Old is gold. That’s enough to explain the growing love for vintage furniture (rocking chairs inclusive). Pretty, durable, and environment-friendly, vintage pieces are practical options for bringing out the best within your space. What’s more the vintage and antique furniture are available in many creative designs.
You can mix different designs to create an elegant ornate handcrafted look. For instance, you can get mid-century pieces and combine them with retro or vintage rocking chairs.
Remember, the deal breaker here is your choice of color and craftsmanship. So, make sure to choose pieces that resonate with your tastes and preference without downplaying your room décor.
So, what are we having in the vintage rocking chairs space?
This is an outrageously cheap but comfy wooden vintage rocking chair. It's available in pretty colors making it a super versatile seat.
Best 9 Vintage Rocking Chairs: Side-By-Side Comparison
| Esra Rocking Chair Glider Best for the Living Room  +A cozy rocking chair with an excellent balance of vintage and modern style +Includes a plush back cushion, padded seat, and armrests upholstered in durable polyester fabric See Price |
| Gift Mark Rocking Chairs-Classic Wooden Rocker Editor’s Choice/Best Vintage Rocking Chair  +Quite affordable, durable wooden rocking chair for the nursery, living room or any other shared indoor space. +Carefully handcrafted to deliver premium comfort through a tall backrest, comfy armrests and, smooth rocking runners See Price |
| Burgundy Breckenridge Rocking Chair Best Faux Leather Rocking Chair  +A sturdy Victorian styled rocker comprising a solid wood base and armrests +Features a headrest for added comfort and easy to clean PU leather upholstery See Price |
| Mid century design Rattan Thonet Bentwood Rocking chair Best Accent Antique Rocking Chair  +Sturdy swirling frame +Includes soft backrest and padded seat for enhanced comfort See Price |
| Rocking Chair with Ornamental Headrest Best for Art Nouveau style  +Durable, super comfy vintage rocking chair comprising 100% Asian furniture +Beautiful design comprising an ornamental headrest and pretty accent pieces along the base, backrest and, armrest See Price |
| DJL Antique Wood Outdoor Rocking Log Chair Best for the Outdoors  +An all-weather rocker made from cracked wood logs for longevity reasons +Delivers support to the parts that matter through its curved seat and compact slats on its high backrest See Price |
| Baxton Studio Yashiya Mid Century Retro Modern Fabric Upholstered Rocking Chair Best for the Elderly  +Low sitting, roomy mid-century rocker with a high backrest for excellent back, neck and, head support +Comprises soft linen fabric upholstery and rebound sponge filling, which is elastic but firm for the highest levels of comfort See Price |
| YOLENY Fabric Rocking Chair Best for the Nursery Room  +Excellent nursing vintage furniture with a thick padded ottoman for resting your legs and lumbar cushion for enhanced back support +Features solid wood base and high-quality skin-friendly velvet upholstery for long-lasting use See Price |
| Gift Mark Childs Rocking Chairs Best Antique Children’s rocking chair  +Handmade +Classic vintage design See Price |
Choosing the Best Vintage Rocking Chairs: Factors & Criteria
Identifying a vintage rocking chair that’ll serve you well requires careful consideration. Following are factors to help you choose the best vintage furniture.
Comfort
The best vintage rocking chair should deliver premium comfort unless you’re into collections. Often, comfort is determined by the size of the rocker. You’ll want a roomy piece that can allow you to curl up with your pet or blanket whenever you feel like it.
It’s wise to select a piece with comfy armrests. Therefore, be sure to check on the positioning and size to pick a chair that’ll deliver ergonomic comfort. If you’re into padded rockers, the firmness and softness of the material used really matters.
Longevity
Most vintage-styled pieces of furniture feature solid wood. So, they’re often durable. However, consider hardwood options since those can be pretty long-lasting. Remember, even the sturdiest pieces can cave in if neglected. So, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions and follow them to the letter.
Safety
The truth is vintage furniture from the 19th century, and late 1800 is still available. However, they’re rare. For that reason, woodworkers are continuously designing new antique and vintage rocking chairs to meet the demand.
That said, it’s best to choose user-friendly pieces. For instance, you’ll want to consider if the rocking chair is GREENGUARD GOLD certified. If not, which kind of material was used during production? Is the upholstery material skin-friendly? Are there dangerous emissions from the seat?
In-Depth Best Vintage Rocking Chairs Reviews
Whether you’re looking for unique handcrafted pieces, or you’d like a Victorian-styled rocker chair, or perhaps you’re hunting for a nursing vintage rocking chair, here’s a collection of wonderful seats you can invest in.
