Swings can be a great way to keep your baby calm and relaxed. Babies should only use swings until they’re around nine months old, which is the time they will likely outgrow it. Babies can use swings for 30 minutes at a time.

Benefits of Using a Baby Swing

If you are preparing to welcome a little one to the world, or if you already have a baby, you might be looking at baby swings.

Baby swings and bouncy seats are both popular baby items that most parents add to their list. Parents like to have baby swings and bouncy seats to help calm a crying baby.

Baby swings have many benefits and can be a comfortable place for your baby to relax. They can keep the baby secure while you’re doing housework or working from home.

Keep in mind that a swing is not a babysitter. You will need to keep a close eye on your baby if they are in the swing.

As Consumer Reports mentions, a baby swing mimics the motion that your baby felt while in the womb. This is likely why infant swings can be so relaxing.

Using a Baby Swing for an Infant Under 4 Months

When your baby is under four months old, you should keep the swing in the reclined swing position. This position is the safest, as it will prevent suffocation.

According to The American Academy of Pediatrics, if your baby is seated in a different position, they may slouch over and block their airway.

When Should My Baby Stop Using a Swing?

Most babies outgrow their swings when they are about nine months old. At this point, they may look too big for the swing. They might also exceed the weight limit for the product.

It’s important to stop using the swing for your baby at the right time. Any safety guidelines, including weight limits, should be followed to ensure your baby stays safe.

You can use most baby swings until babies are around 20 or 30 pounds, depending on the model. Weight capacity varies, though, so it’s essential to read the product’s guidelines.

Your baby might also learn how to climb out of the swing before exceeding the swing’s weight limit.

Not only could they fall out of the swing and onto the floor, but they can also get tangled in the straps.

How Long Should Parents Keep Baby in the Swings Daily?

While putting your baby in the swing can be convenient, it’s not always a good idea. Babies should only spend about 30 minutes in the swing per day.

When babies are in the swing for a long time, they are at risk of developing plagiocephaly. This condition flattens the back of the baby’s head. It can happen when a baby spends too much time in a swing, bouncy seat, car seat, or other “container.”

If your baby doesn’t spend enough time exploring by rolling, crawling, and sitting, they may become delayed reaching some important milestones.

This is why it’s vital to limit your baby’s time in swings and other “containers.” Babies need to build strength and learn how their bodies work so they can continue to grow.

Should Babies Sleep in Swings?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends for parents not place babies to sleep in swings.

As mentioned, swings can be an excellent tool for putting your baby to sleep. Once your baby falls asleep, you should move them to their crib.

Letting your baby sleep in the swing increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Additionally, babies don’t get deep sleep while moving when they sleep. As infants grow and develop, they should be sleeping deeply.

Even if it was safe for babies to sleep in swings, the sleep quality is not high enough to make it worth it.

Are Baby Swings Safe?

When you buy a baby swing, be sure to read all of the safety guidelines. While doing your research, look into all of the safety standards.

You should only buy a baby swing from a reputable brand to ensure the safety of the product.

As mentioned, you should only let your baby use the swing for 30 minutes per day, so they have plenty of time to explore the world around them.

In addition to not letting your baby sleep in the swing, you should not leave your baby unattended in the swing. Someone should always supervise your baby in case of injury.

You shouldn’t put any blankets or toys in the swing with your baby. This is important in preventing suffocation.

After you buy a baby swing, you should remain aware of any recalls. If you register the product with the manufacturer, you should receive notifications if there are any recalls.

Every time you place your baby in the swing, you should make sure that they are correctly strapped in. Even if you are in the same room as your baby, as you should be, they should be buckled in and secure.

What Do I Do If My Baby Sleeps Well In A Swing?

Maybe you didn’t know about the dangers of your baby sleeping in a swing until now. Your baby might need the swing to fall asleep, or they might be in the habit of only falling asleep in the swing.

To help keep your baby safe, you will need to transition them to the crib. Babies should sleep on a flat surface without anything else in their cribs.

You might have to rock your baby to sleep before laying them in the crib. This rocking motion should work similarly to the swing.

Be prepared for this to take a little while. If your baby has been sleeping in the swing for several months, it will take some time and effort to get them out of this habit.

If your baby still has trouble sleeping outside of the swing, talk to your baby’s pediatrician. There could be an underlying issue contributing to your baby’s sleep problems.

For example, if your baby cries and cries when it’s time to go to sleep, they might have acid reflux. Your baby’s pediatrician might have other recommendations for sleep problems. Sleep training might be right for you and your baby too.

You may have to find someone to help you get a break when your baby is having trouble sleeping.

Your spouse or another family member can step in so you can rest when your baby is fussy and can’t seem to fall asleep.

Though it doesn’t sound like a good idea, it’s essential to transfer your baby from the swing or car seat to their crib.

You might wake them up, but it’s important to keep your baby safe. You will feel better knowing that your baby is sleeping safely.

What is the Snoo Sleeper?

The Snoo Sleeper is a bassinet that rocks softly and can improve a baby’s sleep. It’s a safer alternative to a traditional infant swing. It’s recommended for babies from birth until six months of age.

The main drawback of the Snoo Sleeper is that it’s expensive and might not work for every family.

If it’s in your budget, it might help you and your baby get more restful sleep. There are also rental options that may be more affordable.

Buying a Baby Swing

If you decide to buy a baby swing, you should know that there are many options. When you shop for one, be sure to do your research to find the best one for your baby’s needs. Read reviews online to learn more about each model and how it works.

It would help if you also thought about what’s most important to you. Maybe you’re trying to save money and don’t want to spend a lot on a product that can only be used for 30 minutes each day.

Perhaps you want to find a swing that is the safest option available. Use your priorities to help you narrow it down.

Most baby swings come with various speed settings, vibration levels, and even play music or white noise. Some have hanging toys so your baby can play while rocking.

Because baby swings are meant for your baby to lounge in, they are typically comfortable. If you intend to use a swing for your newborn, make sure the seat is designed to support a newborn. Newborns should lay down so they don’t slouch or suffocate.

Swings Can Be Helpful, When Used Correctly

Swings can be a lifesaver for parents who need a secure place to keep their babies while getting things done.

Babies shouldn’t be in the swing for a long time, though. Babies shouldn’t use swings beyond the age of nine months or when they outgrow their swing.

While swings can be a great way to put babies to sleep, you should never let your baby sleep in the swing and should always supervise your baby.