4Moms Mamaroo Infant Seat, Orange

There are some 80+ reviews on the product already - so I won't go into great detail here. Here's my brief observations for the 2010 model.

Please note that there is a newer 2011 model - *make sure you are getting the 2011 model* (see how to determine below)

PROs:
> requires less space than traditional swings
> doesn't require batteries
> contemporary 'hi tech' design aesthetic
> available in pleasing non-bright/playroom colors
> aluminum framing is nicely designed and easy to assemble
> works to calm easily soothed babies - might save your sanity (if your baby like it)

CONs:
> motor and gearbox is *loud* (addressed in 2011 model)
> harness clips are hidden behind fabric (to make it look nice) - but very frustrating to undo clips in this configuration. (addressed in 2011 model)
> can't recline to a completely horizontal position
> would be significantly more effective if it moved faster...Read more

I originally had a traditional swing and my daughter loved it. Unfortunately it stopped working after just 2 weeks so I had to look for an alternative. I stumbled on the mamaroo and was intrigued. It is small and plugs in so no batteries. I like the mp3 player feature and the white noise sounds are better than the old swing. But my daughter is what I would call a motion junkie and the mamaroo doesn't move fast enough to soothe her. Sure I can put her in it when she's already asleep but if I put her in it awake, she only lasts a few minutes. And forget putting her in it when she is upset. Also, the mobile is really lame. It doesn't move. I don't like the harness at all. I know you are always supposed to strap your child in but when they are too young to move those harnesses just get in the way. I would often put my daughter in her swing swaddled. The mamaroo makes it impossible to put your child in without the harness; my daughter would slide out. So if you already have a pretty calm...Read more

I have been so busy with my 11-week-old baby that I really ought not be spending my time writing reviews, but I have to on this one. I am pretty sure there are others out there, like me, who have little ones who have trouble sleeping due to reflux.

Before I had the mamaroo, I was up at 3am, holding my little sweetheart upright for 15 minutes after a nursing, squinting at my iphone screen reading all about the Tucker Wedge, homeopathic remedies....anything that might allow me to nurse my baby and put her right back down, rather than have to add 15 minutes on to every feeding. She was about 4 weeks at the time, and fed every 2-3 hours, sometimes more often. Add 15 minutes on to every session, and there is not much time left over for mama sleepy.

I had researched lots of different bassinet options before she was born and had seriously considered the hammock-style ones that are suspended either from a ceiling hook or from a base on the floor, but then the Amby...Read more