Good or Risky? Can Babies Sleep in a Swing?
The rules of parenting have changed and how!
New research has come to light that babies are at a higher risk of airway obstruction and other injuries if they sleep in certain baby devices. However, sometimes babies fall asleep in the most unlikely places, including a car seat, stroller, or swing, and we can’t stop them. So, you’re not alone if you’re wondering can babies sleep in a swing or what the new safety guidelines are.
Hence, I wanted to share my experience with my kids; discuss the new rules, guidelines, and alternatives to infant swings.
Table of Contents
Can Babies Sleep in a Swing?
No! Despite the convenience of swings, letting infants sleep there can be dangerous. So, why can’t babies sleep in swings?
- Babies younger than four months don’t have enough head and neck control. If they fall asleep in the swing, their heads can flop forward. It can cause an airway obstruction, and interfere with their breathing.
- Even with the straps fastened well, babies’ heads can roll in the swing, causing suffocation. Infants are also at high risk for positional asphyxia if they sleep on their swings.
But is there ever a time to let babies nap in their swings? That’s also a no.
- If you have a colicky baby who wouldn’t sleep anywhere other than a swing, sometimes it’s best to let them have a few moments of peace and rest in the swing.
- However, try to wean them off the swing as soon as possible. Furthermore, you can also invest in a rocking baby bassinet that can substitute for a swing.
Swings and Dealing with Reflux
I’ve encountered a few parents who believe that keeping children in a semi-upright position, i.e., in a slightly reclined swing, can reduce the baby’s reflux.
However, experts suggest that sitting them straight for 20 to 30 minutes after feeding can yield a better outcome.
Advantages of Having a Baby Swing
- Swings can be the greatest help when adjusting to a new baby in your home. Being a mother of six kids, I am always on the go.
- The swing for my youngest son, Theo, helped me set him down for a few moments to make a quick meal or do a few chores around the house.
- Swings are also great for spending one-on-one time with your older kids while simultaneously keeping an eye on your new baby. This way, you’re not wracked with mom guilt every minute.
Also, if you have a fussy baby who only calms down in the swing, wait until they fall asleep and immediately move them to a safe sleep environment.
Please remember that infants enjoy and require floor time to explore the world and their movements. Therefore, the AAP recommends that you do not let them spend more than 30 minutes at a stretch in their swings.
You May Also Like: When to Stop Using Baby Swings
Guidelines for Using Swings Safely
If you’ve already bought an infant swing but are overwhelmed by all the negative research around it, don’t worry!
Remember the cardinal rules of using baby swings safely:
1. Constant Supervision
You always need to supervise your baby in an infant swing. Never leave them unattended.
- During the first year, babies hit developmental milestones like sitting, rolling over, standing, walking, etc. So, you never know when they might roll over. If it happens in the swing, they won’t be able to roll back. Therefore, it is dangerous to leave them unsupervised in the swing.
2. No Sleeping in Swings
It’s never a good idea to let your baby sleep or nap in the swing – if they do, switch them to a crib or any other safe sleep environment immediately.
- AAP guidelines say that young babies should always sleep on their backs on a flat, firm surface like a crib. Also, their crib should not have any soft blankets, pillows, bumper pads, toys, etc. Having those types of extra attachments can increase the risk of suffocation in babies.
- After purchasing a new baby swing, please send the warranty card to the manufacturer. It’ll make it easier for you to receive updates regarding safety and security. If there are recalls for that product, you will receive timely updates.
- The same goes for a pre-loved baby swing or a hand-me-down. Check for active recalls on the Consumer Product Safety Commission recall database.
Breaking the Habit
“My baby only falls asleep in the swing. They just won’t sleep anywhere else.”
I know many young parents who are struggling with this challenge. Baby swings are convenient when you’re overwhelmed and exhausted. But your munchkin might also quickly become accustomed to falling asleep in the swing.
Here’s what you can do to break the habit:
- Pay attention to when your baby nods off in the swing, then slowly transfer them to the crib.
- Limit their time in the swing. For instance, if they spend 30 minutes at a stretch in the swing, make it 15 to 20 minutes.
- You can also keep the swing closer to the play area. Gradually let your babies associate the swing with playtime rather than bedtime.
- Keep them engaged when they’re in the swing. For example, read to them, converse with them, or play with engaging toys. It’ll help them associate the swing with playtime.
You can also check out my article on how to use baby swings for more information.
Alternatives for Baby Swings
Some parents wonder if getting a baby swing is worth it, while others might want to look for something else entirely. So, here are some alternatives to baby swings you can consider.
1. Baby Glider
Unlike a swing, gliders move on a track noiselessly without any friction.
Hence, your little one can enjoy a soothing back-and-forth motion while you grab a quick meal.
Some fancy models can also swivel in a 360-degree range. Since they are smaller than a swing, they’re easier to carry and store.
2. Pack and Play
Pack-and-play is a popular alternative to swings for many parents.
Moms feel comfortable placing their newborn in the pack-and-play for a few minutes to shower or take a bathroom break.
You can also let them take a quick nap there or enjoy a few moments of tummy time. These are excellent for families with more children or pets.
3. Bouncer
A bouncer is great for babies up to six months.
Do you have a fussy baby who isn’t letting you eat? Put your baby in the bouncer, move it into the kitchen, and fix yourself a quick meal.
All this, while your baby is entertained by the wondrous world around them, observing you from a slightly elevated angle.
Another great alternative for on-the-go parents is a baby carrier. For more on finding the best carrier for your needs, visit my article on the best baby carriers.
Final Thoughts: Babies Sleeping in Swings
We moms are protective by nature. Our mama bear instincts are razor-sharp.
But one thing you’d never expect is having to protect them from mundane objects like baby swings, their own blankie, or even a little milk bottle. Yet, as moms, we must do it all.
Hence, if your baby refuses to calm down and nap without their swing, you must follow a few precautions.
Firstly, since infants do not have adequate head and neck control, never leave them unattended in the swing. Secondly, don’t let your little one sleep in the swing for long. If they can’t sleep without it, let them fall asleep and gently transfer them to the crib. At this point, it’s also crucial to wean them off the swing.
And I know that parents or moms are often made to feel guilty about every little thing. Just take everything one step at a time. You’re doing an outstanding job!
