I purchased a used 4Moms MamaRoo before Baby N was born. He has used it every day for naps and staring at lights. I wouldn't say it's been a life saver, but it's definitely been an arm saver. I love being able to put Baby N down instead of wearing or carrying him 24/7. It's especially important to do dishes without splashing him or sweeping the floor without almost dropping him out of the wrap like a doll (this did happen…don't try to sweep with a small floor broom while baby wearing).
I was at a friend's house who had a Fisher-Price Cradle 'n Swing. Baby N was crying, but immediately stopped once she put him in this huge contraption. I found one at a consignment store the next day! He does not enjoy napping in this swing, so he tends to just remain content while looking at the lights and listening to the music. It provides a nice break for laundry time.
Here are links to the machines I purchased used:
4Moms MamaRoo
Fisher-Price Cradle 'n Swing
