7 Best Garden Swing Seats of 2024

Avatar photo
Written by: - Garden Design Expert

Read Reviews

The Best Garden Swing Seats

The Best Garden Swing Seats
  1. Best garden swing seat - SORARA Garden Swing Chair

  2. Best rattan swing seat - Angel Living Rattan Swing Chair

  3. Best budget option - VonHaus Swing Seat With Canopy

  4. Best two-seater design - Outsunny Garden 2 Seater Swing Chair

  5. Best wooden swinging bench - Kingfisher Hardwood Swinging Garden Bench

  6. Best basic design - Outsunny Garden Swing Chair

  7. Best for smaller gardens - BargainsGalore Garden Swing Chair

Garden Swing Seat Reviews

Editors Choice

1. SORARA Garden Swing Chair

Best garden swing seat

best garden swing seat SORARA Garden Swing Chair
  • High 380 kg capacity
  • Thick cushion is 8 cm deep
  • Foldable trays at either side for snacks and drinks; they lie flush with the frame when not needed
  • Relatively straightforward to assemble provided you have an extra pair of hands
  • Water resistant canopy blocks light showers

  • During assembly, some additional holes may need to be drilled as occasionally the pilot holes don’t line up
  • Canopy may need to be taken off in very windy weather
No. of Seats
3
Material
Alloy steel frame
Dimensions
191x118x180cm
Capacity
380kg
Weight
58.5kg
UV Protection?
Yes
Overall Score 4.8
Design
4.5
Comfort
5
Longevity
4.5
Stability
5
Value for Money
5

For long afternoons spent in the sun, you can’t go wrong with the SORARA Garden Swing Chair. This stylish three-seater swing chair is covered by a canopy to keep you cool and shaded. It measures 191 cm long, 118 cm wide and 180 cm tall.

This swinging chair comes with a seat cushion and back cushion that ties onto the frame. The cushion has 8 cm thick padding, with a water-resistant cover that can be wiped clean when necessary. The seat also comes with a cylindrical head pillow so you can stretch out for a snooze!

The canopy on this garden swing seat doesn’t only protect from the sun’s glare, it also blocks UV rays and is water resistant. It offers 50 + UV protection, and, if there’s the odd rain shower, it will keep you covered. However, it isn’t fully waterproof so won’t offer protection during downpours and should be taken off during very windy weather. The canopy is adjustable as well, so as the sun moves you can stay cool in the shade.

The foldable side trays are another great feature – you might not even spot them initially because they’re subtly concealed. These side trays have cup holders and a spacious area for your snacks, book or smartphone. The trays are positioned on either side of the garden swing chair, and they fold flush when not in use.

In terms of construction, the swing seat and frame are connected via heavy springs that provide a smooth and relaxing rocking motion. The triangular frame is made from weather resistant powder-coated steel which isn’t prone to rust and is strong and sturdy.

This swing chair has a weight capacity of 380 kg. This is more than any other hanging chair featured on this page. Whilst most garden swing chairs have a weight limit of around 200 – 250 kg, this model is strong enough for three people of at least 120 kg each – that’s pretty impressive for a swing seat.

Finally, this garden swing chair is straightforward to assemble. Even so, it can help to have a second person on hand. The instructions are fairly clear and it’s methodical to put together. In some instances, not all of the predrilled holes line up perfectly, so you may need to drill a few more. Due to this swing chair’s weight, it’s recommended that you set it up in the spot where you’ll want to keep it. It weighs a fairly substantial 58.5 kg.

All in all, this is one of the best garden swing seats on the market. It’s extremely strong and the canopy is excellent for offering UV protection. The seat also has a great design for several other reasons; it’s water resistant, comes with a neck pillow, and has fully foldable side tables.

