What should I put under a swing set?

Schwebel recommends putting 6 to 12 feet of a material that is softer than grass under your child's swing set. "The exact type of material matters a lot less than achieving the recommended depth," he says, adding that "sand, gravel, mulch, recycled rubber, or wood chips all work fine."

What is the best age for a swing set?

Swing sets can be enjoyed throughout most of childhood. You can start with a baby swing when your baby can sit up, usually around 7 months old. When they reach the maximum height or weight listed by the manufacturer, make sure to switch them to a big-kid swing set. There's no specific age at which a child should stop playing on a swing set, as long as they don't exceed its weight limit. "Many children continue to use swing sets well into the elementary school years," Schwebel tells Verywell Family. "It is healthy for them to keep playing on swing sets as long as they want to."

Are metal or wood swing sets better?

This really depends on maintenance and your family's preferences, says Schwebel. "If properly maintained, there isn’t really a major advantage to metal versus wooden swing sets. Metal sets can get hot in the summer, but maintenance can reduce that problem. Wooden swing sets can start to splinter, but again, maintenance can reduce the risk." As long as you're taking care of the swing set you choose, wooden and metal swing sets can be great, safe options.

What is the safety zone for a swing set?

The safety zone for a swing set is a radius of 6 feet, meaning swing sets should be installed 6 feet from any walls, fences, concrete surfaces, or other playground equipment. "Injuries occur when one child is on the swing and another runs by and is kicked," says Schwebel. So, consider drawing a border around your swing set so that siblings and other children know to walk outside this line while someone is swinging.

How does using a swing set impact development?

Swinging allows kids to develop their gross motor skills as they explore movement. Getting enough physical exercise supports learning and cognitive development. Plus, research has found a link between playing on swings and better cooperation skills.

The Best Swing Sets to Bring the Park to Your Backyard

From swings to rock walls to monkey bars, swing sets are so much fun for kids of all ages. There's not always enough time in the day to load up the car or stroller and take a trip to the playground, so it's convenient to have your own playset that your family can enjoy from the comfort of the backyard. Plus, by pumping their legs on the swings, your little one can stay active, improve cognitive function, use their gross motor skills, and even burn off some steam before dinner time.

When considering purchasing a swing set, make sure you're keeping your child's safety in mind. Kids should always be supervised when playing, particularly younger kiddos, our experts say. As they get older, supervision can be less intense, but caregivers should still keep an eye on them to make sure they're playing safely.

If you have the space for a swing set (always make sure to measure your yard before buying one!), your kids can enjoy it for years to come. Since it is an investment, you'll want to make sure you are choosing one that will meet the needs of your family right now and in the future. While reviewing products, we carefully considered design, value, assembly instructions, safety, product weight, and other features.

A board-certified family physician on our Review Board also reviewed this article for medical accuracy and integrity surrounding the safety and age-appropriateness of swing sets.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Gorilla Playsets Outing Wood Swing Set at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Costzon Toddler Swing and Slide Set at Amazon

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Best Splurge:

Backyard Discovery Residential Wood Playset at Amazon

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Best With Slide:

Gorilla Playsets Playmaker Deluxe Swing Set at Amazon

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Best for Multiples:

Sportspower Super Star Swing Set at Amazon

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Best Wooden:

KidKraft Ainsley Wooden Swing Set at Walmart

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Best Small Set:

Sportspower My First Toddler Swing at Amazon

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Best Plastic:

Step2 Play Up Gym Set at Amazon

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Best Steel:

Lifetime Adventure Swing Set at Amazon

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Best for Toddlers:

Little Tikes Hide & Seek Climber and Swing at Walmart

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected Swing Sets
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Family

Amazon

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Pros

Good for multiple kids
Lots of features
Shaded canopy and sandbox

Cons

Expensive
Sandbox requires maintenance

The Gorilla Playsets Outing Wood Swing Set isn't just large and in charge, it earned our top pick because it's made for years of fun and can hold lots of kids. Children can swing, climb, slide, and play on this big set that includes two swings, a trapeze, a built-in sandbox, a rope ladder and climbing wall, a wavy plastic slide, and so much more. While the swing set is an investment, it’s highly rated.

The set is big and with the 6 feet of clearance space needed, check that your yard can fit something this size. It’s delivered ready to assemble and will require an estimated 5 to 7 hours of construction time. The website includes a list of all of the tools needed for assembly.

