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Swing chairs are the best garden furniture to have for relaxing afternoons. Imagine yourself seated and swinging lazily one breezy and sun-dappled afternoon, drink in hand while you listen to the rustle of the leaves and the trill of birds in your garden.
There’s a wide range of garden swing chairs to choose from—they make some from solid wood while others you can easily set up in minutes. The best garden swing chair has to suit your needs perfectly, so make sure you read to the end to see our detailed buyer’s guide.
Reviews of the Best Garden Swing Seats
Best Patio Swing with Canopy: Tangkula 3 Person Patio Swing
Product Detail
Size: 67 x 43.5 x 60.5 inches
Capacity: 550 lbs
Fits: 3
This swing chair is built with a sturdy steel frame. It features heavy springs that connect the swing to the frame. These provide a smooth rocking motion for optimal relaxation.
Because it’s built especially for garden use, it will endure all climates. Luckily, the steel frame is weather-resistant.
The canopy above will not only provide you with shade on sunny days, but it will also protect you from UV rays. It’s fully adjustable to give you your desired amount of shade, or you can remove it altogether.
Homeowners love the look of this swing chair and how easy it is to set up. It fits three people comfortably, and the seats are breathable, so you won’t end up with sweat marks.
Pros
Durable construction
Adjustable and removable canopy
Looks very nice
Breathable seat material
Cons
Assembly instructions can be difficult to figure out
Best Weight Capacity: Kozyard Brenda 3 Person Patio Swing
Product Detail
Size: 75 x 44 x 65 inches
Capacity: 750 lbs
Fits: 3
If you’re looking for a swing chair that can withstand heavy weights, this three-person swing is it. It’s built with a durable powder-coated steel frame and has a superior weight capacity of up to 750 pounds.
The powder-coated steel frame is weatherproof, and the canopy will provide you with shade on sunny days and protection from rain on wet days.
You can alter the canopy to give you your desired amount of shade. There’s a convenient rotating controller that you rotate to adjust. However, a few buyers have reported issues with the screws or controller for the canopy, leaving them unable to change it.
On the up-side, it is very easy to clean. Simply rinse the entire swing and canopy using your garden hose. Allow it to air dry, and it will be ready to use.
Other quality features include the triangular base fitted with anti-slip ends, which helps to distribute the overall weight. It also has heavy-duty springs connecting the swing to the steel frame—these provide a gentle rock.
Pros
Sturdy frame
Easy to clean
Anti-slip base ends
Seat is high from the ground (17.7 inches)
Cons
The rotating controller has been problematic for a handful of people
Best Small Garden Swing: Kozyard Belle 3 Person Patio Swing
Product Detail
Size: 66.9 x 43.3 x 60.2 inches
Capacity: 525 lbs
Fits: 3
The Kozyard Belle patio swing is a lightweight option for smaller spaces. It’s made with a powder-coated steel frame and features the same triangular shaped base as the Kozyard Brenda we reviewed above.
Given its size and weight capacity, it’s not as durable as the Brenda. The tubular frame isn’t substantial enough.
Another issue is the comfort of the seats. Kozyard makes the seats out of polyester, which is easy to clean using a hose; however, the support beams within the seat are uncomfortable. You can quickly fix this with extra cushions.
All in all, this garden swing is an excellent option for small spaces. It seats three people comfortably, and the construction is of good quality materials, including the steel frame and heavy-duty springs. It has a few minor issues; however, with a bit of ingenuity, you can easily get around them.
Pros
Good for smaller spaces
Durable construction
Easy to clean and dries quickly
Cons
The support beams within the seats are uncomfortable
Best Hanging Swing Chair: Porchgate Amish Rollback Console
Product Detail
Size: 58 x 19 x 19 inches
Capacity: 800 lbs
Fits: 3
If you do not feel that a standing garden chair is right, this hanging swing chair might be what you need. It’s made of durable kiln-dried pressure-treated pine and features two reliable chains to hang it safely.
The chains are long enough to hang the chair from an 8-foot ceiling. If you need more, the manufacturer provides a link to where you can purchase additional chains.
Porchgate makes the swing in the USA using authentic Amish craftsmanship. It’s available in different finishes that are natural and soy-based. It’s also available unfinished, but pre-sanded, so you can treat it right away or paint it.
In the center, it’s fitted with a flip-down cup holder and tray, excellent for two people enjoying a drink on the porch.