Did you find this review helpful?
Runner Up

2. Angel Living Rattan Swing Chair

Best rattan swing seat

best garden swing seat Angel Living Rattan Swing Chair
  • Elegant design complements most garden decor
  • Adjustable canopy allows you to sit in either the sun or shade
  • High capacity of 240 kg
  • Easy to remove canopy by undoing Velcro loops
  • Water resistant canopy protects from light rain showers

  • Canopy collects water in heavy rain
  • Seat bows slightly when sitting in the middle
  • Seat cushion is not particularly thick
No. of Seats
3
Material
Steel, Polyester, Rattan
Dimensions
193x118x175cm
Capacity
240kg
Weight
35kg
UV Protection?
Yes
Overall Score 4.3
Design
4
Comfort
4
Longevity
4.5
Stability
4.5
Value for Money
4.5

Elegant and comfortable in equal measure, the Angel Living Rattan Swing Chair is made from woven PE rattan. This gives it a traditional look, and it’s the best garden swing chair if you want a rattan option. This could be particularly useful if you already have rattan furniture, but it’s also stylish as a stand alone item!

This swinging chair is reasonably compact but still capable of seating three people. It measures 193 x 118 x 175 cm.

Like many of the best garden swing sets featured here, this swing chair has an adjustable canopy to keep you cool on hot days. Whether you’re reading a book or catching up with a friend, you can do so for hours without the sun’s glare getting in your eyes. As the sun moves across the sky, the canopy can be easily adjusted to ensure you have as much sun or shade as you need.

This garden swing chair is also comfortable. It comes with a padded cushion for the seat that can be removed if needed. The cushion might be considered a little on the thin side, but it’s still a comfortable swing chair overall – it swings very gently, and there are armrests on either side.

With a 240 kg weight capacity, this swinging chair is relatively strong; it can hold three people with an average weight of 80 kg each. This makes it one of the best garden swing seats if you want a three-seater option. The canopy is made from UV-resistant polyester which also offers protection from the odd rain shower. Additionally, the frame has non-slip feet which keep the swing seat stable and help protect wooden surfaces from scratches.

Assembly is required, and, although the frame is reasonably straightforward to put together, it’s best done with the help of two people. This garden swing chair has a powder-coated frame so it can be left out in all weathers, although the canopy does collect some water in heavy rain which can weigh it down.

Design-wise, there’s a lot to love about this swing chair. Whilst it doesn’t have a lot of ‘extras’, it’s a stylish, well-designed seat. The rattan is strong and easy to clean, and the brown-and-cream colour scheme is complementary to most gardens.

Overall, this three seater garden swing chair is a great-looking piece of garden furniture and it’s one of the best swing seats if you want a rattan option. It’s modern and simple and offers a great place to sit and relax on a sunny day.

Did you find this review helpful?
Also Good
  • Easy to clean thanks to the Textolene fabric - no cushions to bring inside and wash
  • Instructions are easy to follow as all pieces and screws are clearly labelled
  • The compact size is good for smaller gardens
  • Feels sturdy and good quality
  • Weighs just under 18 kg so it’s easy to pick up and move to another location if needed

  • Canopy is a thinner fabric than the chair and may fade if left exposed to sunlight
  • No cushions included
No. of Seats
3
Material
Steel frame, Fabric
Dimensions
177x122x155cm
Capacity
180kg
Weight
17.7kg
UV Protection?
Not listed
Overall Score 4.5
Design
5
Comfort
3.5
Longevity
4.5
Stability
4.5
Value for Money
5

Designed for up to three people, and suitable for smaller budgets, the Von Haus Swing Seat With Canopy has a lot going for it. This garden swing chair has a simple yet elegant design and is a one of the best garden swing sets if you want a budget-friendly option.

This swinging chair consists of a triangular frame, a long grey seat, and a matching canopy. It has a minimalist, contemporary grey finish. Given its colour and style, this seat is likely to complement most gardens.

The large canopy can be adjusted to tilt backwards and forwards. This is achieved by untightening and retightening the screws that hold the canopy in place. Although this isn’t as straightforward as using a ratchet system to adjust the shade, it is still effective.

Made from Textolene fabric, this chair is easy to clean and has good weather resistance. Textolene is strong, fade resistant and doesn’t get too hot. The fabric is stretched over a powder-coated steel frame so it can be left outside year-round. There are no cushions, so there’s nothing that needs to be brought inside if it rains, but the fabric canvas is softer than a hard seat.

Assembly isn’t too complicated. Each piece is clearly labelled and the instructions are easy to follow. At just under 18 kg, this hanging chair is a lot lighter than many on the market and can therefore be easily relocated in the garden. Measuring 177 x 122 x 155 cm, it is also suitable for more compact areas.

