Whether inside or outside, swinging is a fun and calming feeling for many toddlers. It actually has a lot of benefits other than giving your antsy toddler something to do. In the spirit of fun, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite outdoor toddler swings, with a few indoor toddler swings thrown in as well.
My favorite toddler swing is the ANCHEER 3 In 1 Swing Seat because it provides the versatility to grow with your toddler until they are teenagers. You can hook it to a frame to use indoors when they are younger, and take it outside as they grow.
Keep reading to find out more about this swing and the others that made the best toddler swing list. Plus, we’ll break down all your toddler swing options in our toddler swing buying guide FAQ.
Best Outdoor Toddler Swings
The Little Tikes 2-in-1 Snug ‘n Secure Grow with Me Swing is the classic toddler swing that can be mounted in numerous places for your little one to use up until 50 pounds, while the OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat is a hammock swing that can be used indoors or outdoors and will swing your child for years and up to 170 pounds.
Little Tikes 2 -in- 1 Snug n’ Secure Grow With Me Swing
This toddler swing is a classic. The Little Tikes 2-in-1 Snug ‘n Secure Grow With Me Swing remains one of the best-selling and most-loved swings out there because it’s a simple outdoor toddler swing that works. It’s sized right, easy to use, and can be mounted to any swing set, swing frame, door hardware, tree, patio, or even indoors!
Why It’s So Great
This is the ultimate toddler bucket seat. It has a t-bar on the front that holds baby in. The straps extend to over the shoulders for a 3-point safety harness. The straps click in very securely to the t-bar. So secure in fact, that sometimes it can be difficult to get them to click back out. I’ve broken a fingernail or two in the endeavor. But the perk here is that your child can’t click themselves out of the straps mid-swing.
Once your child outgrows the t-bar and straps, which is about age 3, they can be used differently in order to store them out of the way. You swing the t-bar under the seat and slide the straps to the back so that they buckle in behind the seat. That’s where the 2-in-1 name comes from: it’s like a toddler bucket swing and a regular seat swing in one.
The seat is made from molded plastic that is fade-resistant for outdoor use. Our swing is going on its 5th year outside and it still looks brand new. The 3ft ropes are braided nylon with joiners at the top and metal s-hooks on both ropes. The safety straps are made from nylon as well. You can’t really adjust the ropes, unless you slide the whole seat up and knot the ropes to make it sit up higher.
Technical Information
- Swing Set Dimensions: 16.3 x 16 x 17 inches
- Item Weight: 3 pounds
- Weight limit: 50 pounds
Possible Issues
- The 3ft ropes mean that the seat sits very high off the ground, which just won’t work for preschoolers who want to climb in on their own.
- Younger babies will find the seat too big to stay put, but a couple of rolled up receiving blankets on each side really helps.
- Many customers (and I) have had problems with getting the swing to hang even. You might have to adjust the ropes and re-tie the knots, but that shortens the ropes.
Squirrel Products High Back Full Bucket Toddler Swing
You can’t go wrong with a traditional bucket seat for a toddler. This style is popular in parks across America, and there’s a reason–toddlers love them! Toddlers love swinging in a swing like big kids, and parents love the extra security that the front of the bucket provides. Although there are many choices for outdoor toddler bucket swings, I chose the Squirrel Products High Back Full Bucket Toddler Swing as the best.
Why It’s So Great
This outdoor bucket swing has a bit of a raised back, which provides extra support for your toddler. As your child develops coordination and core muscle strength, a slightly higher back is a helpful feature in a bucket swing. With the extra support, your child will feel safe to play and have fun.
Also, the high-quality construction and materials will ensure that your child will be able to enjoy the swing for a long time. The swing itself is made of durable plastic, and the hardware is galvanized.
Product Information
- Bucket depth front: 9 in.
- Bucket depth back: 10.5 in
- Leg Hole Dimensions: 5.5 in
- Chain Length: 66 Inches
- Plastic Coating: 30 Inches
- Maximum Weight: 150 Pounds
- Age Range: 6 months-4 years old
Possible Issues
- Obviously, your toddler will need help getting into and out of this swing. For extremely independent toddlers, this could be a deal breaker.
