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Rocking chairs may seem old fashioned, but they are extremely comfortable.
If you're looking for a great rocking chair, the Baby Relax Mikayla Swivel Gliding Recliner is our top pick, thanks to its reclining capabilities and 360-degree swivel action.
If you look at a rocking chair or glider and think they're only for nursing mothers soothing a baby or senior citizens relaxing on the porch, you're partially right. Certainly, they're two of the more common users. But almost anyone can enjoy a rocking chair, and there are many modern styles to choose from these days.
Rocking chairs are even having a resurgence these days. After all, you don't have to be a baby to enjoy the gentle and calming rocking sensation. You can enjoy your new rocker in cushioned comfort, whether you're in the baby's nursery, on the porch, or in a living room watching TV.
We've checked all the reviews and looked over the feature sets of every rocking chair in our guide to find only the best ones. Whether you're a new mom, a grandparent, or just someone who loves rocking chairs, we have a pick for you here.
Updated on 9/4/2020. We updated prices, links, and formatting.
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The best overall
Baby Relax
The best with an ottoman
Naomi Home
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The best for nursing babies
Dutailier/Business Insider
The best traditional
Coaster
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The best outdoor
Outdoor Interiors
What to consider when buying a rocking chair
Rocking chairs and gliders are available in many shapes, designs, styles, and sizes. All of them allow you to create a gentle rocking motion, but they go about the process in slightly different ways.
Fabric: If you're often rocking your baby in the chair, the chair is going to become soiled at some point. It's inevitable. So pick a type of chair and fabric that's easy to clean.
Glider or platform: A glider rocking chair moves forward and backward, leaving the base in a stable position, rather than having the entire chair move in an arc like a traditional rocking chair. The movement of a glider is often smoother than a rocking chair, which is good for moms and babies. Gliders and platform rockers operate in a similar manner.
Locking mechanism: Some rocking chairs can be locked in place, which makes it easier for you to stand up while holding a baby.
Ottoman: Manyrocking chairs come with an ottoman, which allows you to put your feet up when you don't want to rock. Some ottomans that ship with glider rocking chairs also move in the same manner as the glider, allowing for a smooth motion.
Outdoor: Some rocking chairs are made for indoor use, while others are made for outdoor use. If you plan to leave your rocking chair exposed to the weather, be sure to pick a chair rated for outdoor use.
Padding: A rocking chair may provide padding to support your back, neck, and arms. You may be spending a few hours in the chair to comfort a sick baby, so padding is important. Even an all-wood rocking chair can be made more comfortable with removable padding that ties onto the chair.
Recliner: Some rockers have a reclining feature, which allows you to lock the rocking chair in place and put your feet up on a footrest.
Swivel: Some rocking chairs have a circular base, which allows you to spin the chair 360 degrees in addition to rocking in it. This is a great feature for being able to swing around and see other children playing in the room while sitting with a baby.