Swing Sets

Swing Sets

You'll find kids swing sets here for every backyard, from a first toddler seat through to timber and metal frames with a slide built in. Most sets suit toddlers right up to older kids by swapping the seat as they grow, and a compact 2 seater fits into surprisingly small yards. Have a scroll through the range below, then keep reading for space, seat and setup guidance.

What size swing set your backyard needs

Start with the assembled dimensions of the specific swing set, then add the safety perimeter stated in its product instructions. Clearance requirements vary between models, so measure the full play area rather than the frame alone. Keep the area clear of fences, branches, paths and other obstacles. 

A 2 station metal set usually needs a footprint around 3 x 4 metres once you factor in clearance. A 3 or 4 station timber set with a slide can push past 5 x 5 metres. If you're working with a small backyard, a compact metal 2 seater is almost always the sensible pick.

Timber or metal, which suits your backyard

Both do the job. The choice comes down to look, budget and how long you plan to keep it.

Metal is often the better first swing set. Timber suits families who want something that becomes part of the backyard for the long haul.

Swing seat types and what age each suits

Most frames let you swap seats as your child grows, so you're not locked into one option.

• Baby bucket seat: roughly 6 months to 3 years, fully enclosed with leg holes.
• Toddler seat with harness: 2 to 4 years, gives support as they build balance.
• Standard belt seat: 3 years and up, the classic swing seat.
• Disc swing: 4 years and up, spins and swings, great for older kids.
• Nest swing: shared use, big enough for two smaller kids or one older child lying back.
• Trapeze and glider add-ons: extra stations on larger frames for variety.

One honest note. A nest swing isn't the starting seat for a 1 year old. Begin with a bucket seat and swap up from there.

Swing sets with a slide attached

If you want a swing and a slide in the one frame, a combo set is the easiest answer. These usually suit 3 to 8 year olds, give you two or three swing stations plus a slide off the side, and take up around 4 x 5 metres. If you actually want a slide on its own, the standalone kids slides range is a better starting point.

Setting it up safely and what to put underneath

A wobbly frame is almost always an anchoring issue. Most sets ship with an anchor kit or have one available, and it makes a real difference on lawn. Larger timber sets are often set into concrete footings for extra hold. Keep the frame at least 1.8 metres from fences, walls and paths.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for suitable impact-absorbing surfacing and the required depth. Do not install the swing over concrete, asphalt or another hard surface. 

Growing with your child

The natural path is a bucket seat, then a belt or disc as they get steadier, then a nest for shared play with a sibling or a friend. Once they've outgrown swinging on its own, kids climbing frames, monkey bars and play centres are the sensible next step.

Not sure which swing set is right

Chat with our team. Expert help is on hand 5 days a week. We offer free delivery over $99, next day delivery on many items, plus buy now pay later and layby. If you'd rather see the wider outdoor play equipment range first, start there.

Swing set FAQs

How much space do I need for a swing set?

Allow roughly twice the seat height clear in front and behind the swing arc, plus 1.8 to 2 metres on each side and 2.5 metres of overhead space. A 2 station metal set fits into about 3 x 4 metres. Larger timber sets with a slide need 5 x 5 metres or more.

What age is a swing set suitable for?

Swing sets suit children from around 6 months, using a baby bucket seat, right through to 10 or 11 years. The seat matters more than the frame. Swap from a bucket to a toddler harness, then a belt or disc seat, and the same frame can grow with your child for years.

Is a timber or metal swing set better?

Neither is better outright. Metal is cheaper, quicker to assemble and suits smaller backyards. Timber costs more but looks natural in the yard and typically lasts longer with a bit of care. For a first swing set, metal is usually the practical pick.

Do I need to anchor my swing set?

Yes. Anchoring is what stops the frame lifting or shifting when kids really get swinging. Most sets include an anchor kit for lawn, and larger timber frames are often set into concrete footings. This is where a wobbly frame usually gets fixed.

What should I put under a swing set?

Softfall bark is the most common choice in Aussie backyards, followed by rubber matting, sand or thick lawn. Whatever you use, aim for enough depth to cushion a fall from seat height. Concrete and pavers directly under the swings are not safe.

Can a swing set suit both a toddler and an older child?

Yes, if you choose a frame with two or more stations and swap the seats. Run a bucket seat on one side for the toddler and a belt or disc seat on the other for the older sibling. Kids play centres are worth a look once both kids want more variety.

Which swing set is best for a small backyard?

Check both the assembled dimensions and the required safety perimeter before choosing a compact set. The frame dimensions alone do not show how much usable space you need. 

Are swing sets with a slide worth it?

For 3 to 8 year olds, yes. A combo gives you two pieces of play in one footprint and one setup, which usually works out cheaper than buying separately. If your kids are older or you want a taller slide, a standalone slide gives you more options.