Although it’s fair to say that this garden swing chair has a relatively simple in design overall, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

It’s one of the best swing seats to buy on a budget. It’s inexpensive, yet still strong, stylish and functional. Whilst it may not be the most luxurious option, simple doesn’t mean bad either. It’s an affordable choice that offers a low-maintenance, relaxing place to enjoy a morning coffee or catch up with a friend.

Did you find this review helpful?

4. Outsunny Garden 2 Seater Swing Chair

Best two-seater design

best garden swing seat Outsunny Garden Swing Chair
  • Wide seats give each user plenty of room
  • Separate seats swing independently of each other - don’t have to swing if you don’t want to
  • Included cushions are comfortable and offer sufficient padding
  • Easy to assemble in around an hour thanks to the clearly labelled parts
  • Fabric seating and canopy can be removed in the winter months and stored

  • As the chairs are divided by an armrest, one person cannot stretch out across both
  • Chair fabric needs to be treated with care in storage etc. to make sure it lasts
No. of Seats
2
Material
Polyester, Alloy Steel
Dimensions
170x136x165cm
Capacity
220kg
Weight
26kg
UV Protection?
Yes
Overall Score 4.2
Design
4.5
Comfort
5
Longevity
3.5
Stability
4
Value for Money
4

If you’re after something a little different compared to traditional bench swing seats, the Outsunny Garden Swing Chair is a great choice. This swing chair has two individual swinging chairs that are free to move independently of each other. It’s the best garden swing set if you want two individual swinging seats.

The garden swing seat has a large, balanced frame that offers stability. It’s made from heavy-duty powder-coated steel that can be left outside year round, and it’s also easy to assemble. All parts are clearly labelled, allowing this chair to be put together in around one hour.

As mentioned, unlike most swing seats that are more like benches, this swing chair has two separate seats, each with their own adjustable canopy and armrests.

On top of this convenient design, there are other elements that make these garden swing chairs enjoyable to use. They are fitted with comfortable seat and back cushions which securely tie to the frame to prevent slipping, and on each side of the seat there’s a cup holder for storing your drink.

Additionally, both the cushions and canopy can be removed and stored inside in the winter months. The padded cushions also have removable covers to make them easy to wash.

This swing chair also has a high weight capacity; it seats two, with a total capacity of 220 kg. The seats are also reasonably wide, with each seat area measuring 62 x 52 cm.

Unlike many of the swing seats featured here, it’s not possible to change the angle of the canopy on these Outsunny Garden Swing Chairs. You can, however, choose to remove the canopy altogether if you want to.

Overall, this is one of the best swing seats you’re after a two seater design with individual hanging chairs. It’s still sociable, but allows for independent relaxing too. You can choose whether to rock the chair, or sit still, regardless of what the person next to you is doing!

Due to the padded cushions, the swing seats are very comfortable; plus, they’re hugely practical thanks to the independent swinging mechanism, canopies and drink holders.

Did you find this review helpful?

5. Kingfisher Hardwood Swinging Garden Bench

Best wooden swinging bench

best garden swing seat Kingfisher Hardwood Swinging Garden Bench
  • The canopy will keep the seat dry during a brief shower
  • Assembly is easy with all pieces supplied in separate bags for each building stage
  • Cushion included which is customised to bench size
  • Can be left out year-round when used with a cover and treated regularly

  • The angle of the canopy is not adjustable so can't be altered depending on the position of the sun
  • Seat is a little low so it may be difficult for some people to get in and out easily
  • Very heavy at 40.7 kg, so it’s a struggle to move to another spot in the garden or out of the way for mowing
No. of Seats
2
Material
Wood, Polyester
Dimensions
166x123x178cm
Capacity
Not listed
Weight
40.7kg
UV Protection?
Not listed
Overall Score 4.6
Design
5
Comfort
3.5
Longevity
4.5
Stability
5
Value for Money
5

The best thing about garden swing seats is how relaxing and stylish they can be, and this Kingfisher Hardwood Swinging Garden Bench performs well on both accounts.

This two seater swing chair has a dark brown hardwood construction looks good against the natural hues of the garden, and it comes with a fabric cushion and canopy included. It’s the best swing seat if you’re after a stylish solid wood option.

