Types of Sensory Swings & Tips for Choosing a Swing

A look at different types of sensory swings, as well as factors to consider when choosing a swing.

---

You're likely already familiar with what a sensory swing is and what the benefits of sensory swings might include.

And now you're at the stage of researching what kind of swing you might want to purchase or install.

Well, that's what this guide is for! It goes over some of the most common and popular types of sensory swings so that you can make an informed decision about what type will be the right fit for you child's needs. So, let's dig in!

Types of Sensory Swings

Sensory swings come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, colors, fabrics, textures, and styles. Here are some common types that you might want to consider trying out:

1. Stretchy Swing

When you think of a sensory swing, this type of swing is likely what comes to mind. It's essentially a large piece of fabric that envelopes you like a cocoon and cuddles your body. It stretches and conforms to the shape of your body and your movements, providing lots of deep pressure and proprioceptive sensory input.

Stretchy swings like these are great for anyone who likes deep pressure, enjoys swinging in a wide variety of directions and intensities, and may be more sensitivity to the texture and feel of certain fabrics. These types of swings are usually quite soft and comfortable feeling due to the fabric that is used.

These swings are also great for blocking out overwhelming stimuli, such as bright lights, because of the way the fabric hugs and wraps the body. They're also great because of how versatile they are to use.

These types of swings have long been a favorite in our house and we have even made a few DIY variations, including our DIY taco swing and DIY woven wrap swing.

2. Hammock Swing

If you prefer a more gentle swinging motion, then hammock swings are a great choice.

Unlike a traditional hammock, though, a hammock swing is designed to sit or recline in versus lay down in. They can be made from a variety of materials, usually nylon or canvas, but they can also be made out of mesh or ropes. At least, the hammock swing we have is made entirely out of ropes (similar to this one).

Hammock swings hug the body pretty well, especially if you have a rope one like us, providing lots of deep pressure as you gently swing.

3. Pod Swing

To me, pod swings look a bit like a teardrop in terms of their shape. Regardless, they provide a bit of a fabric cocoon, which is why they're sometimes also referred to as cocoon swings.

These types of swings usually have an inflatable air cushion inside to sit on, which can be great for building core strength and developing balance. It's almost like sitting on a balance cushion inside of the swing.

Pod swings can be used to provide gentle swing movements, but are also great for spinning in circles. At least that's how my kids liked to use the pod swing!

4. Platform Swing

This type of swing features a flat and sturdy base with ropes coming up from each corner. Sometimes they are a wood base covered in carpet and sometimes they are made of other materials or fabrics.

Due to its large base and ropes in every corner to hang onto, platform swings allow for a variety of different positions to sit, kneel, or lay down. They can also be swung freely in all directions so they're particularly great for providing lots of vestibular sensory input. And they can usually hold multiple children at once.

5. Round Saucer Swing

Saucer swings are essentially like platform swings, but round (obviously). They're great for sitting, laying, standing (see this activity), or kneeling and can accommodate multiple children on it at a time.

We picked up a saucer swing for super cheap at Costco and it has been a staple at our house for years. We use it both indoors and outdoors.

6. Bolster Swing

My kids used to call these swings "hotdog swings," but they can also be referred to as log swings. Basically, they feature a long cylindrical base to sit or lay on, with ropes on each end, suspended from the ceiling.

These types of swings are usually quite expensive and more commonly found in occupational therapy settings versus in homes.

7. Disc Swing

This type of swing has a small flat, disc-shaped seat (hence the name), made either from wood or plastic, with a rope coming up from the middle. Basically, you sit on the disc while hanging onto and straddling the rope in the middle.

Disc swings are great for building core strength and developing balance. They can be quite tricky to stay on because of the unstable and wobbly seat.

We actually managed to get a disc swing for our outdoor swing set for free as part of a community curbside swap day. Thank you to the neighbor down the street!

8. Ladder Swing

This type of swing features ropes and wooden dowels arranged like a ladder. As you climb up the ladder, the whole thing sways and swings around, making it a bit of a challenge to climb all the way up. You can also sit on one of the wooden bars and swing.

Ladder swings are great for building muscles and strength and they're still a favorite for my boys as they get older.

9. Trapeze Swing

Another favorite for my youngest son is the trapeze swing. It is worth noting that trapeze swings can take a few different forms. We personally own three variations of the trapeze swing: a horizontal bar (no rings), gymnastic rings (with no horizontal bar), and a horizontal bar with built-in rings.

