A baby swing can be a game-changer for parents. It rhythmically rocks to soothe your little one and help them relax.
If your baby responds well to being rocked a baby swing can help give you some hands-free time while your baby rests.
There are lots of options available but it can be hard to know which baby swings are high quality and which features are important.
To help you find the best baby swing for your family we have reviewed some of the top options available in Australia.
The buyer’s guide below takes a look at which features are most important when making your choice.
1. Ingenuity ConvertMe Rocking 2-in-1 Baby Swing (Top Pick)
The ConvertMe Swing-2-Seat is a compact baby swing that converts into a seat and features calming music, lights and vibrations. This swing is suitable for babies from 0-9 months old.
One of the best things about this product is how compact and user-friendly it is. It is very easy to convert from one mode to the other and you can fold the unit flat for portability and storage. The swing offers 5 adjustable swing speeds, has a vibration setting and plays 11 different sounds (3 nature sounds and 8 melodies).
The chair itself is very comfortable for your little one; it is soft, cosy and shaped to support your baby’s body. The cover is machine washable so maintenance is easy.
The ConvertMe 2-in-1 is whisper quiet and uses hyperdrive technology to make the batteries last longer. There’s also a timer so it will automatically shut-off after a set period of time.
What We Like:
- Compact and lightweight
- Converts from a swing to a seat
- Lots of features
What We Don’t Like:
- The vibration setting drains the battery life quickly
2. Fisher-Price Colourful Carnival Take-Along Swing
This colourful seat and swing combo from Fisher-Price is a space-saving, budget-friendly option perfect for use on the go.
There is a range of features including calming vibrations, 6 swing speeds and 12 different music and nature sounds. The swing can easily be converted into an infant seat, it also has a useful carry handle and it can be folded flat when not in use.
This seat is suitable for babies up to 25lbs (11kg) and it automatically adjusts the speed of the swing so it doesn’t lose momentum as your baby grows.
Above the swing are lion and elephant hanging toys which encourage your baby to reach and touch them, exercising their motor skills.
What We Like:
- Space-saving
- Includes calming vibrations and adjustable swing speed
- Machine-washable seat pad
What We Don’t Like:
- Batteries are not included
3. Graco Glider LX Gliding Baby Swing
The Graco Glider LX is a gentle gliding swing that soothes and supports your baby. It is suitable for little ones from 5.5 – 30lbs (2.5 – 13.5kg) and can be plugged in or battery-powered.
This sturdy swing has a compact frame that saves space while still providing a comfortable and roomy seat for your baby.
There are two vibration settings, six sliding speeds and a range of fifteen songs and nature sounds to keep your little one entertained.
This swing also includes an adjustable toy bar with two toys, a timer to automatically switch off the power and extend the battery life and a 5 point harness to make sure your child is safe and secure at all times.
What We Like:
- Stable & sturdy frame
- Can be battery-powered or plugged into the mains power
- Gently glides
What We Don’t Like:
- The toys are attached to the toy bar with velcro so can be easily pulled off
4. Vastfafa Electric Baby Swing Baby Rocker
The Vastfafa baby rocker is a compact, portable and supportive swing that is designed to embrace a 0-12 month baby just as mom does.
The swing has a built-in timer from 15 – 60 minutes and includes a music box with adjustable volume levels. The swing speed can be adjusted between 6 options to provide comfort and relaxation.
This swing can be used indoors or outdoors and you can fold the swing down flat for transport. There are 2 gear options so you can adjust it to fit your baby’s spine and care for their back.
For convenience, the breathable material can be removed and washed in a machine.
What We Like:
- Built-in timer
- Portable design
- Machine washable cover
What We Don’t Like:
- Some users have found the battery life is short
5. Joie Serina 2 In 1 Swing
The Serina 2 in 1 Swing from Joie is a convenient, portable swing and rocker that can be used anywhere. It is one of the best portable baby swings as it can swing front to back or side to side and offers a range of adjustment options.
There are 6 swing speeds, 5 lullabies, 5 nature sounds, and 2 soothing vibration speeds so you can set the swing exactly how your baby likes it. There is also a soft nightlight that gently glows and has 4 brightness settings.
The swing offers 3 reclining positions for comfort and there is an overhead toy bar with 2 toys for encouraging play.
The pivoting carry handle and 2 wheeled design make the frame easy to move around. The body support and seat pad are soft, cosy and can be removed and washed as needed.
This swing can be powered via A/C adapter, battery or USB which provides flexibility to use the swing wherever you go.
