Baby swings are designed to distract, soothe, and entertain your baby. They come in a wide range of styles and sizes, with all kinds of accessories and in every price range. It can be hard to know what to look for when shopping for the perfect swing — especially if you already have a baby demanding your attention.
We know what this is like, so we’ve put in the time for you, researching all the top models and comparing their features. We’ve personally tried many models and have listened to reviews from hundreds of parents.
The result is this list of our recommendations for the best baby swings, along with all you need to know before you buy.
- Dual-recline seat positioning
- Extra-plush seat pad
- Numerous motion & speed settings
- Built in sounds
- Bluetooth enabled
- 5 unique motions and speeds
- Easy assembly
- Comes with an AC adapter
- Machine-washable seat cover
- Five-point harness
- Bouncy seat and swing
- Two reclining positions
- Saves money on batteries
- Small and compact frame
- Includes soothing sounds and toy
- Super affordable
- Pivoting toy bar
- Highly portable
- 5-point safety belt
- Doesn’t take much space
- Trendy design
- Holds up to 25 pounds
- Reclining seat position
- Machine-washable padded seat
- Affordable and long-lasting
- Holds up well outside
- Easy to install
The Best Baby Swings of 2023
Here are 9 great baby swings to consider.
Fisher-Price Sweet Snugapuppy Baby Swing
Best Swing for Newborns
This Cradle ‘n Swing by Fisher-Price is the ultimate swing for your newborn’s comfort. With its machine-washable plush, padded seat, and dual-recline positioning, even the smallest babies will feel cozy and fully supported as they lounge.
This adorable swing doesn’t just move forward and backward, it also has the option to rock your baby in a gentle side-to-side motion. Complete with six speeds and four motion settings, you can customize your baby’s movement to fit their needs and preferences.
It comes with 16 built-in songs and three calming nature sounds for your baby to enjoy as they drift off to sleep.
For a visual experience to go with the motion and sounds, a bubble mirror rests above your baby’s head so they can admire their appearance and see the rest of the room — even while reclining. A soft mobile also floats overhead, offering further visual stimulation.
Pros
- Numerous motion and speed settings help in every situation.
- Reclines to keep even the smallest babies in place as they swing.
- Cushy, soft padding is comforting for babies.
Cons
- The motor tends to get noisy over time.
Our Ratings
4moms MamaRoo 4 Baby Swing
Best High-Tech Baby Swing
This mechanical seat looks more like a work of art than a baby swing. It has five specific motions that mimic the motions babies are used to — a car ride, gentle bouncing, rocking, soft waves, and a light swing.
This swing has several high-tech features: it’s Bluetooth compatible, so you can control the motion and the sound. You can choose from four built-in sounds for your baby’s enjoyment. But if you want to play your baby’s favorite music, you can simply connect your cell phone via Bluetooth and hit play.
The seat adjusts into a fully reclined position, and the mobile has reversible toys to keep your baby reaching and playing, enhancing their fine motor skills.
The seat cover can be removed and machine washed. The swing is safe for babies weighing up to 25 pounds and comes with a power cord, saving you money on batteries.
Pros
- Connects to your mobile to play your baby’s favorite music.
- It’s Bluetooth enabled.
- Has five unique swinging motions.
Cons
- It’s expensive.
- The gentle movement may be too subtle for fussy babies.
Our Ratings
Fisher-Price My Little Snugabunny Swing
Best Baby Swing for Colic
This swing is loved by colicky babies everywhere. It has two rocking motions to settle your baby: side to side and front to back.
It can recline into two positions, and the seat adjusts to face one of three directions: center, left, or right.
With six speed settings and a soft newborn insert, My Little Snugabunny Swing is great for babies of all ages. The motor-operated baby mobile has three attached toys and keeps babies distracted and entertained as they are lulled to sleep by the built-in white noise sounds or one of 16 included songs.
The mirrored globe is a favorite of babies and keeps them from feeling alone as they look at their reflection.
We love how quiet the motor is — you can still hear it, but it shouldn’t be overwhelming for you or the baby.
Pros
- Assembles in minutes.
- Includes an AC adapter but can use batteries.
- Deep seat is soft and comfortable.
Cons
- This swing only supports babies weighing up to 15 pounds.
- Bigger newborns won’t have much room to spare in this swing.
Our Ratings
Graco DuetConnect Swing And Bouncer
Best Swing & Bouncer Combo
This 2-in-1 baby swing and bouncer converts easily and saves money and space. The bouncer can hold babies from 5.5 to 18 pounds, and the swing supports babies that weigh up to 30 pounds.
The roomy seat caters to babies of all ages and includes two vibration modes and six swinging speeds.
This swing also has adequate head support to keep babies comfortable. It plays 10 songs and five different sounds, and your baby will be entertained by the three toys hanging on the mobile.
Choose from three neutral colors that go with any decor. To power it up, you can use either battery power or a plug-in cord.
Pros
- The five-point harness will keep your baby safe.