Both the padded cushion and canopy are made from dark green polyester; they’re water resistant, but should be ideally be covered or brought in during really bad weather. However, if there is a passing shower, the canopy should be sufficient for keeping the cushion (and you!) dry.

Strong winds can damage the fabric shade though, so fitting a protective cover over the top in winter should help avoid this. The wood will also require regular oiling or treating if it is left out all year round.

The hanging chair is suspended off the ground using chains; these can support the weight of two people. They’re not length adjustable, but the swing seat is still comfortable for people over 6 foot to sit on.

Looking at all of the dimensions, it’s a relatively ‘petite’ garden swing chair overall, measuring 166 x 123 x 178 cm. As a result, it’s also one of the best garden swing seats for smaller spaces, although this may make it a bit cosy for some people – two people are unlikely to have much wiggle room and the depth of the bench is relatively narrow at around 48 cm.

Nevertheless, this means it’s a particularly good choice for those who are looking for a swinging bench that won’t overwhelm a small garden. or want something that will fit into a corner. Plus, as mentioned, it’s also the best garden swing chair if you’re after a solid wood seat. It’s sturdy, attractive, and not too difficult to assemble despite the fact it arrives flat packed.

Putting it together will take between one to two hours.

Did you find this review helpful?

6. Outsunny Garden Swing Chair

Best basic design

best garden swing seat Outsunny Garden Swing Chair
  • Easy to assemble as each piece is clearly labelled
  • Weighs 21 kg so can be moved to another spot in the garden with ease if needed
  • Canopy is showerproof and will protect the seats during light rain
  • Non-slip foot pads keep the chair stable on smooth surfaces
  • Adjustable canopy can be altered using a ratchet system, no screws to undo

  • Reasonably low weight capacity better suited to two people rather than three
  • Due to lightweight, may need to be placed in a sheltered area to stop wind blowing it over
  • Fairly low to the ground so may not be suitable for very tall users or those with limited mobility
No. of Seats
3
Material
Steel, Polyester fabric
Dimensions
172x110x153cm
Capacity
200kg
Weight
21kg
UV Protection?
Yes
Overall Score 4.3
Design
5
Comfort
4.5
Longevity
3.5
Stability
4
Value for Money
4.5

The Outsunny Garden Swing Chair is sleek and simple, with a contemporary, understated design that will suit most outdoor spaces. It’s the best garden swing chair if you’re after a subtle, neutral option.

Made from powder-coated steel, this swing chair has a seating area covered by a reasonably thick polyester cushion. It has a 200 kg capacity making it suitable for two-to-three adults. There is also a large, adjustable canopy that can be tilted using a ratchet on the side.

One of the easiest swing seats when it comes to assembly, each piece of this garden swing chair is clearly labelled. Plus, it’s lightweight, weighing just 21 kg. Not only does this mean the swing chair is easy to position after assembly, it can also be moved to another spot in the garden when you want to mow the lawn. If installed on decking or patio, the non-slip foot pads will help prevent slipping.

This swing seat’s canopy is showerproof. Therefore, it can protect you from the sun’s glare on hot days, and will also keep you dry during the odd rain shower. The canopy can be removed altogether if required. This helps with storage over winter months and also lets you sit fully in the sun.

Thanks to the powder-coated steel frame, this garden swing chair is suitable for use year-round outside. Due to its light weight, it is best positioned in a sheltered area, or secured in some way to stop it from moving in windy weather. The canopy can be removed to keep it safe when the wind picks up.

One thing to note about this chair is that it sits fairly low to the ground. Taller users may find it uncomfortable, and those with limited mobility may struggle to get in and out.

This is one of the cheapest options on this list, and it’s therefore a great value option. For the most part, it doesn’t seem like a ‘budget’ item, but it is worth pointing out that the 200 kg weight capacity is reasonably low for three people.

For three people to sit on this seat, each person will need to have an average weight of 66 kg. Therefore, although advertised as a three-person chair, it’s more practical as a two-person model.

All in all, this swing chair is a fantastic option that will fit in with most gardens thanks to its understated deign. It also has the added benefit of being very easy to assemble. The polyester cushions can be wiped clean, and it’s an affordable choice as well.

Did you find this review helpful?

