Kitting out the nursery and deciding on the decor is definitely up there on the list of fun things to do when preparing for your new arrival (congrats btw!)
But if your nursery is the size of the broom cupboard or you’re going to be squeezing your little one into a small space in your bedroom (that you haven’t found yet), it can be a little daunting. Especially when it comes to choosing a nursing chair, rocker or glider.
There are so many options these days, but not all work well in small nurseries or spaces.
So, you need to find the best rocking chair for a small nursery or the best small nursery glider and this article should help you do exactly that.
You want the best small nursery chair that can comfortably glide in a tight space and help your little one drift off. And it needs to be slim or narrow and compact, comfortable, durable. Cute looking too.
Is it possible? Sure is.
What are the benefits of using a rocking chair or glider for baby?
A rocker chair or glider is an easy way to soothe your newborn with a gentle rocking motion when they need it. This could likely be a lot of the time when teeny tiny, in those first few weeks home.
The big wide world can be quite a shock for them after the close comfort and confines of the womb. There’s now a belief that they’d have been better off staying put a little longer, hence the newborn phase is often called the 4th trimester.
Mimicking the sensations of the womb are key to soothing a newborn or fussy baby. One such sensation is the regular and continuous motion they experienced as you moved around. So rocking your baby is what you’re going to need and want to do. Enter in the rocking chair and glider.
As your little one grows you might find you use it less, but there will be still many a sleep regression, illness, night terror etc etc etc…. when that rocking chair will prove its worth. It’ll also be the perfect spot for story time for many years to come.
Even if you have limited floor space, finding a small rocking chair for the nursery or a glider for small spaces will be a great addition.
But do you really need a small space rocking chair or small nursery glider if you’re short of space?
There are many moms that forgo the use of a rocking chair if they have a small space. Not me! Well, first time around, we did splash out on the perfect small rocking chair, which just fitted into a very small space in quite a small nursery. It got loads of use for baby number two as well.
But on our first scan for baby number 3, it became clear we needed something a lot bigger. Not because we suddenly had a bigger nursery, but because we were actually expecting babies 3 and 4. Not that choosing the best glider was top of my mind that day, that’s for sure…
Even though the twins’ nursery is bigger, we still only had a small space in which to fit the nursing chair or glider.
But, even the best rocking chair for small nursery or a glider for small spaces wasn’t going to cut it. I wanted to feed the babies in tandem, meaning I’d need to hold both at once.
The sofa, bed, floor etc turned out to be the best options for tandem feeding. For settling and soothing, baby bouncers I could rock with my foot were my gadgets of choice.
So I’m definitely a fan of a nursing chairs that rocks and/or glides. I’d recommend a compact or slim rocking chair for small spacess. However, it’s by no means essential.
Depending on the size and space you have free in your nursery, perhaps a small nursery chair that’s stationery will work better?
Pros of using a rocking chair or glider for small spaces
- The rocking, soothing motion that newborns love
- The rocking, soothing motion that all little kids love
- The rocking, soothing motion that you’re going to love too
You’ll be using your new compact rocking chair or small nursery glider in that tight space the very first night home with your newborn and for years to come!
Cons of using a glider or small rocking chair for nursery
- Rocking chairs/gliders typically have a bigger footprint than a stationary nursing chair. Choices are more limited when it comes to a small nursery space
- They’re not as versatile for other places in the house, if and when you come to move it out of your baby’s nursery (and replace it with endless toys…)
- The rocking, soothing motion that all little kids love – ALL the kids will end up wanting to play on it!
What’s the difference between a nursery glider and a rocking chair?
The key difference is in the mechanism and type of motion. A glider goes back and forth, in and out, while a rocking chair rocks back and forth. Traditional rocking chairs rock on two feet called rockers.
Due to the different mechanisms, the chair designs are also different:
Rocking chairs
Rocking chairs that only rock tend to be more classically designed and typically have a higher back, which will suit taller parents better. One downside is that the rocking motion can mean that they “walk” little by little across the room as you rock. Not ideal in a small space or nursery.
Nursery gliders
Gliders are a modern-day take on the traditional rocking chair, providing the motion and specifically designed with the nursery in mind. They’re often more compact and/or smaller. So there’s plenty of choice for small nursery gliders that should fit small spaces.
However, these small nursery chairs often also a lower back, which might not work if for tall parents.
What about rocker gliders and chairs that swivel?
