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Amazed at how your neighbors' kids are always squealing in delight while yours are always squabbling over one toy or the other? One day you peered over the fence and saw their secret. Why, the crafty Jones' possess a baby/infant/toddler swing!

You simply had to get one too! Now, how to select the best baby/infant/toddler swing?

These are the top 10 things to look for when buying a baby/infant/toddler swing:

Safety- Most commercial baby/infant/toddler swings today have been accredited one way or another in terms of safety measures. Refrain from homemade models or and hand-me-downs. Rough edges, leaded paint, unreliable workmanship are a thing of the past.

Comfort- Most modern baby/infant/toddler swings comprise of a harness. Some have latches to provide security but may be made of corduroy that can be painful. Beware of metal clasps or vertical chains with sharp edges.

Where to place it? Make sure you have dedicated enough space for it (Remember to anticipate the swing' distance. It is amazing how many fail to take this into account).

Type - this depends on the way you swing (not the kind of swinging you are thinking of) Do you prefer a face-to-face to a bench type? There are some models out there which feature really creative harnesses.

Feasibility - some baby/infant/toddler swings could only accommodates only a child of a certain age. This would be impractical if you have only one little one. There are models that can accommodate a wider age range, by simply changing the harness size.

Price - Most baby/infant/toddler swing cost between $400-$2000 and can vary greatly. Like all wise consumers, a little budgeting goes a long way. The most expensive swing does not mean it's the most suitable one.

Maintenance - Commercial baby/infant/toddler swings usually come with a 1 year warranty and beyond that is fair game. One way to ensure longevity of your baby/infant/toddler swing is to avoid abuse (exceeding weight capacity, exposure to weather).

Style - this may sound superficial but if the baby/infant/toddler swing is going to be part of the permanent garden furniture, it may as well look good! Many manufacturers are able to custom-design parts of the swing to fit into your garden's theme, without compromising on safety and comfort.

Capacity - If you have 2 children now with 2 more in mind, you might want to look at bigger models that can accommodate more harnesses; or even custom-build one!

Consumer satisfaction - Bring along your baby/infant/toddler to buy your baby/infant/toddler swing! Chances are; if they like it in the store they will enjoy it at home. Imagine purchasing a baby/infant/toddler swing and have it collect cobwebs in the garden.

Learn more about this author, Ernie Yap.
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