Finding a swing set for kids poses a number of questions, and if you’re looking for the most sustainable option, it can become a chore. With so many on the market claiming to be the best, you can find yourself frustrated and overwhelmed, unsure where to turn. Luckily for you, we can help. Our guide walks you through the five factors you must consider to help you narrow your choice.
The Type of Swing Set
First, you need to consider the type of swing set that you want. You can choose from various kinds of swing sets, choosing the material, number of swings and the type of swing set it is. Before making your decision, you should research the types of swing sets to find out which one suits your child and their needs best. The most common materials they are made of are wood and metal.
Metal Swing Sets
Metal is an affordable option when looking for swing sets for kids. They are made with durable and stable frames and their design makes them ideal for most climates, but you need to treat them to prevent rust in rainy climates.
These swing sets are typically easy to assemble, making them perfect for all families to build. You don’t get many customization options with metal frames, so you won’t be able to adjust the swing set as your child grows. You need to take care with metal frames, too, as they absorb heat and can be too hot for children to touch on hot days. You will need to monitor this to prevent them from burning themselves.
Wooden Swing Sets
Wooden swing sets are a popular option, offering you a sturdy and stylish swing set for your garden. Wooden sets tend to absorb heat well, so your children can play on them worry-free during the summer. Wooden swing sets come with customization options and tend to be very versatile, allowing you to adjust the set as your child grows.
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Wooden swing sets do require a lot of maintenance to prevent rot and decay. They need to be treated or painted regularly and you will need to inspect it for signs of damage. Typically wooden swing sets are tricky to assemble and you will likely need a second pair of hands to help you. They can also be expensive and you should consider your budget carefully before purchasing.
Playsets
Playsets are an excellent option if you want lots of different activities for your children to enjoy. Playsets usually feature swings, climbing frames, and slides, making them fun for children of all ages. Playsets are designed to provide imaginative play and can last your child for years.
Playsets tend to be larger than standard swingsets and will take longer to assemble. They are better suited for larger gardens and you need to consider the material you choose as this will impact its longevity and maintenance requirements.
The Sustainability of Swing Sets
As a renewable resource, wood is a sustainable option, but it depends on how the wood was sourced. Look for the FSC certification logo, which gives peace of mind knowing that the wood was harvested responsibly from forests in a way that has less impact on the ecological health of the forest and the community.
Unlike wood, metal is a non-renewable resource. Producing it is highly energy and resource intensive, however, metal can be infinitely recycled without degradation of quality. This saves a lot of energy that would otherwise go into producing virgin metal. Don’t hesitate to ask the sales rep about whether the metal contained in the product is recycled, and if so, what percentage of it. Don’t get confused between recycled content and recyclability of that content. If you ask whether a product is recycled they may tell you it is, as they might think that since the product can be recycled at the end of its life it is “recycled”. That is not the case, it just means it is recyclable.
If the metal swing set you’re looking at is made from 100 percent recycled metal and you were to commit to recycling it at the end of its life it could be close to as sustainable as wood. A deciding factor could be the durability. If you’re looking for a set to last a long time (ie. if you’re planning on keeping it for your future grandkids to use) metal would make the most sense since it will last a lot longer than wood, and doesn’t require nearly as much maintenance.
The Number and Age of Children Using the Swing Set
When choosing a backyard swing set, you also need to consider how many children will be using it and their ages. You want to ensure that it is appropriate and will last your children. We have outlined the age groups below and the age-appropriate swing sets you can choose from.
Toddlers – Toddlers and young children are better suited to a basic swingset, preferably with a bucket seat or secure harness to keep them safe.
Elementary school children – Older children would benefit from swing sets with other activities, including climbing frames, slides and swings.
Multiple children – In this case you will want a swing set with plenty of activities to keep all children occupied. Ensure the set has a range of activities for different ages so every child is included.
The Safety Features Included
You also need to consider the safety features that come with the swing set. You want it to be as safe as possible for your children, so we recommend looking for the following features.
- Safety certifications are clearly listed on packaging
- Protective covers on any chains attached to swings
- A generous weight capacity
- A secure anchoring system
- A weather-resistant finish for protection against the elements
- A set coated in non-toxic paints or made with non-toxic materials
- A set with rounded corners and smooth edges to prevent injuries
- A robust frame made with pressure-treated wood, high-quality plastic, or galvanized steel
The Accessories or Customization Options
Many swing sets feature options that help you tailor the set to suit your needs. These designs might allow you to switch pieces out or extend the swing set, keeping it engaging and interesting for your children. Customizable sets also allow you to adjust the set as your child grows, ensuring all activities are age-appropriate. The customization options and accessories can vary, but you will usually be able to choose from the following:
- Climbing elements (eg. rock climbing walls)
- Clubhouses
- Educational features (eg. alphabet panels)
- Exercise elements (eg. swinging rings)
- Interactive panels
- Monkey bars
- Sandboxes
- Shade structures
- Swings
- Slides
Your Budget
Finally, you will want to consider your budget and use this to narrow your search. The price of swing sets varies widely – you can find some that cost around $100 and others that will set you back thousands. By having a clear budget in mind, you can ensure that you find the right swing set for your child. Consider what they will want to play with, the material you want and how much you are willing to spend to find the perfect swing set.
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