Any seasoned parent will tell you that most of your time will be spent in the nursery. And because of that, there’s one piece of furniture you should never do without – a nursery glider. Whether it’s late night feedings, bedtime reading, or just you sleeping after a long day of handling a fussy baby, you’re going to need a comfortable seat to get you through.

A nursery glider may not be a necessity for some people. After all, any kind of chair will do, especially if you’re bonetired. But a nursery glider does something that no other chair will do – it has a subtle, rhythmic motion that soothes your baby and induces sleep. And while rocking chairs generally do the same thing, they lack the comfortable padding that nursery gliders do.

Naturally, finding the perfect nursery glider isn’t just looking for one that suits your nursery’s theme (though we understand its importance). It’s also about personal preferences and budget. Among the hundreds of choices in the market, we’ve found 10 that any sleep-deprived parent will love.

The Nurture& Glider

The Nurture& Glider is the ultimate nursery glider built with parents and babies in mind. The Nurture& team interviewed hundreds of parents to come up with the ideal nursery glider. This electronic power recliner features adjustable head support, smooth glide functionality, spill and stain-proof non-toxic fabrics, and a built-in USB charger, and is adjustable and comfortable for every parent.

With fully adaptable power functionality, you can gently adjust your back, legs, and head at the touch of a button. More movement means more opportunities to find a comfortable position, without bothering your resting baby.

Superior construction with a birchwood frame, extra padded cushions and a lifetime warranty on all moving parts also guarantees that the glider can continue to adapt to your growing family and stand up to the test of time (and toddlers).

DaVinci Owen Upholstered Swivel Glider

The DaVinci Owen Swivel Glider is one of the best nursery gliders on the market today. It is designed to offer parents maximum comfort and support. This nursery chair features heathered polyester fabric upholstery, cream piping, and four white button tufts. These features give the chair a classy look. The polyester fabric is soft and with no chemical retardants. It’s also easy to keep clean. Just wipe with a cloth. You never have to worry about accidental spills.

DaVinci Owen’s back measures 27 inches. This height is perfect for both tall and short parents. In addition, the chair is well padded to provide lower back support. It also comes with a pillow to provide for additional back support.

Its metal base allows for forward and backward motion and 360-degree swivel motion. This nursery glider has a side storage pocket where you can store your essentials. Also, the DaVinci Owen comes with a bonus upholstered ottoman.

The ottoman has a removable top that allows you to access the hidden storage. You can use this to keep toys out of the way. The DaVinci Owen Glider can hold up to 300 lbs and complies with CA TB117-2013 flammability requirements.

Storkcraft Custom Hoop Glider and Ottoman (Expresso/grey)

With the capacity to hold up to 250 lbs, the Storkcraft Custom Hoop Glider and Ottoman is all you need to add style and comfort to the nursery. This beautiful glider features a wooden frame that is sturdy and durable. You will be impressed by the generous cushioning on the backrest and armrests.  This ensures your back gets the proper support and you get a soft comfortable landing for your tired arms.

Its polyester upholstery is soft yet durable. It is also easy clean. The upholstery is available in 15 different colors. You will be spoilt for choice. The Storkcraft’s seat measures about 20 inches. This generous seating space can accommodate most people.

Just like our previous pick, this glider comes with a matching ottoman where you can place your feet while feeding.  Unfortunately this ottoman does not have a storage compartment like our previous pick. Other features we like include the inclusion of metal ball bearings that allow for smooth, effortless gliding and the roomy side pockets. This stylish nursery glider will be a great addition to the nursery and will last through several babies.

Storkcraft Custom Hoop Glider and Ottoman (White/grey)

When it comes to comfort and stability, you can never go wrong with the Storkcraft Custom Hoop Glider and Ottoman. The chair requires some assembling and it will take you under 30 minutes to set up.  This 2018’s Women’s Choice Award winner has a lot to offer. It is constructed from solid wood that ensures it lasts long after the baby has grown. The wooden frame is available in several colors, allowing you to choose a tone that best matches the nursery’s décor scheme.

This glider comes with thick cushioning that provides support to your back and arms.  The cushions are available in 10 different colors which include yellow gingham, grey, denim blue, and more. The Hoop Glider and Ottoman provides you with ample storage space. You get two side pockets that can fit toys, baby books, and other essentials. This Storkcraft glider comes with a perfectly matching ottoman. Both the glider and ottoman and incorporated with ball bearings for effortless and quiet motion. This nursery glider comes with a wide seat, 20-inch width, and has a capacity of 250 lbs.

