Choosing a swing set for your child is a big decision – there are so many great options! There are many benefits to playing on swings, and there are also many things you should keep in mind when choosing a playground set. Here, we take a look at some of the best picks, and have reviewed them in detail to help you make an informed decision. We’ve also answered some FAQs parents have when it comes to choosing the best backyard swings.
Best Swing Sets 2019
Below, you will find our reviews of some of the best home playground equipment. We have included sets for children of all ages, and to suit all budgets. There are a range of styles included in our review too; some with just swings and others with slides, climbing frames and other fun items.
Backyard Discovery Woodridge Elite 
The Backyard Discovery is an amazing set which is guaranteed to provide endless fun for children aged around 3 – 10 years old. Many children can play together on this set at the same time, and it is very durable. There is a 5-year extended warranty included, so you can be sure that you won’t be replacing this set any time soon.
The Backyard Discovery swing set is packed full of features your child will love. There are two belt swings and one trapeze swing, a 10 foot long wave slide and an elevated tunnel. Kids can develop their strength by climbing up the climbing wall, where they can then relax on the sun deck at the top of the frame. There’s also a sand box on the lower level, which is fully covered to keep kids safe from the sun.
This set is made from cedar wood and is coated with a stain which helps ensure it resists rotting and mold. The metal components are powder-coated to prevent rusting, and the bolts are designed in such a way that they will not loosen over time. Overall, this set is packed full of fun activities for your children to enjoy, and it will look stunning in any backyard.
Sportspower My First Toddler Swing
The My First Toddler Swing is an excellent choice for younger kids who are looking for a fun and safe swing without any extras. It is small enough to be used indoors, but can stand up to the weather if used outdoors too. However, it does fold flat easily, meaning it can be stored in a shed or garage when not in use to help prolong the lifespan.
The Sportspower swing comes with a full five-point safety harness, meaning babies as young as 9 months old can safely use this swing. The toddler swing is suitable for children up to around 3 years old, and can support a weight of up to 55 pounds. Parents will love that assembling this swing takes a mere 10 minutes!
Sportspower Ridgewood Me and My Toddler
This Sportspower swing set is a great choice for families with a toddler as well as an older child. There are swings, a slide and a mini trampoline which older kids can use, whilst the toddler rides in the patent-pending ‘me and my toddler’ swing with mom or dad. This means everyone can join in on the fun, and parents can keep a close eye on their little one.
Toddlers will love using the slide and trampoline too, then when they get older they can swing beside their older sibling on the swings. This set can be used by multiple children at the same time, and is ideal for kids between the ages of 2 – 11 years old.
The legs of the swing frame are padded with foam for safety, and the toddler swing seat is fitted with a three-point harness. The slide is 5 foot long, so it’s ideal for younger children.
KidKraft Lewiston Retreat
This KidKraft wooden swing set comes with a cute kitchenette area in the clubhouse on the lower level. So, this set is great for imaginative role play as well as keeping active. There are belt swings and a trapeze bar, as well as two slides. One is a wavy slide whilst the other is an enclosed, twisting tube slide – both are loads of fun!
The KidKraft swing set is safe and fun for children aged 3 years old and above, and it is certain to give many years of fun. Kids and parents alike will love the stunning design of this play set – it even has a chimney on the roof! The clubhouse has a functioning door, and inside there is a stove, a sink and a utensil shelf. You can also find a mail box, a play phone and a clock with moving hands, so there is plenty to keep young kids amused!
Assembly is made slightly easier as there are pre-assembled panels for some parts. Also, all components are heavy duty so there is no need to worry about the wear and tear they might face.
Big Backyard Sunview II
This Big Backyard Playset is ideal for children between the ages of 3 – 10 years old. It features a small climbing wall leading to a wave slide, and underneath this is a small sand box. There are also two belt swings for kids of all ages to enjoy. The canopy is reversible, so it can be either green or yellow. Cedar wood is used in the construction of this play set, so you can be sure it will last a long time.
The Big Backyard swing set is ideal for up to 4 children to enjoy at the same time, so it’s ideal for siblings or friends to play together. The set is great for those with a smaller space available, as it packs a lot of features into a smaller package, so kids can have maximum fun even in a smaller yard. The set takes up 10 x 10 foot of ground space, but an area of 22 x 24.5 foot is recommended for safety and to give kids space to run around.
KidKraft Cranbrook Cedar Wood Playset
This is another great KidKraft wooden swing set which is ideal for kids over the age of three. It features a clubhouse on the upper and lower levels, the lower one being equipped with a cafe bench for restaurant role playing fun. There is also a large wavy slide and monkey bars for kids to swing across. There are two belt swings included, as well as a fun glider swing for two kids to use together.
This is one of the best playground sets for large families or those who often have the neighborhood kids over to play – up to 11 kids can use it at the same time! Kids will love using the real door to enter the lower clubhouse, and sitting at the bench is a great place to have a snack. They can also change the time on the clock above the door.
Parents will love how aesthetically pleasing this set is – it certainly won’t spoil the appearance of the backyard. Kids will love climbing to the upper level and looking out of the windows of their new den!