These types of swings require a lot of upper body strength and can be used in a few different ways. You can pull yourself up, swing back and forth, sit on the bar, hang upside down, and even do flips off of them (my youngest's personal favorite way to use the trapeze swing).

10. Skateboard Swing

Imagine a skateboard deck suspended off the ground with a handlebar on each end to hang on to and that's what a skateboard swing is. Usually, you stand on the skateboard swing, but you could also sit or kneel instead.

These types of swings are great for improving balance and require some good coordination skills to get them rocking back and forth.

11. Ball Swing

A ball swing is essentially just a giant inflatable ball attached to a single rope. You sit on the ball and straddle and hang onto the rope while you swing. It requires a lot of core strength and balance as it's quite an unstable surface to sit on.

Also, be sure to sing "I came in like a wrecking ball!" as you swing...at least, that's what I do on these types of things, especially the knitted ones at our local children's museum...

But hey, if you want to make your own ball swing, you can do that too. Tutorial here.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Swing

Now that you know about the different swing options, how do you decide which type of swing will be the best fit for your child? Well, there are a few things to consider when picking a swing, such as:

• Weight capacity and safety - Not only for the swing itself, but the swing hooks and carabiner clips as well. Each of these items will have different weight capacities to consider.

• Individual preferences and needs of the individual who will be using the swing (e.g., sensory needs, color preferences, comfort)

• Age limits for the swing - Yes, some swings do have age limits.

• Installation and setup requirements (e.g., what's required to install it? will it work with your current swing hooks? does it require one hook or two?)

• Size and space requirements (e.g., how much clearance does it require? will it fit in your space?)

• Material and its durability - Be sure to consider the child's sensory preferences when considering materials!

• Professional consultation - You might want to check with an occupational therapist to determine the right type of swing for your child's needs.

• Cost and budget - Prices of swings can vary widely and may not fit within your allotted budget so it's definitely something to keep in mind.

It's important to consider all of these factors. Once I bought a used pod swing for $10 and was super excited about it. However, when I got home, I realized that it needed to be mounted using only one swing hook. Our setup used two swing hooks and placing this pod swing on only one of those hooks wouldn't work or fit because of its closeness to the doorframe.

Summary of Types of Swings for Children

As you can see above, there are lots of different types of sensory swings available these days, from stretchy fabric swings and platform swings to ladder swings and trapeze style swings. They each have their own benefits too.

Ultimately, what type of swing will be best for your needs will depend on a lot of different factors, including size and space requirements, budget, and the individual preferences of who will be primarily using the swing.

Sometimes certain swings will work for different purposes and you might find it beneficial to have a variety of different types on hand. For instance, we had almost all of these types of swings on hand (we got great deals on most of them!) and would use different ones for different purposes. So if my boys needed a specific type of sensory input, we would pick the swing that would best fit those needs.

Remember, there is no one size fits all when it comes to determining what sensory swing will be the best fit for your child. So be sure to read through all of these different types of sensory swings and pick the ones that will work best for you and your child's needs.

The Best DIY Sensory Swings for Kids

DIY sensory swings: find out how to make a DIY sensory swing for cheap with these awesome tutorials.

---

Of all the sensory hacks that I have done myself, the homemade sensory swings are my favorite. Both for me and my boys.

My oldest J is a vestibular sensory seeker. He loves to spin and swing around so swings are practically our best friend, especially during the long cold winters. And trust me, our winters are cold and long!

Anyway, I thought I would round up a collection of amazing DIY sensory swings for kids. They're perfect for autistic kids or kids who need a bit of extra support with sensory integration.

So, if you're wondering how to make a DIY sensory swing for your child, then you're in the right place! You're going to love these awesome tutorials. They come in all shapes and sizes and are good for a wide variety of skill levels.

This post was updated on April 17, 2024. New tutorials were added, dead and broken links were removed, and more details were provided.

What You Might Need to Hang a DIY Sensory Swing

Before we even make a homemade sensory swing, you have to make sure you even have the space to hang one up. And then you have to find the right tools and hardware to do so.

Where you will hang up a DIY indoor sensory swing will determine what kind of hardware you might need. For instance, you might need some of the following supplies:

• Hammock Hanging Kit

• Hammock Hanging Kit Heavy Duty 360 Rotate Swing

• Jungle Gym Kingdom Heavy Duty Swing Hangers

You might opt to hang your swings in a doorway like we did. The doorway pictured below is wider than most doorways, which allowed us to even fit a round platform/saucer swing with ease.

