![]() If buying wood, look for a durable cedar or redwood set, which are naturally rot- and insect-resistant. Swing sets are typically made from wood, plastic or metal. ![]() Here are some things to keep in mind when purchasing a swing set for toddlers to ensure they’re safe and appropriate for your child’s needs: Consider material quality, size and weight limitations to ensure your set is durable and will safely handle older kid play. How long do I want this set to be used? Swing sets are costly, so many parents will want to ensure that a set they buy for their toddler now will last for years to come.This includes oiling moving metal parts, checking and tightening bolts a few times a month and replacing worn parts. Am I willing to do regular maintenance? Swing sets require regular upkeep to ensure they’re safe and functioning properly.If you’re worried about your ability to set up a swing, or don’t have the proper tools to do it, consider hiring someone to ensure the set is properly constructed. Depending on the type of set you buy, you’ll likely need to have a power drill, wrenches and a hammer. How handy am I with tools? Swings sets require extensive installation - and following the directions exactly is key for ensuring the safety of your little ones as they play.(No, plain grass or dirt does not cut it.) This is an added expense and requires its own installation, either DIY or from a contractor depending on what material you choose. Am I willing to pay for protective surfacing, too? Hendy strongly recommends installing protective surfacing - a shock-absorbing surface like engineered wood fiber, wood chips, shredded rubber or rubber tiles - to reduce the risk of serious head injury.If you don’t have enough room, have uneven terrain or have lots of trees, fences, poles or other obstacles taking up space, you’ll need to make big changes before you can have a swing set. Swing sets require even more room on the top, front and rear sides to account for the motion of the swings. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), any outdoor playset should have at least six feet of clearance around all sides. Is my yard space suitable for a swing? Having enough yard space is critical, says Teresa Hendy, a Certified Playground Safety Inspector.You should ask yourself these questions before purchasing a swing set: Swings can be a great toy for kids of practically all ages, but buying a swing set is definitely an investment of your time, space and money. It can be overwhelming to say the least - which is why we’re breaking it down so you know exactly what you’re in for. And according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), physical outdoor play helps kids build skills like spatial awareness and balance and can improve their attention spans.īut unlike other outdoor toys that you can just casually buy without a ton of planning, like balls or sidewalk chalk, purchasing a backyard swing set comes with a lot of safety consideration, budgeting and logistics planning. ![]() ![]() Since toddlers have lots of energy to burn, decking out your outdoor space with a swing set is an excellent way to ensure they get that much-needed physical activity. If they are a small or family-owned company, they might actually have really strong, green practices, but they just don’t have the marketing language to reflect it on the website.There’s nothing like the feeling of getting outside to play, especially when you can do so in your own backyard. If the information is not provided, go ahead and reach out to their customer service to ask. For instance, learn if they use wood sourced locally or from sustainable sources, such as those with Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) certification. If you want to take it one step further, take time to read about the companies and learn about their practices. You'll also want to factor in walking space around the swing set, as well as the landing area for features like slides.īy choosing a wooden swing set, you’re already taking an important step towards a more sustainable structure in your yard compared to a plastic toy. In addition making sure you know the length and width of your yard, also consider the height of anything overhanging the area, like tree branches. When making any large purchase, it's always a good idea to measure your space before shopping. If the product seems flimsy, rickety, or has any visible cracking or defects, return it. However, it's important to check the weight limit for a swing set, as not all swings are designed for bigger kids or adults. What to Look for in a Wooden Swing SetĪll toys sold in the United States are required by law to meet ASTM standards for safety. If you want a play set with lots of different activity areas, our top pick is the Orangutan Fort. If you’re looking for a simple swing set that’s good for both kids and adults, consider the Jack and June Jungle Swing Set.
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