The long, hot days of summer always seem to evoke a bit of childhood nostalgia – like memories of gently swinging in the shade to catch a cool breeze.
A throwback to simpler times, rocking on a swing is a great way to relax.
The soothing motion is ideal for reading or an afternoon nap, and the easy comfort of this simple piece of outdoor furniture provides the perfect spot for a leisurely chat with friends, family, and neighbors.
There are plenty of fantastic options to choose from.
From single-seaters to sprawling daybeds, today’s porch swings come in a variety of sizes, styles, and materials to suit any location.
And owning a porch isn’t mandatory!
Many models come suspended in their own frames, and can be set up anywhere there’s a level area in your yard – no need for joists or rigging gear.
Now let’s get into those reviews. And after that, we’ve got some buying tips to make your purchase as smooth and enjoyable as a good swing!
15 of the Best Porch Swings
Porch Swing Basics
Single Seats
The perfect rig for a little solitude, single-seaters have a small footprint, and are the easiest to set up.
1. Butterfly Hammock Swing with Tote
This butterfly hammock swing chair employs a rope sling frame and bright, overstuffed cushions adorned with stripes and a butterfly pattern for colorful comfort.
Butterfly Hammock Swing with Tote
The adjustable polyester ropes are supported by a wooden cross bar and are knotted at 12 points on each side of the sling, for balance and stability.
The vibrant polyester-blend cushion covers are fade, mildew, and weather resistant, and can be removed for machine washing as needed.
A convenient matching tote bag with carry strap is included, for easy storage and transport.
This model measures 34 inches long and 48 inches high, with a maximum weight load of 250 pounds.
Find prices and check customer reviews at Plow and Hearth.
2. Chair Hammock
Light, airy, and comfortable, this rope hammock chair provides the ideal spot to sit and unwind.
Like functional macramé, the seat cushion and back are suspended from knotted polyester ropes, with natural wood armrests and a support bar.
The foam-filled seat cushion and headrest are covered with a red, beige, black, and white striped polyester-cotton blend fabric for long-lasting good looks, strength, and easy cleanup.
The hammock chair measures 40 x 22 x 45 inches and has a weight capacity of 250 pounds.
A heavy duty ring at the top secures the seat to your fixing of choice. Alternatively, you can purchase the Kasandra Durable Metal Hammock Chair Stand, also from Wayfair.
This product is made in China and comes with a 30-day return policy.
You can find prices and customer reviews at Wayfair.
3. Egg Chair Swing with Stand
The ideal nesting spot to read or relax, this hanging egg-shaped chair comes complete with cushions, hardware, and a sturdy steel tube stand that can be set up on any level spot.
The metal frame is powder-coated for durable weather resistance, and wrapped with rattan for an airy, natural look – and the included comfort spring at the top of the hanging mechanism ensures a soft, relaxing motion.
The generous seat cushion and headrest are made from polyester for easy cleanup and are stuffed with a light, poly fiberfill. The cushions are available in neutral taupe-gray.
It has a diameter of 37.5 inches, an overall height of 76.75 inches, and holds up to 275 pounds.
This product comes with a 1-year warranty, and if you are unsatisfied with your purchase you can return it within 90 days for a full refund.
4. Freeport Park Stockport Rainbow Glider
Fun for children and adults alike, the Rainbow Glider swing from Freeport Park can provide you a dizzying ride, or a peaceful sway!
Freeport Park Stockport Rainbow Glider
Connect the two ropes to a single point with a swivel hook for a 360-degree ride the kids will love. Or use two hooks for a traditional back and forth motion.
The metal frame is easy to assemble with sturdy corner connectors, and the polyester rope is anchored at all four corners for balance and stability.
The sling-style orange, red, and black seat is made from heavy-duty UV- and water-resistant polyester with quadruple stitching and corner bar tacks for long-lasting strength and durability.
With a weight capacity of 400 pounds, it’s comfortable for two kids or one adult.
