Best Rocking Chairs and Gliders for a Small Nursery

Are you currently trying to put together a nursery but are short on space? I know how that feels. Your new bundle of love will need so many things when they arrive, a comfy place to sleep, somewhere to change those endless diapers, and not to mention plenty of storage space. 

Whether you’re a first-time mom with the arrival of your little one fast approaching or even a seasoned mommy veteran, getting your nursery together can be a big undertaking. Luckily for you, I’ve compiled this neat little list of some of the best rocking chairs and gliders for your small nursery.

Rocking Chairs vs. Gliders

You might wonder, what type of chair is best for a nursery? Whether you’re a first-time mom or a veteran, the more you know, the better when it comes to your little one. Here are the five main differences between a rocking chair and a glider.

Movement

The most significant and notable difference between rocking chairs and gliders is in how they move. A rocking chair moves in an arc in a swaying motion and can generate stronger movement. While a glider moves forward and backward on a fixed track. A glider may also have the ability to swivel from side to side.

Size

During my investigation, I noticed another significant difference between a rocking chair and a glider is their size. Since a rocking chair’s design is more straightforward with fewer mechanics, its size tends to fall on the smaller end. Conversely, a glider incorporates more complex mechanics for its movement, so it tends to be larger than a rocking chair.

Appearance

While a rocking chair displays the typical arched legs, lending it its trademark name as a rocking chair. A glider, however, appears similar to a regular chair.

Unfortunately, I’ve noticed that most gliders aren’t available in as many color choices as the rocking chairs were. However, this is a simple fix. If you happen to know the measurements of your glider, you can buy a cover for it in a color or style of your preference.

Features

During my investigation, I noticed that, like a glider, a rocking chair may have cushioned seating, backing, and armrests. However, a glider has a locking mechanism as a safety feature. Many rockers and gliders can recline, but that is more typical of larger chairs.

Price

During my investigation, I noticed that gliders are more expensive than rocking chairs. I suspect this is because a glider involves more complex mechanics for its movement. So its cost is higher than that of the more uncomplicated rocking chair.

Top Five Best Rocking Chairs for a Small Nursery

When it comes to rocking chairs, there are many different options. For your convenience, I’ve included a short list of the five top rocking chairs suitable for a small nursery. I considered their size, features, cost, and reviews to deliver the most comprehensive list to you.

Dolonm Mid-Century Modern Rocking Chair

Best Rocking Chairs - beige rocking chair

This cute rocking chair uses sturdy wood that can support up to 300 lbs and has a comfortable ergonomic design. At the same time, the pouch on the side can keep baby essentials close at hand should you need them.

This rocker has a mid-century modern style and comes in two distinct models. One model comes in 16 colors, while the other model comes in 17 colors. So, you’re sure to find the perfect shade or design that suits the color or theme of your small nursery.

Top reviews say this rocking chair is comfortable and easy to get into and out of, no matter your height.

Buy on Amazon.

KINFFICT Sleek and Modern Rocking Chair

Best Rocking Chairs - ping rocking chair

This stylish rocking chair is perfect for your small nursery, made of soft, skin-friendly velvet or loop-velvet that won’t fade or pill. Its thick foam cushioning and ergonomic high back make it super comfy for rocking your little one to sleep.

Created to hold up to 250 lbs. Designed in a sleek, modern style and available in nine velvet colors and three loop-velvet colors. You’re sure to find the perfect one that suits the color theme of your small nursery.

Top reviews say this rocking chair is cozy and great for those short on space.

Buy on Amazon.

KINFFICT Button-Tufted Rocking Chair

This affordable rocking chair is ideal for small spaces. It features high-quality fabric that is soft and gentle on the skin. The rocker comes in two material options: velvet or loop-velvet, resistant to fading and pilling. Its cushioning is a thick foam and features an ergonomic high back, making it super comfy for rocking your baby.

The maximum weight limit on this chair is 250 lbs. Designed in a cute button-tufted style and available in four velvet colors and five loop-velvet colors. This chair is a great fit for any nursery aesthetic. 

Buy on Amazon.

Volans Rounded Button-Tufted Rocking Chair

Best Rocking Chairs and Gliders for a Small Nursery

This affordable rocking chair is just as sturdy as it is lovely, with the ability to support up to 286 lbs. The comfortable and soft velvet cushioning is ergonomically designed to keep you comfy for long periods and is sized to fit smaller spaces perfectly.

Its round egg-shaped design incorporates support for your back, hip, and legs. This rocking chair features an adorable rounded button-tufted style with availability in six velvet colors.

Top reviews say this rocking chair is just as delightful as depicted and surprisingly easy to assemble. However, the small size might not be ideal for those with larger builds.

Buy on Amazon.

Baysitone Compact Rocking Chair

The most affordable rocking chair on this list is created in a compact design that makes it ideal for a small nursery. The cozy, soft velvet cushioning is ergonomically designed to prevent pilling of the velvet. It is created to hold up to 200 lbs. And is designed in a modern rounded button-tufted style and available in 11 velvet colors.

Top reviews say this rocking chair is comfy despite its compact design, but they recommend using a drill during assembly.

