Gliders or glider chairs provide comfortable seating for a mom-to-be or a new mom for the simple reason that the gliding motion is soothing for both mom and the baby. During the early hectic months gliders come in handy for catching naps, nursing the baby, or simply snuggling together.

While rocking chairs have traditionally been used in the nursery, a glider chair is a little different from a rocker in its motion.

It glides forward and back, the motion being somewhat similar to that of a swing. Some gliders come with footstools or ottomans, which may also move back and forth with the chair. Some manufacturers such as Lane or La-Z-Boy also make gliders with swivel bases.

Before you Buy a Glider Chair:

Be aware that most gliders are used only for a short period of time. Most moms use them in the last trimester and the first few months after a baby's birth. You should give yourself enough time to order one if you're thinking of customizing it. For that reason alone, make sure to order early enough so that you have the glider chair when you really need it.

Select a Style:

You can buy a glider in any style you choose, but you may not really need to coordinate it with your nursery decor. As mentioned above, you may not need it in there for a very long period.

It is more important to focus on the functionality than the looks of a glider. Decide ahead of time whether you will need additional features such as a reclining back, an ottoman, or a swivel base.

And finally, think of a glider's life after the nursery. Do you plan to keep it around after it's stint in the nursery is over? Do you have a place for it in a bedroom, guestroom or living room? If so, coordinate with the style in that room.

Check for Quality:

• Check to see if the mechanism functions smoothly. Test drive before you buy. Sit in the glider and test for comfort and see how you like its motion. It should be easy to operate.
• There should be ample padding in the back, seat, and arms, along with good lumbar support. Ask if it has a kiln-dried hardwood frame, as those are sturdier.
• It should be easy for you to get into and out of the chair, and you should feel supported when you are sitting in it.
• Make sure the seat is not very narrow, otherwise you won't be able to hold the baby comfortably, thus defeating its purpose.
• For safety's sake buy a glider chair that has a locking mechanism, especially when there are toddlers in the house. You don't want to leave it unlocked when it is unattended so as to prevent injuries.

Find a Suitable Fabric:

It is best to select a sturdy fabric for the glider, and one that is cleaned easily as accidents might happen in a nursery. Look for fabric that doesn't stain easily

Microfiber can be a good option because it cleans up very easily. Leather can be a good option, too, even though it is more expensive.