I'll be the first to admit that before I had a baby, a swing was not something I considered to be a newborn baby essential [1]. But once the first few weeks went by and I realized I needed a place to put my daughter that would entertain her budding curiosities, I turned to a friend, who said exactly three words to me: swing or bouncer. I did my research and found options that were safe, cozy, had a quiet motor, and kept my daughter happy — whether she was sleeping or wide awake. If you feel like you might need one, check out the best swings and bouncers available.
Shopping for other newborn essentials? Also check out our lists of the best baby gear [2], strollers [3], diaper bags [4], and other baby products [5].
Fisher-Price Moonlight Meadow Cradle 'n' Swing
While the base of this Fisher-Price Moonlight Meadow Cradle 'n Swing [7] ($160) makes this a bulky item, it's well worth the real estate it takes up. It comes with safety straps so once baby starts wiggling around, you can rest assured they'll stay put. There are different music options, and with the push of a button you can rotate the swing itself to give baby a different line of focus.
Baby Bjorn Bouncer Balance Soft
The Baby Bjorn Bouncer Balance Soft [8] ($200) is a family favorite for a number of reasons. It's ergonomic design means baby's hips are always in the correct place, and it has three angles so baby can be near-flat against the ground or up at angle to watch and see what their parents are doing.
4moms MamaRoo 4
The 4moms MamaRoo 4 [9] ($220) is nothing new, but this version has a few additional features, including 25 different motion patterns and speed combinations (which you can control via Bluetooth on your phone so you don't even have to get up!). The seat now fully reclines, you can hook up music or sounds through a phone or iPod with an AUX cable, and the plush fabric is easy to remove and machine washable.
Nuna Leaf Grow
The Nuna Leaf Grow [10] ($290) is motor- and noise-free and a great place for baby to relax.
Graco Simple Sway Baby Swing
The Graco Simple Sway Baby Swing [11] ($75) is a great space-saving option that doesn't sacrifice. It still has six swing speeds, three soft toys on the mobile above, and it plays 15 songs.