When Can a Newborn Sit in a Baby Swing?

During the first weeks of her life, you will be getting to know your little baby and discovering her likes and dislikes. A baby swing can be a miracle worker when it comes to calming your baby when she̵7;s fussy or entertaining her with its little gadgets or noisemakers. Each baby swing has its own age range, weight limit, special features and safety issues to consider.

  1. Age and Size

    • When you are shopping for a baby swing for your newborn, check the age and weight limits. Purchase a swing that is specifically designed for babies this young. Look for ̶0;Newborn̶1; or ̶0;0 Months̶1; on the product packaging. Since most swings have a weight limit of 25 or 30 pounds, you will be able to use this swing from birth through the first few months of her life.

    Swing Positioning

    • Since your newborn lacks the head control and muscle tone to actually sit upright by herself, you need a baby swing with a reclining back. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, you should ̶0;only use the most reclined seat position until the infant can hold the head up unassisted̶1; and there will probably be a warning label on the swing to indicate this.

    Features

    • The Consumer Reports website recommends getting a swing that has a sturdy, stable frame, strong posts and legs with a wide stance. A full-sized, portable or hybrid baby swing will work for this age group. Choose a washable swing with plenty of padding to keep your newborn comfortable and in the correct position. To be safe and secure, there should be a harness, preferably a five-point harness, and a crotch post.

    Safety Concerns

    • Although swings can be helpful to calm and soothe your young baby, consider the safety issues. According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, you should not use the baby swing as sleeping equipment. The semi-sleeping position can restrict airflow and causes a drop in blood oxygen to the brain. Also, never leave your newborn unattended while in a baby swing. Discontinue swing use when your baby becomes more mobile and can sit unassisted. At this point, it can become unsafe as she can lean too far forward, back or to the side. This creates an unsafe situation where she may fall, slide out or tip the swing.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • What Research Says About When Babies Sleep in Their Own Room
      One of the most important things for any new parent is learning the best way to get their baby to sleep at night. Sleep is a precious commodity for babies and their parents alike. So tips for infant sleep are always a great idea. Except there'
    • Instructions for Safety 1st Car Seats
      Safety 1st car seats ensure that your infant or toddler is protected in your vehicle in the case of an accident. For safety, you will want to make sure you are placing the car seat correctly in the car. To ensure that you are properly protecting your
    • How to Attach a Baby Gate If There Is No Wall Stud
      The easiest way to use a baby gate in a location without a wall stud is to choose a pressure-mounted gate. This type of gate does not require wall studs because it attaches to the wall with pressure rather than hardware. Pressure-mounted gates can on