Best Nursery Gliders — Buyers Guide, Review, and Comparison
When you’re preparing your nursery, there are a million different pieces that you think you need. The best nursery glider is one of them, offering a comfortable and relaxing place for you to feed and comfort your baby. They’re perfect for those late-night feeding sessions. After all, there is nothing more beautiful than being able to bond with your baby in the nursery. Reading, snuggling, and singing are also fantastic options with one of these gliders. They have the potential to enhance the interaction between you and your little one in the nursery.
The Dutailier Ontario glider is made from high-quality materials and incorporates Technogel — exclusive to the brand — making it one of the most comfortable nursing chairs. Its sealed ball bearings offer effortless motion, plus it arrives with a glide-in-tandem design ottoman.
- Multi-position locking mechanism.
- 45-degree recline allows for a fully adjustable backrest.
- Smooth gliding mechanism — sealed ball bearings.
Product Rating: 4.9/5
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|
 Dutailier Ontario Technogel Glider Chair | Color options: 8 Ottoman included: Yes Maximum weight: 300 pounds Multi-position: Yes
| CHECK PRICE AT AMAZON Traveling Baby Review |
 Dutailier Erie Technogel Glider Chair | Color options: 6 Ottoman Included: Yes Maximum weight: 300 pounds Multi-position: Yes
| CHECK PRICE AT AMAZON Traveling Baby Review |
 DaVinci Olive Upholstered Swivel Glider | Color options: 5 Ottoman Included: Yes Maximum weight: 300 pounds Multi-position: No
| CHECK PRICE AT AMAZON Traveling Baby Review |
 Angel Line Monterey Glider & Ottoman | Color options: 4 Ottoman Included: Yes Maximum weight: 250 pounds Multi-position: No
| CHECK PRICE AT AMAZON Traveling Baby Review |
 Angel Line Windsor Glider & Ottoman | Color options: 16 Ottoman Included: Yes Maximum weight: 250 pounds Multi-position: No
| CHECK PRICE AT AMAZON Traveling Baby Review |
 Naomi Home Odelia Swivel Glider Rocker | Color options: 3 Ottoman Included: No Maximum weight: 250 pounds Multi-position: Yes
| CHECK PRICE AT AMAZON Traveling Baby Review |
Best Nursery Gliders Buying Guide
The best nursery glider can be a great addition to any baby’s bedroom, offering comfort and versatility — after all, you’re going to be spending a lot of time in there, best to have somewhere to sit.
Deciding whether or not a glider will complete your nursery can be a difficult choice. But having all the pros and cons can help you make the right decision.
Let me explain all.
Do You Need a Nursery Glider?
To be honest, you could probably manage without one. But you will need something to sit on while in your baby’s nursery and they’re a useful piece to have in there. Personally, I only had a glider with my two youngest and even now, at three and 4 years old, it’s still taking pride of place in their room and being used daily.
A glider offers you comfort and support while you take care of your baby’s needs — whether this is feeding, sleeping or simply having a cuddle. It also has the potential to grow with your child and provide a great place for reading those bedtime stories.
Gliders can be used for a range of purposes:
- Nursing your baby.
- Rocking your little one to sleep.
- Soothing and comforting a fussy baby.
Pros of Using a Glider
- As they ‘glide’ along a fixed track, motion is smooth and quiet.
- Once it has outlived its purpose in your nursery, it can be ‘recycled’ as a beautiful relaxing chair elsewhere in your home.
- They offer a great place to soothe, comfort, and bond with your baby.
- A glider gives you the opportunity to rest and relax.
Cons of Using a Glider
- As they travel along a fixed track, movement is restricted. As in, you can’t affect the level of intensity by a great amount.
- Some gliders can’t be locked in place, hence, there is the potential for little fingers to get caught in the mechanism once your baby is mobile.
- Gliders may not be suitable for a nursery with limited space.
What Types of Gliders Are There?
Traditional Glider
A traditional glider design is based on that of a wooden rocking chair and provides the back and forth motion you would expect. They’re typically made of wood with upholstered cushions. They’re available in a wide range of different colors, so you’re certain to find one to fit in with your nursery decor. And, most include a matching ottoman, allowing you to raise your feet and get truly comfortable.
Many of these traditional gliders now come with the added feature of being able to lock the gliding mechanism — preventing little fingers from becoming trapped. And many also offer the option of a reclining backrest.
Modern Glider
The modern glider design is now based more on an actual upholstered chair, such as what you would find in your living room.
While typically, the cushions aren’t removable, this modern concept does lend itself a wider range of fabrics such as a leather rocker glider — which would be more serviceable and easy to clean.