Graco Parker Semi Upholstered Glider and Nursing Ottoman

The Graco Parker Semi Upholstered Glider and Nursing Ottoman is what every nursing parent needs to calm and feed a fussy baby. This glider by Storkcraft features a stylish modern look and will provide the utmost comfort to any parent and their baby.

This nursing chair is available in four attractive colors. You can pick on the blends perfectly with your nursery’s color scheme.  The chair features plush cushioning on the back and armrests. This offers the comfort you and your baby needs during those sleepless nights. The cushions allow for spot cleaning. Your glider will come with a beautiful matching ottoman.

The top part of the ottoman features plush padding for your feet’s comfort. The ottoman features a pull-out stool for added comfort. For easy storage, the nursing stool folds easily under the ottoman. We also like the smooth, quiet gliding motion that both the glider and ottoman offer. This unique combo will make feeding time easier and more enjoyable for you and your tot.

Baby Relax Mikalya Swivel Gliding Recliner

The Baby Relax Mikalya is a nice-looking chair that every exhausted parent will appreciate. It has various comfort features that will turn the nursery into your most favorite room. We particularly like that the chair combines the three motions, recline, glider, and swivel, into one chair for ultimate comfort and functionality.

Like our previous picks, it features white button tufting which gives the chair a stylish look. The backrest is foam padded to give you that comfortable and soft feeling. The seat is wide enough to hold most people.  It is fitted with springs that add comfort and also act as shock absorbers.

Another feature that stands out is the plush armrests. This gives you a comfortable resting place for your arms. This nursing chair comes with a metal base with an enclosed ball bearing mechanism. The ball bearing system allows the chair to glide, swivel, and recline effortlessly and quietly. The swivel mechanism allows you to spin the chair at 360 degrees while glide function enables you to move the chair forward and backward easily.

The recline function allows you to lean back and relax after a long day. As the Mikalya reclines, a footrest pops out of the seat to provide a comfortable spot to rest your aching feet. All these functions are controlled by a button on the chair. This recliner, glider, and swivel chair will be a great addition to your home.

Babyletto Madison Swivel Chair (Mocha microsuede)

If you are looking for a space-saving nursing chair, we recommend the Babyletto Madison Swivel Chair. This nursing chair can fit in any corner of the nursery. It is available in mocha, a color that is both cool and attractive.

Microsuede material has been used to cover the chair. We particularly like this material because it is stain-resistant and water-resistant. This feature is important because babies are messy and there is bound to be accidental spills, diaper overflows and more.  This Madison swivel chair is designed with your comfort and safety in mind. For safety, it sits close to the floor, ensuring it won’t tip easily.

For comfort, the Madison nursing chair comes with a rounded back with thick padding. Due to the rounded back design, the seat is more spacious and comfy. You sit on the chair while using a nursing pillow. You will also appreciate the armrests’ unique design that offers maximum support. One of the drawbacks of a rounded-back chair is the back is too low to lean against.

Babyletto makes up for this by incorporating the Madison Chair with a 360-degree swivel mechanism. This chair is super quiet and functional.

Dutailier Sleigh Glider-Multiposition Recline Ottoman Combo

Another functional option to consider is the Dutailier Sleigh Glider-multiposition Recline Ottoman Combo. Several features stack up to make this chair one of the best nursery gliders. To ensure its user is comfortable, the Sleigh Glider comes with a cushy back that is high enough to support tall parents. Its 21-inch seat is wide enough for you to sit and feed your baby without feeling squeezed.

Its armrests are also padded for comfort. Now, what really sets this chair apart from other nursing chairs is the position lock mechanism and the ability to glide while in a reclined position. These two are the reasons why the Dutailer sleigh is so popular among new mothers.

With the Sleigh Glider you get 6 different gliding positions. In addition, this chair reclines easily. When reclined, you can fully adjust the backrest to suit your needs. The lock feature allows you to lock that position in place. The Sleigh Glider comes with a stylish ottoman where tired parents can rest their legs.  Both the glider and ottoman feature hardwood frames for durability. The white finish lends a classic look to the nursery.  This combo is a perfect pick for any parent on a budget.

Delta Children Harper Glider Swivel Rocker Chair

No parent wants a creaking chair in the nursery.  Designed to ensure quiet movements, the Delta Children Harper Glider Swivel Rocker Chair is all you need to rock your little one to sleep hassle free. This classic, everyday chair is thoughtfully designed to meet your comfort and lower back support needs.

It weighs 79 pounds and ships preassembled. But, is easy to put together. The seat is 19.75 inches wide. Its cushion is 6 inches thick. In addition the cushion is integrated with coil springs for maximum comfort. The Harper’s backrest is long, 20 inches, and foam padded.

