How Long Can A Baby Stay In A Swing? | The Baby Swing

Last Updated on July 19, 2023

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you should not leave babies in a swing for more than 30 minutes at a time. This is because swings are not designed to be used as sleep spaces, and you should always place babies on their backs in a crib or bassinet for safe sleep. 

Additionally, most baby swings have weight limits of around 25-30 pounds, so once your baby reaches this weight, they will no longer fit safely in the swing.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the safety guidelines for using baby swings, as well as how long you can safely leave your baby in a swing. We’ll also provide advice on when it’s time to move your baby out of the swing. So, keep reading!

How Long Can A Baby Stay In A Swing?

How long can a baby stay in a swing?

As stated above, babies should not be in a swing for more than 30 minutes at a time. You should monitor your baby while in the swing and ensure that they are not overstimulated or uncomfortable. 

Additionally, you need to ensure that the swing is properly secured and there are no loose parts that could cause injury.

“Babies should be monitored closely while in the swing and not be allowed to sleep or stay in it for more than 30 minutes at a time,” says Terrie Murdaugh Johnson, MD, FAAP, a Pediatrician at Pediatric Associates. “You should also make sure that the swing is in a well-ventilated area and away from any cords or other potential hazards.”

Can baby sleep in swing during the day?

No, it is not safe for your baby to sleep in a swing during the day. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), swings are not designed for sleeping and can increase the risk of injury, flat spots on heads, blocked airways, accidental suffocation, and even death. 

Newborns lack the muscle strength and coordination to properly position their heads in a swing.

If you want your baby to nap during the day, it is best to put them in a crib or bassinet that is designed for sleeping. 

If you do put your baby in a swing for short periods of supervised napping, make sure they are strapped in tightly and never leave them unattended.

“Sleeping in a swing is just not safe for babies. Ideally, you should move your baby out of the swing when they fall asleep and place them in a safe sleep space,” added Terrie.

Dr. Terrie also emphasized in establishing healthy sleep habits early on so that your baby gets enough rest throughout the day. Ensure their room is dark and quiet and their bedding is comfortable. 

You should also stick to a consistent bedtime routine, so your baby knows when it’s time to wind down for the night.

Also read: How long can baby be in mamaroo swing

Is it OK to let baby swing for hours?

Is it OK to let baby swing for hours?

It is not recommended to let a baby swing for hours. Most experts recommend limiting your baby’s time in a motorized swing to an hour or less a day. 

Swings are meant to be used recreationally while under a caretaker’s supervision and should never be used as a place for your baby to sleep. 

Infants haven’t developed their muscles enough to hold up their heads, which makes it dangerous for them to sleep in swings. 

If your baby gets used to falling asleep in the swing, you need to transfer them into their crib once they are sound asleep. You also should not leave your baby unattended in the swing for any amount of time.

Baby swing safety

Baby swings can be a great way to soothe and entertain your baby, but you must take certain safety precautions. Here are some tips for using baby swings safely:

1. Don’t leave your baby unattended in a swing. Always stay within arm’s reach of the swing while your baby is in it.

2. Read the instruction book for your baby’s swing carefully, and follow any warnings or instructions provided by the manufacturer.

3. Limit the amount of time your baby spends in a swing – we recommend no more than 30-minute intervals, even if your baby seems content.

4. Make sure that all buckles and attachments on the swing are securely fastened before placing your baby inside it.

5. Do not let your baby sleep in an infant swing; if they fall asleep, transfer them to a firm, flat sleep surface such as their crib or bassinet instead.

6. Check regularly for any signs of wear and tear on the swing, and replace any broken parts immediately to ensure that it remains safe for use with your child.

By following these simple guidelines you can help keep your little one safe while they enjoy their time in their infant swing!

When should baby stop using a swing?

Babies should stop using a swing once they reach the maximum weight limit or can sit up on their own.

As we’ve mentioned above most baby swings have a maximum weight limit of 30 pounds, so you need to check the weight limit of your swing before purchasing. 

Additionally, as soon as your baby can sit up on their own, they should no longer use the swing since they may be able to tip it over and cause an injury.

You should also note that babies should not sleep in a swing for extended periods of time due to potential suffocation risks. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep in a crib or bassinet instead of a swing for optimal safety.

So, you should keep an eye on your baby’s development and make sure they don’t exceed the maximum weight limit or age recommendation for their swing. By doing this, you can ensure that your baby stays safe while enjoying their favorite activity!

For more details, you can read the following article: When do babies grow out of their swings

Benefits of Baby Swings

Baby swings can provide a variety of benefits to infants and their parents. They are a great way to soothe babies, help them relax and even sleep. 

Baby swings can also be a great source of entertainment for babies, providing them with music, sounds, vibrations and more.

They are designed to mimic the natural motion of being rocked in a parent’s arms. This helps to calm and comfort babies while they are in the swing. 

The gentle rocking motion can also help babies fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. 

Many baby swings come with features such as music, lights, vibration settings and more that can help keep babies entertained for hours on end.

In addition to providing comfort and entertainment for babies, baby swings can also be beneficial for parents. They allow parents to get some much needed rest or take care of other tasks around the house while their baby is safe in the swing.

So, baby swings provide many benefits for both infants and their parents alike. They are an excellent way to soothe crying babies, help them relax or even fall asleep faster and provide them with entertainment when needed. 

Baby swings can also give parents some much needed time away from their little one while still keeping them close by.

Cons of Baby Swings

Baby swings can be a great way to soothe and entertain your baby, but there are some cons that parents should be aware of.

One of the main cons of baby swings is that they can become a crutch for parents. You should remember that babies need to learn how to self-soothe, and using a swing too often can prevent them from doing this. 

Additionally, overusing a swing can also lead to flat head syndrome in babies since they spend much of their time in the same position.

Another con is that baby swings don’t provide the same level of physical contact as holding or rocking your baby does. This type of contact is important for bonding with your child and helping them feel secure.

You should also note that baby swings aren’t suitable for all ages. Most swings have weight limits ranging from 15-30 pounds, so once your baby reaches this limit you’ll need to find another way to soothe them.

So, while baby swings can be beneficial in certain situations, you should not rely on them too heavily and make sure you’re providing plenty of physical contact with your little one.

Also read: Baby swing or bouncer which one

Wrapping Up

Thanks for reading this guide on  how long can a baby stay in a swing. As we’ve discussed, babies should not be left in the swing for more than 30 minutes at a time and must always be monitored while using it. 

Additionally, make sure that the swing is properly secured and there are no loose parts that could cause injury. 

If you have any questions or concerns about your baby’s safety, talk to your pediatrician.

We hope this guide was helpful! Enjoy spending time with your precious little one in their swing.

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Amy A. Vincent

Amy A. Vincent is a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant and a mother of three beautiful children. She helps parents transition their babies from swing sleep to safe, independent sleep. She is passionate about helping parents teach their children the skills needed to become good sleepers and aims to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible. Read more

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