by Glenda Thomas

Created on: July 23, 2008   Last Updated: August 04, 2008

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

Make sure the baby/infant/toddler swing is age appropriate. A baby swing is for ages 0-5 months, infant swing is for ages 6-11 months and toddler is ages 12-24 months.
If you are buying a baby/infant/toddler swings online or used check the manufacturer hotline to make sure there is no recall on that particular swing. This is important for safety. When a recall happens, that means some feature has proven to be dangerous.

The baby/infant/toddler swing has a soft surface to shield the child in case they get jumpy or make sudden moves that may cause them to bump their chin or any part of their face.
For outdoors or backyard baby/infant/toddler swings make sure there are restraints like a seat belt so the kids cannot climb out. Toddlers can be very independent as they are learning to walk. So make sure they can be deterred from climbing out of the swing.
A bulky plastic surface is a great safety feature for the baby/infant/toddler swing because there are no sharp corners to worry about. Ouch!
Developmental toys are fun for children to play with while they are swinging. Some baby/infant/toddler swings have music and other movable playthings attached to the front, or hanging mobiles.
A wooden baby/infant/toddler swing that is used outdoors or in the backyard should have a weather resistant coating for safety. Having a coasting on it prevents splinters.
3-position reclining seat is a feature to consider when selecting a baby/infant/toddler swing.
If the baby falls asleep you can simply recline the seat back so you don't have to move the child and wake him/her up. That would defeat the whole purpose!
Washable surfaces are super because whether it is the tray or the seat, spills, spitting, tinkling are bound to happen. It would be nice to be able to take a wet cloth and wipe it off. Luxury fabrics may look fabulous but are not practical for baby/infant/toddler swings.
Speed regulator on the baby/infant/toddler swing there can be as many as 6 speed possible. This is allows you to adjust to the speed that fits your child's mood.

Enjoy the baby/infant/toddler swing you purchase and get the most out it!

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