This nursery chair is crafted for durability. Its upholstery is made from long-lasting material that can withstand accidental spills, drool, and years of play. The fabric is easy to clean. Just wipe with a damp cloth.

For style the Harper Glider Swivel Rocker chair features button tufts on the backrest that add elegance. The armrests are slim and rolled, giving it a traditional sofa look. This allows the chair to transition easily from the nursery to your living room. This nursery chair is available in three beautiful colors; flax, blush, and charcoal grey.

Baby Relax Tinsley Nursery Rocker Chair

The Baby Relax Tinsley Rocker is a beautifully tailored choice for you and your little one. This nursery glider features a traditional design with modern comfort features. To give it a polished look, the designer has added button tufting on its back and two-tone welting.  To provide maximum comfort, the Tinsley Rocker material is made from microfiber while the seat and back are foam padded.

The cushioning is thick, giving the chair a bouncy feeling. The microfiber fabric is available in three colors and is easy to maintain. You have to spot wash since the cover is not removable. The armrests are well padded for your arms’ comfort and to protect your baby’s head from injuries caused by accidental bumping. Another feature that we like is the legs’ sturdy construction. The feet are crafted from solid wood that is sturdy, durable, and can support up to 225 pounds. This beautiful, quiet rocker will be a great addition to any room in your home.

Storkcraft Hoop Glider and Ottoman

There’s no question that the Storkcraft Hoop Glider and Ottoman is a beautiful piece of furniture. As a nursery glider, it’s even better. The wooden frame is solidly built while the chevron cushion is both soft and comfortable. What we love about this set is that you can choose from a variety of finishes and padding colors to match your nursery or the rest of your home. Enclosed metal ball bearings ensure smooth gliding for both the chair and the ottoman. And there are even side pockets where you can place items you want within easy reach. However, this is not an ideal option for taller or wider than average individuals. Also, we do wish that the back was slightly taller to give better head support. While the padding is comfortable, it’s not as plush as we’d like.

Angel Line Windsor Glider and Ottoman

The Angel Line Windsor Glider and Ottoman set looks quite similar to the Storkcraft model. It actually has a lot of the same features – sturdy wooden frame, comfortable padding, enclosed metal bearings, and side pockets. There are a couple of things that make this chair stand out from our number one pick – this chair is less expensive and is able to accommodate tall individuals (though we’d still prefer the back to be higher for more head support). Also, the padding is a bit thinner and there have been durability issues. If you’re not planning on using this chair for years to come, this is a steal.

Baby Relax Mikayla Swivel Gliding Recliner

Now, this nursery glider from Baby Relax doesn’t look anything like our previous picks. It actually reminded us of La-Z-Boy. The Mikayla Swivel Gliding Recliner features a spring core foam filled seat for comfort and support, a track arm design for resting your weary arms, white button tufting and white welt trim for a classy look, and a lever that lets you recline for some comfy snuggle time. Aside from gliding and reclining, this nursery glider also swivels. And who needs an ottoman to take up all that extra space when there’s a leg rest that goes up when you use the built-in easy-pull mechanism. However, it doesn’t glide when reclined. And it isn’t easy to push the leg rest back into place, especially for short individuals. There are no side pockets with this chair.

Naomi Home Brisbane Glider & Ottoman Set

The Naomi Home Brisbane Glider & Ottoman Set is another nursery glider that features a wooden frame with removable padding. While it’s not as comfortable as some other gliders, it also isn’t as expensive. It features a lot of the same things such as enclosed ball bearings for smooth gliding motion and side pockets. We loved that it had a high enough back that tall individuals can comfortably rest their heads in the chair. Plus, the seat was wide enough that even bigger than average individuals can comfortably fit in it. However, the padding could be better. There’s no locking mechanism. And the cushions tend to slide around a bit which exposes the wooden frames. If you’re on a tight budget and would like a nursery glider that provides medium comfort, then this may be for you.

DaVinci Olive Glider and Ottoman

The Davinci Olive Glider and Ottoman set is one of our favorites because it features a high back with a lumbar pillow, perfect for any individual who is looking for head and lower back support. The fabric is 100% durable heathered polyester which is soft and feels comfortable against the skin. Aside from gliding, this chair features a metal base that allows you to swivel 360 degrees. As an added bonus, this chair has a max weight limit of 300 pounds which is a lot higher than most other gliders we’ve reviewed. However, the seat is not wide so this may be a tight fit for larger individuals. There are no side pockets though you can use the ottoman as a sort of side table for your stuff. And the ottoman doesn’t glide which may not seem like much but if you want your feet up as you rock, it’s not going to be comfortable.

