a regular rocking chair, if you like. Use it to read your kids a bedtime story and move it into your living room once your little one is out of a crib and in a toddler bed or regular bed.
It is a versatile piece of furniture that is worth investing in, especially since you don’t have to just give it away when your child no longer needs it to help them sleep.
What is the Difference Between a Glider and a Rocker?
The biggest difference between a glider and a rocker is noise level. A nursery glider is whisper quiet and you won’t have to worry about any noise keeping your little one from drifting off to sleep. Rocking chairs tend to squeak and make a lot more noise. This is mostly because they are designed differently from nursery gliders.
Also, the gliding and swivel motion is more natural and comfortable. It is much easier to get your baby back to sleep than with a traditional rocking chair. I learned this myself when we purchase one of our own.
How Does a Glider Work?
Gliders swing or swivel rather than rock. They contain a mechanism at the base that stays in place, while the chairs move quietly. Most nursery gliders also have a 360 swivel, giving you a full range of motion. It is stationary with flat legs and glides back and forth on a track. Overall, a glider offers a much smoother movement than a rocking chair.
Verdict: Your Best Baby Nursery Glider
Here is the takeaway . . .
If you want the glider that is the best value for your money and also the best for breastfeeding, pick the Graco Parker Semi-Upholstered Glider and Nursing Ottoman. The added stool in the ottoman can be a lifesaver for comfort, especially if you plan to use the chair for the majority of nursing sessions.
If you want the best premium to splurge on, pick the Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Recliner and Swivel Glider. It’s the most high-tech and has a USB port. With technology always changing, these features are becoming more necessary. It definitely was for me, since I spent a lot of time in this swivel gliding recliner.
For a more stylish option, pick the Delta Children Oakley Nursery Glider Swivel Rocker Chair. The plaid fabric can be paired with all sorts of home décor after you are through with using it in your nursery. Plus it doubles as a rocking chair and 360-degree swivel.
If you want to keep the spending under $150, pick the Angel Line Windsor Glider and Ottoman. It is very affordable and will work great for a tight budget. Plus, you still get a comfortable glider that provides head and neck support as well as back support. You even get a gliding ottoman as well.
If you know that you need back and lumbar support, pick the Storkcraft Tuscany Custom Glider and Ottoman. It comes with a matching lumbar pillow for the back, plus a high back for neck and head support. You’ll be so happy with the results.
For the best recliner, pick the DaVinci Piper Upholstered Recliner and Swivel Glider. It’s easy to use and you’re able to recline all the way back until you’re almost lying down. This could be great for your back or just to enjoy much-needed rest.
When you are making your final decision, there are some questions that you should ask yourself before you purchase a swivel glider. This is because it is going to be one of the more expensive items that you get for your baby. So you should think about the following:
Do I want the glider to also function as a rocking chair? Do I want a reclining glider? Do I want an ottoman? Do I want a power recline option or a charging port for my phone? Do I need those extra pockets for storage?
The list goes on. You need to think about these things before you commit. Take a look at all of the features these gliders provide and figure out what you’re a fan of. No matter what you order, you will end up with a high-quality glider that you will use for years to come.