To hang our swings, we just used some eye bolts and carabiner clips. Here's a look at our set up:

A Few Safety Notes About Hanging these DIY Sensory Swings Indoors

Make sure that whatever hardware you use can support the right amount of weight. Especially if you go the eye bolt and carabiner clip route like we did. Both our clips and our bolts could each support over 300 lbs or something.

You'll also want to mount the hanging hardware into a stud or support beam of some kind. Obvious, I know, but it's still important to point out.

Another thing to check is that your child will have enough room to swing once it is mounted. Make sure your child won't hit any furniture, walls, or even the ceiling while swinging. It's important to make sure there is enough clearance.

After you mount the swing, check that it can support your weight and that it's hooked up properly. Check that nothing is twisted, that the clips are fully hooked up and closed, that the swing is the correct height off the ground, etc. I personally always sit in the swings myself first after hanging them up. If it can support me, then it can easily support both of my boys.

Finally, keep the area around the swing safe by using a mat of some kind underneath. Just in case your child wants to hang upside down on the swing (which they will, I'm sure!) or they fall off.

You can find additional safety guidelines for sensory swings here.

But, now that that's out of the way, let's take a look at some of these DIY sensory swings for kids.

Sensory Swings for Kids: DIY Tutorials that You've Got to Try!

1. Homemade Taco Sensory Swing (pictured below) - Even if you can't sew straight, I promise that you can still whip up this swing in about an hour. It's inexpensive to make too. Just grab some clearance fabric like I did.

2. Hanging Cocoon Swing with Free Knitting Pattern from Craft Passion - This knitted swing is absolutely stunning! It makes me wish I knew how to knit. Seriously, if you know how to knit, you should pop over and grab the free pattern and get knitting.

3. DIY Woven Wrap Swing (pictured below) - Find out how to easily convert a baby wrap into a sensory swing with this quick and easy DIY tutorial.

4. DIY Ball Swing (pictured below) - This swing is tricky to stay balanced on, but it's super easy to put together for an quick afternoon swing. Perfect for a little vestibular sensory input.

5. DIY Skateboard Swing from mousehouse - Skateboard swings are great for working on balance. And this tutorial makes it look really easy to make one of your own!

6. Easy DIY Round Platform Swing (pictured below) - You might be surprised at how simple this tutorial is. And you'll be even more surprised by what is used for the base of the swing!

7. DIY Hammock Chair Swing (pictured in collage) from A Beautiful Mess - This DIY hammock chair swing is gorgeous! It looks really comfy too. It's definitely a perfect one for reading in!

8. DIY Platform Swing Tutorial from Reese Dixon - Love this colorful platform swing tutorial! You'll also find a tutorial for making your own swing frame too.

9. Rope Swing from Preschool Powol Packets - If your kid loves climbing, pulling, or hanging upside down, then give this rope swing a try. It's super simple to make and provides lots of great sensory input.

10. Homemade Bolster Swing from Sensory Processing - This DIY version of the "hotdog swing," as we like to call it, looks great. It looks pretty straightforward to make too.

11. DIY Bungee Swing from Holly's Art Corner - Bungee chairs are a neat sensory experience on their own, but turning one into a swing is such a fun idea. In fact, this swing was the inspiration for our DIY round platform swing tutorial that was further up in this list.

12. DIY Rope Disc Swing (pictured in collage) from Dukes & Duchesses - Disc swings are super tricky to stay balanced on, but they're a great way to build core strength and give kids some vestibular sensory input. Thankfully, this tutorial looks easy!

13. DIY Indoor Sensory Swing from Teach Me Mommy - If you're looking for a more classic sensory swing, then you'll love this simple tutorial. I know that my kids love stretchy swings like this!

14. DIY Platform Swing from Therabyte - This tutorial looks very detailed and includes lots of pictures. So if you've been wanting to make a traditional carpeted platform swing, then check out this tutorial.

15. DIY Platform Swing from The DIY Village - This particular swing is made from 2" conduit and rope. it's not a solid platform swing like the tutorial above and reminds me a bit of the bungee swing from a few suggestions above.

There are so many beautiful options on this list! Which of these DIY sensory swings will you be making first?