Buy on Amazon.

Top Five Best Gliders for a Small Nursery

With their ability to noiselessly move back and forth and swivel up to 360 degrees, gliders are typically larger than rocking chairs, making them harder to find for a smaller nursery. However, I didn’t let that stop me in my investigation. For your convenience, I’ve included a short list of five top glider chairs suitable for a small nursery. 

Babyletto Cali Pillowback Swivel Glider

Best Rocking Chairs and Gliders for a Small Nursery

At the top of this list is one of the more pricer options for a glider. However, its durable structure, superior stain resistance, and water-repellent recycled materials make it well worth the price. It is capable of swiveling a full 360 degrees. Designed in a versatile modern style and available in three sophisticated color choices.

Top reviews say this glider offers excellent comfort and support, while its removable cushions make it easy to clean.

Buy on Amazon.

Babyletto Madison Swivel Glider

Best Rocking Chairs and Gliders for a Small Nursery

Another of the more pricer options for a glider. However, its durable structure, superior stain resistance, and water-repellent recycled materials make it well worth the price. It is capable of swiveling a full 360 degrees. And it is designed in a rounded modern appearance and available in sophisticated colors and an assortment of fabrics such as velvet, microsuede, boucle, and eco-twill. 

Top reviews say this glider is incredibly durable, easy to clean, and great for small spaces.

Buy on Amazon.

Delta Skylar Swivel Glider

In the mid-range of cost is this modern barrel-style shaped glider. Made from renewable materials and crafted to ensure that it is 100% non-toxic. Created to be easy to clean. You just spot clean with mild soap and water. This stylish glider is available in two refined color choices.

Top reviews say this rocker comes in one piece, so no assembly is necessary, and it’s easy to clean. However, the low back may make it uncomfortable for some if you hold your baby for extended periods in this glider.

Buy on Amazon.

Delta Clair Slim Swivel Glider

Best Rocking Chairs and Gliders for a Small Nursery

In the mid-range of cost is this modern high-backed glider. Made from renewable materials and crafted to ensure that it is 100% non-toxic. Created to be easy to clean. You just spot clean with mild soap and water, but the seat cushion is removable for a more thorough cleaning. The Delta Glider is capable of swiveling a full 360 degrees. This stylish glider is available in one tasteful color choice.

Buy on Amazon.

Christopher Knight Cecilia Swivel Glider

Last but not least is the most affordable option on this list. Created from durable fabrics and made to look pricier than it actually is. With a removable seat cushion that makes cleaning it more manageable. Capable of swiveling a full 360 degrees. This luxe-looking glider is available in one elegant color choice.

Top reviews say this glider is durable and stands up to extensive wear and tear. Although, its low back does not offer lower back support.

Buy on Amazon.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s only natural for questions to arise when you’re researching anything baby-related. Here are the most commonly asked questions regarding rocking chairs and gliders for a small nursery.

Is it necessary to have a rocking chair or glider in a nursery?

While it’s not necessary to have a rocking chair or glider in your nursery, a rocking chair or glider can be an excellent method to get your little one to sleep. Additionally, cradling your baby will help deepen the bond between the two of you and foster a sense of security that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Which is better for a nursery, a rocker or a glider?

Choosing between a rocker and a glider will depend on the movement type you prefer, the look you’re going for in your nursery, and your budget. Remember, gliders include more complex mechanics, and their cost will be higher than that of a rocking chair, which is much simpler in design.

What age are rocking chairs for?

There is no recommended age for rockers or gliders. As long as you are properly holding your baby, you can rock with them starting the day they are born. 

Is a rocking chair or glider good for breastfeeding?

Rocking chairs and gliders are suitable for breastfeeding. It is not crucial that you have a rocking chair or glider to breastfeed your baby. However, it can be beneficial to nurse in a rocking chair or glider because the movement is soothing to the baby.

Is a rocking chair good for newborns?

Yes, a rocking chair or glider is good for newborns. Young infants find the rocking or gliding movement soothing because they are used to feeling movement in the womb. As a result, many parents (myself included), find that they spend hours in the rocking chair during the first few months of their baby’s life. 

What is the best material for a rocking chair or glider?

Rocking chairs and gliders are most commonly upholstered with a heavy cotton-polyester blend fabric. Microfiber is also common, especially for gliders. These materials are durable enough to hold up through the rigors of many children. Most notably, they are tear resistant and easy to clean.

That said, loop velvet and boucle are two materials that are rising in popularity for nursery furniture. Loop-velvet is a soft and tufted teddy fabric, and boucle is a textured fabric made from looped yarn. Both materials add a cozy aesthetic to the nursery. 

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article will help settle your worrying mind when deciding whether to buy a rocking chair or glider for your small nursery. With many choices available, finding the best rocking chair or glider for your small nursery will come down to many aspects, with the size of your nursery and budget being the most important factors to consider.

For more helpful information, check out the other articles on Mommy is a Hero – Blog for Mom Heroes. However, remember, when it comes to doing what’s best for your bundle of love, mommy knows best, so trust yourself. You’ve got this!