Gliders and rockers are both great seating options that make a nursery more functional and comfortable. However, they each have their own benefits that might make one more suitable for your needs than the other – so read further to settle the glider vs. rocker debate once and for all.

What Is a Glider?
What Is a Rocker?
Glider vs. Rocker: How Do They Differ?
When to Use a Rocker
When to Use a Glider

What Is a Glider?

A glider, or glider chair, is a type of chair that slides back and forth on a stationary track while the backrest stays upright. It provides a smooth and steady gliding movement when you push against the ground with your feet, hence the name “glider.” Check out our Glider Buying Guide and our breakdown of the Best Nursery Gliders to help you with your search.

What Is a Rocker?

A rocker, also called a rocking chair, has a classic design featuring four chair legs connected to two long curved pieces that rest on the floor. When seated, you can rock back and forth by pushing on the ground with your feet. The rocker and chair legs tilt the seat backward and forward repeatedly for a relaxing rocking motion. Considering buying a rocking chair? Have a look at The Best Rocking Chairs for You for some options.

Glider vs. Rocker: How Do They Differ?

There are so many factors to consider when choosing between a glider and a rocking chair for your nursery. Compare the two to help you decide on the best option.

Glider Benefits

Cost: Gliders have higher price points because they have more complex designs that feature a stationary base with built-in tracks which allow the seat to move back and forth.

Appearance: There are plenty of aesthetic options to choose from for both rockers and gliders. Traditional gliders feature an open base that displays the track components, but there are plenty of cozy armchair styles that cover the track portion so you can't even tell it's a glider!

Motion & Movement: If you're looking for more gentle and subtle movement, a glider might be better. A glider has a flat sliding track that allows you to move the seat back and forth without tilting the entire chair like you would with a rocker. Some gliders also feature a swivel-style base that allows you to rotate the chair around in addition to back-and-forth movement.

Lounge Function: In terms of lounge functions, gliders reign supreme. Many gliders come with a lock mechanism so you can use the glider as a stationary chair when it suits you. Some gliders also come with built-in reclining backrests and footrests or a compatible ottoman so you can really stretch out.

Comfort: Gliders tend to have wider seats and backrests that allow you to stretch out or cuddle up with your little one for feeding or storytime.

Placement: Gliders have a much more space-friendly profile due to the track portion being the same size or smaller than the chair portion. You just need to be a few inches from the wall or nearby furnishings to be able to glide the chair back and forth. If you get a glider with a reclining function, you might require more space.

Rocker Benefits

Cost: When it comes to cost, rockers are usually more budget-friendly. This is because their simplistic base design consists of four slightly curved/angled chair legs attached to two arced rockers (one for each pair of chair legs).

Appearance: When you consider rocking chairs, you might think of the classic wood designs, but there are also a variety of upholstered armchair options to make for a cozier experience.

Motion & Movement: If you are looking for increased movement, a rocking chair might be the way to go. It tilts back and forth on its base, causing the entire chair to recline before swinging back into the upright position and then reclining back again. How hard you push off the ground with your feet determines the rocking speed and the degree of the reclining position.

Lounge Functions: Apart from when you sit or stand, you can typically remain relatively stationary on a rocking chair when your feet are placed flat on the ground. You can also pair a rocking chair with an ottoman to capitalize on the reclining position, but rocking chairs are best used for rocking in place.

Comfort: Rocking chairs are also available in ultra-cozy upholstered designs, so they both win in terms of comfort.

Placement: The rockers on rocking chairs extend further behind the chair portion and require extra space to be able to rock back and forth and recline the chair. Therefore, they might not be a suitable option for a nook or corner in a nursery.

Tip!

If you want to experience a rocker or glider outdoors, the good news is that there are plenty of outdoor options too!

When to Use a Rocker

(Shop this image: white nursery rockers, white area rugs, gray cribs, floating shelves, and white drapes)

Now that we've gone over the key differences between gliders and rockers, let's discuss which is the right option for you. Review this list to see how much of your criteria aligns with what a rocker has to offer.

• If you have ample space to work with.
• If you want to ensure you stick to your budget.
• If you want a classic look in your nursery.
• If you prefer the strong rocking motion of a rocking chair.
• If you don't mind the occasional noise that results from the rocking motion.
• If you want a piece of furniture that is light enough to move or relocate with ease.
• If you are looking for a chair with a variety of different design options.

When to Use a Glider

(Shop this image: chair and ottoman sets, white area rugs, and natural fiber planters)

Gliders have so many benefits that make them a perfect addition to any space. Here is a list of considerations to help you decide if you want one in your nursery.

• If you have limited space to work with.
• If you want more control over your chair's pace of movement and lounge settings.
• If you want to limit the amount of noise that occurs when the chair is in motion.
• If you prefer a gentler, smaller range of motion.
• If you want extra sitting room to lounge or nurse your little one.
• If you don't mind a chair that is heavier to relocate or move.

Tip!

Now that you've settled the rocker vs. glider debate, check out our Nursery Essentials Checklist for more must-haves.

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