Most people in my generation and older have vivid memories of the old-fashioned baby swing with the thick wind-up handle and the plastic-covered seat. If you think for a moment, you can probably still hear the steady "tick, tick, tick" those swings made as they wound down and put baby to sleep.

Baby swings have come a long way in the last few decades. Most swings today don't have a noisy wind-up mechanism.

They're usually battery powered or plug into the wall. Some fold very small and are made to be portable. Others swing in all directions or have soothing vibration and music. No matter the features, all baby swings sold in the U.S. after May 2013 must meet strict federal safety standards. These standards help parents know they're buying a swing that is sturdy and safe for their baby.

Why Do We Need New Standards?

As part of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) was asked to create new standards for many baby and child products. A few of these standards are researched and updated each year. Other products that have received standards overhauls include cribs, play yards, bath seats, strollers, bassinets and walkers.

As with many of the other updates, the new infant swing standards are based on a set of voluntary standards from ASTM. This international voluntary standards organization is known for having some of the most stringent product requirements in the world.

One major difference, though, is the ASTM standards are voluntary. In the U.S., the infant swings standards are mandatory.

CPSC received reports of more than 350 incidents involving baby swings between 2009 and 2012. Twenty-four incidents involved injuries. Two children died.

The following changes and requirements are part of the new federal infant swing safety standards:

• stronger warning labels to prevent slump-over deaths. Warning advise consumers to use the most reclined position until the baby is 4 months old and can hold up its head without help
• stability tests that prevent the swing from tipping over
• test to prevent accidental folding
• tests for restraint systems to prevent slipping and breaking during use
• cradle swing surface must remain relatively flat in motion and while still;
• swings powered by electric must be designed to prevent battery leaks and overheating
• toy mobiles to be made to prevent toys from detaching when pulled
• swings with seat angles over 50 degrees must have shoulder straps
• infant swings must handle specified loads, both static and dynamic, without breaking

If you own a baby swing that was sold before these new safety standards went into effect, you don't need to do anything in particular. You should check to be sure your swing was not included in a recall. If it is recalled, follow the manufacturer's instructions for repair or return.

If you're purchasing a used baby swing, take note of the original date of manufacture. This can give you a good idea as to whether or not the swing was made under the new standards. While older swings are not inherently dangerous, you may want to take extra care to check an older swing for stability, seat recline, restraint sturdiness, and folding mechanisms.