Consumer Reports: Baby Swings By Brooke Yan

Designed for indoor use, swings for babies usually take a seat suspended by a pair of arms attached to a foot high, metal tube legs. Windup Swings come in and battery-operated models. Windup model to make a swing, to drive a crank on the top or side of the frame, which provides 20 to 30 minutes of movement. Battery-operated swings are driven by a motor that, in general, uses four D batteries These models of low noise emission stirring every step of the way. Most of the swings in the market today are operated with batteries.

Windup mechanism or with a battery, swings are light and can move easily from one room to another, although some are more maneuverable than others. Standard size swing eat a good amount of space, and therefore can not be for you if space is tight.

Some parents of colicky babies swear by swings. Other parents say they get by fine without one. You can find a swing that comes in handy if your baby needs to sleep in a semi-vertical position due to a cold or nasal congestion (although a bouncer seat can also do the trick).

SHOPPING SECRETS

Decide if you want a Windup or battery-operated swing.
Windup A model may be perfectly adequate to the extent that the stability and has good padding, reclining seats that provides easy access. Battery-operated models usually have a more sleek design features such as speed controls, sound-activation of baby toys and connected to a game against tray. However, many parents find it noisy engines. If possible, try to visualize models in the shop (with batteries) or check the store return policy. Then the swing test as soon as I get home so you have the option to take back the deadline.

Treat your baby in the swing of a friend or bring baby to the store with you to the test is performed when you are buying. Keep in mind that your baby may not like the movement of a swing at first, but that could change after a few countries. Reactions your baby may help you decide on one brand over another, or even if you are a candidate for a swing in the first place.

What's available

The leading brands of baby swings are, in alphabetical order: Fisher-Price, Graco, J. Mason, and Kolcraft. Windup swings prices ranging from $ 40 to $ 65. The price range of battery-operated swings is $ 70 to $ 100.

FEATURES TO CONSIDER

Crotch post. A built-in crotch post prevents a baby from sliding off the seat - an additional security measure. You must also have a seat belt, which have the most models.

Marcos. Swings without uppermost that is easier to put your baby and take him or her again. At least, find a swing that has a large, strong or dismantles and folds for storage.

Seat cover. Look for the stuffed toy machine washable.

Adjustment of the seat. Multiple reclining positions can help you find a more gentle for your baby, which is especially important if your baby likes to nap while swinging (a combo).

Speeds. Some battery-operated swings give speeds up to eight, but four is too much. The faster speeds may annoy rather than relax your baby.

Balancing. Some have two swings swinging motions: side to side and front to back. That's nice, but not essential.

Timer. Some models have an indicator of time remaining to help you keep tabs on the action.

Toys. Many come equipped with swings or bars toy shelves, which is an option for your baby can enjoy. But make sure you are within reach so your baby can touch. Make sure also that it is attached and have no small parts that may cause choking.

Nice, but is not necessary to include the extras first tray, with or without attachments toys sound (classical music and lullabies), which may or may not be reassuring for the little ones and adults, with a screen of light; baskets Storage on the side to hold toys and accessories, and a remote control to activate the action of swinging, music, or both. Some sense when attempting to swing baby needs reassurance and respond automatically. A built-in sound sensor "hears" baby's sounds and responds by swinging and / or play music.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Look for a swing that has a solid and stable frame with strong posts and legs, and a great position to prevent tipping. The bottom of the legs or frame should not protrude so far that is likely to trip over them, however. Examine the seat. Should be well padded and have a crotch post (if it is not a travel version) to prevent your baby from slipping out. It must also provide a reclined position for snoozing. We also want to get a seat belt.

If you buy a model with a cot or crib, though, make sure you are well mounted underneath, unable to break loose. If a battery operated swing, come equipped with four C or D batteries to test products in the store and hear the sound of the engine (a murderer-to address many of the parents). As a general rule, the oscillations do not come with batteries included.

Copyright © 2002-2006 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.

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