Playards

Of course, there's nothing like Mommy's arms, but let's face it: A lady needs her limbs for other things now and then. Where will your baby hang while you do the dishes and trim your nails? For swings, your options range from fully loaded models packed with tunes, vibrations, multi-positions, and toys galore to a simple frame that swings your car seat. There are even a few that pop apart so you can tote baby around the house.

One of my favorite new features in baby swings is the bidirectional swing. With these, you can rotate the seat 90 degrees, making for a side-to-side rocking motion, like a cradle. This function works wonders to keep babies soothed, and you'll see this feature in most of my top picks.

But, as you're probably finding with most baby gear, no one swing works best for all babies. My advice is to take a good, hard look at the features that matter most to you. Living in a small space? Look for options that are more compact. Can't stand the music from most baby toys? Look for volume control (and an “off” switch!) and try to listen to the sounds before making a purchase. Above all, be sure the harness will keep your baby from sliding or slumping, and check that the seat feels comfy and sturdy. With an informed purchase and a little bit of luck, your biceps will get a much-needed break.


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