Even though the swing has an incredible weight capacity of 800 pounds, make sure you hang it from a suitable weight-bearing spot.
Pros
Amish design and construction
High weight capacity
Convenient cup holder and tray
Coated with soy-based finishes
Cons
It doesn’t include all the bolts and screws required to set it up
Best Porch Swing: Highwood Lehigh Porch Swing
Product Detail
Size: 52 x 22 x 24 inches
Capacity: 500
Fits: 3
This porch swing has that classic look that many homeowners crave. It might look like it’s made of wood; however, it’s recycled plastics. It’s a lot easier to maintain than wood and is more durable in severe climates.
It weighs 38 pounds. The swing comes with two zinc-plated steel chains; however, you must purchase hooks to hang it.
It’s easy to care for, and you can wash it with hot soapy water or simply rinse to remove dust and dirt.
The swing is available in a wide range of color options, such as white, sandstone, faded sage and black.
Pros
Durable composite material
Includes a strong chain
Lightweight
Different color options are available
Cons
Instruction manual isn’t great
Best Egg Chair: Barton Premium X-Large Patio Hanging Chair
Product Detail
Size: 29 x 25 x 41 inches
Capacity: 250-300
Fits: 1
If you’re hunting for a stylish yet comfortable swing chair for your garden, this egg chair could be right up your alley. It comes with a strong, powder-coated steel stand that features four sturdy legs to keep balance.
The egg chair is the perfect fit for one person—the stand reaches a height of 78.5 inches, so make sure you have room for it. It’s easily installed and can detach when necessary.
It comes with a soft and fluffy cushion made from a UV-protected polyester fabric that the outside elements won’t damage.
Some users found the shape of the chair to be uncomfortable, whereas others loved it. You can customize it with a few additional cushions to make the egg-shape less deep.
Pros
Durable construction
Easy assembly
UV-resistant pillow fabric
Cons
Depending on your size and preference, the egg-shape might be uncomfortable
Best Loveseat Swing: International Caravan Furniture Hanging Swing
Product Detail
Size: 53 x 27 x 25 inches
Capacity: 400 lbs
Fits: 2
This loveseat swing is a romantic addition to any backyard or front porch. It’s constructed from a handwoven wicker resin and has a steel frame. It also comes with steel chains to keep it in place.
The deep seat is very comfortable for short and tall people, and you can decorate it with soft cushions. If you are a couple in your home, this would be a great addition to your garden set.
Pros
Comfortable deep seat
Durable material
Easy to clean
Cons
Included hooks are enormous
Best Lounge Swing Chair: Modway Lounge Egg Swing Chair
Product Detail
Size: 40 x 43.5 x 77 inches
Capacity: 264 lbs
Fits: 1
This egg-style chair features a contemporary design with a woven texture and organic look. It’s a single-person swing but can fit an adult and small child together for reading time.
It comes with a sturdy powder-coated steel frame and a durable stand that keeps the swing balanced. Keep in mind that the swing is 77 inches high, so make sure you have enough room in your desired location.
The included cushion is soft, fluffy, comfortable and weather-resistant. It has a removable cover that you can toss in the washing machine when necessary. The color and fabric won’t fade or damage when exposed to sun or rain.
Between the chair and the stand is a heavy-duty spring, which provides a gentle rocking motion or even a spin.
Pros
Sturdy construction
Weather-resistant cushion
Easy maintenance
Cons
Surprisingly large in actual so make sure to measure out the dimensions for the space you are buying it for
Easiest Assembly: Coral Coast Soho Wicker Porch Swing
Product Detail
Size: 53 x 25 x 24 inches
Capacity: 450 lbs
Fits: 3
If you want a swing chair that’s easy to set up, this Coral Coast swing is ideal. It comes fully assembled. The hooks are on the armrest and the backrest to make installation even easier.
Homeowners appreciate how simple the swing is to set up. Some warn that you don’t get all the required hardware, but you can purchase that separately.
It’s made of wicker resin and features a contemporary weaved design that’s lovely. The swing is available in different finishes and matching cushions, so it’s easy to find something that suits your taste.
Pros
Modern look
Simple installation
Different finishes are available
Cons
Not all required hardware is included
Best for Kids: Costzon Patio Swing
Product Detail
Size: 46 x 31 x 46 inches
Capacity: 176 lbs
Fits: 2 children
Even the youngest family members need a good swing chair, and this is our favorite. It features an adorable ladybug theme but is also available in a Dalmatian puppy theme. Costzon has constructed it of tubular metal, which is sturdy and durable.