Best Living Room Vintage Rocking Chair: Esra Rocking Chair Glider
Star rating: 4.6/5
Stand out Features
- GREENGUARD gold certified
- Wide side storage pocket
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High back
- Firm padding
- Sturdy construction
- Durable
Cons
- Lacks an ottoman
If you’re into vintage furniture but also want a piece with a modern touch, this can be an ideal option. Made to help you relax to the max in the bedroom, you can also get this comfy rocking armchair for your nursery, reading nook or front porch.
The solid wood base, thick back cushion, firm seat and soft fabric upholstery are some of the desirable aspects of this modern rocking chair. On top of that, it’s GREENGUARD gold certified. So, it’ll provide a safe haven for you when the need arises.
This rocking chair also features a wide side storage pocket for placing essentials within arm’s reach. The color variety is also nice. You can be sure to find a piece that’ll complement your décor.
Best Vintage Rocking Chair: Gift Mark Rocking Chairs-Classic Wooden Rocker (Editor’s Pick)
Star rating: 4.6/5
Stand out Features
- Handcrafted
- Features beautiful accents
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable
- Durable
- Tall backrest
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Lacks lumbar cushion
With or without a throw cushion, this handcrafted seat is comfortable. For the price, it’s among the low-priced vintage-themed pieces of furniture available out there. The comfort fitted design includes a wide seat and high back made of sturdy slats.
The slightly curved armrests are inviting and comforting, while the solid wood legs will deliver smooth rocking motion for the highest levels of relaxation. In addition, the turned accents at the base make for a classic piece that’ll grace into any indoor space.
The color variety here is incredible. If you don’t like cherry, white, espresso and natural wood are also available. Remember, assembly is needed. Nonetheless, it’s a straightforward procedure and, within minutes, you’ll be rocking away your fatigue.
Best Leather Vintage Rocking Chair: Burgundy Breckenridge Rocking Chair
Star rating: 4.7/5
Stand out Features
- Unique nailhead trim design
- Durable PU leather upholstery
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comfy headrest
- Sturdy wooden base
- Firm
- Heavy-duty rocking chair
Cons
- Lacks color variety
The Burgundy Breckenridge Rocking Chair bears a beautifully curved base and armrests like a Victorian rocker. On top of that, it comprises a padded high back and seat complete with a comfy headrest. The PU upholstery is soft and durable. Coupled with the unique nailhead trim design, it’ll perfectly combine with your other vintage furniture.
In addition, this seat can hold up to 300 pounds. So, you’ll not really need a dedicated rocking chair for your heavy visitors. Remember, adult assembly is required, plus the rocker is available in two colors only—burgundy and espresso.
Best Accent Antique Rocking Chair: Mid Century Design Rattan Thonet Bentwood Rocking Chair
Stand out Features
- Swirling frame
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Solid wood construction
- Lightweight
Cons
- Unsuitable for people with mobility issues
Creating a focal point in the living room will be so easy with this Thonet Bentwood rocker. It is a beautiful rocking chair, inspired by Michael Thonet, a German craftsman. It is handmade with wood (oak finish). The classic swirling frame delivers elegance like no other while the soft backrest and padded seat offer comfort to the parts that matter most.
Best for Art Nouveau Style: Rocking Chair with Ornamental Headrest
Star rating: 4.4/5
Stand out Features
- Comprises 100% Asian hardwood
- Features cute accents
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comfy back slats
- Wide seat
- Durable
- Wide seat
Cons
- Lacks cushions
If looking to create the Art Nouveau decorative style that was popular in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s this is the rocking chair to buy. The Art Nouveau entails the use of delicate curves and floral patterns. This chair features a pretty curve design on the arms and an ornamental headrest.
It is also a hardwood piece of furniture. So, expect this piece to last through several generations (of course, with proper maintenance).
Meanwhile, the roomy seat is comfortable, and cushions aren’t essential. However, you can use one if you like. Lastly, the chair can hold up to 300 pounds, meaning it’s a sturdy piece. Assembly is also required.
Best Outdoor Vintage Rocking Chair: DJL Antique Wood Outdoor Rocking Log Chair
Star rating: 4.8/5
Stand out Features
- Contoured seat
- Antique torch finish
Pros and Cons
Pros
- All-weather rocker
- Fun-shaped back
- Durable
- Unique rustic design
Cons
- Lacks cushions
This weather-resistant outdoor antique rocking chair is one of its kind. It comprises a contoured seat, sturdy armrests, and a fun-shaped tall back. So, support to the most vital parts is assured. Also, the chair features a unique rustic design, including log-like cracked pieces of wood. That reduces the chance of more cracks appearing on your seat.
Further, it features an antique torch finish, i.e., burnt fir wood with PU coatings. In other words, it’s a vintage-themed piece of furniture that can withstand elements—perfect for your outdoor relaxation needs. Although assembly is required, the procedure is pretty straightforward. So, setting it up is easy.