- Although it is indicated by the manufacturer that the Squirrel Products High Back Full Bucket Toddler Swing is appropriate for children 6 months-4 years old, some reviews indicate that the swing is too big for babies. Literature that came with the swing indicated that it was more appropriate for children 2-5 years old. If you’re shopping for a toddler, this should still be appropriate.
3 In 1 Swing Seat
I love the ANCHEER 3 In 1 Swing Set because of its ability to grow with your child. That’s why it’s my top pick and the best toddler swing overall. As soon as your child is able to sit up unassisted, you can start using this swing. Once your child gains the independence of a toddler, remove the red T bar guard and let your little one get in and out of the swing themselves. When your toddler has the balance necessary to sit on the swing without the back, you can remove that piece, too.
Why It’s So Great
This swing grows with your child throughout life. In fact, it’s weight tested for up to 300 pounds. So, as long as you can fit on the seat, you can swing!
Additionally, this is an indoor/outdoor swing. This means that, if your house is set up for it, you could install the swing indoors when your child is little. Once they want to swing higher or need more space, you can move the swing outdoors to a swing set.
Unlike some other swings that may have a similar appearance, this swing comes with full assembly instructions and all the assembly pieces you will need. This means that you can assemble the swing exactly the way it’s meant to be. This is essential for ensuring your little one’s safety.
Also, you can rest assured that the ANCHEER 3 In 1 Swing Set seat won’t crack. It’s made of a sturdy plastic that holds up to the stress from all sorts types of weather.
Product Information
- Material: Plastic, Nylon
- Backrest to Table Height: 35 cm/ 13.8 inch
- Inner Size: 33 x 24.5 cm/ 13 x 9.6 inch (Length x Width)
- Chain Length: 2 m
- Hole Width: 14 cm/ 5.5 inch
- Hole Length: 16.5 cm/ 6.5 inch
- Weight: 2.44 kg
- Load Capacity: Up to 300 pounds
- Length of the Rope: 78.7 inch
- Size of the Seat: 13 x 9.6 x 13.8 inch (L x W x H)
- Age Range: Above 6 months old
Possible Issues
- Always double check that the swing is in good condition and not cracked or broken anywhere before you put your toddler in.
- Ensure that the cords aren’t frayed and the safety strap is in good condition.
- Be aware that the safety strap is the only thing holding your child in the swing.
Sportspower My First Toddler Swing
Having a toddler swing on its own frame has many advantages. It can be used indoors or outdoors, and it can usually be folded or unassembled for storage. This Sportspower My First Toddler Swing does all of those things. It is its very own toddler swing set, complete with a safe and comfortable nursery seat and adjustable straps all the way around.
Why It’s So Great
The Sportspower company specializes in outdoor sports equipment like trampolines and swing sets. Even though this swing set is smaller, it has the same quality level as all their full-sized things. The frame is made from powder-coated steel that locks into place and resists rust.
They call this seat a nursery seat. That’s because it has more comfort and support for nursery-aged kiddos. The high back is shaped like an animal with little ears. The sides of the seat are made from a durable fabric, and the front portion is made from thick, molded plastic and has ears to match the back. There is a 5-point adjustable safety harness to help this meet or exceed the ASTM safety standards.
There are points on the frame that can be removed (the two crossbars on the sides) so that it folds down flat for storage. The seat also folds flat, with the front portion folding down and the seat back and bottom folding flat. Once folded, you can lock the closed to keep it from coming apart.
The included ropes are strong with a bit of stretch. They are only one length, but you can adjust how much of the ropes hang down to get it to the right height for your child. It can hang between about 12 and 18 inches of of the floor.
Technical Information
- Swing Set Dimensions: 52 x 55 x 47 inches
- Item Weight: 14 pounds
- Weight limit: 55 pounds
Possible Issues
- Might slide around on smooth floors is baby is heavy enough to move the frame with their weight when they swing.
- While the plastic and metal can stand the outdoor elements, the nylon straps of the safety harness take a beating and begin to fall apart after a season or two outside.
