When the weather is nice, it is fun to get the kids outside and let them play in the fresh air. One of the most fun things to do is play on a backyard swing set. There are many options in swings beyond the typical swing set. Choosing the right one can be tricky. To help you out, I've put together this guide to help you find the best toddler swing on the market.

I don't just make some recommendations and leave you hanging. I also provide you with some advice and tips to help you on your buying journey. I also tackle some frequently asked questions to give you further insight into how to buy this product and what considerations to make when you are comparing the different options.

Toddler swing FAQs

Before I start going over the reviews of swings, I want to take a look at some common questions parents have about them.

What is a toddler swing?

A toddler swing is specifically designed to hold a toddler and conform to the specific needs of this age group. They usually use a type of bucket seat that makes it easier for the child to sit on the swing than a traditional swing seat does. They also often use ropes for hanging the swing so there is less risk to the child than a chain. There are different types of swings with some being designed for indoor use and others for outdoor use.

How much are toddler swings?

These swings can range from $20 to over $100. It really is dependent on the brand and style of swing you buy.

For how long can my child use a toddler swing?

There is information for each swing on the manufacturer's recommendations for weight on swings. You should always follow weight recommendations to avoid injuries. It is more dependent on your child's weight than age. Some children will have to stop using them around age four and use a kids swing instead, while others could use them longer.

Can you hang a toddler swing on a tree branch?

Some swings may be made so they can be hung from any high, sturdy structure, trees included. It is important to ensure the swing's manufacturer designed the swing to be used that way before hanging it from a tree.

How do you hang toddler swing on tree?

There are a couple different methods you can use depending on the swing style. Some may be designed to hang over the branch, where you use the provided rope or cable and toss it over the branch. Others may use hooks drilled into the tree branch.

Indoor vs. outdoor toddler swing

Because toddler swings come in indoor and outdoor styles, I thought a comparison of these styles would be helpful to you. Here's a look at how they stack up against each other.

Indoor toddler swing

Outdoor toddler swing

Benefits of toddler swings

While a swing may seem like a simple toy, it really is much more than that. Buying your child a toddler swing can also be beneficial to his or her development and physical skills. Here are some specific ways a swing can help your child:

• Improves balance.
• It has a calming effect.
• May improve attention span.
• Improves overall mood.

On top of those things, swinging can be a great family activity that brings everyone together. It is a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening.

Common features of toddler swings

As you bring looking over your options in swings, here are some common features to keep in mind:

• Swing chair: This is the seat or part your child sits on. Outdoor swings are typically plastic, but they can be made of other materials. Indoor swings are also usually plastic, but they also typically have a cover or padding.
• Swing structure: Some swings will have structures from which they hang. This is more typical of the indoor swings than the outdoor ones. They may be plastic but more often are metal.
• Hanging hardware: Indoor swings meant to hang in doorways and outdoor free hanging swings will include hardware for hanging.

Choosing the right toddler swing

Additional considerations to make as you look over your options are the following characteristics and guidelines:

• Age range: Make sure that the swing you choose will suit your child's age range. Indoor swings more so than outdoor swings are often made for infants, so toddler will not even fit in them. Be sure to check the age limits.
• Weight capacity: Swings are typically based on weight limits because this affects the swings operation and safety more than age. Always follow manufacturer's weight limit guidelines.
• Comfort: Consider how the seat will feel to your child. Think about where you'll put the swing. For example, would plastic be too hot outside?
• Material: This goes hand in hand with comfort, but it also speaks to durability. Some materials will last longer. Some will be easier to keep clean. Think about how it will age under normal weather conditions, too, if buying an outdoor swing.
• Price: Swings range widely in price from really inexpensive to rather pricey. Make sure to check out different options for a price that fits your budget.
• Review/rating of customers: Always check out what others are saying about a product. Read reviews and check out the average ratings. Consider others' experiences to help you make the best choice.

Best toddler swings

When it comes to toddler swings, there is so much diversity that I decided to highlight the best toddler swings in different categories. Buying a swing really has to do with your specific situation and your child's needs, so knowing the best based on the category in which it fits is most likely to be the most help to you.