Of course, they’ve thought of everything! New parents are such a captive audience for all sorts of baby gadgets and gizmos.
So now there are small nursery chairs that both rock and glide. Many even swivel so you can do a 360 while seated. Sounds overkill?
I can definitely see the use in being able to line up loads of stuff within your reach. Like when you daren’t move a muscle for fear of waking your little one that’ll only sleep in your arms.
These modern nursery chairs, come rocker, come glider, come swiveller, may also offer a reclined position too. Plus many are designed with a future purpose in mind and won’t look out of place in the living room or elsewhere in the house.
Which type of chair is best: is a glider or rocking chair better for a small nursery?
Both types of chair tend to be very comfortable for a new mom and baby and provide that desirable soothing, calming motion. Small nursery gliders and glider rocker recliners for small spaces are perhaps the “in-thing”, purpose-built for the job.
But there are many more traditional rocking chairs with the design spec and special features to rival them.
Pros of a nursery glider for a small space
- may also rock as well as recline
- can be more compact
- may have additional features like storage pockets and a lumbar support cushion
- don’t “walk” like some rocking chairs
Pros of a rocking chair for small spaces
- tend to be slimmer than rocker gliders and fit into smaller spaces
- often have a higher back to fully support your head and dedicated lumbar support
- more classic looking which may suit your nursery decor better
It really comes down to personal preference and the exact features that the small nursrey chair offers. Check out this list of the best small space rocking chairs and best nursery glider for small spaces and take your pick!
How much space do you need for a rocking chair or glider?
Since this article is all about rocking chairs and gliders to fit small spaces or a small nursery space, the dimensions for each are included. So it’s going to depend on which chair you go for when it comes to the exact space required.
At a minimum, you’ll need a space 22″ wide, the width of the slimmest design with the widest rocker glider taking up 30″ in width.
Depth is a little more complex as it not only depends on seat depth but also how the chair moves. At a minimum, you’ll need around 30″: 20″ for the shallowest chair plus a further 10″ to allow for rocking and gliding.
Important features to consider for a small nursery glider or small rocking chair for nursery:
If you’re looking for a compact rocking chair or small nursery, there are a few important factors to take into consideration:
Size
If you have a small nursery or small space then obviously size is crucial. There are several slim, compact rocking chairs and gliders in the list below and dimensions are included. Check against the space you have.
Rocks, glides, reclines and/or swivels
While a traditional rocker tends just to rock, the more modern nursery chair glides as well. Both will do the job of calming and soothing your baby.
Some of the best small nursery chair options also recline. This makes it useful for trying different breastfeeding positions, like the “laid back” position. Many also have a 360-degree swivel function.
Back height and head rest/support
Ideally, the back should high enough to fully support your shoulders when you lean back. Think of all those night feedings! After feeding you’ll need to burp your baby, essential if they’re gassy. Then you may need to hold your baby upright for a time, if prone to spit-up.
You’re going to spend a lot of time in that chair. A high back and comfortable headrest will allow you to semi-rest as you feed and then soothe your baby.
If this is important, you may be better off with a compact or small rocking chair for the nursery, rather than a small nursery gliders as often the latter can be short in the back.
Lumbar support
This is more personal preference depending on how much lumbar support you like. However, if you find the perfect rocking chair for your small nursery or space and it doesn’t provide enough support, you can simply add your own lumbar pillow or cushion.
Side pockets
Handy for wipes, burp cloths, water and other baby stuff, but not essential.
Fabric type
Durable fabric is key – if you’re a new mom you may not realize how much they can spit up (i.e. regurgitate) milk…However many burp cloths you have to hand, sometimes you still don’t catch it all. (My second born had reflux and it was a very messy affair!)
Comfort
Goes without saying, your small space rocker or glider for small spaces needs to be comfortable! Nice thick padded cushions can help but nothing beats testing one first.
Sturdiness
When your little one grows into a feisty toddler and still wants cuddles and loves to be rocked before sleep, and insists on climbing up and all over it, that chair needs to stand up to the test. You want a small nursery glider or compact rocking chair with a sturdy frame.
Coordinating ottoman
If you’re looking for a rocker or glider for a small space or nursery it’s unlikely you’re prioritizing fitting in a coordinating ottoman. But a few are included in the list below for their other positive features.
If you do want a foot rest, it doesn’t have to match. A footstool or table with cushion on top will do the job just as well.