- Like most toddler swing sets, it is meant for gentle swinging, not toes to the clouds swinging.
OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat Hammock
The feeling of gentle rocking and weightlessness is so relaxing. Although often overlooked, hammocks are a great way to offer the swinging sensation to your toddler. The best toddler hammock swing is the OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat Hammock.
Why It’s So Great
This wonderful indoor/outdoor hammock swing is the perfect addition to any bedroom or backyard. You could use this in a corner of a reading nook indoors, or hang it from your favorite tree outside. Either way, the OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat Hammock creates a safe swing/seat/cocoon for your child.
The toddler hammock swing is made of 100% cotton-canvas. This is a similar material to what other outdoor hammocks use, so you know that it will be able to be outside and last.
The main reason that I picked this hammock swing, though, is because it’s just so cool! I can’t imagine I kid who wouldn’t be elated to receive one of these as a gift.
Technical Information
- Package contents: a cloth case, inflatable PVC cushion, stainless hook, nylon strap, and a ceiling nut
- Age Range: 2 and older
- Weight Range: Up to 170 pounds
- Hammock Weight: 2.36 pounds
- Hammock Dimensions: 59 x 27.5 inches
Possible Issues
- As always, supervise your toddler. If your toddler tries to use this as a regular swing, he or she could easily be dumped from the hammock.
- If your toddler is wanting to swing higher and higher, this hammock swing would not be the best choice.
- The fabric could tear, resulting in a fall for your little one. It doesn’t happen often, but some people have complained about weak seams in the hammock. This results is a rip and a fall.
- The inflatable cushion could get a leak. Again, it’s not very often, but some people have complained of leaks in their inflatable cushion. Fortunately, you should be able to sub in another pillow and be ready to return to swinging.
Monkey & Mouse Hanging Swing Seat Chair
The Hanging Swing Seat Chair from Monkey & Mouse is made from 100% cotton canvas and natural beech wood. If you’re looking for a modern and subtle toddler swing, this is it!
Why It’s So Great
This swing is designed for children ages 6 months to 4 years, and even longer if you have a petite child. It will hold up to 110 pounds!
Since it is made with cotton canvas, this is a cozy seat compared to many other toddler seats that are made of hard plastic. No worries about this toddler swing getting too hot either! Another perk to this toddler swing is that it includes a padded cotton cushion for sitting on, making it even more comfortable for baby. If there are any messes, simply remove the cushion and throw it in the wash.
Other items that are included are wooden toys (attached to the swing), a storage backpack, and an adjustable seatbelt. You can even use this toddler swing indoors!
Technical Information
- Product Dimensions: 17.44 x 13.98 x 4.69 inches
- Item Weight: 3.96 pounds
- Age Range: 6 months to 4 years
- Weight limit: 110 pounds
Possible Issues
- The seatbelt is not of great quality, so keep an eye on your little one if they move around a bunch.
- Because the seat is made of cotton canvas (and not hard plastic), it can be a little harder to get baby out of it.
Ecotribe Wooden Horse Toddler Swing
You can’t go wrong getting this tree swing for toddlers. It’s made from solid wood with a sweet and simple pony design. What toddler doesn’t love ponies?! The Ecotribe Wooden Horse Toddler Swing is a good addition for outside, but you can bring this wooden toddler swing inside if you want.
Why It’s So Great
I remember my grandparents having an old horse swing like this hanging in their backyard. It’s a timeless style that always appeals to kids. It’s solidly made from birch wood and water-resistant cotton ropes. These are so much softer than that snaggly nylon!
The shape is narrow, but deep. It doesn’t require any seat belt because the high sides will enclose your kiddo. The leg openings are somewhat narrow, and the pony’s head is right in the middle, so there’s nowhere for baby to go. This swing works well from 6 months all the way up to 3 years.
For hanging outside, this really does work well. It comes with straps and carabiners for hanging from a tree limb or existing swing set. One note of caution: since the wood is finished smooth and unstained, you’ll need to seal this or it will get damaged by the elements outside.