Best Vintage Rocking Chair for the Elderly: Baxton Studio Yashiya Mid Century Retro Modern Fabric Upholstered Rocking Chair
Star rating: 4.3/5
Stand out Features
- Comfy rebound sponge filling
- Curved armrests
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High back
- Generously sized rocker
- Durable
- Sits low
Cons
- Doesn’t recline
This rocking chair features a beautiful retro design that’ll transform your home into a bright, cozy place. Although it sits low, it is roomy, so perching with a warm blanket is pretty practical.
In addition the high back and firm seat comprising rebound sponge filling, and soft linen upholstery provide a comfortable seating place besides relieving waist fatigue. That said, your search for an excellent chair for your parents or grandparents ends here.
Best Nursing Vintage Rocking Chair: YOLENY Fabric Rocking Chair
Star rating: 4.3/5
Stand out Features
- Multi-layered wood frame
- Padded ottoman piece
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Includes lumbar support pillow
- Skin-friendly fabric upholstery
- Easy to clean
- Multi-function rocker
Cons
- Lacks a bassinet
Superior comfort for you and your little one is a critical factor when choosing a vintage-styled nursery room rocking chair. That said, you’ll not want to miss out on this high-quality, super versatile nursing piece.
This rocker features sturdy construction, and the materials used are skin-friendly. So, it’ll provide a perfect place for your little one to grow. The velvet upholstery is soft and easy to clean. So, inevitable messes are already taken care of. The smooth rocking runners and solid wood base will ensure you can enjoy bonding time to the max.
If you like, you can kick your feet on the matching thick padded ottoman piece. It can also be used for storage or as an alternative seating option. Lastly, it’s a multi-purpose piece recommended for living room, study, or bedroom relaxation needs.
Best Antique Children’s rocking chair: Gift Mark Childs Rocking Chairs
Star rating: 4.5/5
Stand out Features
- Handmade
- Classic vintage design
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Available in multiple colors
- Durable
Cons
- Assembly required
This kid’s size chair by Gift Mark is the perfect addition to your kid’s room. It’s made from durable solid wood and comes in multiple colors to match any decor. Spindles and turned legs give this piece a cozy vintage look. This kids rocking chair is made for children three years and older. It is simple to assemble. Your kids will be playing and reading story books in this chair in no time.
The Vintage Rocking Chairs Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Vintage Rocking Chair for You
Choosing the best vintage rocking chair for you is as simple as buying what you love. In other words, it’s going for vintage furniture that’ll suit your tastes and preferences. Here’s what to consider when shopping around.
The Price
If all you want is an old rocking chair made in the early 1900s, then the chances of finding an affordable piece are high. However, you’ll also find pricey pieces of vintage furniture, especially when shopping for modern vintage-styled rocking chairs. So, you’ll want to set a budget in order to shop for a lovely but affordable piece.
The Design
Aside from vintage-styled rocking chairs, you can have antique chairs, retro seats, mid-century pieces. You can also go for Victorian rocking chairs, bentwood rocking chairs or windsor rocking chair.
The bottom line is, finding rocking chair styles that you love. The best part about these old rocking chairs is that you aren’t confined to one design. You can choose different designs and create a unique blend of themes in your space.
Ease of Maintenance
It pays to select an easy-to-clean piece of furniture. If you opt for upholstered seats, one that can be cleaned with a damp cloth will be fine. You can also choose solid wood pieces such as oak rocking chairs and teak rocking chairs, although those require occasional painting jobs to keep them looking good. So, keep that in hindsight before clicking the ‘buy now button’.
Vintage Rocking Chairs: Other Suggestions
If you’ve found our reviews great but still looking for something else, here are some more suggestions of excellent vintage pieces.
Leisure Made Pearson Outdoor Rocking Chairs, Antique
These wicker rocking chairs are the true definition of comfort, class, and beauty. They’re sold as a set of two and can be an excellent option if you’re looking to create a breathtaking conversation place in your garden. Built to last, these modern rocking chairs comprise powder-coated steel frame, durable hand-woven wicker material, and high-quality olefin fabric. Besides, the antique chairs come with a tan lumbar back cushion and tan seat cushion for added comfort.
Emerson Nursing Rocker and Bassinet
Old nursing rocking chairs were simply cradles that helped soothe babies. Similarly, the Emerson Nursing Rocker features a bassinet but includes an attached rocking chair. So, you and your little one can relax and enjoy each other’s company. You’re also free to soothe your baby while reading or enjoying your favorite beverage. The breathable mesh and soft fabric upholstery will deliver the promise of comfort. In addition, you can detach the cradle from the rocker and attach the extra leg to form a rocking chair when the baby outgrows the bassinet.