- Space-saving design doubles as a bouncy seat.
- It has two reclining positions.
Cons
- The swing is known to make a clicking noise when in use.
- The vibration function only runs on battery power.
Our Ratings
Graco Simple Sway Baby Swing
Best Plug-In Baby Swing
Many baby swings run on batteries. While this is a great option when you like to move it around the house, the money spent on batteries can add up fast. Plus, you don’t want to run out of batteries right when you need your baby swing the most.
That’s why we love this plug-in option. The smaller frame makes it easier to store, and it’s great for smaller rooms as it takes up less space . It also takes batteries, but having a power cord means you can avoid wearing out batteries.
It features a gentle side-to-side swaying motion to soothe your baby and comes with multiple speed options. You can also choose from 15 songs and sounds while your baby enjoys the three soft plush toys on the hanging mobile.
If you’d like the option to use batteries without having to rely on them completely, this simple little swing is a great option.
Pros
- Save money on batteries by using the AC adapter.
- Small and compact frame is great for tight spaces.
- Includes soothing sounds and a plush toy mobile.
Cons
- Cords and plugs can be dangerous. Supervise your baby at all times when you use the plug-in adapter.
Our Ratings
Ingenuity Cozy Kingdom Baby Swing
Best Budget Baby Swing
This swing uses true speed technology that will maintain the swing’s speed, even as your baby grows bigger.
It has six songs and volume control, so you can turn it up if your baby can’t hear the music over their own sounds. It also has an automatic shut-off function, extending the life of the motor.
The foam-wrapped toy bar keeps you from bumping your baby’s head when you’re putting them in or taking them out. Plus, the bar pivots, bringing it closer to your baby so they can play with the two soft toys.
The seat reclines into two positions and comes with removable head support. If the seat pad gets dirty, you can toss it in the washing machine.
Pros
- More affordable than many other options.
- The pivoting toy bar stays within your baby’s reach.
- Space-saving design is easy to transport.
Cons
- It only runs on batteries.
- The knob that changes the swing speed is loud.
Our Ratings
Jool Baby Nova Motorized Swing
Best Baby Swing for Small Spaces
The nice thing about this compact baby swing is that it’s a real space saver, which moms who live in small apartments or houses will like.
This swing has five speeds to keep your baby moving along. The overhead bar has three soft toys that dangle down a little. The rocker also has 10 melodies to soothe your baby to sleep. You have the option to automatically switch off the swing after 8, 15, or 30 minutes.
It also has a five-point harness, and its base is made of sturdy aluminum to ensure the safety of your precious little one.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight.
- It doesn’t take up much space.
- Trendy design.
Cons
- The swing is quite slow for some.
Our Ratings
Fisher-Price Take-Along Baby Swing
Best Portable Baby Swing
This cute swing has a fun neutral design that will fit your nursery decor. It’s also portable and folds well, and comes with a handle you can use to cart it around.
It has six different speeds to soothe your baby and can convert to a vibrating stationary seat.
Your baby will be enthralled by all the extras this swing offers. Plus, it includes two nature sounds and 10 songs to keep your baby entertained and relieving you of constant repetition. Two attached animal toys hang within your baby’s line of sight.
The seat is padded, so your baby will feel comfortable, and the shoulder harnesses will keep them safe.
Pros
- It holds up to 25 pounds and is suitable for babies up to 6 months old.
- The reclined swing position is great for babies lacking head support.
- The padded seat can be machine washed and dried.
Cons
- It only runs on battery power.
Our Ratings
Little Tikes Snug ‘n Secure Baby Swing
Best Swing for Outdoors
This outdoor swing scores high marks for its safety. With a hinged T-bar that makes it easy to get your baby in and out to the harness-style shoulder straps, there’s no way for your baby to fall from this swing as they glide to new heights.
This product can be used for years, with the minimum age being nine months (or whenever your baby has strong head support and neck muscles) and the maximum being around four years old. When your child is old enough that they no longer require the t-bar and shoulder straps, they can be removed, which greatly extends the lifespan of this swing.
The Snug ‘n Secure baby swing can hold children up to 50 pounds. And if buying American-made products is important to you, you’ll be happy to know this swing is made in the U.S.
If you don’t have much outdoor room, you can also use this swing inside. You can hook it up to a standard swing set or secure it to a strong tree branch if you plan to use it outside.
Pros
- Affordable, long-lasting fun for your child.
- Holds up well outside, even through rain and snow.
- It’s easy to install.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with any anchors.
- The shoulder straps are hard to adjust.
Our Ratings
When Can Baby Start Using a Swing?
Most swings can be used as soon as you bring your baby home from the hospital, as long as they recline.
Keep In Mind
Types of Baby Swings
There are two main types of baby swings: full-sized and portable. These are the main characteristics of each.
1. Full-Sized Swings
Full-sized swings require a fair amount of space and aren’t easy to move.