Underneath the feet are non-slip to help keep the swing from shifting and protect the floor underneath. The canopy is made of Oxford fabric and will help to block UV rays. You can adjust it to suit the amount of shade you’d like, or you can remove it altogether.
If you’re worried about your youngster sliding out of the seat, the safety harnesses will put your mind at ease. The belts are similar to what you find in cars and will keep your little one in place.
The entire set weighs 20 pounds, so it’s light and easy to move to where it’s needed.
Pros
Fits two to three children comfortably
Easy to move around when needed
Cute design
Sturdy construction
Cons
Assembly instructions can be confusing
How to Find the Right Garden Swing Chair for You
Before you settle for the most appealing swing, there are a few things to consider if you don’t want disappointment down the line. Below, we’ve put together a few points to help guide you.
Location
Where will you set up your swing? Do you need a hanging chair for the front porch or a standing swing for the backyard? Figuring out where to locate the swing will be the first step in finding the right for you.
Hanging chairs are easy to set up but more difficult to relocate if needed. A standing swing might be heavy, but you can move them as and when required. Also, hanging chairs rarely have a canopy, so if you’re looking for this, a standing swing is ideal.
Material
Garden swings come in many materials, and the right one depends on your needs—of course, you don’t want to buy cheap plastic.
Steel frames are durable and sturdy; however, unless they’re stainless steel, rust or corrosion can be difficult to avoid at some point. Powder-coated steel is slightly more weather-resistant than bare steel, so this is always a plus.
Solid wood swings are beautiful and add a pleasant rustic feel to any house. But, solid wood is heavy and, depending on the wood, it can warp when exposed continuously to changes in humidity. (1)
Wicker resin is another excellent and durable option. This material is available in a range of styles, such as a classic weave or, the more contemporary, open weave—such as seen on the Modway Lounge Egg Swing Chair.
A composite material is a blend of different materials, preferably recycled plastics. It’s extremely weather-resistant and durable, plus manufacturers can make it resemble other materials, mainly wood, such as the Highwood Lehigh Porch Swing.
Weight Capacity
The last thing you want is your swing to suddenly collapse while you’re enjoying a drink on it. Garden swings’ weight-bearing abilities can range from 200 pounds to 800 pounds, as seen in the Porchgate Amish Rollback Console.
Consider how many people will use the swing at a time—some swings claim to fit three people but have a mere weight capacity of 350 pounds.
Types of Patio Swings
There are many patio swing designs available on the market—you might be in love with several of them. Here’s a quick run-through the most common types:
Canopy swing
A canopy swing is free standing, making it an ideal choice for backyards that lack shade. These come in different sizes, which manufacturers usually categorize by the number of seats. If you choose this type, make sure the weight-bearing capacity is sufficient, and you can adjust the canopy.
Hanging swing
This is the classic front porch furniture. They add an idyllic look and feel to any exterior or the perfect leisure spot. Hanging swings are available in a range of designs and materials. We prefer solid wood or composite material. Before you purchase a hanging swing, make sure the support is strong enough to hold the swing and anyone sitting in it.
Free-standing
We love the modern design of free-standing swings, such as the egg-shaped chairs. They’re usually designed to fit one person at a time; however, larger models are available. A sturdy base is crucial for a free-standing chair to avoid it tipping over.
What Is the Best Fabric for a Patio Swing?
A patio swing needs to be easy to clean since it’s often exposed to liquids, dirt and even mud. What we like to look for is good-quality polyester. Polyester is durable and reasonably weather-resistant on its own—it’s also easy to clean.
Many swings feature polyester canopies and seats. You can rinse most of these with a hose when needed, and the fabric will dry quickly.
Final Word
Having a swing located in your garden, front porch, or patio will make it your favorite spot to relax. The best garden swing chair has to suit your needs, whether you prefer a free-standing egg chair or canopy swing.
We found the best canopy swing to be the Tangkula 3 Person Patio Swing. It’s very durable and has a good weight capacity of 550 pounds. If you want a heavy-duty hanging swing, we highly recommend the Porchgate Amish Rollback Console—because nothing compares to the authentic Amish craftsmanship and design.
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