Best Nursery Glider (and Ottoman) for Tall Parents – Which One?

Mother and her child

Comfort is important when you’re sitting with your baby in the nursery. You’re feeding, rocking your baby to sleep or simply spending quiet time in the nursery. I picked the Dutailier Sleigh Glider as the best nursery glider for tall parents.

Nursery gliders are a wonderful piece of furniture to have but if they cramp your style they’re a pain in the neck! Spending time seated in an uncomfortable chair often leads to painful necks, sore backs, and even aching legs. Tall parents know all about these aches and pains when they’re forced to sit in chairs not designed for their heights. But here’s my article for your rescue.

My Top Picks

Buying Guide

Being a tall parent brings challenges many other parents don’t have to worry about. I’ve already spoken about strollers for tall parents and the best carriers for the tall dad. This means manufacturers are taking into consideration the different needs of different parents. But how about the nursery glider?

If you’re a tall person you know you need a nursery chair (glider, rocker or recliner) with a decent height so your head is not lolling over the top. And you want enough depth to accommodate your legs so you’re not sitting with your knees in your face. All of these factors need to be considered when you decide to buy a nursery glider for your baby’s room.

Many tall parents battle to find the right glider to accommodate their shape. If you’re one of these parents you may be wondering if you should even get a nursery glider (and if it’s even possible to find one comfortable enough). After doing some research, I’ve come to the conclusion you can find a suitable glider PLUS there are some great benefits for having one in your baby’s room.

What is the Difference Between a Nursery Glider and a Rocking Chair

The conventional rocking chair has been around since forever. And, while they certainly play a very essential role in your first few months of parenthood, you may want to explore getting a glider instead. I’ll sum up here the differences between a glider and a rocking chair as in another article on my site I’ve already written about their differences (and similarities).

  • The nursery glider: A nursery glider is designed to be comfortable with padding and soft cushions. They operate with a forward and backward gliding motion, moving on a track. They’re more versatile in that you can use them on any type of flooring. Some gliders are designed to recline and swivel. Most gliders come with ottomans or pull-out footrests (and it’s advised you get one with an ottoman if you’re a tall parent).
  • The rocking chair: Rocking chairs are perfect for soothing a fussy baby. Traditionally, they had one purpose – to rock your baby to sleep. Their designs have evolved over the years. But, while the more modern rocking chair may be padded and more comfortable compared to the old-fashioned designs, they still only have one function. And that is to rock on arched legs.

Watch this video showing five ways you can get your baby to sleep (without a glider or a rocking chair!).

The Pros of a Nursery Glider

If your mind is set on getting a nursery glider, you may want to consider the following pros of this piece of furniture:

Pros:

  • They come in a variety of styles and designs so you’ll easily find one to match your baby’s room decor.
  • They’re well-padded and upholstered making them comfortable for those long hours when your baby won’t settle easily.
  • Most gliders come with a pull-out footrest or a separate ottoman giving added comfort when lifting your legs and feet.
  • They’re designed to be quiet so your baby won’t be disturbed by squeaking noises.
  • Gliders can be versatile – you can swivel, recline, or make it stationary.
  • Their motions are more soothing than the more aggressive rocking motion of a rocking chair.
  • You can use the glider on any flooring without causing any damage to the chair or the floor.

Criteria to Consider When Picking the Best Nursery Glider for Tall Parents

Look out for the following features:

Best Overall – Dutailier Sleigh Glider

Dutailier Sleigh 0372 Glider Multiposition-Lock Recline with Ottoman Included

This glider is the most expensive one out of the five products I reviewed. It’s made with premium quality materials, making it not only comfortable but safe to use. This handcrafted glider is made in Canada.

Who It’s For

For parents who are looking for a glider with a multi-positioning functionality and “rocking” motion..

Why You Should Buy It

The backrest can recline by 45 degrees and you can glide while reclined. It includes a lock mechanism making it easy to set into the desired seating position. It’s upholstered with 100% polyester ergonomically designed cushions that don’t sag. The frame is constructed with hardwood.

High-quality ball bearings ensure the glider moves smoothly and soundlessly. It comes pre-assembled so all you have to do is put it together with 4 screws. The ottoman pairs with the gliding mechanism of the chair, giving added comfort to the user. And, there’s enough space to accommodate mom, her baby, and any breastfeeding cushions she’s using.

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 31 x 27 x 42.5″
  • Weight: 58 lbs
  • Color: White
  • Materials: Polyester (cushions) / wood (frame)

Pros:

  • It comes with a 5-year limited warranty
  • Cushions can be removed for easy washing
  • Gliding motion while reclined for creating a “rocking” sensation

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • No pockets included
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Best Value – Storkcraft Premium Hoop and Glider

Storkcraft Premium Hoop Glider and Ottoman (White Base, Gray Chevron Cushion) – Padded Cushions with Storage Pocket, Smooth Rocking Motion, Easy to Assemble, Solid Hardwood Base

This extra-comfortable glider with its range of colors will suit any nursery. Its height of 38.5 inches offers plenty of backrest for the tall parent. The seating width of 18 inches and a depth of 19 inches ensures plenty of space when seated.

Who It’s For

This is ideal for the parent looking at a recliner, glider and rocker all in one option.