Typically, full-sized swings have the best swinging range because the motors are placed at the top of the swing, and the swings sit higher. They tend to be durable and difficult to tip over. But be prepared to pay more than you would for a portable swing.
2. Portable Swings
If you don’t have much room in your house or your budget, a portable swing is a good choice.
They cost less and don’t take up as much space. But since many portable swings are controlled by batteries alone, they may cost more in the long run since you’ll be paying for battery replacements. With full-sized swings, you’ll have the option of using the power cord.
If you plan to be on the road a lot, you can bring a portable swing along as it will take up minimal space in your vehicle, hotel room, or other people’s homes.
The Fisher-Price Auto Rock n’ Play Sleeper has been removed from our recommendations after a recall by the company due to infant deaths using the product (1). The AAP has urged parents and caregivers to stop using it right away.
To request a refund for the Rock ‘n Play, visit http://bit.ly/RockNPlayRecall or call the company at 866-812-6518.
Those who have owned the Rock ‘n Play for six months or less will receive a cash refund, while those who have owned them longer will receive a voucher for a new Fisher-Price product.
Editor's Note:
Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BCHow to Choose a Baby Swing
These are a few things you should consider before buying a baby swing:
Seatbelt
Any swing you buy should have a seat belt — either a three-point or a five-point harness. This helps your baby stay safe and secure in their seat. You should always use the seat belt — even in a reclining swing — as even small babies can shift and wiggle enough to end up in dangerous positions.
Swing Height
Swings come in different heights, with some being adjustable. The taller the swing, the more range it will have for swinging. However, the closer to the ground your swing is, the less risk of injury from a possible fall. It’s worth considering your own height and if it will be easier or harder to lift your baby into or out of a lower swing.
Swing Speed
Some swings move at only one speed, while others have a fully adjustable range. If you plan on using your swing with a newborn, ensure it can function at a slower speed as moving too fast can be frightening for a small baby.
Portability
If you want a swing you can use while traveling or to take to other people’s homes, look for one that isn’t much trouble to take with you. Some swings fold up flat, while others require the use of tools to collapse. Smaller swings are generally the most portable models.
Power Source
Swings can run on battery power or via an AC adapter, and some swings have both options. If you don’t have an outlet where you want the swing to sit, or if you plan on moving your swing around often, having a swing that operates on battery power can be handy.
Ease of Cleaning
Whether your baby has a spit-up incident or a diaper blowout, they’ll get that swing filthy at some point. Ideally, you’ll find a swing that has a cover you can take off quickly and throw in the washing machine.
Comfort
Because your baby may be sitting in this swing a couple of times a day, you want it to feel comfortable. You’ll want the material they sit on to be thick enough that they won’t object every time you put them in.
Seat Position
The best baby swings have adjustable seat positions. A seat that fully reclines is best for smaller infants and for lulling babies to sleep. If your baby is a little older, they won’t be content swinging in a reclined position as they’ll want to see what’s going on around them. An upright seat position is best as your baby ages to keep them interacting with the world around them while they enjoy their swing.
Timer Function
Some swings come with a timer function. This is especially helpful to keep batteries from burning out too quickly (if your swing is battery operated). However, it can be frustrating for babies, especially if they’re about to drift off to sleep and the timer stops, causing the gentle motion to end.
A swing that offers a timer function but also includes the option of continuous swinging is best for a variety of situations.
Frame Construction
Swings are made with plastic or metal frames, but metal swing frames will be much sturdier. If you choose a swing with a plastic frame, make sure the swing is strong enough to support your child’s weight. The best baby swings will have a wide base to prevent tipping.
Bells and Whistles
Swings do more than offer motion — some come with vibrating seats, toy trays or toy bars, built-in music, and even device holders so you can play music or videos to entertain your baby while they swing.
How to Use a Baby Swing
Using a baby swing isn’t difficult, but there are some things you should know and precautions you should follow.
The first thing to be aware of is that you’ll need to do some assembly when your baby swing arrives. This may take mere minutes or up to an hour, depending on which swing you purchased. If you’re the sort of person that gets easily frustrated when trying to assemble pieces, or if you’re dealing with a difficult pregnancy or recovering from birth, ask your partner or a friend or family member if they would mind putting the swing together for you.
Before you use your swing, there are a few things you should note about safety:
- You need to pay close attention to the weight and age guidelines of your baby swing. If you received a used swing and don’t have the original manual, search for it online to learn its acceptable weight and age range. The manufacturer guidelines are there for your baby’s safety, so use them.
- Even if your baby falls within the acceptable weight and age limit, you should always watch your child to ensure their safety in the swing. If you notice your child starting to wiggle free, it’s time to get rid of the swing.
- Never set a baby swing on an incline or a table. This will render it unstable and could cause a nasty accident.
- Swings are made for baby entertainment and to give your arms a break. They can be handy for lulling your baby to sleep. However, you shouldn’t use your baby swing as a crib or bassinet replacement. It’s also not designed for safe overnight sleeping for your baby.
