There is no denying that a rocking chair’s sound and motions can be quite soothing. These chairs have been around for a while, and in this article, we shall discuss the different types of rocking chairs.
The motion of rocking chairs stimulates blood circulation, which in turn improves oxygen circulation. This method has assisted patients in treating arthritis and strengthening their muscles and joints.
In addition, these chairs make you feel calmer, which explains why you sleep very quickly when lying on them.
The old types are the best for your health as well as the interiors, while the modern types are primarily focused on comfortability.
Types of Rocking Chairs
Rocking chairs can be categorized based on their material or style and design. Here are the different types available in the market, and they’re all appealing in some way.
1. Wooden Rocking Chairs
Since rocking chairs are furniture, it should be no surprise that most of them are wood. Wood rockers are very attractive and provide a natural charm to your space. In addition, they can last more than 50 to 60 years if constructed from high-quality wood.
The chairs are made from various wood, including softwood and hardwood. Softwood is harvested from evergreen trees that grow too fast.
As a result of its lightweight and short lifespan, such wood is not very durable. The softwood rocking chairs are, therefore, less expensive and more durable.
Antique furniture lasts much longer because they’re made from hardwood. These are from deciduous trees such as mahogany, oak, maple, and teak.
They produce highly dense wood. Hardwood is the most durable rocking chair since beetles do not easily damage them.
2. Glider Rocking Chairs
These rockers slightly differ from the different types of rocking chairs. Gliders move forward and backward like they are at a fixed location, as opposed to the arc-like to-and-fro motion of rockers.
With the aid of the lever and hinges, it swings like a door. Actually, this swinging is a form of rocking, so in that sense, they are rocking chairs.
Most glider chairs have a footrest, making them a popular choice among mothers for nursery chairs.
They are much more costly than traditional rocking chairs and contain luxurious cushions for added comfort. Also, you won’t enjoy transporting them often between rooms because they are heavier and bigger.
These chairs tend to sustain damage too quickly due to their mechanical components. It is advisable that you only purchase them from reputable vendors.
3. Swivel Rocking Chairs
This is also among the different types of rocking chairs. Some rocking chairs feature a swivel mechanism to give the user more movement while seated.
Here, there is a lot of variation. First, there are the vintage swivel rockers, which have a heavy wooden base and a seat that is only joined by a thick metal swivel bearing.
Then there are the swivel rockers with rattan frames, which make for incredibly comfortable lounge chairs. Some spring rocking chairs are also swivel-equipped.
However, the most popular combo is glider rocking chairs with swivels. Swivel rocking chairs have a significant durability issue due to their numerous mechanical components.
4. Traditional Rocking Chairs
This is one of the earliest among the different types of rocking chairs. Old movies and television show greatly influenced the popularity of these rocking chairs.
Most of them are constructed of wood, and the back-and-forth motion is caused by the base’s two bent wooden legs. Also, the chairs have a waterfall-style seat with a mid-level back.
Traditional rocking chairs are extremely durable due to their simple design and lack of mechanical components.
In addition, they are among the least expensive rocking chair models available. Although everyone can use these chairs, older people find them more suitable.
5. Metallic Rocking Chairs
This is also among the different types of rocking chairs. This is a fantastic alternative for people who want their furniture to be durable but don’t have much money to spend on the hardwood.
Aluminum, stainless steel, and even iron are the materials used to make metallic chairs. These chairs look better in formal or modern environments and offer greater seating stability than other chair designs.
Furthermore, metal rocking chairs come in a variety of styles. Some of them are merely modifications of conventional designs.
Also, some metallic chairs are composed only of metal at the back and legs, whereas most feature fabric padding.
6. Bentwood Rocking Chairs
This is a classic design among the different types of rocking chairs. The chair has a high backrest and is made of bent wood.
It is ideal for rocking in the living room or nursery. The chair is also perfect for sunbathing or reading.
Furthermore, the bentwood rocking chair is a wonderful addition to any house. It is a cozy and fashionable chair. The chair is also excellent for outdoor use and ideal for the deck or porch.
7. Camping Rocking Chairs
The finest way to unwind while taking in nature is in a camping rocking chair. You may carry them anywhere you go because they are portable. Additionally, they provide a range of reclining positions and are comfortable.
It’s also important to consider the rocking chair’s material. You need something strong and weatherproof. There are many materials available, including wood, metal, and plastic.
Another important aspect of the camping rocking chair is its size. You want something roomy enough to be cozy but not so big that it makes transportation challenging.
Furthermore, you might also want to consider the style of the chair. Probably something that components your style.
Many different styles are available, such as traditional, contemporary, and rustic.
8. Reclining Rocking Chairs
This is also among the different types of rocking chairs. As the name suggests, these rockers have features that let you recline the chair’s back.
As a result, this is preferred by homeowners who use lounge chairs. However, you can’t use both the rocking and reclining features of these chairs at once; you have to choose one or the other.
This type of rocking chair is one of the most expensive ones due to the complexity of the design.
9. Nursing Rocking Chairs
A nursery rocking chair is one of the most important pieces of nursery furniture. Not only does it make parenting more comfortable, but it also calms and soothes babies.
Choosing the perfect nursery rocking chair might be challenging because there are so many different models on the market.
However, it’s important to choose a rocking chair you can sit in comfortably for long periods.
If you plan to breastfeed, you might want to check that your chair has padded armrests that are large enough to support your arms completely while aiding posture.
Safety is another feature to look for in a nursery rocking chair. Many rocking chairs have a negative reputation for pinching daring kids who use them as a jungle gym.
Ensure the chair you choose has a locking mechanism for its reclining or glider functions to prevent this.
10. Hanging Rocking Chairs
Among the different types of rocking chairs on this list is the hanging rocking chair. A hanging rocking chair is one of the most relaxing ways to unwind on your porch or patio. However, if not installed correctly, they can be very dangerous.
11. Spring Rocking Chairs
Spring rocking chairs produce a motion that is similar to that of ordinary rockers but with additional intensity.
The springs are attached and concealed at the base to give the chair some bounce. In addition, most of these chairs have soft cushions for excellent comfort.
For patients who are advised to perform simple workouts, spring rocking chairs can be an excellent piece of furniture because they allow for greater rocking while still providing a comfortable place to sit.
12. Ladderback Rocking Chairs
This is also among the different types of rocking chairs and lasts on this list. These simple rocking chairs have horizontal slats at the back that resemble a ladder.
They often have high backs and support your upright posture. Since they are timeless pieces of furniture, you can keep them in your drawing room.
Ladderback chair seats were typically made of wood and were relatively affordable. However, there are now various designs available with padded seats.
Conclusion
There you have it – 12 different types of rocking chairs. Some have been used in homes for almost a century, while others have just gained popularity in recent decades. Hope you were able to find the perfect piece for your home. Thanks for reading!
