Outdoor Baby Swings

Words of Caution

Backyards and playgrounds combine fun and fresh air. Bringing a baby into city parks poses dangers. Swings that are not routinely checked for safety and are abused by older children can be unsafe for infants and toddlers.

Outdoor baby swings purchased by parents can be monitored for safety and quality. Keep in mind that if you have permanently attached the swing on your own porch, swing set, or tree, elements of nature affect ropes, chains, and moving parts.

Children fall. Baby swings should never be placed over concrete or asphalt surfaces. Grass and soil surfaces change with weather conditions and become unsafe for swinging. Wood chips, sand, or shredded rubber ensure that when children fall, injuries will be minimal.

Outdoor Swings

A few models are designed for indoor/outdoor use. One even offers a remote control. Outdoor swings can be used during several of the early childhood years, without all the rigid weight restrictions of the indoor models.

A high-backed outdoor baby swing supplies added neck support and is suggested for infants through six months of age. Safety belts and T-bars that slide up and down for easy access are recommended. Outdoor baby swings can accommodate children from 50-60 pounds; others are designed for children with disabilities and hold up to 150 pounds. Musical and toy attachments come with some models or can be added to others.

Makings of a Swing

Most outdoor baby swings are made of colored molded plastic. The bucket seat is the most common, although there are animal shapes and wildlife themes that double from the $30-$65 bucket price. One model is made with netting for added support and safety. An animal sculpture-style swing offers no restraints. It's cute for older kids but a hazard for babies and toddlers.