Price at time of publication: $1,419

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 25.6 x 25 feet | Weight: 432 pounds | Number of Swings: 2 swings and 1 trapeze | Material: Wooden set with plastic, rubber, and vinyl materials | Age Recommendation: 36 months to 11 years old | Weight Limit: 800 pounds}

Amazon

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Pros

Affordable
Basketball hoop included
Easy to wipe down

Cons

Small size
Swing height can't be adjusted

If you're looking for a swing set that's budget-friendly but still has plenty of features, we love this option. The set comes with a slide, a toddler swing, a basketball hoop, and a ring toss game. Or attach baby swings, trapezes, or other toys instead of the swing seats. Since it's made of HDPE, it's easy to wipe down, though it may not be as durable as wooden and metal swing sets.

Price at time of publication: $240

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 66 x 59 x 47 inches | Weight: 46 pounds | Number of Swings: One | Material: HDPE | Age Recommendation: 2 to 8 years old | Weight Limit: 66 pounds (swing), 110 pounds (slide)}

Amazon

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Pros

Room for multiple kids
Lots of features
Assembly app

Cons

Expensive
12 feet high
Big footprint

If your fun budget could be characterized as open-ended, then this sky fort is a kid’s dream come true. There’s a large, elevated clubhouse for kids to gather and a lower deck with a built-in picnic table for outdoor dining. Two swings, a two-person glider, monkey bars, a climbing wall, and so much more are made for fun with lots of kids.

While the swing set requires assembly, there’s a special app to download that features 3D interactive step-by-step instructions.

Price at time of publication: $2,299

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 22 feet wide x 16.9 feet deep x 12.4 feet high | Weight: 720 pounds | Number of Swings: 3 | Material: Cedar | Age Recommendation: 36 months to 10 years old | Weight Limit: 1,300 pounds}

Amazon

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Pros

Double slides
Large set
Built-in games, telescopes, and flags

Cons

Expensive
DIY assembly required

Race to the bottom with two side-by-side wave slides that provide double the sliding fun for your crew of kids. Packed into a compact footprint is tons of fun with a rock climbing wall, a heavy-duty vinyl canopy over the upper play deck, a built-in tic-tac-toe set, and so much more.

A big DIY project, this swing set comes ready to be assembled with all the required hardware, lumber, and a detailed step-by-step instruction manual.

Price at time of publication: $1,443

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 14.5 feet wide x 11.11 feet x 9.10 feet high | Weight: 300 pounds | Number of Swings: 2 belt swings and 1 trapeze swing | Material: Cedar with plastic, metal, and vinyl accessories | Age Recommendation: 3 to 11 years old | Weight Limit: 800 pounds}

Sportspower

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Pros

Strong and sturdy metal frame
Accommodates lots of kids
Slide

Cons

No climbing areas

Able to accommodate up to seven kids at once, this swing set is small but mighty. With a small footprint, inexpensive price tag, and metal frame, this set is on the basic side but won't skimp on the fun for your crew. They’ll keep busy on the slide, two swings, glider, and saucer swing (that can hold two kids at once).

Especially great for kids that prefer swinging to climbing, this affordable set is a great addition to a backyard, especially one with limited space.

Price at time of publication: $409

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 8.6 feet wide x 1.5 feet deep x 6 feet high | Weight: 104 pounds | Number of Swings: 2 swings, a glider, and a saucer swing | Material: Steel tubes | Age Recommendation: 3 to 8 years old | Weight Limit: 100 pounds per child, up to 7 kids}

Courtesy of Amazon

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Pros

Small footprint
Affordable
Swings, slide, and clubhouse features

Cons

No monkey bars
Two swings

Maximum fun in minimum space, this wooden swing set packs in everything your kids will want without taking up lots of space or emptying your wallet. The affordable wooden option comes with two swings, a wavy slide, a rock wall for climbing, and a shaded clubhouse with a chalkboard wall.

Even though there are only two swings and no monkey bars, kids will have a blast on this set. The set ships with a step-by-step PDF instruction booklet that should be followed exactly.

