A baby swing can give you a safe place to lay your baby down when you need both hands to be free, it is a great place for your baby to be entertained and independent. There are many types of swings on the market, the most common is a traditional style swing that is typically large and takes up a lot of space in your home, so if you are planning on keeping it in one spot this style is ideal. A portable swing style is lower to the ground and lightweight and is easily moved from room to room or easier to travel with, it may lack features of the larger traditional full size swings, but the convenience may be more accommodating for the needs of your family. Here is a list of the important features to look for when purchasing a baby swing:

Swing Motions: Side to side, front to back, simulated motion, which one to choose? Many will offer multi swing styles in one unit which is ideal so that you can adapt to meet your babies needs.

Size and portability: If you will use this in one room and not have to move it often if at all, you may want to look into the larger more traditional full size models. If you are on the go and or will use this often throughout your home, you will most likely appreciate a smaller swing that is easy to transport.

Entertainment: Many models have mobiles, built in music, white noise, and some can be connected to your MP3 player so baby can swing to fun tunes of your choice.

Power Source: Does the unit need batteries or does it is it able to be plugged in, or both?

Weight limit: Many of the swings and bouncers typically accommodate up to 25-30 pounds.

Storage: When not in use this should be easy for you to fold up and put away.

Speeds: The speed of the swinging motion should be adjustable to make it able to accommodate babies that are in soothing, rest, or play mode.

Seat: The seat cover should be plush and soft and may include padding for smaller newborns, it should also be machine washable since accidents are likely to occur and having the option to wash the cover is a must!

Recline: The seat should have a recline feature on it to be able to allow the baby to lie flat or be elevated depending on if they are trying to rest or play. This also comes in handy for babies with reflux issues, and can help if you want baby to fall asleep in the swing while lying in more level position.

Some popular brands available today that we personally are huge fans of are 4Moms MamaRoo, Fisher Price has a number of popular swings, Baby Bjorn Babysitter, the Bloom Coco lounger, and many more!