It measures 33 x 47 x 70 inches and weighs 21 pounds.
This product is made in China, and comes with Wayfair’s 30-day returns policy.
The Rainbow Glider is available at Wayfair.
5. Novogratz Sally Heavy Duty Single Chair with Cushions
The Sally chair from Novogratz offers spacious, stylish comfort and heavy-duty construction in a single-seater.
The black woven all-weather wicker is wrapped around a robust steel frame, and four suspension anchor points provide easy balance and added stability.
Novogratz Sally Heavy Duty Single Chair
The removable weather-resistant cushions are upholstered in a contemporary polyester blend for comfort and easy cleanup. A single toss cushion is included in either gray or “rosewater” stripes.
The chair requires no assembly and comes with 2 adjustable poly ropes and 2 suspension carabiners for quick hanging – ceiling anchors are not included.
It measures 36.2 x 32.3 x 15.2 inches (L, D, H), weighs a little over 18.5 pounds, and can support a maximum load of 250 pounds.
This product is made in China and comes with a 1-year warranty.
Check prices and customer reviews at Wayfair.
Two-Seaters and Love Seats
Two-seaters and hanging love seats are spacious enough for two, and occupy a mid-sized footprint.
6. Backyard Discovery Farmhouse All Cedar Bench
This robust, all-cedar farmhouse bench gives the warmth and long-lasting durability of natural wood.
Renowned for its strength and water resistance, cedar ages beautifully, taking on a rustic, natural patina.
Backyard Discovery Farmhouse All Cedar Bench
The farmhouse bench features a deep seat with a rounded front edge, cross brace back, and wide, sturdy armrests for years of comfortable enjoyment.
The heavy-duty chains have four anchor points for easy balance, and D-links are included for hanging. Two-person assembly is required, and all hardware is included. You will need various household tools, including a drill, hammer, screwdriver, socket wrench, and spirit level.
The bench measures 55 x 22 x 28 inches, weighs just over 46 pounds, and has a 600-pound weight capacity. A 1-year warranty provides peace of mind.
Check prices and customer reviews at Home Depot.
7. Charlton Home Northbrook Porch Swing with Stand
The Northbrook two-seater offers independent suspension for each chair, and can be set up on any level surface – no porch needed.
Each 23-inch wide seat swings independently from the sturdy, rust-resistant, curved black steel frame, which is powder coated for strength and durability.
Charlton Home Northbrook Porch Swing with Stand
Twin canopies can be attached or removed as desired, and a cup holder beside each chair adds convenience.
The beige cushions and canopies are upholstered with a water-resistant and colorfast polyester blend for easy cleaning and long-lasting good looks.
This model measures 53 x 67 x 67 inches, weighs 79 pounds, and has a load-bearing capacity of 485 pounds.
At-home assembly is required, and all hardware is included. This product is made in China and comes with a 1-year warranty.
Find prices and customer reviews at Wayfair.
8. Hatteras Hammocks Sunbrella Deluxe Cushion Swing
For cushioned comfort, the Deluxe swing is made from top-tier Sunbrella fabric, a solution-dyed synthetic that’s colorfast, mildew and weather resistant, and strong.
Hatteras Hammocks Sunbrella Deluxe Cushion Swing
And the abundant stuffing is made of resilient, hollow-fill polyester fiber – which comes from recycled plastic drink bottles.
It’s available in a variety of colors, including Gateway indigo, Gateway Mist, Limelight, and Regency Sand.
A light, almond-brown wood frame is crafted from cumaru – a hardwood from Brazil, renowned for its longevity, rot resistance, and strength.
The included chains are zinc plated steel for durability and rust protection, and are anchored at six points for maximum balance and stability.
The Deluxe measures 60 x 30 x 42 inches and has a 400-pound capacity. It ships ready to hang, with all hardware included.
You can purchase a separate metal stand – 6 by 8 by 7 feet – made from powder-coated steel in taupe-gray, available on Amazon.
