Best Nursery Gliders: Buyers Guide And Nursery Glider Reviews

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Published by 
Jess Miller
Last updated: 
February 9, 2023

Adjusting to life with a little one is an adventure full of unpredictable challenges and surprises. You may be amazed by how much time you spend sitting with a baby, whether that is nursing during the day, relaxing before bed or playing after naptime. You provide the most comfort to your child when you are comfortable as well, which is why it is important to have a supportive nursing chair in the corner of the nursery.

There are many things to consider when selecting the best nursing chair for your home, and navigating the numerous designs and features can get overwhelming. This article goes through the importance of a nursing chair, the basics of selecting the perfect one and a list of our favorite chair options.

Nursery Glider FAQs

Having a designated space for feeding and cuddling your baby is one way to establish routines and patterns that are important when raising a child. Part of that designated space is a proper nursing chair. One popular nursery chair design is the nursery glider. A nursery glider provides a soothing motion to relax both mom and baby during their time together. To prepare you for a rundown of the best nursery glider options, here are the answers to a few common questions about nursing gliders:

What is a nursery glider?

A nursery glider is a type of chair developed in the twentieth century that slides forward and backward on suspension arms, as opposed to the up and down rocking motion of a more traditional rocking chair. It is commonly used in nurseries.

Who benefits from a nursery glider?

Nursery gliders provide both comfort and support. The soothing gliding motion relaxes the baby, and the extra padding supports the back and neck of the baby’s caretaker during long periods of sitting.

How to choose a nursery chair?

Pick a chair that provides the most comfort to the primary caretakers of the baby. Comfort can be influenced by extra cushioning, reclining technology or an additional ottoman. Select easy-to-clean fabrics to improve the lifespan of the chair and a design that aligns with your nursery vision.

How to clean a nursery glider?

Some gliders come with removable cushion covers that can be removed and tossed into the washing machine. When this isn’t the case, approach washing a glider the same way you wash other furniture. Vacuum it clean, and then blot it down with a stain-removing solution. An enzyme stain remover is ideal for getting out breast milk stains. Finish by blowdrying the cleaned area.

Different Types of Nursing Chairs

Barton Upholstered Nursery Glider Rocking Chair

Rocker nursing chairs are a classic, familiar chair that is also economical. The traditional up-and-down rocking motion of a chair is powered by the legs, which means this design it is not ideal for a mom who wants to maintain a soothing motion while putting her legs up.

PROS

  • Easy assembly
  • Traditional appearance
  • plusSmall size

CONS

  • Limited motion when legs are up
  • Stiff wood frame


Recliner nursing chairs have a lower seat than a traditional recliner and include a lever or electronic device that lowers the back of the chair while also raising a footrest. They are a comfortable nursing option that can easily pass as living room furniture. One popular option is the DaVinci Piper All-Purpose Upholstered Recliner.

PROS

  • No ottoman necessary
  • Reclining position for caretaker comfort
  • plusWide arms for nursing

CONS

  • Bulky design
  • Difficult to clean

Glider nursing chairs are a popular nursing chair design that moves in a soothing fashion even when your legs are up and resting on a gliding ottoman. Options such as the Naomi Home Brisbane Glider and Ottoman Set include supportive padding for the arms and neck and often have removable cushions for easy cleaning.

PROS

  • Continuous gliding motion
  • Numerous color options
  • plusEasy to clean

CONS

  • Limited reclining options
  • Takes up space

Highback vs Lowback Nursing Glider

The most important feature to consider when selecting a nursery glider is comfort. This chair is something in which you and other caretakers will spend a lot of time, so while appearance is important, proper support and functionality are even more so.

A highback nursing glider has a taller back that enables one to rest the head against a cushion. This is especially beneficial during late-night feedings. Lowback nursing gliders look more like traditional furniture; however, they may not be as comfortable for taller parents.

nursery glider placed in nursery room

Basic Functions of a Nursery Glider

Nursery gliders are pieces of furniture specifically designed for the comfort of the caretaker, as opposed to other functional nursery items such as the crib and changing table. Extra cushioning and additional gliding ottomans increase the relief-providing functionality of a glider. Comfort meets function with a forward-backward gliding motion that soothes both baby and caretaker.