BestValue Go A-Frame Swing
This A Frame swing is great for those looking for a simple backyard playground for kids of all ages. It comes with two swings and a teeter totter swing, meaning four kids can use this set simultaneously. It’s suitable for kids each weighing up to 100 lbs, and is ideal for those up to the age of around 8 years old. The frame is made from powder-coated steel, and there are ground pegs included to anchor it to the ground.
The outdoor swing features adjustable ropes, so your child can be higher off the ground as they grow. This set is ideal for families on a budget or those with limited space.
Lifetime Adventure Tower Playset
The Lifetime Adventure Tower is a great climbing frame and play structure for kids aged between 3 – 11 years old. There are loads of fun features to keep them entertained every time. The swings include two belt swings and a trapeze bar, and you’ll also find a 9 foot wavy slide. The upper deck can be accessed either by the climbing wall or the curved ladder. Up here, kids will find a steering wheel so they can pretend to be the captain of the ship!
The Lifetime Tower playset is made from weather and UV-resistant materials which will not crack, warp or splinter over time. This means it is easy to maintain – no painting or staining required. The structure is free-standing so it doesn’t need to be cemented or otherwise anchored to the ground.
There are some useful safety features on this playset. For example, the swing chains feature rubber grips to prevent the fingers from becoming pinched when in use. Kids will love using the hideout underneath the slide for imaginative games and role playing. You could even set up a table and chairs for them to have meals and snacks in their new den!
Lifetime Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set
The Lifetime monkey bars are great for older kids – even adults can use them! On this set, you will find three belt swings, a trapeze bar, 9 foot wavy slide and of course the monkey bars with ladders to access at either side. There is also a fireman’s pole which is great fun for kids to slide down!
This backyard jungle gym comes in a choice of two color schemes. There is the primary color scheme, pictured above, as well as earth tone coloring, brown and green, which blends in with the greenery in the yard. Parents will love the safety features on this set – the hard edges are rounded or covered by plastic caps to help prevent bumps and injuries. It also contains no lead-based materials and meets all current safety standards.
The freestanding play structure doesn’t require ground anchors or cement to keep it secure. It is weather-resistant and low maintenance, and is also UV resistant so it won’t weaken or fade in color even after being out in bright sunlight.
Gorilla Playsets Mountaineer
The Gorilla Mountaineer is an amazing piece of playground equipment with loads of fun features which are guaranteed to keep your child entertained for years to come. Some of the amazing features include; two different slides, swings, trapeze handles, rock climbing wall and a climbing net. This is great for helping kids get stronger and stay fit and active.
The Gorilla swing set also includes a sand box as well as a table and chairs, both of which are in a shaded position to keep kids out of the sun. There are other fun features too, like a tic tac toe game, a steering wheel and a telescope. The chains on the swings are uniquely designed to keep kids safe – the chains are coated in plastic which prevents pinching of the fingers and also keeps the chains cooler on hot days.
This outdoor playground equipment requires a large area – the equipment itself measures 21’x 15′, not including the space required around it for safety and for running around. It is made from cedar wood which has been stained amber and pre-sanded ready for assembly. As with any equipment of this size, expect assembly to take many hours, although the process is not overly difficult.
Gorilla Playsets Swing Set with Climbing Wall
The Gorilla Outing III is another fantastic backyard playset which is packed full of fun equipment for kids from 3 – 11 years old. So, you can guarantee that this fun set will last for years, providing endless enjoyment. Some of the features on this set include – belt swings, a trapeze bar, a slide, a sand box and a climbing wall with rope. At the top of the climbing wall, there is a lookout area complete with steering wheel and telescope.
Several children can play together on this set, as it has a maximum weight capacity of 800 pounds overall. The cedar wood naturally resists rot and decay so you don’t need to worry about maintenance. Assembling this playground set will take a while, however the process is designed to be as simple as possible. For example, the main beams are pre-drilled and pre-sanded and stained. You’ll also find step-by-step instructions complete with pictures and drawings.
Peach Tree Play Park Set
This PeachTree play park set is ideal for those looking for something simple yet fun. It doesn’t take up much space, and comes in at under $150. On this set, you can find a swing, a trapeze bar with handles and a teeter-totter swing. There’s also a 3-foot tall slide included. This set is best for kids between the ages of 3 – 8 years old, and can hold up to 100 pounds per seat.
This backyard playground is easy to maintain – it has a durable, powder-coated frame. It also includes ground bolts for each leg, to ensure safety and stability. The swing ropes can be adjusted as your child grows to ensure they are always comfortable. The whole set weighs just 85 pounds, so it is easy to assemble.
Spider Web A-Frame Swing
This spider web swing is an excellent choice for big families or those with older kids. The frame can hold an impressive 660 pounds in total, meaning it can be used by several children or even adults. Everything on this swing is built to last. The frame is weather-resistant and will not crack or rust, and the ropes are thick and sturdy too.