Locking mechanism
This is to prevent the rocking or gliding motion which is handy to prevent older siblings from turning the chair into an indoor game and/or climbing frame! Until of course, they discover how to unlock it…
USB port
For all those long nursing sessions and for little ones that love to sleep right on top of you and just won’t sleep in their bassinet, leaving you stuck in the chair for hours, you can probably see why a USB port is a good idea.
15 of the best rocking chairs for small spaces & best gliders for small nurseries in 2024
Ideally, you want to try these chairs as well as read about them so you can test out all the various features, as well as choose one for maximum comfort, a personal thing.
But time moves fast. If choosing the best small nursery chair or rocking chair for small space in baby’s room is just one of a long list of to-dos, the recommendations below list should help you make a quick decision. Before your rapidly growing bump is wears you out!
Best small nursery chairs that ROCK, GLIDE & RECLINE
#1 Carter’s by DaVinci Arlo Recliner and Swivel Glider
At a glance
- Chair dimensions: 29″W x 38″D x 41.5″H
- Colors available: charcoal, cream, gray, khaki, navy
- Movement & functionality: swivels, glides and reclines
Carter’s by DaVinci Arlo Recliner and Swivel Glider
First on the list and perhaps also the best glider for a small nursery. This small nursery chair is simply the bees knees when it comes to functionality, durability and style. It’s smart looking yet simple, with a design that would compliment so many different styles of nursery.
It offers two different types of movement: swivel and recline. The handle mechanism is cleverly hidden on the inside of the chair – so you can rest tired legs without compromising on style.
It’s a quality piece with a sturdy wood frame and stable metal swivel base.
Fabric is hardwearing, water repellent and stain resistant, but with a linen look. Plus it has a lumbar support cushion.
All importantly, it packs all those features into a chair that’s just 29″ wide, so should fit into that small space or nursery. We’re just a little in love with this small nursery chair.
What’s to love about this nursery glider for small spaces
- rocks, glides and reclines
- discreet reclining mechanism doesn’t take away from sleek design
- additional vertical supports at head of chair for full head support
- linen look, highly durable fabric
- Greenguard Gold Certified (free from toxic chemicals)
Any downsides
- no convenient storage pockets
- there are narrower rocking chairs and gliders around
#2 DaVinci Piper Upholstered Recliner and Swivel Glider
At a glance
- Dimensions: 30.5″W x 34″D x 39.5″H
- Different colors available: navy, cream, dark gray, gray with cream piping
- Movement & functionality: swivels, glides & reclines, with 360 degree swivel motion
DaVinci Piper Upholstered Recliner and Swivel Glider
The Rolls Royce of small nursery gliders that comes with all the functionalities necessary. It has a smooth rocking and gliding motion and hidden recliner mechanism offering that foot rest whenever you need it.
It’s a similar style to the previous Carter’s glider for small spaces but offers support in different places. The DaVinci Piper has a dedicated lumbar cushion for extra lower back support. However, it lacks the left/right head support, meaning it won’t be as comfortable, should you fall asleep.
If you like this style and functionality there are also size differences. This small nursery glider is a little wider than the Carter’s one but not as deep. It also isn’t as long in the back, meaning it may not suit those on the tall side.
What’s to love about this glider for small spaces
- Rocks, glides and reclines
- Hidden reclining mechanism
- Upholstered in soft and durable polyester fabric which you can wipe clean
- Dedicated lumbar support cushion
- Greenguard Gold Certified (free from toxic chemicals)
Any downsides
- The widest of the small nursery chairs on this list
- Price is steep, starting at $400 for the navy rocker glider, with the more popular neutral tones pricier still
As of February 2024 this small nursery rocker is only available in navy – fabulous for a space-themed nursery
Best SLIM rocker gliders for a small space or nursery
#3 Delta Children Blair Slim Small Nursery Glider & Rocker
At a glance
- Chair dimension: 26.5″W x 31.5″D x 36″H
- Internal seat dimensions: 19.5″W x 23.5″D x 18″H
- Backrest Height: 22″
- Different colors available: cream, charcoal, taupe
- Movement & functionality: swivels & glides, with 360 degree swivel action
Delta Children Blair Slim Small Nursery Glider & Rocker
This nursery rocker glider is the best on the market when it comes to size: it’s narrow and compact, designed to fit into smaller spaces and nurseries. So small, one reviewer thought they’d been sent a child’s chair!