Many of these modern gliders not only offer back and forth motion but also a 360-degree swivel. The ability to recline, ottomans or built-in footrests are also common features.
What to Look For When Choosing A Glider
While aesthetics might be high on your list of priorities, here are a few other pointers to help you find the perfect glider for your nursery.
Durable Fabric
No matter whether you choose a modern or traditional glider, they’re going to have to deal with spit-up and spills. Ensure that the fabric you choose is fit for the purpose. Woven materials are preferable as they don’t fray and are easy to spot clean. Light shades are always going to be a better option,as they hide the stains better, but this may not fit with your nursery decor.
Comfort and Support
The best glider should be comfortable to sit in for long periods of time. Cushioned arms and a high enough backrest that supports your head are key design features to consider. The seat cushion should also be firm enough to provide sufficient support.
Seat Width
If you plan on using your glider to breastfeed, which most moms do, you need to make sure that there is adequate space for you to get comfortable. Remember, you may have to try a range of different breastfeeding positions before you find the one that works for your baby.
Another point to think about is that a wider seat will also provide a tot-friendly space for you to read to your child — as they will soon outgrow your lap.
Safety Features
As I’ve mentioned, nursery gliders do have the potential for trapping small fingers. With this in mind, look for one that either has a locking mechanism or where the mechanism is not easily accessible. Plus, this lock can also be beneficial when you just want the chair to be stationary and for ease of getting in and out of it.
Footprint of Glider
Gliders tend to have a smaller footprint than a rocking chair, for example. But they do still take up more room than you expect.
Try to avoid an oversized nursery glider — especially if your allocated space is on the small side. Also, take into account the space required for the gliding motion — if you’re positioning at an angle in the corner, is there enough clearance around it?. There is nothing worse than finding the perfect glider and realizing it won’t fit in your nursery.
Our Picks of the Best Gliders
So that you can find the best glider for your individual needs, I’ve put together my favorites for you — covering the different types mentioned above.
Dutailier Ontario Technogel Glider Chair
The Dutailier Glider is an amazing choice for new parents. Available in a wide range of tasteful colors and wood finishes, there should be no problem in finding the perfect match for your nursery decor.
It comes with a super smooth gliding mechanism thanks to the sealed ball bearings — allowing for a quiet and gentle glide while nursing your baby. What’s more, a multi-position locking mechanism and 45-degree recline enable you to find the most comfortable position.
The comfort factor is further enhanced by its use of Technogel. This proprietary padding is world-renowned for both its comfort and quality. It also provides a cooling sensation when you sit down — preventing hot spots.
A gliding ottoman is included, which allows you to take the weight off your feet and relax.
PROS
- Technogel is used for superior comfort.
- Multi-position lock mechanism.
- 45-degree recline position.
- Smooth gliding mechanism.
- Available in eight colors and wood finishes.
CONS
- Seat area could be bigger.
Dutailier Erie Technogel Glider Chair
The Dutailier Erie arrives pre-assembled and only requires you to put in place four screws and cushions — ideal for parents who don’t have the time or inclination to tackle flat-packed furniture.
Its reclining backrest is activated by body pressure — providing you with hands-free operation. Plus, once you’ve found your comfy seat angle, the locking mechanism allows you to tailor the position to your height. This means mom and dad, even grandma can take a turn.
Available in six different colors and wood finishes, it’s made from solid hardwood and comes with a five-year limited warranty. This offers buyers great peace of mind when making a purchase like this.
The Erie features Technogel cushioning, which provides adequate support, regulates temperature and alleviates pressure — ideal for those night feeds that seem to go on forever. The Technogel also prevents the seat from sagging or flattening over the life of the glider.
Additionally, an ottoman accompanies the glider, so you can raise your legs and lounge away.
PROS
- Multi-position backrest and locking glider.
- Available in six colors and wood finishes.
- Super easy to assemble.
- Aesthetically pleasing design.
CONS
- Not the most budget-friendly nursery glider.
DaVinci Olive Upholstered Swivel Glider
The Davinci Olive could be of interest to those with limited space. Its footprint is more compact in comparison to the traditional-style rocking gliders. This is what makes it one of the best gliders for small nursery setting.
This chair offers a slightly different twist on the traditional glider. As well as the usual back and forth glide action, it offers a 360-degree swivel motion — providing you with that extra flexibility to face any direction and grab that burp cloth you forgot to pick up.
It arrives with a GREENGUARD GOLD certification. This means that it has been rigorously tested for over 10,000 chemicals, emissions and VOCs. So, you can be sure that no harmful chemicals are being introduced to your baby’s nursery environment.