The A frame swing is designed to be freestanding, and does not require any cement to keep it anchored to the ground. This is ideal, because it can then be relocated as needed. This style of swing is ideal for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. It can be used in many different ways – sitting or lying back and for swinging high or gently rocking like a hammock. This is a great investment for kids of all ages – it doesn’t cost much but is guaranteed to provide years of fun!
Considerations When Choosing Playground Sets
There are loads of things to think about when it comes to choosing the right playground equipment for using at home.
Safety: The first thing to consider should always be safety. Make sure the play structure can be anchored to the ground so it won’t topple over when your child uses it. Also check height, weight and age restrictions to ensure the set is safe for your child to use.
Material: Also decide which material you prefer – wooden or metal. Wood tends to look better in the yard, however metal can be more durable and require less maintenance. However, it is ultimately down to personal preference which material you choose.
Features: Another major factor to consider is the features the playground set has. There are many different options – slides, monkey bars, tire swings and many more. Think about the kind of things your child loves to play with and choose a set based on their likes and interests.
Practicality: Think about how many children will be using the equipment, too. If you have more than one child, ensure they can all play on it together. If all the neighborhood kids tend to gather in your yard in the summer, choose a larger set so everyone can join in the fun!
Safety When Using Playground Equipment
As mentioned above, safety is the number one thing to consider when it comes to using backyard swing sets. Here, we discuss ways to ensure your child is always safe when playing with their new outdoor toys. Remember, if your child is below the minimum age suggested by the manufacturer, they shouldn’t use the set unless being very closely supervised.
Teach your Child How to Play Safely
Make sure your child knows how to properly use their new equipment, such as holding on tightly to the ropes of the swing. Whilst the equipment is designed to be fun, ensure your child knows not to mess around too much in case they fall. If your child has friends over to play, be sure that too many kids don’t use the climbing equipment at one time. Too much weight will weaken the frame, and it could also cause it to lose balance and topple over. Children should take care to stay away from other kids using the swings, so they don’t get it. They should also never stand on the swings, and jumping from the swings whilst they are moving is not a good idea either.
Maintaining Your Swing Set
It’s important to maintain your new playground equipment to keep it in good condition and ensure it stays safe for use. Wooden sets often benefit from being stained or coated regularly, generally once a year. Metal sets should be checked for signs of rusting, and on all sets it’s important to check the tightness of bolts and screws frequently. By looking after the playground equipment, it will last for much longer and will be less likely to cause harm to your child. If the set has plastic parts, such as a slide or a swing seat, it can become damaged and brittle if exposed to too much sunlight. It’s best to cover these parts when not in use to prevent them from cracking or snapping, or place the play structure in a shaded location if possible.
Where to Place a Backyard Swing Set
You need to think about where to place a playground set to ensure it is safe to use. Measure out the space first and be sure to leave enough room for your child to gain some height when swinging! You’ll also need to leave plenty of space for them to come off the end of the slide, if there is one on the set. Be sure the space is away from any hedges or fences, and there are no large rocks or nice flower beds too close.
It’s best to place a swing set over soft ground, to provide cushioning if your child does fall. Woodchips or play bark is an excellent choice and is easy to maintain. Sand is another ideal option, and it can double up as a fun sand pit for your child to play in. However, with sand it’s important to check that the neighborhood kitties aren’t using it as a giant litter box!
What Features Should a Swing Set Have?
There are loads of features to choose from, and it really depends on what your child is interested in. Sets with at least two swings are ideal, so children can enjoy the experience with friends. Climbing walls are ideal for helping kids develop large motor skills and strength. However, as mentioned previously, the main thing is to check safety features.
Do consider the space you have available before buying the biggest and best playground set. It’s better to choose something which has slightly less features but will safely fit in the space you have.
How Do I Assemble Swings?
Assembly can be time consuming, but it is important to carefully follow instructions to ensure the set is safe to use. Some manufacturers offer video instructions on YouTube which can be easier to follow. You will need some basic tools, and perhaps an electric drill to make things quicker. Any special tools required will likely be included. You will probably need some help to assemble the swings, particularly if you have chosen a larger set.
Some companies offer a professional assembly service for an extra fee, which is ideal for those with health issues or time constraints. If assembling yourself, be sure to allow plenty of time. If the playground equipment will be a gift for a special occasion, you might need to start building a few days in advance to ensure it is ready in time for the big day.
Our Top Pick: Best Backyard Swings
We have reviewed a range of amazing backyard playground sets here. The best one really depends on the style and features you are looking for, and also what budget you have available to spend on the equipment. The Backyard Discovery Elite is one of the best sets available, if you have space and can afford it this is definitely the one to buy. It has a huge range of features to ensure kids never get bored with playing with it. It is also extremely well-made and will last for many years to come.
Another great pick which is packed with fun features is the Gorilla Mountaineer playset. It’s ideal for many kids to play with at the same time, and will also look stylish in the yard. Another feature we love on this set is the amount of shade it offers – ideal for helping keep kids cool in the summer.
Whichever set you choose, you can guarantee your child will love it! Swing sets are an excellent way to ensure your child gets plenty of fresh air and exercise and are also great for helping your child socialize and have fun.