Price at time of publication: $399

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 123 inches length x 108 inches wide x 93 inches high | Weight: Not listed | Number of Swings: Two | Material: Cedar lumber | Age Recommendation: 3 to 7 years old | Weight Limit: 110 pounds per child, up to 6 kids}

Amazon

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Pros

Inexpensive
Has a safety harness
Folds up for easy storage

Cons

Only one kid can use it at a time

If you have limited space and just want your child to have the opportunity to swing, add this single swing to your backyard. This budget-friendly option is suitable for little ones up to 55 pounds and has a safety harness to keep them secure. Made from sturdy powder-coated steel, it has a small footprint, so it can function as an indoor diversion if you have the space.

While this may not be the best option for a house full of kids, this is great for an only child or for an inexpensive backyard addition if you already have lots of other outdoor play options. Plus, the swing set folds up, so it's easy to move it between the house and the yard or store it when not in use.

Price at time of publication: $69

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 52 x 55 x 47 inches | Weight: 14 pounds | Number of Swings: One swing | Material: Steel | Age Recommendation: 9 months old to 3 years old | Weight Limit: 55 pounds}

Amazon

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Pros

Made of durable plastic materials
Sized for younger kids
Weather resistant

Cons

Not appropriate for kids older than 6 years old
Expensive for limited use

Best for younger kids up to 6 years old, this plastic swing set is an exciting addition to a backyard. Two swings, a slide, little stairs, and a cool platform clubhouse with a wheel are all modestly sized so younger kids will be safe and can climb and use the set independently. The platform playhouse is covered to keep your little ones safe from the sun while they play.

To clean it, simply hose off and wipe down the durable plastic. Assembly is required and the set needs to be securely anchored down with the included pieces.

Price at time of publication: $788

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 111.5 x 84.02 x 75 inches | Weight: 144.7 pounds | Number of Swings: Two swings | Material: Plastic | Age Recommendation: 36 months to 10 years old | Weight Limit: 1,300 pounds}

Amazon

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Pros

All-weather steel frame
Long slide
Good for multiple kids

Cons

Expensive
Some assembly tools not included

Made from durable steel, this brightly hued swing set features three belt swings, a trapeze bar, a fire pole, and a 9-foot wavy slide that can be enjoyed by preschool-aged littles and big kids alike. The all-weather steel protects against fading, rotting, and other damage from the elements, and the swing set's primary shades add a fun, nostalgic pop of color to the backyard.

Soft rubber grips on the swings' chains prevent pinching, while plastic caps and rounded edges make the whole unit safe for play. Assembly and additional tools are required.

Price at time of publication: $1,500

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 211 x 168 x 93 inches | Weight: 391 pounds | Number of Swings: 3 belt swings and 1 trapeze | Material: Alloy steel, wood, and plastic | Age Recommendation: 3 to 12 years old | Weight Limit: 150 pounds per swing, 600 pounds total}

Walmart

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Pros

Slide
Swing has a three-point harness for safety
Assembly tools included

Cons

Rock wall may be too advanced for some toddlers

Toddlers will enjoy this swing set and climber, which is made from plastic, rather than hard metal, and is low to the ground to keep playtime safe. Up to three little ones can enjoy the swing, slide, and rock wall, which doubles as a staircase up to the slide's platform. Plus, the swing set can be moved indoors during colder weather for maximum entertainment.

Assembly is required, but all necessary tools are included.

Price at time of publication: $130

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 53.5 x 52 x 41 inches | Weight: 34 pounds | Number of Swings: 1 toddler swing with three-point harness | Material: Plastic | Age Recommendation: 12 months to 4 years old | Weight Limit: 45 pounds per child, up to 3 kids}

Amazon

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Pros

Saucer is roomy
Swing height is adjustable
Anchored by ground stakes

Cons

Metal may rust in some climates

Parents and kids alike can enjoy this swing set, which features a classic belt swing and a 32-inch saucer swing that can fit an adult or a couple of kiddos. During installation, the steel frame is anchored into the ground with stakes for stability and security. The saucer has a fun rainbow pattern, and the swings' heights can be adjusted so the unit can grow with your kid.

At approximately 5.6 x 7.5 feet, this swing set isn't small, but it does have a smaller footprint than other options with multiple swings.

