How to Choose the Best Swing Set for Your Backyard

It's easy to get overwhelmed with all the backyard swing set options out there. We've been in this game long enough to see the explosion of options across size, shape, colour, theme or whatever else. While this can be great if you know exactly what you want, it can be paralysing if you're still in the decision phase. Here at Lifespan Kids, we've built our collection based on the specific needs of parents and children across Australia, with years of experience perfecting our range to be as practical (and fun) as possible.

But even we know that our extensive range can be a lot to navigate. That's why we're here to provide a simple buying framework so you can find the absolute best fit for your backyard based on size, features, materials, safety, age and more.

Start With Your Backyard Size & Layout

The biggest deciding factor in finding the best swing set for your backyard is space. The first thing you want to do is measure the available space you're working with. This will help narrow things and refine your search.

• Product Footprint vs Total Play Clearance

This is an important concept to get right when it comes to space. The product footprint is the specific dimensions of the swing set. The total play clearance is the space around your play centre. Most swing sets come with the recommendation to have around 1-2 metres of free space around the structure. This allows for safe swinging and also takes into account how much energetic play happens around the swing set.

• Other Considerations

Most backyards aren't just an empty lot. There are fences, trees, furniture or even other play equipment. There's also the specific shape of your backyard. This is why simply measuring the space isn't the full picture. Look at the general shape of your backyard and try to picture how a swing set will sit and operate in the space. This is about not just making sure it fits but looking at how it affects the general flow of activity in the backyard.

Best Swing Set for Small Backyards

Single or double swing sets are perfect for families working with a tight outdoor space. These avoid all the complicated all-in-one builds and are easier to make work for your space. Remember, it's important to plan for your present needs rather buying the biggest frame possible. Even if you can fit a larger set, you might not want a massive play centre hogging all the space in your outdoor area.

Choose the Right Material: Wooden vs Metal Swing Sets

Now that we've decided on the size, we can narrow things down further by choosing between a wooden, metal or even plastic frame.

Wooden Swing Sets:

• Style: The biggest advantage of wood is how great it looks in your space. It blends into your garden landscaping and adds a rustic charm.
• Temperature: Maintains a comfortable temperature even in the hot sun.
• Maintenance: The main downside is the extra maintenance. Wooden sets will require regular sealing every 12 months or so.
• Longevity: up to 10 years with proper maintenance.

Read more about the natural timber we use on our About Our Wood page.

Metal Swing Sets:

• Durability: Nothing will beat the durability and strength of metal swing sets, designed to handle any climate.
• Maintenance: Requires much less maintenance.
• Strength: The strength-to-weight ratio of a metal frame makes them very stable.
• Temperature: Can get quite hot in the sun.
• Longevity: up to 10 years.

Choose wood if...

• ...you want a swing that looks great
• ...you don't mind a bit of ongoing maintenance

Choose metal if...

• ...you want the strongest possible frame
• ...you don't want to deal with excessive maintenance

We also have a range of plastic swing sets available, but these are mainly intended for indoor use.

Match the Swing Set to Your Child's Age and Play Style

Well, we've gotten this far without even talking the kids who will actually be using the swing set! This is where we can truly personalise your play centre to your family's needs.

Age

• Toddlers: Use a smaller frame and make sure to get a toddler swing seat. We have a range of dedicated toddler seats designed for kids as young as 10 months.
• Young Children: A double or triple swing set works great for young kids (3+). These also leave room to upgrade with different swing seats or attachments as they get older.
• Older Children: Here you can upgrade to more intricate sets, such as swing sets with monkey bars or different swing attachments. These ensure that their growing bodies are exposed to more tactile activities that improve their motor skills and coordination.

Family Size:

We have options for double, triple and even quadruple station swing sets, so you can make sure everyone can play at the same time. A bigger swing set is also great for playdates with friends.

When an All-in-One Swing Set is Worth It

All-in-one play centres are the next level in playground equipment, featuring multiple play stations and a variety of activities. While not necessarily the best value for smaller backyards, they're a great option for something that will grow with your kids and keep them entertained for the long run.

Choose an all-in-one play centre if you...

• ...have a larger backyard to work with.
• ...have multiple kids who will all want to play at once.
• ...want to provide an engaging, versatile play space that keeps kids coming back for more.
• ...can't choose between a swing set, monkey bars, slide, climbing wall or sandpit.

Don't Skip Safety, Installation and Maintenance

It's easy to get excited to create your child's new favourite play space, it's important to also take a step back and look at the practicalities.

At the end of the day, the absolute best swing set for your backyard is one that fits safely, is properly anchored and can be maintained over time.

Things to keep in mind:

• Clearance: Having at least 1-2 metres of space around your swing set.
• Anchoring: Most of our swing sets come equipped with anchor kits so you can make sure the structure is steady and stable to avoid any nasty accidents.
• Soft Landing Surfaces: We recommend having mulch, rubber mats or soft grass under the swing set for added safety and comfort.
• Weight Limits: Each swing set will have specified weight limits that are important to keep in mind before purchasing.

Read more about Australian Safety Guidelines for playground equipment and how our swing sets have been designed for maximum protection.

Find the Best Swing Set for Your Backyard at Lifespan Kids

We know that was a lot of info, so here's a quick recap:

• Size: measure the available space in your backyard and make sure you have enough space around the swing set for safe play.
• Material: Choose wooden swing sets for a great aesthetic and temperature resilience. Choose metal for durability and low maintenance.
• Features: Decide if you need extra play elements such as monkey bars or slides (great for older kids, bigger families or more children with more energy).

By now you should have all the info you need to pick the absolute best swing set for your backyard. So, have a look at our collection and get yours today!

If you have any further questions about our range and the best option for your family, don't hesitate to reach out to our friendly team and we'll be happy to help you out.