Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Nursing Chair
, by Artorias Tse, 7 min reading time
Featured Image Source: iStock
Proper nursing more or less starts with the right nursing chair at your dispatch. Whether you’re preparing for the arrival of a new baby or struggling to feed the newborn, supportive seating on a nursing chair feels like a lifesaver. It’s a key step in creating a comfortable and functional nursery.
A nursing chair provides a cozy feeding spot for the little one and holds the mother through late-night feedings, bonding moments, and quiet time. Are you feeling overwhelmed with so many options available? Struggling to decide on how to choose the best one?
Don’t worry. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need for the best nursing chair. From the history to different types and even side-by-side comparisons, you’ll get every essential aspect clearly. You won’t face potential setbacks while purchasing this fundamental nursing furniture.
History of Nursing Chair
The timeline of the nursing item in question dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries. More precisely, nursing chairs became a popular furniture in Victorian England. It was designed as a low-seated chair with short legs and a deep seat for practical purposes. Let’s take a look at the brief historical overview:
Origins
There are no surprises; nursing chairs were developed for mothers. The objective was to make the breastfeeding/feeding mothers more comfortable. The low seat allowed the moms to sit closer to the ground. They could hold and nurse the babies without straining the back and/or arms.
Victorian Era
The nursing chair gained notable popularity as an elegant yet functional furniture piece during the Victorian period. It featured ornate designs (carved wooden frames and upholstered seats) to reflect detailed Victorian craftsmanship. But the chair wasn’t limited to nursing mothers. It became a common household item used by anyone seeking comfort, especially in bedrooms and sitting rooms.
Source: Carters.com.au
Design Features
- Low Height – The low height was practical for nursing. It was also believed to prevent drafts from reaching the sitter.
- Armless Design – Many nursing chairs were designed without arms to provide more space and flexibility for holding a baby.
Modern Use
Likewise, nursing chairs have eventually evolved to meet modern-world demands. They now feature rocking or gliding mechanisms to soothe the baby. The original nursing chair design is almost non-existent in contemporary furniture. Antique versions are valued as collectible items appreciated for their craftsmanship and historical significance.
Modern Importance of a Nursing Chair
A nursing chair is no longer a piece of furniture to enjoy relaxation or feeding support. It’s an investment in your comfort and your baby’s well-being. Some leading reasons to make it an essential purchase are:
Comfort for Long Sessions
Nursing can take time, sometimes longer than usual. And it doesn’t matter whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. A comfy chair allows mothers to sit for extended periods without physical strain.
Support for Posture
Consistent back and arm support are crucial to lead a healthy life. Moms shouldn’t risk additional stress during postpartum recovery. It’s particularly vital during late-night feedings when your body may become fatigued.
Bonding Time
The proper chair can create or, at least, mimic a peaceful space for you and your little one. Even sufficient calmness can make everything better in an instant. It helps foster closeness and bonding during feedings, cuddles, or naps.
Different Types of Nursing Chairs
Modern nursing chairs come in various designs, functionalities, and styles. Each kind has its unique features. Therefore, you must catch up with the distinctive types to know the available options.
Glider Rockers
It’s a particular type of rocking chair. Glider rockers maintain a smooth and linear motion across a fixed track. They also glide back and forth horizontally. These chairs are especially popular as nursing chairs due to their gentle motion and comfort. The gliding motion helps to calm and relax mothers and babies.
Top Features
- Smooth Gliding Motion
- Comfortable Seating
- Space-Efficiency
- Variety of Styles
- Additional Features
Source:storkcraft.com
Source: storkcraft.com
Recliner Chairs
You can easily adjust the chair to a reclining position. It lets moms lean back and elevate their feet. Recliner chairs often contain features like padded armrests, lumbar support, and footrests. They’re quite popular as nursing chairs due to the supportive seating position.
Foremost Features
- Adjustable Reclining Mechanism
- Lumbar Support
- Padded Armrests
- Footrest
- Swivel Function
- Storage Options
Rocking Chair
It’s one of the most well-recognized chair types with curved legs. You can rock the furniture back and forth upon sitting in it. Rocking chairs have been used for centuries as soothing and relaxing furniture. They are readily used in nurseries to soothe a crying newborn, infant, or baby.
Foremost Features
- Gentle Rocking Motion
- Comfortable Seating
- Sturdy Construction
- Armrests
- Variety of Styles
Source: homedepot.com
Wingback Chairs
These models have a high back with wings extending down to the armrests. It enables support and comfort. They’re built with a strong frame to offer good durability and stability.
Armchairs
The simplest version of standard chairs may sit at the bottom of the chain. Still, some models with well-padded seats and backrests enable enhanced comfort. The sturdy armrests indeed offer support while holding the baby during nursing.
Source: lovesapar.click
Scientifically Created Nursing Chairs
These chairs are exclusively designed for nursing, prioritizing ergonomics, comfort, and support. The ultimate objective of these medical chairs is to enhance the nursing experience for a mom and her baby.
Japanese Tatami Nursing Chairs
They’re designed with traditional Japanese aesthetics and functionality in mind. Such chairs are usually low to the ground for comfy and supportive seating. They’re primarily made from all-natural materials like wood and woven fabrics to create a serene and calming environment.
African Nursing Stools
These traditional pieces of furniture reflect the rich cultural heritage of different African tribes. Such stools are mostly handcrafted using natural wood, leather, and woven fabrics.
Nursing Chair Comparison – Rocker vs Glider vs Recliner
| Feature | Rocker | Glider | Recliner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motion Type | Back-and-forth rocking motion | Smooth, linear, gliding motion | Reclining backward with optional rocking or gliding |
| Comfort | Mostly basic (wooden) or cushioned | Soft, cushioned, and ergonomic | Highly cushioned with full-body support |
| Noise Level | Somewhat noisy (creaking sounds) | Silent operation | Silent, but may have motor noise in electric models |
| Space Requirements | Compact and lightweight | Moderate; requires sufficient gliding space | Large; requires significant space to recline fully |
| Portability | Lightweight and highly portable | Heavy and stationery (low portability) | Bulky and difficult to move |
| Suitability for Nursing | Satisfactory with stability concerns | Excellent due to noiseless motion | Good for nursing and relaxing post-nursing |
| Aesthetic Options | Classic and Vintage styles | Modern and sleek designs | Contemporary with high-tech features |
| Maintenance | Least requirement for wood and upholstery | Requires lubrication for the gliding track | High maintenance for mechanical features |
| Cost | Mostly budget-friendly, mid-range for high-end | Mid-range | Expensive, especially with advanced features |
Key Features to Look for in a Nursing Chair
- Comfort and Cushioning
- Adjustability
- Swivel and Gliding Motion
- Size and Fit
- Fabric and Material
- Budget Considerations
- Safety Features
- Aesthetics and Style
- Consider Longevity
- Test Before You Buy
- Check Reviews
Wrapping Up
Choosing the best nursing chair is always a personal decision. And it exclusively depends on your actual comfort preferences, available space, and intended budget. Feel free to prefer a rocker, glider, recliner, or traditional armchair. Only the right chair can transform your nursery experience into a highly supportive environment for the baby and the mother. Consider the factors discussed right above to make an informed decision. That’s how you can find a chair that offers comfort and functionality.
