Portable Baby Swings

Tread Softly

Portable baby swings have a lighter, often narrower frame than standard baby swings. Checking the safety features is important, and you shouldn't assume all are equally safe. A five-point restraint system is the safest. The frame should be easy to fold and unfold, and should securely lock in place. Hinges and pinch points are a magnet for tiny fingers and squirmy little toes, so keep your eyes out for potential for injury. Sharp, rough edges can injure parents as well as a baby.

All babies are precious as they sleep (and generally so when they're awake); then boredom or fussiness sets in and that angelic creature can suddenly become demanding and unreasonable. At times like these, a baby swing can bring relief to parents and to baby. If space is a problem, a portable baby swing fits almost anywhere, easily folds away, and transports from room to room or house to house. And for the budget-conscious, a wind-up portable swing costs half of what a battery-operated model costs, but these usually offer considerably fewer features.

Mini but Mighty

There are several portable choices on the market. Fisher-Price and Graco make quality battery-operated baby swings that offer up to eight speeds, 16 songs, mobiles, toy bars and trays, reclining positions, and high-safety restraining systems. Some disassemble for easy storage and a few clever models fold up neatly and feature comfortable carrying handles.

Operating Expenses

Some portable swings require batteries for motion and for music. Wind-up portable swings operate for 15-30 minutes. Due to the smaller frame and lower center of gravity, rewinding can be awkward and noisy, depending on the model you choose. Battery-operated portable swings sometimes run more loudly than their big brothers. This is partially because of the design, but also because the regular movement of a portable baby swing from room to room can jar the mechanics, making it operate less smoothly.

The most costly expense is an injury to a baby. An adult should monitor the baby and the swing at all times.