Not only is it purpose-built for small spaces, but also for nursing moms and babies in mind, with armrests positioned slightly higher than other chairs, in order to make it easier to hold your baby.
This slim glider has wipeable durable fabric so it’s easy to mop up spills and mess. It has a relatively high back rest for its size, but those taller than 5ft 3 won’t be able to fully rest their head.
This is a quality piece with a wooden frame and steel glider mechanism. The only downside is some complaints of squeakiness when both rocking and gliding.
What’s to love about this small nursery glider
- a narrow nursery glider with a small footprint
- both rocks and swivels 360 degrees
- durable fabric that you can easily spot clean with soap and water
Any downsides
- backrest not high enough for head support for taller people
- doesn’t recline
- no additional lumbar support cushion
- reports of squeakiness when in motion
#4 DaVinci Gabby Pillowback Swivel Glider Small Nursery Chair
At a glance
- Chair dimension: 27″W x 33.5″D x 41″H
- Different colors available: misty gray, natural oat, shadow gray
- Movement & functionality: swivels & glides, with 360 degree swivel action
DaVinci Gabby Pillowback Swivel Glider Small Nursery Chair
This is a great-looking small nursery glider. Not only is it slim enough for the smallest of nursery spaces, it has a high pillowback design. This is possibly the best glider for a small nursery for taller moms and dad who’ll be able to comfortably lean back.
Due to the thick cushioning, it’ll be a very comfortable glider for everyone.
In regards to functionality, it does have one shortcoming. It doesn’t recline like the previous small nursery gliders.
On the plus, it’s Green Gold Certified and also has good green credentials as it’s made of FSC certified wood.
What’s to love about this glider for small spaces
- it’s slim size
- high pillowback design
- thick cushions
- both rocks and swivels 360 degrees
- wipe clean fabric
- Green Gold Certified (free from harmful chemicals)
Any downsides
- no recline function
- no additional lumbar support cushion
Best STYLISH nursery rocking chair for a small space
#5 Mid-Century Modern Velvet Small Space Rocking Chair
At a glance
- External chair dimensions: 27″W x 37″D x 40″H
- Internal seat dimensions: 21″W x 20″D x 26″H
- Colors available: 11 color options, including 2 patterned options
- Movement & functionality: rocks on wooden rockers on a solid wood frame
Mid-Century Modern Velvet Small Space Rocking Chair
If you love the mid-century look, this one’s for you. Equally this sleek nursery rocker would compliment any nursery decor. What’s more, there are a huge array of colors to choose from.
You could go big and bold to complement a rainbow nursery style. Or stick with neutral colors against green walls for a safari theme. There are patterned options too.
When it comes to size, this is a particularly narrow rocking chair so should fit into your small nursery space.
What’s to love about this narrow rocking chair
- slim-line design
- great value for money
- convenient storage pockets
- wide range of colors and patterns to choose from
Any downsides to this small space rocking chair
- potential to move across the room as you rock (like all rockers)
Best COMPACT rocking chairs & nursery gliders for small spaces
#6 Babyletto Madison Swivel Small Nursery Glider
At a glance
- Dimensions: 30″W x 30″D x 34″H
- Colors available: blush pink, black, ecru, navy, slate
- Movement & functionality: smooth gliding, 360° swivel on a metal base
Babyletto Madison Swivel Small Nursery Glider
This is an ultra-compact nursery glider for small spaces. It has a stylish contemporary design so if you’re looking to step away from more traditional-looking models, this may be the best nursery glider for small spaces. You wouldn’t even know it was a glider.
It’s not the best glider on this list of small nursery chairs when it comes to width. But its compact and low-profile design means it won’t dominate a small space.
The downside to this is the lack of head support which might be missed during one of many night feeds.
What’s to love about this glider for small nursery
- Low profile and compact, so won’t dominate a small nursery
- Elegant, contemporary design
- Greenguard Gold Certified
- Arrives assembled
Any downsides
- Low back meaning little/no head support when leaning back
- Although it compact it’s wider than other small nursery chairs & gliders
Best NARROW rocking chair (with matching ottoman)
#7 Storkcraft Premium Hoop Small Nursery Glider and Ottoman
At a glance
- Chair dimensions: 22″W x 26″D x 39″H
- Ottoman dimensions: 20″W x 16″D x 15″H
- Colors available: 16 different frame/cushion color combinations in neutrals and pinks
- Movement & functionality: glider chair with coordinating glider ottoman
Storkcraft Premium Hoop Small Nursery Glider and Ottoman
This award-winning small nursery glider from Storkcraft comes with rave reviews and it’s easy to see why. If you want a traditional looking rocking chair with modern funcionality, designed specifically for mom and baby this is possibly the best rocking chair for small nurseries.
