Baby swings and jumpers can be a godsend when you just need a moment to catch up on stuff around the house. Below are some great shopping tips when it comes to purchasing a swing or jumper, as well as some recommendations on brands to try. Follow this list, and you will be sure to feel well-prepared in your decision making.

Safety is the biggest concern when it comes to buying any product for an infant or young child. If you are shopping for a swing or bouncer, make sure that your final candidates have a wide base and a reasonably low center of gravity. This will prevent any incidents of baby tipping over. Seat belts are also of high priority when purchasing a swing or bouncer, as they will prevent your child from climbing out or falling - you will be surprised at how quickly your little one will grow and change!

After safety, you'll want to purchase a swing that is convenient for your lifestyle. There are two types of swings - wind-up and battery powered. The majority of swings available are battery powered, however you can still go the old fashioned route with the former if you have the energy and devotion to be a winder at your baby's every whim. Wind-up swings also run the risk of waking baby up from a drowsy state when you crank it, sabotaging your chances of rocking baby to sleep. A final advantage of battery powered swings is that they feature more speeds and variations.

When you have a swing or bouncer with various modes of movement, you are fairly certain to find one that meshes well with your baby's wants and needs. Some babies will respond well to fast rocking, while others will enjoy music. If you aren't sure what form of movement or music will best suit your little one, check out a complex swing such as the Fisher Price Zen Cradle Swing.

Finally, try to find a swing appropriate for your baby's age. Some swings have varying recline positions, such as the Aquarium Cradle Swing, which makes it easier for a newborn to swing just as safely and happily as an older, more substantially sized baby.

If you are in the market for a jumper instead, they definitely have their distinct advantages. For one, your baby will get more exercise in a jumper, as it is designed to give baby's lower body a workout. Look for one with a very strong attachment if it is a hanging jumper, as is found on the Little Jungle . If you choose a stationary jumper instead, look for a strong and sturdy base, just as you would with a swing. A great one to try is the Baby Einstein Musical Motion Activity Jumper.