Made in the USA, with a 1-year warranty, the Sunbrella Deluxe is available from Hatteras Hammocks via Amazon.
9. Lark Manor Narron Porch Swing
This attractive bench from Lark Manor combines classic styling with deep seated comfort in an all-weather wicker resin, with UV fade protection, for a handsome, but tough, swing.
The steel frame is covered with handwoven wicker resin in a handsome diamond lattice pattern that’s rust, water, and weather resistant.
Available in five colors: antique black, antique moss, antique pecan, mocha, and white, this product ships without a cushion.
It’s equipped with 4-feet-long, heavy-duty chains attached at four anchor points for a smooth, stable ride, and a 400-pound weight capacity.
The wicker resin bench measures 53 x 27 x 25 inches, weighs 52 pounds, and is made in China.
Check out customer reviews and prices at Wayfair.
10. Loon Peak Abella Wooden Love Seat with Stand
Robust and rustic, the Abella love seat features square hewn, lodgepole pine lumber for an earthy timber frame design that will last for generations.
And it comes complete with chains, hardware, and stand included.
Loon Peak Abella Wooden Love Seat with Stand
The country style bench has a high back, deep seat, and generous arm rests. Four anchor points secure the heavy-duty steel chain for a stable, relaxing motion.
You can choose from stained wood, or unstained for you to finish at home.
This product does require tools for assembly, and a good level of DIY knowledge. Alternatively, you can take advantage of Wayfair’s expert assembly service for an additional fee.
It measures 75 x 88 x 77 inches, weighs 170 pounds, and has a weight capacity of 500 pounds.
Made in the USA, this product comes with a 20-year warranty.
You can check customer reviews and prices at Wayfair.
Three-Seaters and Daybeds
For those that like to sprawl, go big!
11. Baylen Steel Frame Bench with Stand, Cushions, and Canopy
This large, rust resistant, powder coated steel frame swing offers luxurious comfort with plush back and bench cushions, a full, removable canopy, and folding side tables all included.
And it can be set up on the porch, patio, or any level ground.
Baylen Steel Frame Bench with Stand, Cushions, and Canopy
The maroon canopy and seat cushion covers are made of a durable and colorfast polyester-canvas blend for rot and weather resistance. The comfortable seat is made from rattan.
To get the perfect tilt for shade, the canopy has large, locking wheels that hold it securely in place.
Assembly is required, and all hardware ships with the product, no additional tools required. Alternatively, Wayfair offers an expert assembly service at extra cost.
The Baylen measures 90 x 44 x 74 inches, weighs 140 pounds, and has a weight capacity of 600 pounds.
This product is made in China and comes with a 1-year warranty.
The Baylen bench is available at Wayfair.
12. Longshore Tides Essence Bed Swing
The Essence daybed has down-home charm that offers that perfect spot for an afternoon nap!
Hand crafted from select, kiln dried yellow pine lumber with a distressed finish, available in two colors, barnwood or weathered wood.
Longshore Tides Essence Bed Swing
It’s hung with large manila hemp ropes – tough and resistant to salt water, manila hemp is often used in fishing nets, hawsers, and ships’ lines.
It accommodates any twin-sized mattress (not included) and seats four people comfortably.
Full assembly is required, and you’ll need to have some basic household tools handy, including a drill, ratchet, adjustable wrench, and a hacksaw.
The manufacturer recommends that the swing installation be carried out by a licensed contractor. Alternatively, Wayfair offers an expert assembly service at additional cost.
Overall measurements are 84 x 43 x 26 inches, it weighs 215 pounds, with a 1000-pound weight capacity.
Made in the USA.
You can check customer reviews and prices at Wayfair.
13. Loon Peak Thacker Country Style Hanging Daybed
The Thacker hanging daybed has country style appeal with an aromatic Western red cedar frame that’s available in sizes ranging from twin to king size.
Loon Peak Thacker Country Style Hanging Daybed
Heavy duty chains are attached to eight anchor points for maximum stability, and comfort springs ensure a gentle, smooth swing. The wide dimension lumber gives sturdy support and comes in a natural or stained finish.
