Glider rockers were initially designed to replace rocking chairs in children’s nurseries and bedrooms. Rocking chairs, which rocked on curved runners, provided somewhat bumpy and noisy rides. Gliders, on the other hand provide for a very smooth and noiseless gliding motion in a horizontal direction, and this all depends on how the glider rocker works. The glider rocker moves on a series of arms under the seat that are capable of pivoting with a front-to-back motion on steel ball bearings; moreover, gliders have sturdy bases that sit firmly on the ground. Glider rockers are also easier to use than traditional rockers, requiring just a gentle tap of your feet to get them moving.
Though the glider rocker’s origins are in the nursery, nowadays they have invaded pretty much every space both inside and outside the house. There is a huge selection of glider rocker styles and designs to choose from today, from single chairs to glider rockers that can hold multiple people. Besides the standard glider rocker, there are also rotary gliders. Rotary gliders have the added feature of allowing a swiveling motion, thanks to a swivel base; not only can you rock with these gliders, but you can also rotate in either direction up to 180 degrees. You can also purchase a glider rocker recliner. The glider rocking mechanism can also be found in glider rocking horses for children; purchase or download a glider rocking horse plan and you can have your kids enjoying the benefits of gliding motion as well.
Upwards of thirty unique parts go into assembling a glider rocker, and the quality, durability and design of each of these parts should be top-notch. If you want to assure yourself that you have purchased a top quality glider rocker, ask how the piece was constructed. The highest quality glider rockers are constructed using a process in which many small grooves are created in the material of the piece; in this way, applied glue will cover all surfaces and create a perfect and solid fit. After attentive assemblage, a finish and sealant should be added to prevent moisture, as this will ruin the piece and its joints; finishes and sealants also add beauty to the piece.
Balance is an essential component in the unique movement of a glider rocking chair and what sets these chairs apart from traditional rocking chairs. Glider rockers are both smoother and more comfortable than traditional rocking chairs; furthermore, minimal effort is needed to maintain the sooth gliding motion. Two types of movement are available with today’s glider rockers. The first actually provides rocking motion alongside the gliding motion; the second lacks the rocking motion and glides in a strictly horizontal plane, similar to a porch swing.
As far as decorating your glider rocker, there is an enormous variety of glider rocker cushions available that will not only spice up your rocker in terms of style, but will also add to your comfort. Furthermore, depending on the type of glider rocker you choose, there is a wide selection of fabrics and finishes to allow you to match your glider rocker with your existing furnishings.
Glider rocker styles include traditional, contemporary, country, metal, wood, and rattan. You can choose fabrics such as cotton, vinyl, leather and others. If you’re going to be using your glider rocker outside, make sure you purchase fabrics and cushions made of durable, weather and UV-resistant materials.
You can purchase a Dutailier glider rocker, a Best Chair glider rocker or a Little Castle one; these are the most popular manufacturers of glider rockers and can be found at most stores and online. Most come equipped with a seat and back cushion; some even have comfortable arm pads. Most glider rocking chair cushions cannot be machine-washed but must be instead spot cleaned and/or dry-cleaned. If your cushions are horribly damaged, you can always buy glider rocker replacement cushions. You can buy a washable cover to eliminate the hassle of buying glider rocker replacement seat cushions.
And to top off your glider rocker experience, purchase a matching ottoman, which will add to the beauty and style of your glider rocker. For maximum comfort and décor, ottomans should be the same style, finish, and fabric as the glider rocking chairs with which they are used; also make sure that the ottoman and glider rocker chair have the same quality gliding system and mechanism. Ottomans move in tandem with the glider rockers, so you don’t need to place your feet on the floor to maintain movement on the rocker, but leave your feet lying lazily on the ottoman and keep rocking. Ottomans are sold separately from glider rockers.
