Foldable
The ability
to fold the swing for storage and transportation — in this sense, foldable models are much more convenient than non-foldable ones, because they take up less space. On the other hand, foldable swings are less durable and more prone to wear and tear; this does not affect the safety of use, but it can affect durability, especially with frequent folding/unfolding.
Harness type
— Three-point. The classic version has three harnesses, one between the child's legs and two in the waist area, which come together in a buckle on the abdomen; the design may vary, but the principle of fixation (from below and around the waist) is always the same. In general, such harnesses provide a medium degree of safety, and in most cases they are sufficient.
— Five-point. In fact, it is a three-point system (see above), supplemented by a pair of harnesses running to the abdomen through the shoulders. This system provides the highest degree of safety available today.
Backrest tilt levels
The number of fixed positions in which the adjustable backrest of the swing can be installed (refer to "Backrest tilt adjustment"). Any adjustable backrest has at least two positions — lying and sitting, and the more levels of tilt — the more options you have for customizing the swing to maximize your baby's comfort.
Seat tilt adjustment
The ability
to adjust the tilt of the seat of the baby swing (in this case, the lower part of the seat unit is meant). In bouncers, the seat is adjusted together with the back, in swings — separately (for more details, refer to "Type").
Melodies / sounds
The music box has melodies and many of them have additional sounds (nature, rain, sea, etc.). The greater the range of songs stored in the device's memory, the greater the variety for the child and the greater the probability of finding the one with which the child will fall asleep, eat, play, etc.
More features
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Timer. A timer that switches off the automatic rocking mechanism (refer to "Automatic rocking") after a certain time. Thus, knowing the approximate time your baby falls asleep, you can set the timer and not worry about the rocker continuing to rock unnecessarily while your baby sleeps.
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Removable table. The presence of a removable table top in the design of the swing. Such a swing can play the role of a high chair; in addition, the table top can be useful for games.
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Player connection. A function similar to a music box (see above) — with the difference that the sound source is not the memory of the box itself, but a player connected to the swing.
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Vibration unit. The mechanism that provides the vibration of the seat unit — this plays the role of a massage for the child, and also creates a relaxing effect.
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Arc with toys. A structure in the form of an arc or bracket above a swing, on which various toys are suspended. They can be used to play or to distract the baby (for example, to stop crying). The arcs are often made removable, and the brackets are also swivel.
— Lighting effects. Multi-coloured flashing lights that can cheer up or distract the baby (especially in combination with sound).
Power supply
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Mains. Power supply from the ordinary 230 V mains supply. Such power supply is as reliable as possible: there are no batteries that can die at the most unfortunate moment. On the other hand, the use of additional functions of such a rocker is limited by the availability of the network (in nature, for example, they will be useless) and the length of the power cord.
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Batteries. Powered by replaceable elements. This gives maximum freedom of movement: the rocker does not depend on the power supply and the length of the cord, its additional functions can be used anywhere and anytime. On the other hand, batteries have a limited charge and need to be replaced from time to time, and ideally you should have a constant supply of new ones, as some functions consume their charge very quickly.
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Mains/batteries. Combined power supply, which provides the advantages of both previous types: as long as there is a mains power supply nearby, the rocker is connected to it, saving battery power, and when there is no mains power supply or the outlet is too far away, batteries are used.