The available sizes are Twin, Full, Queen, and King and come in these measurements:
- Twin – 78.5 x 41.5 x 22 inches, with a maximum weight of 750 pounds
- Full – 78.5 x 57.5 x 22 inches, with a maximum weight of 900 pounds
- Queen – 83.5 x 63.5 x 22 inches, with a maximum weight of 1000 pounds
- King – 83.5 x 79.5 x 22 inches, with a maximum weight of 1200 pounds
Mattresses and cushions are sold separately. Total product weight ranges from 110-155 pounds, depending on the size selected, and require assembly.
Made to order in the USA, the Thacker hanging daybeds are available at Wayfair.
14. Polywood Vineyard Bench
Crafted from genuine Polywood® lumber, this handsome bench is tough, durable, and waterproof.
The dense recycled plastic is treated with UV-inhibitors, doesn’t chip, crack, or peel, and it is resistant to natural corrosives like oil and salt spray.
The seat slats are contoured for comfort, and the zinc-plated steel chains are anchored at four points for a steady, wobble-free ride.
It’s available in a selection of seven colors, including black, green, mahogany, sand, slate gray, and white.
This product requires some assembly, and ships with the chain kit, but the hanging brackets are not included, and must be purchased separately.
The Vineyard bench measures 55 x 24.25 x 23 inches, weighs 55 pounds, and has a weight capacity of 1200 pounds.
Made in the USA, this model comes with a 20-year warranty.
You can check out prices and customer reviews at Wayfair.
15. Prospect Hill All-Weather Wicker Swing
Elegant and dreamy in cloud white or driftwood, the Prospect Hill all-weather wicker bench is durable and weather resistant, but the tight, hand-woven design gives it a warm, natural look.
Prospect Hill All Weather Wicker Swing
The long-lasting wicker resin is wrapped over a powder-coated aluminum frame for sturdy weather resistance and the rolled arms and high back offer inviting comfort. The heavy-duty steel chain is attached at four anchor points for stability.
It measures 50.5 x 26.5 x 25.5 inches and has a 500-pound capacity. Cushions are sold separately and are also available at Plow and Hearth.
Check prices and read customer reviews at Plow and Hearth.
Chains, Ropes, and Hardware
Before hanging, ensure your overhead joists have the support needed at both ends for load bearing applications.
All the hardware (bolts, chains, connectors, and ropes) needs to be suitable for outdoor use and should have a load rating of 500 pounds or greater for two seaters, 750 pounds for three seats, and 1200 pounds for king-sized daybeds.
Use heavy-duty galvanized, powder coated, or stainless steel hardware needed for the job – such as eye or lag bolts, hanger mounts, and screw eyes or hooks.
You can also pick up a commercial grade hanger kit, which typically includes combinations of swivel or non-swivel hanger mounts, lag bolts, or heavy-duty springs for a smoother ride.
Levi Innovations Swivel Hanging Mount and Springs
Levi Innovations makes a kit with a swivel hanging mount and springs (but no screws) – and it’s available at Wayfair and Home Depot.
And Everbilt offers a kit that includes zinc-plated steel chain, connectors, and ceiling eye hooks. It is available at Home Depot.
Porch swings are typically suspended by chains or ropes that are included with your purchase.
Steel chains are popular because of their rugged durability, and are often galvanized or zinc-plated for rust and weather resistance.
But rope adds a down-home appeal with natural fibers.
Manila hemp ropes made for maritime applications offer outstanding durability. These should be at least 3/4 inches thick for hanging benches or daybeds.
Marine-grade braided nylon or polyester rope also provide outstanding strength and long-lasting durability.
Materials
To ensure your outdoor furniture lasts as long as possible, the construction materials need to be high quality and resistant to the elements – freezing temperatures, rain, sunlight, wind, and so on.
