INTERIOR DESIGN AND FURNITURE GUIDE

BABY FURNITURE IDEAS

Tips for Buying a Glider

April 7th, 2010

On Tuesday we talked about how to buy a rocking chair. Today we’ll discuss buying a glider, what to look for and the different features that might interest you. Tips for the best way to shop for a glider rocker will help you decide what will be best for you and your overall nursery design. It will also come in handy when you need to narrow down your choices. Unlike other pieces of baby furniture such as the crib or a changing table, glider, once its nursery duty is done, can be used in other areas of your home. If this idea appeals to you, you will want to select a glider blends in with the décor style and color scheme of the room it will eventually end up in once it is no longer needed in the nursery.

Choose a style and color that will complement your nursery décor.

Select a glider with upholstery that is easy to launder or can be easily spot cleaned.

Glider rockers are available in a variety of models and offer a number of different features, like the Dutailier Juvenile 173 Series Fully Upholstered Swivel Glider that includes swivel capabilities. Give some thought to the kinds of features that will be most useful to you. Especially if your nursery glider rocker will not be near a dresser or side table, you might a glider that includes pouches or other types of hidden storage so that you will have a place to tuck things when you need a free hand.

Consider purchasing a rocker glider with a locking mechanism, particularly if there are younger children and/or pets in the household. When selecting a glider that includes an ottoman, make sure that the ottoman also has a locking mechanism.

Depending on a number of factors including how tall you are, the length of your legs and the angle of the glider ottoman, a stationary ottoman might be a more comfortable fit.

Check to see that the rocker glider is well constructed, doesn’t have any rough edges and has a non-toxic finish. Ensure that any mechanisms or levers are within easy reach and are user-friendly.

Tomorrow we’ll put the spotlight on a company that has been making glider rockers for about 30 years.

Share this Post[?]
        

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Baby Furniture and Design Ideas | No Comments »

Tips for Buying a Rocker

April 6th, 2010

Yesterday we explored the pros and cons of buying a traditional rocker or glider for your nursery. Today, we will discuss tips for buying a rocking chair for your baby’s first room. A rocking chair has a comfortable and appealing profile that is enchanting and welcoming. It won’t be just a place to sit when feeding your child or trying to get your baby back to sleep. A rocking chair will grow with both of you when you read to them or as you watch your toddler play. Whether it’s been in the family for several generations or it just caught your eye when browsing online, a rocking chair has an heirloom look about it that you’re sure to treasure for awhile.

Decide if you want the chair just in the nursery or if at some point you will use it in another room of your home. You will want to match it in style and color.

You will have to get in and out of the rocking chair with a baby in your arms that may be squirming, crying, fussing, etc. Test out the rocker to see you can get in and out of it without much effort.

Especially since you will be spending a fair amount of time in the chair, make sure it is comfortable. For a rocking chair to be comfy, ensure it has the following qualities.

  • Seating area should provide comfort and support
  • Seating area should be low enough when you sit in it to offer you proper elbow support
  • Armrests need to be wide enough to rest your arms easily and comfortably without any strain
  • Both seat and backrest should provide firmness, flexibility and support, particularly to your lower back

The rocker must rock back and forth soundlessly – no squeaks allowed. It might sound like a little squeak but it could be just the thing that prevents your baby from falling easily back to sleep.

Make sure it is well-made and that quality woodworking techniques have been used. Spindles and joints should be tight; edges should be smooth; and the skis (or rockers) should be in proportion to the body of the rocking chair.

When purchasing seat cushions for your rocking chair, choose ones with covers that can easily be laundered.

Come back and visit tomorrow when I’ll give you tips on how to select a glider chair for your nursery.

Share this Post[?]
        

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Baby Furniture and Design Ideas | No Comments »