Price at time of publication: $200

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 67 x 90.5 x 71 inches | Weight: 55.9 pounds | Number of Swings: 1 belt swing and 1 saucer swing | Material: Plastic, metal, alloy steel | Age Recommendation: 3 years old and up | Weight Limit: 440 pounds}

How We Selected the Best Swing Sets

To select the best swing sets for kids, we researched dozens of options on the market, taking safety, age-appropriateness, and durability into account. Additionally, we considered design features such as the number of swings and other attachments. We also spoke with David C. Schwebel, PhD, the author of "Raising Kids Who Choose Safety" and the director of the Youth Safety Lab at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, about swing set safety.

What to Look for in a Swing Set

Safety

Swing sets can be loads of fun, but they also need to be safe. They can be dangerous if they aren’t installed correctly, and it's important to follow all safety guidelines. Most swing sets have a weight limit and some may need to be installed by a professional. Along with overall weight capacity, you'll also want to take note of the number of children that can be on it at a time. By staying within these limits, your swing set will last longer and your kiddos will be safe while they play.

Additionally, swing sets should be placed in locations free of overhead obstacles like power lines, tree limbs, or roof overhangs. Six feet of open space on all sides is recommended for plenty of room to play.

Age-Appropriateness

Before purchasing, consider the age of the children that will be playing on the swing set to determine if the set is safe and entertaining for them, both now and as they age. "If a child can’t reach a bar, they might fall. If they are too heavy for a swing set feature, it could collapse," Schwebel says. "Parents should make arrangements to be sure the equipment is age-appropriate for all children, or that children use different parts of the equipment that match their age."

Helpfully, most swing sets have age recommendations that will help guide you when purchasing. Plus, many swing sets let you swap out certain swings and attachments once your kids get bigger and are able to do more things.

Durability

Since a swing set is an investment, make sure the one you choose is built to last. You’ll want one made from a material that will stand the test of time and weather. In general, swing sets can last from 10 to 15 years, especially if they are maintained well and made of durable materials. Proper swing set maintenance includes painting metal or staining wood, tightening bolts, and inspecting chairs and ropes, Schwebel tells Verywell Family.

Whether they are made from wood, metal, or plastic, most sets are designed to hold up to the elements. However, depending on the climate where you live, you may want to do a little research to determine the kind of material that would be best.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I put under a swing set?

Schwebel recommends putting 6 to 12 feet of a material that is softer than grass under your child's swing set. "The exact type of material matters a lot less than achieving the recommended depth," he says, adding that "sand, gravel, mulch, recycled rubber, or wood chips all work fine."
What is the best age for a swing set?

Swing sets can be enjoyed throughout most of childhood. You can start with a baby swing when your baby can sit up, usually around 7 months old. When they reach the maximum height or weight listed by the manufacturer, make sure to switch them to a big-kid swing set.
There's no specific age at which a child should stop playing on a swing set, as long as they don't exceed its weight limit. "Many children continue to use swing sets well into the elementary school years," Schwebel tells Verywell Family. "It is healthy for them to keep playing on swing sets as long as they want to."
Are metal or wood swing sets better?

This really depends on maintenance and your family's preferences, says Schwebel. "If properly maintained, there isn’t really a major advantage to metal versus wooden swing sets. Metal sets can get hot in the summer, but maintenance can reduce that problem. Wooden swing sets can start to splinter, but again, maintenance can reduce the risk." As long as you're taking care of the swing set you choose, wooden and metal swing sets can be great, safe options.
What is the safety zone for a swing set?

The safety zone for a swing set is a radius of 6 feet, meaning swing sets should be installed 6 feet from any walls, fences, concrete surfaces, or other playground equipment. "Injuries occur when one child is on the swing and another runs by and is kicked," says Schwebel. So, consider drawing a border around your swing set so that siblings and other children know to walk outside this line while someone is swinging.
How does using a swing set impact development?

Swinging allows kids to develop their gross motor skills as they explore movement. Getting enough physical exercise supports learning and cognitive development. Plus, research has found a link between playing on swings and better cooperation skills.

Learn More: The Importance of Free Play for Kids

Why Trust Verywell Family

Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of an 11-year-old son, 8-year-old son, and 4-year-old daughter. When Maya made the move from Brooklyn, NY, to New Jersey, her house already had a swing set from the previous owners. On the first day living there, her city-kid son asked where all the kids were and was not impressed that he had to play by himself. Now her three kids use their swing set almost every day, all year long.