7. BargainsGalore Garden Swing Chair

Best for smaller gardens

best garden swing seat BargainsGalore Garden Swing Chair
  • Canopy is easy to adjust to offer shade depending on where the sun is
  • Canopy is sufficiently showerproof tol protect the seats during light rain
  • Dark coloured cushions are less prone to showing dirt and stains
  • Surface of cushions can be wiped down for cleaning
  • Easy to assemble as everything is clearly labelled and packaged

  • Cushion isn’t particularly thick so you can feel the bar underneath your legs
  • Described as a three seater but is really only appropriate for two adults
  • Lightweight so may need securing on windy days
No. of Seats
3
Material
Polyester, Steel
Dimensions
175x110x155cm
Capacity
Not listed
Weight
Not listed
UV Protection?
Not listed
Overall Score 3.8
Design
3.5
Comfort
4
Longevity
3.5
Stability
3.5
Value for Money
4.5

This affordable BargainsGalore Garden Swing Chair comfortably seats two adults yet it’s a compact size that won’t overwhelm a smaller patio or lawn. It’s the best swing chair if you’re after a smaller option.

Allowing you to customise the amount of shade you receive, this garden seat has an adjustable canopy angle. This canopy not only helps keep you cool on hot days, it’s also showerproof. Adjusting the canopy is done by loosening and tightening a wingnut.

In terms of design, it certainly seems like this hanging chair has been made for British weather. The fabric components are made from waterproof polyester, Oxford cloth and cotton, and the frame is made from powder-coated steel. Those using this chair should stay dry if there’s a light, unexpected rain shower, but it won’t protect from a downpour. The fabric does dry quickly, though. It’s also very quick and easy to remove the cushions for storage.

The included cushions are padded, although slightly on the thin side. It’s still possible to feel the bar underneath when sitting down. Nevertheless, for the price it is good value that both a seat and back cushion comes included.

Another good thing about this swing seat is that it’s one of the best garden swing options if you’re after easy assembly. The instructions, although basic, are easy to follow, and the pieces are individually packaged and labelled. The swing chair itself is lightweight once set up. This makes it easy to move around the garden whenever you want to mow the lawn, but it also means it lacks the sturdiness of other models. On windy days, I recommend moving it to a sheltered area or at least removing the canopy.

This swing seat is approximately 175 cm long, 110 cm wide and 155 cm tall. The seat sits around 50 cm off the ground.

Overall, this garden swing seat is a good choice if you want a compact option that can still seat two adults. Considering the materials used, and the price, this swing seat offers a good balance of quality and affordability. It’s also available in two contemporary colours: black and grey. These darker shades are less likely to show dirt and stains than lighter colours which is a plus.

Did you find this review helpful?
Avatar photo

Clive's Smart Buying Tips

  1. For two people, look for a garden swing seat between 160 – 170 wide. This will provide comfortable seating for two whilst still being suitable for smaller gardens.
  2. If you want a three-person model, choose a swinging chair with a width of at least 190 cm. These larger swing seats are suitable for medium/large patios, gardens and decks. A weight capacity of 200 kg will generally be suitable for two adults. However, the seat will generally need a capacity of 240 kg or above to comfortably accommodate three people.
  3. Construction material is important to consider. Powder-coated steel is a good low-maintenance, durable option. It can be left out year-round and is generally light enough to easily move around the garden. For a traditional-looking seat that blends into the natural surroundings, opt for a wooden frame. Be aware that wood will need treating annually. If you choose wood, the best garden swing chairs will be made from pressure-treated, FSC-certified timber.
  4. Cushions will make the swinging chair more comfortable. Look for options made from polyester or Oxford fabric as these will be easy to wipe down and won’t get too waterlogged if left out in the odd shower. For maximum comfort, you’ll want to look for cushions that are over 5 cm thick. These will protect you from feeling the bar underneath the seat. 

When it comes to the best garden swing seat, my top recommendation for a medium garden is the three-person SORARA Garden Swing Chair. This comfortable swing seat has thick, padded cushions and a strong metal frame with an impressive 380 kg weight capacity. The attached canopy can be tilted, to easily keep the sun out of your eyes whilst sitting. Plus, there are foldable drinks trays at each side.