It’s a solid wood chair that glides, rather than rocks, so you won’t find yourself inching across that small space as you feed your newborn. The ultra-smooth gliding motion is down to metal, enclosed ball bearings.
The Storkcraft small nursery glider features padded armrests with large storage pockets to keep all your bits and bobs nearby. Although it doesn’t recline, it comes with a matching glider ottoman providing leg rest and ultimate comfort for those long night feeds. That’s if your small nursery or space can accommodate it.
Most importantly, its slim design makes it the narrowest nursery glider on the list. If width is where your space issue lies, look no further than this narrow rocking chair come glider.
What’s to love about this narrow rocking chair
- the slimest rocking chair on the list
- large storage pockets
- comfortable padded arm cushions
- coordinating glider ottoman
- large selection of different color choices
- removable cushions so fabric can be spot cleaned
Any downsides
- doesn’t recline, rock or swivel
- matching ottoman may not fit into a small nursery or space
If you’re in baby prep mode, be sure to check out these posts once you’ve chosen your small rocking chair or nursery glider:
- 15 Best Baby Bassinets for Small Spaces
- 23 Best Nursery Dresser Drawer Organization Ideas
- 25 Best Nursery Closet Organization Ideas in 2024
- 18 Best Blackout Shades & Curtains for Baby’s Nursery in 2024
Best CONTEMPORARY rocking chair for small spaces (with matching ottoman)
#8 Costzon Baby Small Nursery Glider & Ottoman
At a glance
- Dimensions: 26″W x 28″D x 41″H
- Colors available: grey, brown, pink
- Movement & functionality: glider chair with coordinating glider ottoman
Costzon Baby Small Nursery Glider & Ottoman
This small nursery glider has exactly the same functionality as the last one, but with a sleeker, more contemporary design that may suit your nursery better. It is a little wider, but still rivals the more modern designs of gliders and rocking chairs for small spaces.
What’s to love about this small rocking chair for nursery
- high back for full head support for taller people
- matching ottoman glider
Any downsides
- no storage pockets like the previous glider
- wider than previous glider
Best VERSATILE rocking chair for a small nursery
#9 YOLENY Mid Century Compact Rocking Chair with Two Sets of Legs
At a glance
- External chair dimensions: 30″W x 22″D x 43″H
- Colors available: beige
- Movement & functionality: wooden rockers & normal chair legs too
YOLENY Mid Century Compact Rocking Chair with Two Sets of Legs
When rocking your baby or toddler to sleep becomes a thing of the past, you can simply switch the legs. Hey presto, a stylish retro chair that’ll look good in the living room or pretty much anywhere. So for versatility, this may well be the best rocking chair for small nursery.
However, it’s not as narrow as other rockers or gliders. It has a relatively wide seat but if you have enough room and want to invest in a piece of furniture that’ll have years of use beyond your small nursery, this is the one.
What’s to love about this compact rocking chair
- longevity and versatility
- funky retro design
- wider seat
Any downsides to this small rocking chair for nursery
- low profile arm rests may not give as much support when breastfeeding
- no recline or glide function
Best PORTABLE ‘rocking chair’ for small spaces
#10 Transform any chair into a rocker with the Ready Rocker Portable Rocker
At a glance
- Dimensions: 16″W x 11″D x 17″H
- Colors available: stone gray
- Movement & functionality: alloy frame, with foam cushioning and fabric outer cover
Ready Rocker Portable Rocker
If you’re never quite sure when and where you may want to feed and rock your little one, why not try this portable rocker.
It can be used with any chair or against any solid surface. This means you can effectively turn anything into a rocking chair. Well kind of. But you can use the Ready Rocker in bed.
This could be ideal if your baby is going to be tucked into a small space in your bedroom and there’s simply no space for a small nursery glider or otherwise.
It’s also small enough to take with you when you’re out and about or travelling with your newborn so you’ll always be able to feed your baby in comfort. No more awkward and uncomfortable nursing sessions in random places.
