This is a question that parents-to-be often ask themselves. What is the difference between a baby swing and a baby bouncer? Which one should you choose? Both reproduce the rocking movement that babies love, calming them and helping them to relax. So even though there are a lot of similarities between the two devices, here we reveal their advantages and disadvantages.
Differences between rocking chairs
It's not uncommon to confuse bouncers and swings, as these two childcare accessories appear to be very similar. However, there are a number of differences, the main one being that the swing operates electrically. On the other hand, a baby bouncer only works manually. It rocks when you push it or when baby moves with his legs.
On the other hand, loungers are always placed on the floor, and parents have to bend down to interact with their child, whereas some swing models have a high base. So your little one is at the same height as his parents.
Generally speaking, electric swings also offer more features than a bouncy chair. They often have a mobile or a learning arch built into the structure. Some models, whether upgradable or not, also come with a lullaby playlist. There are even swings with a vibration function, and their pendulum is adjustable in speed and duration.
To help you make the right choice and better understand the difference between a baby swing and a baby bouncer, here's a look at the advantages of each solution.
The benefits of transit
N°1 - Its lightness
The bouncer is much lighter and easier to transport than the swing. That's its main advantage. You can move it from room to room, or slip it into the boot of the car to take it with you when you spend the evening with friends, or when you go away for the weekend with baby.
But why are loungers so light? Unlike swings, deckchairs don't include a motor.
N°2 - Easy care
The bouncer has a cover that can be easily removed and washed in the washing machine. In the event of a nappy accident or reflux, you'll be able to clean it with no problem.
3 - Discretion
And the advantages of the bouncer don't stop there, as it's a totally silent childcare accessory. As there is no motor, no noise can disturb the peace and quiet of your sleeping baby. Nor that of Mum catching up on her night's sleep...
N°4 - Easy storage
What's more, the bouncer folds up in just a few seconds. If you don't have a lot of space, you can put it away in a cupboard when you're not using it.
The advantages of the swing
The electric swing also has its share of advantages.
N°1 - Ergonomics for mum and dad's back
Baby swings can generally be adjusted in height. You can leave your baby almost at floor level, or adjust the swing to elbow height. This way, you don't have to bend down to interact with your child. This prevents back pain!
2 - Gentle or sustained rocking
The swing also has several adjustable speeds. So you can adjust the swing to suit your child's tastes and mood.
N°3 - A long-term purchase that doubles up as a high chair
There are progressive swings. These swings follow your baby through his first years. They can be used from birth and then as a seat until your baby reaches 18 kg. So he can take his bottle and his first purées next to his parents, just like a grown-up!
N°4 - Gentle stimulation for babies
Swings often come with toys or are easy to accessorise. They help to stimulate your little one. The colourful toys stimulate their eyes, their arms stretch out to try and catch them, and they enter a wonderful world watching the little animals or aeroplanes flying around in circles.
He can't count yet, but the sight of sheep is already having a big effect on a big sleep...