Babyletto Madison Swivel Glider

If space is a huge consideration for you, this nursery chair from Babyletto should be your top pick. The Madison Swivel Glider is designed to have a small footprint, easily fitting in the corner of your room. It can glide back and forth as well as swivel 360 degrees. The fabric is a water-resistant, stain-resistant microsuede for easy clean up. The chair sits low to the ground which is perfect because it won’t tip easily. The best thing about this chair is that it can easily be used in any room in the house and it won’t stand out. And this chair has enough room to let you use a nursing pillow while feeding your baby. However, the back is on the low-side so you’re definitely not going to be able to nap in this chair, at least not comfortably. It doesn’t come with an ottoman which isn’t surprising because it’s a space-saving option. And there’s no locking mechanism.

Dutailier Multiposition Sleigh Glider with Ottoman

The Dutailier Sleigh Glider looks similar to a lot of other nursery gliders on our list with its wooden frame and removable padding. However, one thing that sets this apart from the others is the fact that this model reclines! We love the fact that it has a very high back and it allows you to comfortably rest at an incline of your choosing. Yes, you read that right. Unlike other models we’ve reviewed, this one features a locking mechanism that allows you to stop the glider at your desired position (6 positions to choose from). The included ottoman also glides just as smoothly. And to answer your question, it glides even when reclined. However, the chair is incredibly expensive. It is a bit narrow for individuals with thicker thighs. And there are no side pockets.

Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Recliner and Swivel Glider

This nursery glider from Babyletto is like no other. Yes, it certainly looks just like a La-Z-Boy, especially with its built-in leg rest. But there’s one feature that you won’t be seeing anywhere else on this list – electronic control panel with a USB charging port. The chair smoothly glides back and forth. It also swivels though it is limited to 270 degrees. We love that it’s so easy to recline and get back up with just the push of a button. It is a wingback style which makes it easier to blend in your living room or study as soon as your child has outgrown it. There’s extra lumbar support which we also appreciate. What we don’t like is the price; you definitely should have a lot of money to spare if you plan on buying this chair. Also, we expected this nursery glider to have a locking mechanism but this doesn’t. The problem with having an electronic recliner is that if it breaks down, you’re unable to use it until you get it repaired.

Naomi Home Odelia Swivel Gliding Rocker

The Naomi Home Odelia Swivel Gliding Rocker reminded us a lot of the Baby Relax Mikayla with its classy design, built-in leg rest and pull mechanism, and full range of motion – swivels, glides, and reclines. One difference is the padded foot rest is adjustable which is perfect if more than one individual is planning on using the chair, ensuring everyone’s comfort. The fabric on this one feels very soft, almost like velvet. The pull mechanism is easier to engage on this one when putting the leg rest up. However, some parents have complained about how difficult it was to push back. Also, it won’t lock in recline position. You’ll need to put your weight on it to keep it there which isn’t ideal for lightweight individuals.

DaVinci Piper Reclining Glider

The DaVinci Piper is a nursery glider that swivels 360 degrees, manually reclines (there’s a lever), and smoothly glide back and forth. The cover is made of microfiber which makes it easy to clean. It has one of the widest seats we’ve seen at 22 inches and a high back at 26.75 inches. Instead of an ottoman, this chair comes with a plush pop-up leg rest as well as a lumbar pillow for extra support. However, the arms are not very high so you may need an extra pillow to support your arm. Then again, if you do use a nursing pillow, you won’t have a problem placing it over the arms of the chair. The leg rest is a bit difficult to push back into place. There are no pockets for storage. And it doesn’t feature a locking mechanism.

Nursery Glider Buying Guide

A comfortable seat in your nursery is a must-have. Just ask any exhausted parent. Just imagine feeding your baby at 3am in the morning while you stand or sit in a less than comfortable chair. Now you understand. Nursery gliders aren’t nice-to-have furniture pieces. They’re downright essential!

Of course, the market is flooded with options that no sane parent can wade through. At least, not easily. So, how do you find that perfect nursery glider that would provide you with much-needed rest and comfort throughout your sleep-deprived days? Well, you can do that with our guide. We’ve compiled everything you need to know about these special seats so you can make the best choice for you and your baby.

Comfort is THE key.