What We Like:
- Handle and wheels make it easy to move around
- Easy to assemble
- Multiple power options
What We Don’t Like:
- Quite heavy
6. Nesso Mini Swing In Trios Baby Swing
The Nesso Mini Swing is a compact option that is lightweight and suitable for 3-6 month olds.
This electronic swing offers 5 different swinging speeds, sounds and melodies and 3 timer settings. The seat has a removable head hugger that provides additional support and comfort.
The swing has 2 reclining positions and a 5 point harness ensures your baby’s safety and comfort. There is a removable toy bar that comes with 3 cute hanging toys.
This model is battery powered giving more freedom and flexibility in where and when the swing seat can be used.
What We Like:
- Compact design
- Battery powered
- Includes a head hugger
What We Don’t Like:
- Only suitable for 3-6 month olds
7. Ingenuity Simple Comfort Baby Swing and Rocker
This clever 2-in-1 design converts from a swing to a rocker in one simple motion.
The seat direction can be changed with one hand and the wheels and handle make it easy to move this swing and rocker from room to room.
The Ingenuity Simple Comfort has 6 speeds and can swing in 3 different directions to match your baby’s mood and preference.
The vibration settings help to soothe and reduce fussiness so you can focus on other things while your baby relaxes.
The overhead mobile has 2 plush toys that keep your baby engaged and entertained. The swing also offers 8 melodies, 3 nature sounds and even white noise to provide a relaxing environment.
The motor runs quietly so that won’t cause any disruption to nap time.
What We Like:
- User-friendly
- Offers relaxing sounds including white noise
- Swings in 3 directions
What We Don’t Like:
- Large frame footprint
Baby Swing Buyers’ Guide
A baby swing will comfort a baby while giving parents a much-needed break. The best baby swing is safe, comfortable and soothing for your baby.
There are lots of fantastic options and this buyer’s guide will help you find the baby swing that offers the features you need and your baby will love.
Power Source
Battery-powered
If you are looking for a portable baby swing then you will want to choose one that is battery operated.
These can be positioned anywhere but will need to be charged or have the batteries replaced regularly.
Plug-in
Some swings can be powered by mains power which is useful if you only plan to use the swing at home.
A few models can be battery or A/C powered which offers another level of convenience and flexibility.
Key Features
Swing Only or 2-in-1
Some of the best baby swings offer more functionality by being able to be converted from a swing into a rocker, bouncer or seat/ cradle.
This can give you more use out of the swing but for it to be effective changing between the modes needs to be quick and easy.
Speed Settings
The majority of swings move in a head-to-toe rocking motion and a limited number offer side-to-side rocking too.
Most baby swings have speed settings so you can adjust the speed to suit the situation and your baby’s preference.
It’s always best to start at the lowest setting and work up the different speeds as necessary.
Ease of Cleaning
The best baby swings need to be easy to clean so should have a machine washable cover that is quick to remove and attach.
The frame should be able to be wiped clean.
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Safety
Baby swings vary in shape and size but whatever style and type you can for it needs to be safe and sturdy.
The frame needs to be made of quality materials and should be wide and low enough that if your baby leans it won’t fall.
Make sure the baby swing comes with a 3-point or 5-point harness to keep your baby secure. Ideally, the frame should be able to fold down (or disassemble) for travel and storage.
A portable baby swing should have a lightweight folding frame to make it easier to carry and transport.
Weight/ Age Limits
Be sure to check the specifications of the baby swing to see what the weight or age limit is.
This is not only important for how suitable it is for your baby but will also give you an idea of how long you will be able to make use of the baby swing for until your little one outgrows it.
Reclining Options
Having a few different recline positions helps to ensure your baby is comfortable and fully supported in the position they are in.
The seat should have thick padding and some options come with additional head support which can help when used for newborn babies.
Having reclining options helps you make use of the baby swing for longer as a newborn will need a fully reclined seat but as they grow other positions will be necessary.
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Additional Features
- Toys – some baby swings come with a bar with hanging toys that can provide entertainment to your baby and can encourage their motor skill development.
- Lights and music – twinkling lights or a glowing night light may be featured on the baby swing. Many baby swings offer lullabies, nature sounds and sometimes white noise too. These features can help entertain your baby and can help them relax.
- Timer – a timer is a useful feature as it allows you to set a motion for a certain period of time and the swing will stop automatically without you needing to do anything else. Using a timer can help save power which is particularly useful for battery-powered baby swings.