Why You Should Buy It

Not only does this glider offer ample space but it allows you to glide and rock your baby comfortably. Both armrests have pockets for convenient storage of all your essentials. Smooth gliding is provided with enclosed metal ball bearings.

The upholstery is made with easy to clean polyester and the frame is constructed with hardwood. The armchairs are padded and the ottoman is separate with a padded cushion. The maximum weight recommendation is 250 pounds.

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 25.5 x 21.5 x 38.5″
  • Weight: 45 lbs
  • Color: Multiple colors
  • Materials: Polyester (upholstery) / hardwood (frame and base)

Pros:

  • Easy to assemble and to clean
  • Well-priced and value for money
  • Reclines by pushing on the backrest

Cons:

  • Armrest cushions come off too easily
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Best Classic Style – Storkcraft Tuscany Custom Glider

Storkcraft Tuscany Custom Glider and Ottoman with Free Lumbar Pillow (White/Grey) - Cleanable Upholstered Comfort Rocking Nursery Chair with Ottoman

This elegant, classic-style glider will look beautiful in any baby’s nursery. Both the seat width of 18 inches and the seat depth of 20 inches plus the back height of 39 inches makes this nursery glider most suitable for the taller parent.

Who It’s For

If you’re looking to add charm (and comfort) to your baby’s room this is a nice glider to pick.

Why You Should Buy It

Firstly, if you’re a tall parent then this glider is sized just right with its generous seating space, height and depth. Plus, it comes with a separate ottoman for added comfort. An additional lumbar support pillow is a bonus.

This glider has padded armrests and both the seat and cushion are made with an easy-to-clean polyester blend. The frame is made with sturdy and durable wood which lends to the classic style of this chair. The glider operates on metal balls for smooth movement. A pocket is included to store your baby’s favorite books or other essentials.

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 29 x 28 x 37.5″
  • Weight: 50 lbs
  • Color: White/gray
  • Materials: Polyester-blend (seating) / wood (frame)

Pros:

  • The armrests are at a comfortable height for feeding
  • Easy to assemble
  • Fits smaller baby rooms

Cons:

  • Pillow doesn’t offer as much support as advertised
  • May not last as long as other more expensive gliders
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Best Swivel Option – DaVinci Swivel Glider

DaVinci Olive Upholstered Swivel Glider with Bonus Ottoman in Dark Grey, Greenguard Gold & CertiPUR-US Certified

Parents who are 5’6″ tall will find this glider very comfortable. The design is modern and neutral so it’ll fit nicely into any nursery without being an eyesore. And, being extra-comfortable with a 21 inches wide and 19 inches deep seat is a major PLUS!

Who It’s For

If you’re looking for a chemical-free product to use in your baby’s room, then you’ll like this one.

Why You Should Buy It

This product has a Greenguard Gold Certification which means it’s been tested free of chemicals, reducing the risk of toxic emissions in the room. Its metal base allows for comfortable 360-degree swivel and for smooth gliding motions. The high backrest is a bonus for tall parents, giving them the comfortable rest they need when seated.

A separate upholstered ottoman gives additional comfort when using this glider. Another bonus feature of this piece of furniture is the matching lumbar support pillow. The upholstery is made with polyester while the frame is constructed with ally steel. The glider is completely covered with fabric.

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 33.5 x 28.5 x 39.75″
  • Weight: 80 pounds
  • Color: Dark grey
  • Materials: Polyester and alloy steel

Pros:

  • Easy to spot-clean
  • Produces smooth gliding and rocking motions
  • Requires no assembling

Cons

  • Can be a bit narrow when holding older/bigger babies
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Best Budget – Windsor Glider and Ottoman

Windsor Glider and Ottoman-white with gray chevron

With the backrest measuring a good 26 inches, tall parents should find this glider comfortable to use. And it’ll take anyone weighing up to 200 pounds without a problem.

Who It’s For

For parents looking for a comfortable glider at a reasonable price.

Why You Should Buy It

It’s comfortable and glides smoothly with enclosed metal bearings. It also allows for smooth rocking motions. The arms are padded and include storage pockets which are very convenient for keeping books and other essentials. The separate ottoman has a padded cushion for resting your feet on and it also glides. The upholstery is easy to clean with 100% polyester while the frame is sturdy and made with wood.

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 24.75 x 25.75 x 39.5″
  • Weight: 46.6 lbs
  • Color: White and gray
  • Materials: Polyester (upholstery) / wood (frame)

Pros:

  • Well-priced
  • Cover can be unzipped and taken off for cleaning
  • Quick and easy to assemble

Cons:

  • Snaps on the cushion difficult to use when assembling
View on Amazon

FAQs

Do I need a glider or a rocking chair?

This is a personal preference but if you’re looking for a smoother motion then you’ll find the glider to be a better option.

What measurements do I look for in a glider for a tall parent?

The backrest should be at least 25 to 30 inches high while the seat width should be 18 inches and the depth 19 to 20 inches.

Final Thoughts

I picked the Dutailier Sleigh Glider for its multi-positioning lock features. I like that you can still glide while reclining. And, it’s more than comfortable enough for a tall parent. If you had to pick from this list what would be your best nursery glider for tall parents?

Last update on 2024-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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