Best Outdoor Baby Swing (2024 Update)

Best Outdoor Baby Swing

The gleeful giggle of your baby, followed by the looks of wonder and amazement as they ride on a swing for the first time, can be a rewarding feeling for you as a parent. Swinging is one of the milestones that is enjoyed by both parent and child. 

The question swings bring up is at what age is it appropriate to put a baby in an outdoor swing, and what makes it safe. There are a few factors that come in to play when choosing an outdoor swing for your baby. We have compiled a list of the best outdoor baby swings that are currently on the market. 

If you’re in a hurry below is a snapshot of all the swings reviewed. More thorough reviews are further down in the post.

Best Outdoor Baby Swing Eastern Jungle Gym

Eastern Jungle Gym High Back Swing

  • For ages 6 months to 4 years
  • Heavy-duty plastic
  • Coated chains 
  • Balances seat
kids swing

Squirrel Products Combo-High Back Full Bucket Swing

  • High seatback
  • Rated up to 150lbs
  • Coated chain
  • 6 months and up
Best Outdoor Baby Swing Little Tikes 2 in 1

Little Tykes 2-in1 Snug ‘n Secure Grow With Me Swing

  • Indoor/ Outdoor use
  • Rated up to 50 pounds
  • Can tilt for littles who cannot quite sit all the way up
  • T-bar and shoulder straps
infant swing

Step2 Infant To Toddler Swing Seat

  • Easy to clean seat
  • Safety straps
  • Easy to unbuckle
  • Can be hung from a tree
kids swing

Arkmiido Kids Swing

  • Durable rope construction
  • The design prevents flipping back
  • Indoor/ outdoor use
  • Lightweight and portable
wooden kids swing

Wooden Horse Toddler Swing Set

  • For us from 6 months to 3 years
  • Weight up to 44 pounds
  • Sides keep your child secure
  • Cotton ropes are soft on your child’s hands

Benefits of an Outdoor Swing

Outdoor play is so essential to a child’s development. According to the Infant Toddler Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ITERS-R), one hour of a baby or toddler’s playtime should be spent outdoors. Spending time in the fresh air and sunshine helps build their immune system and develop their senses. Their brains are growing so quickly during their first three years of life that they need to experience a wide variety of play, especially outdoor play. 

The outdoors itself provides constant stimulation for your child. Everything is a novel experience for them from seeing birds, looking at trees, to swinging in a swing. Each interaction is new and helps to stretch your child’s learning boundaries. 

Swinging has many growth benefits for little ones, including stimulating their senses. It provides visual stimulation. The back and forth of the swing’s motion helps your baby with spacial relation and balance in their inner ears. Swinging introduces awareness to their brain and helps them categorize what they are seeing. This lays the foundation to help your child as they grow and learn more complex behaviors and learning. 

Swinging also helps babies and toddlers learn to focus. If they feel overwhelmed in their environment, going outside and swinging can help them to call down and readjust. Children calm down because the rocking motion triggers their cerebral cortex. This is the area of the brain that helps with focus and bringing balance to their senses.

Babies learn tactically. Even just holding on the rope or chain of the swing assists in motor skill development. Grabbing helps develop the dexterity in their fingers and helps develop their grip and coordination in their hands, arms, and fingers. 

Swinging also has many other benefits such as:

  • Fun and soothing
  • Has a calming effect
  • Encourages interaction and social development
  • Develops both gross and fine motor skills
  • Stimulates their core muscles and helps build balance
  • Uses multiple parts of your child’s brain at the same time

Swinging also provides one on one bonding time with your child. Since babies are little and cannot push themselves back and forth, you get to be there helping them and experiencing their joy. 

Types of Outdoor Swings

here are many different styles of swings on the market to choose from. Choosing a style that suits you and your baby will rely heavily on their age, size, materials you want, and price point. 

Infant Swings

Infant swings have full support for your baby and look more like a high chair than a swing. It has support in the back and front as well as safety harnesses. This style can be chosen by your child’s weight and size.

Toddler Swings

Toddler swings have your child’s safety in mind. They have a higher back as well as safety measures like buckle straps and side barriers. This way, your child will not slip out and will stay securely inside the swing. Typically these swings are made of hard plastic with a rope hanging system. The rope is easier on a toddler’s fingers and reduces the risk of pinching. 

Bucket Swings

Bucket swings are molded swings with leg holes for your child. The bucket-style provides a lot of support for your baby. It comes up around their front, sides, and back to ensure that they are secure. Since this design prohibits children from getting in on their own, you will need to place them in and help them swing by gently pushing. 

Gliders

Gliders are a flat surface construction with places where your child can hold on and put their feet. Gliders can be used with multiple children sitting on it at the same time. Most gliders are plastic construction and are for little ones in the in-between stage-those who are too big for the bucket style seat but aren’t quite at a sling-style seat.

Cradle Swings

Cradle swings are soft fabric style swings that mimic your baby’s cradle or sling. Many styles have cushions inside of them to provide support for your baby. Some styles are entirely enclosed, and your baby can lay inside while others have leg holes so your baby can get used to dangling their feet out. 