Compare Product Features

Use the dropdown to sort the table by the feature you want to see.

  • SORARA Garden Swing Chair
    best garden swing seat SORARA Garden Swing Chair
    • 4.8
    • 3
    • Alloy steel frame
    • 191x118x180cm
    • 380kg
    • 58.5kg
    • Yes
  • Angel Living Rattan Swing Chair
    best garden swing seat Angel Living Rattan Swing Chair
    • 4.3
    • 3
    • Steel, Polyester, Rattan
    • 193x118x175cm
    • 240kg
    • 35kg
    • Yes
  • VonHaus Swing Seat With Canopy
    best garden swing seat VonHaus Swing Seat With Canopy
    • 4.5
    • 3
    • Steel frame, Fabric
    • 177x122x155cm
    • 180kg
    • 17.7kg
    • Not listed
  • Outsunny Garden 2 Seater Swing Chair
    best garden swing seat Outsunny Garden Swing Chair
    • 4.2
    • 2
    • Polyester, Alloy Steel
    • 170x136x165cm
    • 220kg
    • 26kg
    • Yes
  • Kingfisher Hardwood Swinging Garden Bench
    best garden swing seat Kingfisher Hardwood Swinging Garden Bench
    • 4.6
    • 2
    • Wood, Polyester
    • 166x123x178cm
    • Not listed
    • 40.7kg
    • Not listed
  • Outsunny Garden Swing Chair
    best garden swing seat Outsunny Garden Swing Chair
    • 4.3
    • 3
    • Steel, Polyester fabric
    • 172x110x153cm
    • 200kg
    • 21kg
    • Yes
  • BargainsGalore Garden Swing Chair
    best garden swing seat BargainsGalore Garden Swing Chair
    • 3.8
    • 3
    • Polyester, Steel
    • 175x110x155cm
    • Not listed
    • Not listed
    • Not listed

How to Choose The Best Garden Swing Seat

The best garden swing chairs will add a bit more interest to the garden compared to just a standard bench.

They’re often a bit more fun and welcoming, and it’s not uncommon to find seats that have canopies built in as well.

You’ll have a lot of choice when it comes to garden swing chairs. There are options which are more upright, as well as those that offer the possibility to recline. But all of them provide that enjoyable, relaxing  ‘weightless’ feeling.

If you’re on the look out for the best garden swing set, the following information should give you a good idea of what to look out for (as well as what to avoid!).

Finding a Design to Suit Your Garden

There are a lot of different garden swing chairs available. It’s impossible to say which is the best; many things will come down to personal taste and the design of your outdoor space.

However, here’s a run down of some of the different designs and features available, so you can decide what to look for:

Number of Seats

Garden swing chairs are not always limited to just two people.

The classic designs are generally suited to two adults, but there are models which can seat up to four people or more.

There are also smaller swing seats, like hanging rattan egg chairs, that seat just one person.

Of course, a unit with more seats will be larger and more difficult to 1) find space for in the garden, and 2) store away for winter. They can also be more expensive too. But if you have a larger family, or like to entertain, they could be a great option.

The main thing to watch out for is the weight limit on the swing seat. Some units have much higher maximum capacities than others, and it’s best not to presume that just because a there are four seats, any four people can sit down.

More information on weight capacity can be found in the section below titled ‘Swing Seat Weight Capacity’.

Protective Canopies

Most swing seats have some form of canopy; however, not all canopies are created equal.

Some of the best garden swing seats have adjustable canopies. These can be positioned as needed to offer maximum shade from the sun throughout the day. This isn’t a feature that is available on all swing seats, but might be useful if get a lot of sun in your garden.

Most of the time, canopies are made from showerproof polyester. They may also be made from wood, if the swing seat has a wooden frame.

A polyester canopy will offer more protection from sun and rain than a slatted wooden canopy, but may suffer damage in windy conditions.

Fortunately, they are usually held on by Velcro and easy to remove.

Some of the best garden swing chairs will have fabric canopies that offer a level of SPF protection. This will actively block UV rays instead of just creating shade (which can still let UV rays through).

Upright or Reclining Swing Seats

Some swing seats are best described as swinging benches – upright, structured and straight forward. If correct posture is important to you, and you like having a straight backrest, these will likely be the best garden swing chairs for you to choose.