Hanging this inside is a cute idea. I think it would look adorable in a nursery. It’s a great way to keep baby entertained during the winter. You’ll need some creativity and a trip to the hardware store to get it hung up indoors in safe manner.
This company is all about being eco-friendly (hence the name Ecotribe). Their completely non-toxic swing meets U.S. Children’s Product Certification guidelines. Even the packaging is environmentally friendly! It comes in a reusable calico tote bag in a small box. It does require assembly upon receiving it.
Technical Information
- Swing Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 11 inches
- Rope length: 78.7inches
- Item Weight: 5 pounds
- Weight limit: 44 pounds
Possible Issues
- The untreated wood can rot outside if you don’t seal it.
- Parts of the swing will fall off if not assembled correctly. In the same vein, the assembly directions are confusing.
- All 4 ropes must be tied exactly the same to have a balanced swing.
- Does not come with an indoor mounting kit.
Best Saucer Swing for Toddlers
Royal Oak Giant Saucer Swing
Modern saucer swings are like a horizontal tire swing without the hole in the middle. They’re a perfect way for kids to be together on a swing without falling out of the center. These swings also provide the opportunity for kids to stretch out, either on their backs or stomachs, to enjoy the ride. The best saucer swing for toddlers is the Royal Oak Giant Saucer Swing.
Why It’s So Great
The Royal Oak Giant Saucer Swing is built to last! With durable construction and weatherproof fabric, this swing can stay outdoors and be used all year long. However, it could also be indoors if you have the right space for it.
Furthermore, the manufacturers take safety seriously. This swing is ASTM F963-11 and CPSIA section 101 (a)(2) approved, and it has a load rating of 400 pounds.
In fact, the manufacturers are so convinced that you’ll love this swing that they offer a 12-month warranty and Money Back Guarantee. Out of all the toddler saucer swings that I looked at, this is the only one to offer either a warranty or guarantee and they offer both!
However, a large reason why I selected the Royal Oak Giant Saucer Swing is that I love how it looks. As a kid, I loved rainbows and both my kids love rainbows, too. Plus, saucer swings give kids a great chance to experience the old-school tire swings that I loved without the risk of falling through the middle.
Technical Information
- Package Dimensions: 29 x 14.5 x 3 inches
- Item Weight: 7.5 pounds
- Age Range: 3 years and up
Possible Issues
- Speaking from personal experience, once that swing starts moving, stay back. Don’t try to catch the swing! My six-year-old tried to stop an empty saucer swing, and it clocked him in the face right above his nose. Because of the solid construction, its force is too much for a child to be able to control.
- Unlike other kinds of swings that offer a restraining strap, your child will be unrestrained.
- Monitor your toddler on and around this swing.
Best Indoor Swing for Toddlers
DreamGYM Doorway Belt Swing
This next choice is a strictly indoor toddler swing. This DreamGYM Doorway Belt Swing is meant to be used indoors from a pull-up bar. The idea is that you mount the pull-up bar in a doorway, then hang the swing from it. Without needing the space for a frame, your kids can have a fun place to swing indoors when going outside just isn’t an option.
Why It’s So Great
I love that you can have a full-sized toddler swing indoors! The design makes it easy for nearly anyone to put in their home. You can mount it in your child’s doorway or a doorway near a play area for lots of fun.
The pull-up bar that’s included with this swing is made from chrome steel. It has a special spot for the swing hooks to hang when in use. When you don’t have the swing hooked up, you can use the pull-up bar to do exercises of your own because it has a weight limit of 220 pounds. It will fit a doorway between 26 inches and 36 inches.
The nice thing about this pull-up bar is that it’s much more stable than just a twist-to-tighten pull-up bar. With this bar, there is a slim anchor that actually gets nailed down into the door frame. The bar then slides down into the frame for maximum stability. This is great news for parents since wiggly and wild toddlers are known to be quite hard on things.
The swing itself is made from plastic. While it’s not a bucket seat, it’s large enough that most toddlers can sit and hang on. The softness of the seat also works well for younger kids who like to be comfortable, while still allowing older kids to jump on, too. Instead of chains, there’s a soft rope to suspend the swing. It does the job without the worry of pinched fingers or rust. The rope can be shortened as needed by adjusting the knots.