Hammock Swings

Hammock swings are made out of woven fabric or rope. The style can be sent or laid on by your toddler, depending on how you hang it up. The hammock swing is more for gentle rocking back and forth and not for high energy swinging.

Sling Swings

Sling swing is the traditional swing that is found at most playgrounds. It is a sturdy seat and can provide plenty of support while swinging. Sling swings, however, are open in the back and front with no extra safety measures for babies and small toddlers. These seats are best suited for children who are 6 years old and above or children who can easily pull themselves up onto the swing. This is an excellent style if you want to swing next to your child or with them on your lap. 

Flying Saucers

Flying saucers are flat disk-like swings with a solid or webbed surface. They have a larger surface area for sitting and can accommodate multiple children. They are very hammock-like in how they support your child’s body. Quality flying saucers have a steel frame with synthetic fibers. The way they are hooked will ensure that the swing will last for a long time. Adults can also fit on a flying saucer depending on its weight rating, making it an excellent option for swinging with your child.

Wooden Swings

Wooden swings are an eco-friendly option to the traditional plastic swing. Wooden swings are usually made in fun creature designs that your little one can sit in and dangle their legs down. Most wooden swings have safety in mind on top of being eco-friendly. Many styles are chemical-free, and we’ll give your outdoor play area a more natural feel.

Expression Swings

Expression swings are designed so that you can swing with your child. You sit in an adult swing directly across from your child so that you are face to face. While swinging, you can watch your child’s reaction, and they can see yours. These swings are made for both babies as well as toddlers and are perfect for bonding with your little one. The only downside to these swings is they are pricier than traditional swings. 

Finding the Perfect Fit

When choosing your outdoor baby swing, you want to ensure that your little one is safe and comfortable. Swings will have a weight rating so you can assess which one will fit your little one the best. 

Depending on the size of your baby, you may want a swing that has a higher back with more of a bucket style to give her more support. For larger babies, a seat with a high back but a belt and crossbar may be more comfortable. Plastic models will ensure that your baby will not get any splinters. However, the hard plastic may be uncomfortable for some. 

Cloth styles are available for babies who do not like plastic styles. These are softer and more comfortable. A cloth swing may remind them of sitting in their indoor swings and may allow your infant to be more receptive. With so many styles available, the right fit will boil down to your child’s preference. 

How to Hang an Outdoor Baby Swing

When setting up your outdoor swing, there are a couple of different ways you can hang it, but first, you will need to determine where you want the swing located. Baby swings can be hung almost anywhere, whether it is on your porch, in a tree, or on a structure.

If you prefer the look of a traditional playground-style swing, you can get an A-frame swing structure. These structures are stand-alone and can be placed on any level surface in your yard. A-frame structures can be metal, or they can be wooden depending on what look you would like to go for. These structures typically do not need to be secured as there is little risk of them tipping over. The swing can be attached by rope, metal, or plastic-coated chain or by a hanging strap. 

If you want a more natural look, you can hang your babies’ swing off a tree branch. Hanging straps or polyester rope can be used to secure it. Both will hold up well to weather and the elements. If you choose to hang your swing in a tree, check to make sure the tree is not diseased or decaying and be sure to select a branch that is at least 8 inches in diameter. 

Make sure you are at least three feet away from the tree’s trunk and around 24 inches off the ground. Always inspect the rope before use to ensure it is safe for baby.

Porches are also a great place to hang your baby’s swing, and they provide you with some cover from the elements. If your porch has solid ceiling joists that can support your child’s weight, this will be the perfect option. You will need to make sure you have at least 2 ½ feet of clearance behind the swing to ensure that it will move properly. You will also want to keep away from doors, windows, rails, and walls.  

Eyebolts can be used to secure the swing into the beam. Rope or chain can be attached to the eyebolts once they are secure, and the infant swing can be attached after. Test out the swing before you put your baby in to be sure you have enough clearance, that the swing is at an easy to push height, and that it is even. 

Outdoor Swing Safety

Your child’s safety is always at the forefront of your mind when playing, eating, sleeping- basically everything they do. When babies are outside, many factors come to play. If it is warm, you need to be sure they have sunscreen, a hat, and watch for signs of overheating. The swing may need a cushion or towel if it is in the direct sun, as it may be too hot for your baby to comfortably sit on. 

If you are playing outside during the colder months, your little one will need to be bundled up to stay nice and warm. The swing may also need to be wiped down if it has been raining, and your little one may need a blanket on their laps to help warm them.

Best Outdoor Baby Swings Reviewed

With so many options, it is hard to know which swing to choose for your baby. Here is a selection of the top-rated baby swings to help you narrow your choices.  

Eastern Jungle Gym High back Toddler Swing Seat With Coated Chains

This swing by Eastern jungle gym is made of high-quality plastic and is a fully enclosed swing with a high back to keep your little one secure. The seat comes fully assembled with its own plastic-coated chains for easy hanging. The plastic on the chains keeps your child from pinching their little fingers. 