Other designs give you the possibility to recline and rest your legs up. With these options you can either sit with your legs out straight, or crossed-legged. Some people prefer this more relaxed seating position, but it’s not comfortable for everyone.

Additional Features

These are a couple of the ‘extra’ features which can feature on swing seats, you might want to look out for them if they sound appealing to you:

  • Headrests
  • Arm rests
  • Drinks trays
  • Cushions
  • Rubber feet (so that it won’t slip on a hard surface)

READ NEXT: The Best Zero Gravity Garden Chairs

Swing Seat Weight Capacity

Some swing seats have surprising low weight allowances so it’s always a good idea to check with the manufacturer before you make a purchase, just to be 100% sure.

It’s best to not presume that a swing seat can take more weight just because it seems to have been designed for more people.

Some three-seat swing seats may have as low a weight capacity as 200 kg. If this weight is divided evenly between three people sitting on the seat, it would mean that each individual’s weight should not exceed 66 kg.

It’s quite common for an adult to weigh over 66 kg, so this is something to bear in mind when shopping for garden furniture.

Other three-seat swing seats can have higher weight capacities of 300 kg+. These are the best garden swing chairs for seating three people because they offer a lot more freedom in terms of who can sit down.

Even if a swing seat seems to ‘withstand’ more than its recommended capacity, exceeding the limit can result in wear and damage and should be avoided.

READ NEXT: The Best Recliner Garden Chairs

Wooden or Metal Swing Seats

Most commonly, swing seats are made with either steel or wooden frames.

Both materials are good for garden furniture. They’re strong and fare well in bad weather.

For most people, it is often a matter of aesthetics as to whether they choose wood or steel. Steel frames generally require no maintenance, whereas wooden frames will likely require treating annually with a sealant to stop moisture getting in.

If the steel is powder coated, it should be durable and relatively rust resistant. However, it’s still important to keep metal swing seats dry and under a waterproof cover when not in use in order to prolong their life.

If you choose a wooden frame, go for wood that has been pressure treated and is FSC certified. Pressure treated wood is usually guaranteed against rot and insect infestations for several years. FSC certified wood has been responsibly sourced, and is therefore generally considered better for the environment. It comes from a forest that has been approved and confirmed to meet high environmental and social standards and is cut down in a way that is not damaging to the natural habitat of animals. For this reason, it’s good to look out for in garden furniture.

READ NEXT: The Best Garden Storage Benches

Garden Swing Seat FAQs

If possible, you should store garden swing chairs away over winter.

If your swing seat is too large to store, you can buy a cover to protect it from wet weather. If you can’t find one to fit your model, you can usually cover garden swing chairs with tarpaulin through the winter months. Using bungee cords is one way to help keep tarpaulin in place.

Ideally you want the hanging chair to be dry before you cover it, to stop moisture getting trapped underneath the waterproof layer.

You should also make sure your garden swing seat is protected from wind. They can get damaged if they blow over. Either move your garden swing seat to a sheltered area or secure it with ground anchors or heavy-duty pegs.

Wind can also damage the fabric canopy of a swing seat. If yours has a canopy made from fabric, you should either remove it or cover it if the weather gets bad.

If you have a wooden swing seat, you should treat it yearly with a couple of coats of teak oil or a waterproof sealer.

You can place your swing seat in any outdoor space – either on your patio or your lawn.

If you buy a steel-framed swing seat make sure that it has rubber stoppers on the ends of the legs. This will stop it slipping on paving.

You could even place a swing seat in a conservatory, or move it inside just for the winter months.

If possible, put it somewhere that is sheltered from strong winds so that it won’t blow over easily.

If you have a wooden swing seat, you should clean it with a sponge and warm, soapy water. This is especially important to do before storing it away over winter. If you don’t clean wooden garden furniture, mould may spread and grow over the winter months. Avoid using a pressure washer as this could damage the wood and spread any mould spores.

To clean a steel swing seat you can use a gentle pressure washer or a sponge and warm, soapy water . It’s always better to opt for the gentler cleaning option first as this will cause less damage. It may well be all that’s required anyway.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

As you found this post useful...

Follow us on social media!

Clicky
Scroll to Top