Mothers will spend the most time in the nursery glider, especially in the early months of breastfeeding. Additional arm padding and back support make those stretches of time more relaxing. When the chair is not used for feeding, it can be used for reading books and pre-slumber snuggles.

Pros of Having a Nursery Glider

  • Provides a relaxing, soothing gliding motion
  • Designed with support for the mother in mind
  • Contributes to a relaxing space designated for the baby
  • checkIncludes features such as easy-to-clean cushions

Cons of Having a Nursery Glider

  • Takes up valuable nursery space
  • Constructed with a lever mechanism that may hurt small fingers

Tips on Choosing the Best Nursery Glider

Every mother has unique preferences when preparing a nursery. When selecting the best nursery glider for that special space, you should balance costs with functionality. You want a chair that will endure through months of rocking and relaxing – and help you make it through those months comfortably as well!

  • Cushions that are easy to clean are important for nursery gliders daily exposed to spills and spit-up. Some chairs have the option of machine-washable cushion covers or extra cushion sets to use between cleanings.
  • Lumbar and neck support must be considered for whoever will be using the chair, as it will be used for long periods of time and the caretaker needs to be comfortable and able to function the next day. Make sure the back of the glider is tall enough to lay back your head.
  • Lever locks protect small fingers from hinges that create the gliding motion. They stop the gliding motion and make it easier for a mother to stand up and leave the chair with the baby.
  • checkDesign in the form of colors and patterns of cushions can make a room appear more comfortable and soothing. There are many color options out there, and it is likely you can find a chair that is comfortable and matches your design scheme.

Most Popular Nursing Glider Brands

Dutailier Logo

1. Dutailier

Dutailier provides exceptional craftsmanship and five popular glider models, including the Grand Modern Glider and the Sleigh Glider. They gliders usually come with an ottoman.

baby relax logo

2. Baby Relax

Baby Relax is a popular brand that offers unique glider models that also swivel or recline. Incorporate contemporary designs that fit in both the nursery and the living room.

windsor logo

3. Windsor

Windsor glider models are more economical, meet basic functions and usually cost less. The popular Windsor Glider and Ottoman set comes in with thirteen color options.

Naomi Home Logo

4. Naomi Home

Naomi Home offers three models of gliders, all with the option of an ottoman. Popular models include the Naomi Home Brisbane Glider and the Naomi Home Mateo Wood Glider.

storkcraft logo

5. Storkcraft

Storkcraft is another reasonable brand with gliders . Two popular models are the Hoop Glider and Tuscany Glider, both of which come with ottomans and classic color options.

Best nursery gliders

Dutaillier Sleigh Glider


The higher cost of the Dutailier Sleigh Glider means increased levels of durability and comfort. This glider can recline and lock in multiple positions. It has an attractive appearance with wool-like cushions, and it can fit in a reading nook or entertainment room after nursery use.

Features

  • Ottoman included
  • Locking mechanism
  • Reclinable backrest

PROS

  • Six color options
  • Extra supportive padding
  • plusSix different locking positions
  • plusEasy to clean

CONS

  • Limited reclining options
  • Takes up space

Baby Relax Mikayla Swivel Gliding Recliner


Those looking for a contemporary option with clean lines and multiple functions will enjoy the Baby Relax Mikayla Swivel Gliding Recliner. It can fit in either a nursery or a living room and has wide arms ideal for nursing a young one. The chair is medium-to-high cost and provides multiple modes of comfort, as it can glide, swivel or recline.

Features

  • Four color options
  • Glide and swivel motions
  • Lever-activated footrest

PROS

  • Minimal assembly effort
  • Supportive cushioning
  • plusMultiple reclining positions

CONS

  • Cannot remove cushions for cleaning
  • No ottoman included

Windsor Glider and Ottoman


This classic Windsor Glider and Ottoman nursery glider chair design provides basic nursing chair functions at a reasonable cost. Numerous color options, including classic baby blue and funky green chevron, will match a range of nursery designs. It is designed for the nursery, with built-in side pockets for phones and books as well as an additional gliding ottoman.

