Spending the night nursing a hungry newborn baby is difficult enough; try doing it in an uncomfortable chair. Nursing can be exhausting as it is the most special experience, so it’s critical to select a breastfeeding chair that will make the experience as comfortable as possible for both you and your baby.
Glider vs Rocking Chair
The decision-making process usually revolves between a rocking chair and a glider when it comes to a specialised nursing chair for your newborn’s room.
Rockers and gliders are the two most useful and practical types of nursery feeding chair designs, and the distinction is in the mechanics behind their movement. Gliders move forward and backwards on a fixed track, whereas rocking chairs rock in an arc (some swivel too). A matching ottoman is frequently available with gliders. However, it usually comes at an additional expense. Gliders let you move back and forth on a stationary frame base, unlike traditional rocking chairs that feature two curved bands at the bottom.
Consider All of the Factors of Comfort
Is it easy on your neck and back? It’s advisable to try out gliders and rocking chairs first, then compare prices later. Remember, you’ll be holding your newborn baby for many days and nights, and you’ll need to be comfortable. Is there enough padding? You may spend hours gliding or swaying. Make sure the seat and armrests have enough comfortable padding. You’ll love the extra comfort. Is it squeaky? That’s the last thing you want your infant to hear in the middle of the night. Is the glider you’re considering on a 360-degree base? It’s fine if you don’t. It isn’t always a deal-breaker. However, it’s a useful function that allows you to turn around to get a brief look at your other children if you have any.
Pick a Stain-Resistant Fabric
Rocking a newly fed infant can be a messy business. It’s a good idea to get a nursery glider or rocking chair with removable and washable cushions or stain-resistant fabrics. Because your nursery chair will be subjected to spit-up and accidents, ensure sure the upholstery is up to the challenge. Choose a fabric that won’t tear and is easy to clean (plus points if it’s machine-washable). Stick to dark colours that will disguise stains better if it fits with your nursery décor.
Choose a Chair With a Wide and Firm Seat
You want your nursery feeding chair to be comfortable, but it shouldn’t be so plush that you sink into it and can’t get back up quickly. After all, once you’ve finally put your kid to sleep, the last thing you want to do is struggle to stand and risk waking up your child. Also, whether you’re feeding or comforting the baby, you’ll need some extra space to walk about and feel at ease. This is especially true if you’re looking for a nursing chair because you’ll most likely attempt a few different breastfeeding positions before deciding on the one or two that feel best for you and your baby.
Additional Features
Many gliders and nursery rocking chair designs have extra features built-in for your comfort, so consider how you’ll use the chair and what extras would be handy. Many gliders, for example, include a 360-degree swivel mechanism, which allows you to rotate the chair in all directions. Others recline with a footrest that pops up. (If you choose a recliner, keep in mind that, as tempting as it may seem, dozing off while holding the baby is a big no-no since they could slide out of your arms. Before you kick it back down, be sure there’s nothing underneath your footrest.) You can even get nursery gliders with USB outlets so you can charge your phone while relaxing.
The Style Matters Too
Finally, you’ll notice that nursing chairs come in various designs. Narrow your options to those that meet not only your budget but also the aesthetic of your home. If you’re planning to buy a nursery glider or rocking chair, make sure it will last a long time. Examine the warranty. Find out how long it lasts and what it includes. Finally, consider how the chair will look in five or ten years when the baby’s room is no longer a nursery. Consider whether this is a chair that will be shared by the family in a common area or one that will just be used in the nursery, and choose a style that complements the space.
Other Important Nursery Elements
Create Your Breastfeeding Station
Once you’ve found the right breastfeeding chair, consider setting up a dedicated feeding station to keep everything you need for nursing your child—as well as a few essentials for yourself—close at reach. Your station could be as simple as a set of drawers or as complex as a rolling cart. Items such as burp rags, towels, nursing pads, hand sanitiser, and breast cream may apply. You should also consider special nursery flooring and playmats.
Safe-Proof Your Nursery Room
Little fingers and toes can be pinched by rocking chairs and gliders. Choose a glider with a stop-lock mechanism that prevents the chair from moving while not in use to avoid mishaps. Make sure that all gear is enclosed and out of reach. If you want to buy a reclining chair, look for one with an easy-to-reach lever or button. When you’re not in the chair, never leave your recliner’s footstool up, and always double-check to make sure the space beneath you is free before putting it back down, just in case your child is crawling around on the floor. Whatever chair you choose, you mustn’t fall asleep with yourself and your child in it.