Technical Information
- Swing size: 26 x 6 inches
- Item Weight: 5.25 pounds
- Seat weight limit: 265 pounds
- Pull up bar weight limit: 220 pounds
- Pull up bar length: fits doorways between 26 to 36 inches
Possible Issues
- You have to drill into the wooden doorway, which causes permanent damage to the frame itself.
- Some toddlers may not feel very secure in this type of swing seat.
- The pull-up bar is nice, but it has no padding or anything to help with comfort during use outside of the swing.
Toddler Swing Buying Guide
Benefits of Swinging
Physical Benefits
Let’s start with the obvious benefits of swinging: it’s fun and it’s a good way to get your kids up and moving. Swinging on a swing can actually be considered good exercise, as it ups the heart rate and burns calories (aka excess kid energy). Children engage their muscles while they swing. Older kids use their legs and abdomen to help generate momentum. Younger kids use core muscles to help balance while going through the swinging motion. Overall, swinging is gentle exercise for kids.
Mental Benefits
According to one pediatric physical therapist, there are a whole host of benefits for your child’s brain. Here’s what swinging does for a child’s brain:
- Improves muscle brain connection and coordination
- Stimulates body awareness receptors in the brain
- Relaxes and de-stresses anxious minds
- Increases alertness and focus
- Allows the mind to understand motion from different planes/perspectives
- Boosts overall mood
- It has even shown a positive impact in autistic children
Types of Toddler Swings
One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to toddler swings. You’ll want to make sure that you buy a type that will work for your kiddo.
Toddler Bucket Swing
A bucket swing has 360 coverage for your child. High back bucket seats have more back support, while regular toddler bucket seats have even coverage all around. These types of swings usually have 4 leg openings so that your child can face either direction.
Nursery Seat Swing
These toddler swings are made from molded plastic. They have a look that is reminiscent of a high chair: a full back and seat with a safety harness. These are safe and comfortable options for toddlers since they are designed for comfort and safety.
Hammock or Pod Swing
A hammock swing is made from fabric or another material that can be laid on. Depending on how the hammock is hung, a toddler can lay or sit in the hammock or pod and gently rock back and forth. These swings offer gentle support, but they don’t generate much movement beyond a gentle rocking.
Tire/Tree Swing
Most of us have seen the old tire swings hanging from large trees. That’s why a lot of people use tire swing and tree swing synonymously. Tire swings are their own entity. They can be hung from anywhere, even a swing set. Tree swings can be any type of swing that’s been hung in a tree, from bucket seat to saucer swing. However, tire swings have the most space to move in a tree, so that’s the best place to hang them. Just be aware that young toddlers shouldn’t use a tire swing until they can hold on by themselves without any type of harness.
Horse Glider Swing
Sometimes called a see-saw swing or a back-to-back swing, these toddler swings have a smooth sitting surface in the middle, flanked by two ends where kids can rock the swing back and forth. These can be dangerous for smaller toddlers, as the only way to stay on is to hang on. But for older toddlers, these gliding swings can be fun.
Saucer Swing
A saucer swing for toddlers consists of a large disc suspended by several ropes that meet overhead. These need a lot of space and momentum to go, like tire swings, but once they do, they can swing far! While it does offer a large surface space to sit or lay on, there are no restraints, so it’s best suited to gentle swinging and older toddlers.
Sling Swing
A sling swing is the classic plastic swing that most parks have. This is the final type of toddler swing, since it’s a basic child swing that any kid or adult could use. This works well for toddlers that can sit without a restraint. It gives the most physical and mental benefits.
Indoor Toddler Swings vs Outdoor Toddler Swings
There isn’t a large differentiation between indoor and outdoor swings. Many swings that can be used outside can also be hung indoors, and vice versa.
If you want to use a toddler swing indoors… look for one that has its own frame so that you don’t have to mount it to the ceiling. Or, look for an indoor toddler swing that can be hung from a doorway. Smaller, more narrow swings work well for indoor use.
