As a kid, there are few things more satisfying than spending a sunny day outside, and the right swing set can turn your own backyard into your child's go-to place to burn off some energy. Today's options offer more than just the flying sensation of the swing set itself. They can be stacked with slides, forts, climbing walls and other activities to keep your kids moving for hours. How do you choose the right swing set for your family's needs?
What to look for when shopping for a swing set
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Materials: Most swing sets are made of wood or metal with plastic, or a combination of these materials:
✔️ Wood swing sets have a more classic look, fitting in with the landscape of your yard, and they're durable, with some lumber — like cedar and redwood — being naturally resistant to bugs and decay. Still, for maximum protection over time, you'll want to maintain the stain, check the bolts and watch out for splinters.
✔️ Metal swing sets generally require less upkeep, but quality varies with metal types and coatings. Heat can also be an issue, with metal causing burns on hot days. Look for a metal with a protective coating to keep kids safe.
✔️ Plastic swing sets tend to hold less weight than wood or metal, so these can be good starter swing sets for younger children. Plastic also eliminates the risk of splinters and reduces risk of burns, but is less likely to maintain vivid coloring after sun exposure over time. - Features: By definition, every swing set needs a swing, but many sets have great add-ons, like multiple swing options, slides, climbing walls, monkey bars, decks and more features that encourage different kinds of movement and play. Some sets are constructed so that you can add features over time, while others don't allow for modifications later on.
- Size: Most swing sets will last between 7 and 10 years, so pick something that your child can grow with. If you're planning to grow your family or host playdates, consider a set that accommodates multiple children. But most importantly, measure your space to ensure you'll have enough clearance around swing sets.
- Safety: Make sure the swing set you buy is designed for your child's age and stage. Pay attention to weight limits, and look for sets that meet ASTM safety standards. Check that your swing set has no small spaces children that can get stuck inside, and keep an eye out for exposed chains with pinching hazards.
- Play area: You can greatly reduce the odds of injury from playground falls by covering nonabsorbent surfaces, such as grass and dirt, with 6 to 12 inches of shock-absorbing materials, such as shredded rubber, sand, pea gravel or wood chips. For maximum swing set safety, our experts recommend extending a 6-foot "fall zone" surrounding the play area cushioned with your shock-absorbing surfaces.