The DaVinci comes with a high back for resting your head, a lumbar pillow for extra back support and an ottoman to put your feet up. This combo allows you to get completely comfortable while nursing your baby.
PROS
- GREENGUARD GOLD certified.
- 360-degree swivel, as well as back and forth motion.
- Lumbar support cushion included.
- Lightweight and easy to move around.
CONS
- Constant movement may not appeal to everyone.
Angel Line Monterey Glider & Ottoman
If you want the freedom to feed, soothe or cuddle your baby around your home, the Angel Line Monterey glider could be worthy of a closer look. Weighing 33.5 pounds, it’s light enough to move from room to room without too much effort.
It comes in four different colors and wood finishes that can be mixed to suit your nursery colors. It also features side pockets — handy for keeping those baby essentials close by. And, the ottoman also glides, so you can rest your legs.
This is one of the only gliders where the foam inserts can be removed in order for the covers to be washed by hand (not machine washable). The cushions can also be removed for spot cleaning.
PROS
- Lightweight at only 33.5 pounds.
- Fabric is heavy-duty and durable.
- Side pocket is perfect for storing books and other small items.
- Quick and easy to assemble.
CONS
- Stability might be an issue for some.
Angel Line Windsor Glider and Ottoman
The Windsor Glider is available in sixteen different colors and wood combinations — from neutral tones through to a pink nursery glider option that’s ideal for moms and dads with a little princess.
It comes with a spacious seating area and includes storage pockets in both the arms of the chairs — perfect for storybooks. The glider and ottoman are made with a solid wood frame, making them both stable and durable.
Additionally, the Windsor cushions can be removed for quick and easy spot cleaning.
PROS
- Removable cushions for spot cleaning.
- Strong and sturdy construction.
- Very comfortable and supportive.
- Great for breastfeeding.
CONS
- Gliding action could be quieter.
Naomi Home Odelia Swivel Glider Rocker Recliner
The Naomi Home Swivel glider is available in three colors and has a more contemporary feel than the traditional nursery gliders. With its square design and padded arms, as far as modern glider chairs go, it would look just as at home in your living room as in your nursery.
It includes a built-in footrest, which is super convenient as it takes up less space. And, when not in use, can be tucked out of the way — unlike an ottoman. It also comes with a 360-degree swivel motion — enabling you to reach things around you more easily.
The Naomi glider offers a comfortable and spacious seating area, plus it reclines, allowing you to enjoy ultimate relaxation while bonding with your baby.
It also has minimal assembly requirements and is high-backed, meaning it’s great for those of above-average height.
PROS
- Easy to assemble.
- Recliner and space saving footrest.
- Great for those of above-average height.
- Super-sleek modern look.
CONS
- Footrest can be tricky to put down.
Conclusion
If you think about the amount of time you spend feeding, soothing and cuddling your little one. A comfortable chair, such as a glider, can offer you a place to do all of these things — and give you the chance to unwind.
What’s more, the added benefit is that they can grow with your child and still be their favorite place — even as a preschooler snuggling up for storytime.
Before deciding on one of the many choices, first, decide on the available space in your nursery. Next, consider the comfort and support factor — do you intend to sit for long periods of time, does it come with additional support such as lumbar cushions or an ottoman?
And, most importantly, ensure that out of all the best nursery gliders available, you choose the right one for you and your baby!
Glider FAQs
Is a Glider Rocker Really Necessary?
No, a glider is not going to be the most essential piece of equipment for your nursery. That said, if you have a baby who likes to be rocked to sleep or simply finds the motion of a glider soothing, they can be worth their weight in gold.
Are Gliders Safe for Babies?
Gliders are safe for babies as long as you take precautions. For example, if you’re feeding your baby with a curious toddler around, gliding isn’t advisable — as little fingers can easily get caught in the mechanism.
What Is the Difference Between a Rocking Chair and a Glider?
The main difference between a glider and a rocking chair is how they move. A rocking chair has arched feet, which allow it to rock in an arc, while gliders move back and forth on a fixed track. Some also offer the 360-degree swivel.
What Is the Best Nursery Glider?
In my opinion, I would suggest that the best nursery glider is the Dutailier Ontario Technogel Glider Chair. This glider rocking chair with ottoman is available in a range of different colors and wood finishes. It also features a locking mechanism and a 45-degree recline — allowing you to get super-comfortable. The gliding motion on this glider is also smooth, thanks to its sealed, high-quality bearings.
Are Gliders Good for Babies?
Although nursery gliders are not a must-have item, they can definitely come in handy. They’re great as nursing chairs but can also provide a cozy place for you to rock your baby, and this rocking motion can help soothe a fussy baby to sleep.