​​​​​Best infant-to-toddler swing​​​​​

HappyPie Infant to Toddler Secure Hanging Swing Seat

This swing gets many good reviews for how comfortable it is and how well it is liked by children. The overall rating is a bit lowered by the fact that assembly is difficult due to the rods being hard to get into the swing. However, once assembled, parents love how the swing works. The lack of safety belt is not really noted as a concern because the seat is quite deep, with the top coming up high to the child's chest. The best detail about this swing is its usability range. A child could use this for many years.

Best outdoor toddler swing

Little Tikes 2-in-1 Snug 'n Secure Swing

This swing gets very good reviews because of its durability and safety. It securely holds younger children, but the T-bar can be removed so older children can use it. This also gives it a long usage life span. The seat is plastic, which makes it easy to clean but also means it can be slippery. It can be hung inside or outside on a swing set or from a tree.

Best toddler swing with slide

Little Tikes Hide and Seek Climber and Swing

Best toddler swing set for two

This is a good swing when you want a whole swing set but do not need to want a large one. It can be used inside our outdoors but will need secured outside due to its light weight. It is easy to clean because it is all plastic. It does get low marks for durability and strength as many people commented on how the pieces bend over time.

PlayMonster Super Spinner Swing

This is for older toddlers because it has an open design with no safety straps. However, the seat is designed to draw children down into the center of the disk to keep them in place as they swing. Parents love that is a durable and allows more than one child to swing at a time. It could even allow parents to swing with their child because of the high weight capacity.

Most unique toddler swing

Ecotribe Wooden Horse Swing Set for Toddlers

This swing is very different than the others on the list because it is in the shape of a horse. Its fun design is very appealing to children and adults. It is well-constructed, but some parents reported some quality issues with parts not fitting as securely as they should. If using outside, the wood will need to be treated so it won't get moisture in it. In addition, the swing is a snug fit for larger children, so it limits the overall usability life span.

Most secure toddler swing

Little Tikes High Back Toddler Swing

This swing is a standard toddler swing that is made to put the child into with a deep seat and wide leg holes. It will allow even younger children to swing comfortably thanks to the high back. The ropes are adjustable so it can be hung from a variety of outdoor structures, including trees. It is durable and made for outdoor use. The plastic material is easy to clean as well.

Most convenient toddler swing

Squirrel Products High Back Full Bucket Toddler Swing

This swing is for older toddlers as the design is not stable enough to hold a younger child who cannot sit up unassisted. It is a typically design found on playgrounds. It can be difficult to get a child in and out of swing because of its deep design, but it holds children securely with no need for a safety belt. This swing is built to last, but children may quickly outgrow it is designed to sit the child down in the seat by putting them in it from above.

Best all-around toddler swing

Step2 Infant To Toddler Swing Seat

This seat is best known for its durability. It is made of tough plastic that is easy to wipe clean and will not be harmed by exposure to weather. It can securely hold the child in the seat with its harness system. It comes with hardware to hang on a swing set, but it can be hung in other spots if additional hardware is purchased.

Toddler swing comparison table

What’s the best toddler swing?

The best overall toddler swing is the Step2 Infant To Toddler Swing Seat. While this didn't get the highest overall rating, it still is my best pick because it offers the best of everything that most parents look for in a swing. It is highly rated for safety, which is something I know I value in a swing. The harness system keeps your child secure and provides a peace of mind. It also is well-suited for a good age range, so it can work if your child is under 1 up to about 3 when most children start to transition to regular swings. It also is well made and will stand up to rain and snow, along with constant sun exposure. It provides the best all-around option if you are looking for a solid toddler swing.

How the toddler swing was picked

I chose the Step2 swing because of the reviews. Parents really liked this swing and it swayed me. They couldn't say enough good things about how well their children liked the swing, which is a huge concern. I can't see my kids using a swing that is uncomfortable or too constraining. I also really liked how durable it was. It can be used for a long time, which lets me really get my money's worth.

Relevant accessories to buy

Most of the swings I've recommended require additional hardware for hanging it. You should check into this when buying. It also helps to know exactly where you want to hang the swing. Here are some options you may consider buying in addition to the swing:

Final review of toddler swings

I know how much kids love to swing. It is a quintessential part of childhood. Toddler swings allow you to introduce your child to swinging at an early age. They make a great way to get your child outside and having fun, or they can work nicely as a fun inside activity. As a mom, I can't tell you the number of times I have used a swing to soothe an upset child, to help them burn off excess energy or to just keep them occupied while I am doing something else. Swings are wonderful, so I highly encourage you to buy one for your child.