Recycled Plastic
Patio furniture made of recycled plastics offers lightweight style and rugged strength, with an eye toward eco-friendly sensibilities.
HDPE (high density polyethylene) is made from recycled products like bottle caps, laundry detergent containers, and milk jugs. For constructing furniture, these are transformed into “lumber” that resists cracking, fading, insects, mildew, moisture, saltwater, and UV rays.
A wonderfully low-maintenance material, recycled plastic is stain resistant, cleans up easily with soapy water, and comes in a variety of colors and textures.
However, because of the light weight of this material, unoccupied swings are susceptible to becoming airborne in high winds. Consider covering them or strapping them down when not in use, and avoid installing near windows.
Steel
Steel frames give outstanding durability, heft, and strength, and powder coating provides a powerful rust and weather-resistant finish.
Steel is heavy, but it provides exceptional stability and strength, and endures extreme weather conditions better than most other materials.
Steel frames are found in a variety of styles, and swings with their own steel frame can be set up anywhere without the need for overhead rigging.
Wicker
Do you know the difference between rattan and wicker? These terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing.
Rattan is a vine-like palm used extensively in making baskets and furniture, and wicker is a type of weave – rattan (or bamboo, cane, seagrass, and so on) is the material used to create wicker patterns.
Wicker is traditionally woven by hand, and this method of construction creates sturdy, durable furniture with a classic look.
All-Weather Wicker
All-weather wicker, or resin wicker, is a tough, climate-resistant synthetic material that provides the look of wicker, with exceptional durability.
Blends of nylon, PVC, or high-density polyethylene are pushed through an extruder, creating long, thin strands that are woven and wrapped over a metal frame for superb tensile strength.
Wood
Wood is a historically popular material, typically used on bench-style models. It is revered for its strength and durability.
Whether the wood is robust oak, economical pine, or exotic teak, all of these can add a warm, natural touch that’s not found in metal or plastics.
But wood needs to be treated – painted or stained – to prevent damage from insects, rot, and UV rays.
And many woods harvested from ancient forests face endangerment from non-sustainable logging practices. Look for FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification for sustainable wood sources.
Upholstery Fabrics
The upholstery fabric used for covering cushions and seats needs to withstand repeated use, spills, and harsh climate conditions. Canopy fabric needs to be UV-resistant and waterproof.
This pretty much eliminates natural fibers that will sag, break down, and fade from moisture and UV exposure.
However, the synthetics used to upholster outdoor furniture are dyed for colorfastness, are water and weather resistant (to varying degrees), and are much easier to wipe clean than natural fibers.
Upholstery fabrics range from economical polyesters to proprietary brands like Sunbrella, with top quality, marine-grade options. And the prices of these typically reflect their level of quality, with premium fabrics fetching premium prices.
Space Requirements and Measurements
When measuring the space needed for hanging a swing, allow adequate clearance for the front, back, and both sides.
You’ll need a minimum of 48 inches in front and behind the bench, and about 15 inches on both ends for side clearance.
Also, the seat should hang about 16 to 20 inches above the floor.
The mounting lag screws should be installed 2 to 5 inches wider than the seat length. This provides even weight distribution, and keeps the chains or ropes from rubbing against the frame.
Swing on a Star
Whether you choose a model to hang from the rafters, or an all-inclusive unit with its own stand, remember to check your clearance measurements before you install.
And ensure the hanging hardware has the proper rating for your weight needs, and check the load-bearing capacity of any joists you are hanging from.
After that, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy!
And if you’re thinking about adding even more outdoor furniture to your space, be sure to check out these reviews next:
- Made in the Shade: The 7 Best Patio Umbrellas You Can Buy
- 11 Best Benches for Enjoying a Fresh Garden View
- The Best 10 Deck Boxes for Your Porch, Patio, Pool, or Veranda
© Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Product photos via Hatteras Hammocks, Home Depot, Plough and Hearth, and Wayfair. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. With additional writing and editing by Clare Groom and Allison Sidhu.
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