If you want to use a toddler swing outdoors… look for a swing that is made from a durable material. Make sure that you have the correct type of swing and hardware for where you want to mount it, be that to an existing swing set or to your porch. If you want a toddler tree swing, check out the saucer swing options for lots of fun.
Toddler Swing Features to Look For
- Age range: Does it work for kids up to 2? Can it support the weight of an older child? This is a good indication of the lifespan of the swing. The bigger the age range, the longer the life span.
- Materials: Is it wood that requires staining? Is it fade-resistant plastic? Will the metal rust? Match these characteristics with where you will be putting the swing (indoors vs outdoors).
- Space required: Does it have a narrow profile? Does it need lots of room to swing? How big is the frame?
- Safety specs: Does it meet any safety standards from CPSC or ASTM? Does it have a proper restraining system?
- Versatility: Can you use it inside and outside? Can it be used more than one way? Does it work well for children of different ages?
- Price: How much is the swing? Are you paying for quality or a brand name? A good swing doesn’t have to cost more than $100, no matter the size.
- Ratings and Reviews: How do actual owners feel about it? Does it have a 4+ star rating? Do your research!
FAQs – Toddler Swings
Do I need an infant to toddler swing for my baby?
Some toddler swings work well for infants, while others absolutely don’t. Look for a nursery or bucket seat for your baby. A nursery seat can hold them up at about 4 to 6 months old, while they can sit in a bucket seat at about 6 months. Most other options will work well for toddlers over 1 year old.
Do they make tree swings for toddlers?
Yes, they do! Any toddler bucket seat or toddler swing seat can be tree mounted. As your toddler ages, you can upgrade to a bigger, more fun option like a saucer swing or tire swing.
What’s the safest toddler swing?
A nursery seat is the safest toddler swing. It comes with a 3 or 5-point safety harness that keeps your child secure while swinging. Follow other playground safety guidelines to keep your toddler safe while swinging.
Are toddler swings expensive?
Most are very affordable. You can find a great swing for under $50, while some larger or higher quality options will cost you in the $50 to $100 range.
Can I buy a used toddler swing?
You can buy a used toddler swing, but make sure you do a safety check on it. Make sure that no metal parts are rusted or weak. Make sure that any restraint systems are working well. Check for cracks or holes in the seat material. Ensure that ropes are not frayed or cut in any area. Also, make sure that the mounting hardware is all there and works.
Is swinging good for a toddler?
Yes. First of all, it’s real, good fun that may be enjoyed inside or out and doesn’t depend upon a screen. Beyond even that, swinging helps little ones to develop balance, gross and fine motor skills, and even spatial awareness.
At what age is it safe for my child to swing in a toddler swing?
A degree of strength, balance, and stability is required for safe swinging. For this reason, your baby is not ready to move out of an infant swing (or into a toddler swing) until able to hold up his or her own head and to sit alone without support.
Is swinging a baby dangerous?
You don’t want to swing a young baby (one who is not able to hold up his or her own head and sit alone without support) in a park or toddler swing, because he or she may be too little to be held in properly.
In addition, swinging may cause a neck injury to a child who does not have enough neck strength to support his or her head properly during swinging. If you want to swing your baby, you can use an infant swing.
Do not allow your baby to use the infant swing unsupervised, however, or to sleep in the swing.
At what age do kids learn to swing themselves?
Kids generally learn at about age three or four, though some learn earlier or later. In general, they learn on their own. In order to encourage learning, however, after starting the swing, you might move from behind your child to in front, and ask him to lean back and extend his feet forward to your hands as he moves forward. Have her push off your hands, then point her feet back as she swings away.
At what distance apart should swings be hung?
In general, about two feet apart. This value will vary, however, with the type of swing. For two-corded, one-person swings, the longer the chains, the greater should be the distance between swings, and the greater the angle of the cords outward from vertical, the lesser the spacing required.
A swing should also be hung at a distance from any side supports, at roughly ⅔ to ¾ the distance between swings. In other words, if swings are hung two feet apart, the end swings should be hung at least 16” from the side supports. Always follow installation instructions for your swing and safety rules.
