Here at the Strategist, we like to think of ourselves as crazy (in the good way) about the stuff we buy, but as much as we’d like to, we can’t try everything. Which is why we have People’s Choice, in which we find the best-reviewed products and single out the most convincing ones. (You can learn more about our rating system and how we pick each item here.)
While we’ve written all about the things you need on your baby registry — including umbrella strollers, cribs, carriers, and baby bouncers — here we’re rounding up the best baby swings as praised by the most enthusiastic reviewers on Amazon.
Best-rated baby swing
Over 100 five-star reviews rave that “baby loves” this sweet Snugapuppy model. “Should have listened when everyone said get a swing,” says one parent who initially purchased a MamaRoo swing, then realized the baby hated it. Since trying the cuddly Snugapuppy, this once-fussy baby has been in “such a pleasant mood, I think because he’s been napping.” Dual-motion directions (side to side or head to toe) set this one apart from others on the market, according to reviewers who tested multiple swings. “My baby likes the side-to-side one, so we don’t really use the other option much, but it is nice to have it available, all-in-one,” one parent shares.
That movement and the Snugapuppy’s 16 soothing sounds — including white noise — are a recipe for naps: “When she is inconsolable and won’t sleep, turn off the lights, strap her in this bad boy with music on medium volume, she is out in 15 mins.” Another parent anticipates it being useful as her son gets older: “The five-point harness seems to be very secure, and I don’t worry about my baby falling out (he’s only 8 weeks old, so it’s not like he’s climbing out just yet). I’d assume it would hold him securely once he gets a bit more mobile, as well.”
Best-rated (less expensive) baby swing
Some compact swings use batteries only, but this dynamic one has the option to use a wall adapter — and the people love it. “I can’t even tell you how many batteries and how fast we went through them with regular swings,” says one reviewer. With its lightweight design and easy assembly, this portable model is a great choice for setting up in baby’s room and for taking it with you. One couple writes, “We love this thing so much that we took it apart, put it in a suitcase, and took it to California to see baby’s grandparents. It comes apart super-easy and lays very flat on the bottom of the suitcase and is easy to put together again. This swing has been a lifesaver for us. It’s nice to have a place to put baby down that is off the floor and that has movement to it.”
And now some micro-picks for every type of baby swing you might be looking for.
Best baby-swing-and-bouncer combo
This all-in-one glider, bouncer, and bassinet “replaced three separate and expensive pieces of baby furniture because of its versatility,” says one reviewer, and most were stunned that they had waited to transition to this multipurpose item. “It’s amazing how one device like this can be such a large part of your daily routines and the time a little person spends inside of it,” says another parent. “Like what a mattress salesman tells you, you’re spending a third of your life in bed so don’t skimp on the mattress, I feel the same about this for our baby. Our only regret is not getting it sooner — cliché as that statement is in a review, it’s oh so true.” Another gushes about the bouncer function: “This is the best replication of being driven in a car you could get from a device. For those babies who sleep so well in the car but not at home, this is your answer.”
Best baby swing for reflux
Parents of infants with reflux rejoice over this clever two-in-one swing and bassinet. “I’ve been looking high and low for a bassinet that would also function as a swing for the first months of our son’s life. When I came across this product, I instantly fell in love with the idea of it,” writes one reviewer. “The cushioned sides cradle him so he feels cozy and confined, and the head of the bed is ever so slightly inclined, which helps tremendously with his reflux,” says another. “I’m able to nurse him and immediately put him back in bed, and I haven’t had him spit up at all.” One mom raves, “I friggin’ love this thing! I got drunk and messaged another mom of a newborn who told me she had the same glider as me in my photos, and we literally spent 20 minutes straight talking about how amazing it is and comparing what different sounds and classical music our newborn daughters preferred.”
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