You’re exhausted. You don’t have the energy to find a comfortable position. All you want is to curl up and get some rest… at least, as much as you can get with a baby in your arms. Obviously, you’re going to want a nursery glider that feels the most comfortable for you. Take note that comfort is very subjective and will differ for each person. What you should consider when sizing up a chair’s comfort level is the amount of support it can give you while seated. Make sure that you get plenty of head and back support like what you’d see with the DaVinci Olive Glider and Ottoman. All parts of your body easily fit inside the chair with room to spare – enough to fit a growing child as well as room to adjust your position if necessary. This is especially important if you’re breastfeeding. Your arms should also be adequately supported by wide, padded arms. If you plan on using a nursing pillow, make sure there’s enough room for it to comfortably fit over or next to the armrests. The DaVinci Piper Reclining Glider, for example, has low armrests which allows you to use a nursing pillow on top.

How easy is it to get out of?

This might seem silly but if you’ve ever sat in a chair that’s too big or too soft, then you know that it’s possible to get stuck in a chair, requiring you to perform acrobatics just to get out. That is definitely something that you don’t want to do while you’ve just finished rocking your baby to sleep. Make sure that you get enough support and that your feet rest comfortably on the floor when sitting on the chair so you can easily get up without disturbing your baby.

How easy is it to clean?

Anything that will be used by your child is bound to get dirty. Kids are inherently messy. That’s an inevitable fact. Whether it’s drool, spilled milk, or diaper overflow, you’re going to have to clean it. So make sure that the seat cover of your nursery glider is easy to take off and clean. Bonus points if it can be thrown into the machine for a wash. The Babyletto Madison Swivel Glider features a water-resistant, stain-resistant fabric which means clean up is done in just a few minutes.

How well is it constructed?

Aside from being easy to clean, you’ll want a fabric that won’t easily fray. The rest of the glider should be equally as durable, if not even more so. A nursery glider should have a solid and sturdy frame. Screws should not easily get stripped or start to fall out. Cushion ties should not be easily ripped off. Also, check the warranty and find out what is covered and for how long.

Will you be able to use it after you child has outgrown the chair?

Think long term. A good nursery glider should be able to stay with your child from cradle to college. Aside from solid construction, you need to think of how much use the chair will be to you when you don’t need a nursery glider anymore. Once your baby is no longer requesting cuddle time or bedtime reading with mom and dad, will he or she still be able to use the chair? If you’re planning on moving it out of the nursery, will you be able to use the glider in your living room or guest room? No matter how cute the style of the glider is, ask yourself if it’s something that will still look good to you and your child 5 to 10 years from now.

Does it have a locking mechanism?

To make it easier for you to stand up with a sleeping baby, some gliders like the Dutailier Multiposition Sleigh Glider with Ottoman will have a locking mechanism which stops sit from rocking. This is also a good safety precaution against pinching curious fingers and toes. For increased safety, look for nursery gliders that have its gears encased and out of reach. Also, check for gaps between the chair and its base that could potentially hurt your child.

What other features should I look for?

Reclining seat: some gliders like the Baby Relax Mikayla Swivel Gliding Recliner will let you recline your seat for additional comfort. It also helps when you’re comforting a sick child.

 

Swivel: some gliders will allow you to change the direction of where you’re facing, enabling you to rotate a full 360 degrees. A helpful feature if you’re watching over other kids in the room. The Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Recliner and Swivel Glider is a nursery glider that swivels 270 degrees while others like the Naomi Home Odelia Swivel Gliding Rocker swivels a full 360 degrees.

 

Side Pockets: this allows you to keep certain items on hand whenever you sit down with your baby such as burp cloths, books, and maybe even your phone. The Storkcraft Hoop Glider and Ottoman, for example, comes with two side pockets for storing stuff you want to keep within easy reach.

Do I need an ottoman?

Not really but it does up the comfort factor of a nursery glider by a lot. Many nursery gliders come with an ottoman which is great if you want to put your feet up after a long day taking care of the little one. Some gliders will have a matching ottoman sold separately. If you’re going to get an ottoman, it’s best to choose the one that goes with your nursery glider because it has been calibrated to move with the same motion. The Naomi Home Brisbane Glider & Ottoman Set, is just one of many nursery gliders on our list that come with an ottoman.

One last thing…

Before you make your final decision, test it out. You’ll never know how well a nursery glider will work for you if you haven’t tried it. Below are some questions you will need to ask while testing:

• Do you feel comfortable sitting in it?
• Does it have enough wiggle room for you or your partner?
• Does it provide you with plenty of support?
• Are your feet comfortably flat on the floor?
• How about the ottoman? Does your feet comfortably rest on it?
• How does the fabric feel on your skin?
• How easy is the glider to lock and recline?
• Does it glide smoothly?
• What’s the max weight limit?