PROS

  • For ages 6 months to 4 years
  • Heavy-duty plastic
  • Coated chains 
  • Balances seat

CONS

  • Smaller babies may not fit in the seat as well
  • No seatbelt or harness

Squirrel Products Combo-High Back Full Bucket Swing and Heavy Duty Swing Seat

This high-back bucket swing from Squirrel comes in a set with a regular swing. This way, you can sit and swing next to your child or store the traditional swing for when they graduate from the bucket seat. It includes 66 inches of chain with 30 inches of yellow plastic coated chain to protect your little one’s fingers.

PROS

  • High seatback
  • Rated up to 150lbs
  • Coated chain
  • 6 months and up

CONS

  • The thick chain may not be compatible with playset hooks
  • Leans forward if you baby throws their weight forward

Little Tykes 2-in-1 Snug ‘n Secure Grow With Me Swing

The Snug ‘n Secure swing comes with shoulder straps and a t-bar to help keep your little one secure. When your baby no longer needs the straps in the t-bar, they can be moved out of the way, and your child can swing freely. The swing is recommended for babies 9 months old up to 4-years-old children.

PROS

  • Indoor/ Outdoor use
  • Rated up to 50 pounds
  • Can tilt for littles who cannot quite sit all the way up
  • T-bar and shoulder straps

CONS

  • Rope for hanging may be too short for your area
  • Does not have a lap belt

Step2 Infant To Toddler Swing Seat

The infant to toddler swing seat from step two is another option if you are looking for a seat that will last your baby a little longer. The seat is made out of plastic with shoulder straps to keep your child securely in place as well as a bar restraint, so they do not slide out. The swing comes with a weather-resistant rope for easy hanging. The swing fits on most swing sets and is made in the USA. The swing is rated for babies ages 9 months up to 3 years, weighing up to 50 pounds. 

PROS

  • Easy to clean seat
  • Safety straps
  • Easy to unbuckle
  • Can be hung from a tree

CONS

  • The harness does not stow away underneath when no longer needed
  • May need an extra chain to achieve desired hanging height

Arkmiido Kids Swing

This handwoven swing by Arkmiido can be used both indoors and outdoors. The seat is rated to hold up to 300 lb and can be used by both kids and adults. The swing is made of professional climbing rope and has an anti-collision strip. The height is completely adjustable. The swing comes with connection straps rope and steel buckles for hanging.

PROS

  • Durable rope construction
  • The design prevents flipping back
  • Indoor/ outdoor use
  • Lightweight and portable

CONS

  • Rated for ages 2 and up
  • Holds moisture if it gets wet

Wooden Horse Toddler Swing Set

The Wooden Horse Swing Set by Ecotribe is made from all-natural materials. The wood and ropes are entirely untreated. All edges are sanded and smooth to ensure there is nowhere for your little one to scratch themselves. The swing can be used either indoors or outside. It can be hung in trees, on a play structure, or from the porch. The set comes with everything you will need to hang it up and has easy to follow instructions. 

PROS

  • For us from 6 months to 3 years
  • Weight up to 44 pounds
  • Sides keep your child secure
  • Cotton ropes are soft on your child’s hands

CONS

  • Need to assemble
  • May need to seal if it is going to permanently be outside

Frequently Asked Questions about Baby Swings

What Age Can Your Baby Use a Swing?

Most swings are manufactured for little ones that are between 6 months to 4 years old. However, each child develops at their own pace. It is best to wait to put your little one in an outdoor swing until they can successfully sit up on their own and have full control of their heads, according to Zero to Three.

Pushing should be done at a slow and gentle rate to not jar or upset your baby. Do not worry if your little one does not seem to enjoy her first time on the swing. Sometimes it just takes some getting used to. To help your baby adjust, you can sit on a swing together and gently swing back and forth. Be careful to not go too quickly as you do not want to lose your grip on the swing or your little one!

Can Your Baby Sleep In the Swing? 

The soothing motion of being in the swing reminds your baby of the movement of being in the womb, much like the motion of an indoor baby swing. This can make your little one so relaxed that they drift off to sleep. It may be tempting to leave them there since no one ever wants to wake a sleeping baby. 

However, according to the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP), the only safe place for infants or toddlers to sleep is in their crib. Sleeping anywhere else may have the possibility of suffocation. Outdoor swings are not built with enough support for your little one to safely stay in there while sleeping, and it may increase their risk of falling. 

Final Thoughts

As you are searching for an outdoor swing for your little one to enjoy, keep a few factors in mind. First, decide where you want to hang your swing, which may affect which one you choose. After that, look at what style is most comfortable for your baby and gives you peace of mind knowing your child is safe and secure. Remember to look at both the age and weight rating as little ones all grow at different speeds and may fall into one category and not the other. 

Most importantly, have fun! Fresh outdoor air and sunshine are vital to their development. Swinging helps them create neuropathways that will help them later in life. It also gives you a different mode of one on one time with your child. It is the perfect way to introduce your baby to the joy of being outdoors and show them how much fun playing outside can be. 

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