(Nursing while leaning against the trunk of a tree being my most memorable and uncomfortable place for me! If only I’d known about the Ready Rocker.)
What’s to love about this portable rocker
- you can feed and rock your baby anywhere
- it’s lightweight, compact and, of course, portable!
- adjustable rock level allows you to find your perfect rock
Any downsides
- limited to rocking
- not as comfortable for prolonged use
Thinking about painting and decorating the nursery? Bookmark these posts for later:
- 15 best paints for a baby room (zero-VOC, baby-safe, non-toxic)
- 75 Green baby nursery ideas
- 35 Gorgeous nursery shelf & decor ideas
“SMARTEST” small space rocking chairs & small nursery gliders
#11 Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Power Recliner and Swivel Glider with USB Port
At a glance
- External chair dimensions: 29″W x 36″D x 41″H
- Colors available: cream, gray
- Movement & functionality: swivels 270-degrees on a metal base, glides and reclines at the push of a button
Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Power Recliner and Swivel Glider with USB Port
Well it doesn’t have inbuilt wifi, but it does have a built-in USB port. You could literally camp out for days in this small nursery glider, come rocker and swiveller. It also reclines at the push of button. It has impressive green credentials too, being made, in part, from recycled plastic bottles.
What’s to love about this rocker glider for small spaces
- built-in USB charger
- electronic push button reclining mechanism
- water repellent & stain-resistant fabric
- manufactured, in part, from recycled plastic bottles
- Greenguard Gold and CertiPUR-US Certified
Any downsides
- price!
- perhaps overkill for a small nursery chair – are those cables going to get in a tangle with baby?
Best BUDGET, SMALLEST & MOST COMPACT rocking chair for small spaces
#12 Haotian Rocking Small Nursery Chair
At a glance
- External chair dimensions: 22W x 20″D x 40″H
- Colors available: grey, cream
- Movement & functionality: wooden rockers built into the solid birch wood frame
Haotian Rocking Small Nursery Chair
This is the best nursery chair for small nurseries for those on a budget. While it does only rock and limited cushioning may mean it’s not as comfortable as other small nursery chairs, it certainly doesn’t compromise on style.
What’s to love about this narrow rocking chair
- small and compact rocking chair
- budget-friendly
- removable, washable cushions
Any downsides to this small rocking chair for nursery
- seat cushions are thinner than most
- no padding on the arms
- potential to move across the room as you rock
Best rocking chair for a small VINTAGE nursery
#13 ACME Sharan Rocking Chair
At a glance
- External chair dimensions: 29W x 33″D x 43″H
- Colors available: grey, cream
- Movement & functionality: wooden rockers on a solid wood frame
ACME Sharan Rocking Chair
If you’re a fan of the vintage look (as I am), then this elegant and classic rocking chair may be worth consideration.
However, this will be a case of fashion over function. It’s probably not the best rocking chair for a small nursery as it cannot match the small sizes of other chairs listed. It all depends on the exact space you have.
What’s to love about this nursery rocking chair
- beautiful looking traditional rocker
Any downsides
- thin seat cushions which aren’t removeable
- wider than other listed rocking chairs for small spaces
- potential to move across the room as you rock
As of February 2024 this chair is unavailable on Amazon but is currently available at Ornate Home
Best OTTOMAN to use with your small space rocking chair or glider for small spaces
#14 AOLIDAZ Foldable Storage Ottoman
You may want a footrest for extra comfort. However, the small nursery glider or compact rocking chair you have your heart set on may not have one included. So, in a small space or nursery where you want to maximize every available inch, a storage ottoman makes perfect sense.
AOLIDAZ Foldable Storage Ottoman
This storage ottoman is better still, as it’s foldable. When you need to free up some space in your small nursery you can simply fold it up and put it away.
- Dimensions: 17″W x 13″D x 11″H
- Colors available: grey
- Functionality: storage, foldable
Best ways to UPDATE an existing rocking chair for a small nursery
#15 Transform an IKEA Strandmon Chair with rocker runners
If you already have an IKEA Strandom wingback chair, you can purchase some rocker runners and convert it into a rocker for your small nursery. Great if you’re on a budget and looking for versatility.
Or maybe you love the idea of the dual-purpose Yoleny mid-century chair listed above but prefer the more traditional look of a wingback.
These are quality oak rockers which come with all the bits and bobs needed for home assembly (screws, drill bit and illustrated instructions).