Features

  • Thirteen color combinations
  • Padded arms
  • Classic design

PROS

  • Side pockets
  • Ottoman included
  • plusRemovable cushion covers for cleaning

CONS

  • No locking mechanism
  • Self-assembly

Storkcraft custom hoop glider and ottoman


Over 93 wooden frame-cushion cover color combinations make the Storkcraft custom hoop glider and ottoman set a great option for the economical mom looking for a nursery accessory that supports basic caretaking functions. The glider is comfortable and includes removable cushions that are easy to clean.

Features

  • Over 90 color combination options
  • Removable cushions
  • Additional gliding ottoman

PROS

  • Arm pockets
  • Easy-to-clean cushions
  • plusOttoman included

CONS

  • No locking mechanism
  • Self-assembly

Naomi Home Brisbane Glider and Ottoman Set


Similar to the Windsor and Storkcraft gliders, the Naomi Home Brisbane Glider and Ottoman Set

provides nursing glider functionality at a reasonable cost. Self-assembly is simple and results in a comfortable, ready-to-use glider. Polyester cushions are easy to clean and replace if necessary.

Features

  • Seven cushion color and frame combinations
  • Matching ottoman

PROS

  • Side pockets
  • Removable cushions for cleaning
  • plusThick, supportive cushioning

CONS

  • Self-assembly
  • No lever lock

Nursing Glider Comparison Table

What’s the Best Nursery Glider?

There are many gliders designed for the comfort of the caretaker and baby. One of the best nursery gliders is the Dutailier Sleigh Glider. This glider includes numerous features that outweigh the costs. The nursery glider chair is designed with durable fabric that can be easily spot-cleaned. This contributes to an attractive design that fits in either a nursery or living room. The multi-locking position function prevents gliding mechanisms from hurting little fingers. Reclining functionality and an additional ottoman allows caretakers to put up their legs while the baby enjoys the soothing gliding motion. In summary, this glider thoroughly fulfills the initial function of a nursing glider: comfort.

How the Best Nursing Glider Was Picked

parent sitting on nursing glider

I’m a mom with kids who love to read, snuggle and put their fingers where they don’t belong. I’m also a mom who needs a comfortable place to relax after a long day of navigating baby swim lessons and chasing kids down the slide. These factors shaped my nursery glider selection.

When looking at gliders, I was drawn to the numerous attractive color options of the Storkcraft and Windsor designs. Their economical prices were also appealing. However, I know my kids, and I know any glider I buy will receive a lot of intensive use. I don’t want a glider that may wear out after a year. The Dutailier Glider is super comfortable and durable. It is easy to take a short nap after nursing by simply reclining the back and resting against the supportive cushions. Plus, it has multiple locking positions, so I’m not afraid someone will get her or his fingers hurt when I leave the room to grab another book. I can already imagine teaching my little ones how to read while gliding back and forth, legs up on the matching ottoman.

Relevant Accessories to Buy

Lumbar Support Cushion

The Memory Foam Back Cushion by Everlasting Comfort is an excellent option for additional lumbar support. If you are feeling any back pain after long periods of sitting with the kids, you should consider placing this accessory on your nursing chair. Some people require more back support than others, and your health is always worth any cost.

Sound Machine

Studies show that white noise or other soothing sounds help lull babies and young children to sleep. If your baby is having trouble sleeping, consider trying one of the twelve sounds or white noise options provided by the SoundBub Sleep Soother. Additionally, Bluetooth functions allow you to bring other music into the nursery through the cute owl-shaped design.

Nursery Glider

Final Review of the Best Nursery Gliders

The nursery is an important place for a child; I still remember planning out the space before my first little one came home. We decided to get a nursery glider so we would have a piece of furniture designated for mother-child time in the nursery. We looked for one with extra arm cushioning and a gliding ottoman. Our glider facilitated so many bonding moments during late night nursing and pre-nap lullabies. It has so many memories worn into its nook and crannies. It is an integral part of our bedtime routine, so much so that I wish I could pack it along with us when we go on vacation!

The right nursing chair shapes precious moments by providing comfort and peace of mind. You’ve heard it again and again: being a mom isn’t easy, but it is worth it. My nugget may drive me crazy at times, but nothing beats resting my head back and letting him fall asleep on my chest as we glide together in our nursery glider chair after evening storytime.

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