#16 Update a genuine vintage rocking chair with rocker cushions
Maybe you have an old rocking chair or you’ve inherited one from a grandparent. Or perhaps this is just the look you want to go for and you love the idea of hunting down an old rocker and breathing new life into it.
All you need to do is add some padding or extra cushions. These Sweet Home Collection Cushions will do just that. Simple, cheap, effective.
For more tips and info for the early days with a newborn, check out the following:
- What’s better: A swaddle vs sleep sack for a newborn?
- Are the first two weeks with a newborn the hardest? When does it get easier?
- When is it Safe to Travel with a Newborn Baby by Car or Plane?
- How to keep baby warm at night without a swaddle
- First night home with your newborn baby – what to expect & tips to survive it
FAQs on small space rocking chairs and nursery gliders
Are rocking chairs good for breastfeeding?
Rocking chairs are an excellent way to get that soothing rocking motion while you’re feeding your baby, whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding.
The rocking sensation can be really useful for tiny newborns who can be very unsettled and may struggle to latch onto the bottle or breast. The motion of the rocking or gliding can help settle them so that they can take a good feed.
What do you do with a glider after having a baby?
Parents are often left wondering what to do with their baby’s glider once they need to move it out of the nursery. But you don’t need to part with the glider just yet. Rockers and gliders can look great in the lounge or would suit a cozy nook in the bedroom for reading and relaxing.
Where in baby’s nursery should I put my rocking chair or glider?
When consider buying the perfect rocking chair for your small nursery or space, you need to figure out where it goes first. This will depend on the space you have to play with as well as the other furniture that needs to fit into baby’s nursery, such as the co-sleeper or bassinet, dresser and closet.
If you have a small nursery or space you might not have much choice in where you can fit things, but if you do, ideally don’t have the rocking chair or glider too near the door to avoid being disturbed when trying to settle your baby.
What can I keep beside my nursing chair?
There are a few things useful when you’re nursing. Bearing in mind your baby may fall asleep while nursing and you don’t want to disturb them by getting up, you may spend quite some time in the chair, so preparation is key.
Even if your nursery is small, it’s best to try and keep these things next to your rocking chair or glider they’re close to hand:
- nipple cream
- burp cloths
- water in a handy water bottle
- snacks
- phone
When should I start preparing my nursery?
There’s no “right time” to start preparing baby’s nursery, but don’t leave it too late! Time flies and as the time of delivery approaches, you’ll likely be feeling more and more tired and be less physically able to start shifting furniture and decorating.
Most moms seem to wait until somewhere through the second trimester before getting too involved in organizing the closet, looking for nursery dresser organization ideas or choosing paint colors.
However, if you’re getting close to the end of your pregnancy and haven’t started preparing yet, try not to worry. Remember, as much as it’s lovely to have the nursery done perfectly, babies really don’t need very much. As long as they have your loving arms, they’ll be just fine.
Is it safe to fall asleep in a rocking chair or nursery glider with your baby?
No, definitely not! You’ll be quite tempted to fall asleep in that comfortable small nursery glider or rocking chair for small spaces with your baby sleeping sweetly on your chest. Or you may simply find it hard not to fall asleep during one of the many night feeds, but don’t.
This will put your baby at a significantly higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS. Safe sleep guidelines, which are in place to minimise the risk of SIDS, state that baby should sleep on their back, in their cot, with no loose blankets, toys, bumper etc.
Ideally, you want to settle and soothe your newborn by rocking or gliding, then put them down in their crib or bassinet before falling asleep or soon after. There’s no harm in you falling asleep in the chair after they’re all tucked up, just not with baby.
Which glider or small space rocking chair will you choose for your small nursery?
I hope you enjoyed this list of the best nursery gliders for small spaces. There are plenty of comfortable chairs offering all sorts of types of movement in this nursery glider list. Do you want Start by figuring out whether comfort, back support, leg rest or the ability to both rock and recline is most important.
Perhaps you simply need a very narrow rocking chair. But take your time. Of all the items of nursery furniture and baby gear this is possibly the most important, yet hardest one to choose. They don’t come cheap too, but ideal to add to your baby registry so friends and family can chip.
Hopefully, you’ll now feel a little more prepared when it comes to choosing the best rocking chair for your small nursery or space. In no time you’ll be rocking your little love in the perfect glider, figuring out the next of the many baby conundrums!
Good luck!
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