How to Install a Sensory Swing

Installing a sensory swing at home? Here are some tips for how to install a sensory swing, as well as what you'll need to hang them.

---

So you're thinking about installing a sensory swing at home? That's great! After all, sensory swings offer lots of benefits to kids of all ages and abilities, not just those who are autistic or have sensory support needs.

And, honestly, installing a swing in our basement was one of the best parenting decisions I ever made. Especially since my oldest was such a vestibular sensory seeker (more on patterns of sensory processing here)!

Below we will go over some important tips for how to install a sensory swing, including what you might need and different options for installing. Then you'll be guided through basic installation, step by step.

Then, before you know it, you'll have a swing set up and ready to go in your house!

Please note that I used this stock photo simply because it best illustrated the concept of installing or hanging up a swing. Sensory swings should always be installed and hung up by adults, not children.

Tips for Installing a Sensory Swing so it's Safe for Use

One of the most important parts of using a sensory swing safely is making sure it's properly fastened and securely installed. So, you'll want to keep the following tips in mind when installing a sensory swing:

• Choose a sturdy support for installation, such as a ceiling beam/joist or a door frame

• Check that there's enough clearance to allow for safe swinging

• Check the weight capacity of the swing, mounting hardware, and any carabiner clips

• Follow manufacturer guidelines and installation instructions that may have come with the swing, mounting hardware, etc.

• Use appropriate hardware to securely attach the swing (e.g., swing hooks/hangers, eye bolts, or anything else that may have come with the swing)

• Adjust the height of the swing (e.g., doesn't touch the ground, the child is able to get into the swing comfortably)

• Test the swing before use to make sure it is securely attached and installed

Of course, once everything is installed, there are some additional safety considerations to keep in mind. So, definitely check those out as well.

What's Needed to Hang a Sensory Swing

While most swings will come with hardware, as well as installation instructions, not all do.

Or, maybe you're going the DIY route or buying used and the swings don't come with any mounting hardware or instructions. 

Regardless, here are some things that might be needed in order to hang a sensory swing at home:

1. Swing Hardware Kit - If you're installing into a ceiling beam, a kit like this will make installation a breeze. It includes swivel hooks, which is great if you are installing in an open space.

2. Heavy Duty Swing Hardware - Another great option for installing into a ceiling beam. This set doesn't have swivel hooks though.

3. Doorway Swing Set Kit - If you're thinking of installing your sensory swings in a doorway, a kit like this can be a great option. It includes everything you need, as well as some swings, making it a great deal. It's perfect for small spaces too! Here is another option for a doorway swing set kit.

4. Heavy Duty Screw Eye Bolts - Another option for installing in a doorway is to use eye bolts like these. That's actually what we did for our swings (see here or below).

5. Carabiner Clips - If you're going to have multiple swings and want to quickly swap swings in and out, I highly recommend buying some additional carabiner clips. You can use locking carabiner clips, if you want, but we found that regular carabiner clips (see below) worked great for our needs.

There are also options to use an indoor swing stand, but I find that not many people go this route. It is an option though!

How to Install a Sensory Swing

Always read the manufacturer guidelines and installation guides that come with your swings before installing as instructions may vary from kit to kit or swing to swing.

Having said that, installing a sensory swing is quite easy and straightforward to do. It involves the following steps:

1. Gather all materials required for installation, including hardware (swing hooks/hangers or eye bolts), a drill and any drill bits that you may need, a stud finder, measuring tape, a pencil, screwdriver, and/or anything else you might require.

2. Pick a location for installation, whether that's a ceiling support beam or a door frame. Make sure that the location has enough space and clearance for safe swinging. Use a stud finder to locate the best location for installation.

3. Measure and mark where you will be attaching the swing hardware.

4. Drill pilot holes at the marked locations.

5. Install the hardware (either eye bolts or swing hooks/hangers) and securely tighten them. You'll likely need to use a screwdriver or wrench to make sure they are tightly screwed into place.

6. Attach the swing to the swing hooks/hangers or eyebolts and adjust the height of the swing (if necessary). Be sure to follow any manufacturer guidelines for the swing.

7. Test the swing to ensure it's securely installed.

And that's it! Your swing is now ready for use.

Some Final Reminders on Installing Sensory Swings

It's great that you want to install a sensory swing at home for your child, but it's also important to make sure you do so correctly and safely.

So always be sure to follow manufacturer guidelines and installation instructions provided with your hardware and swings. After all, instructions can vary from swing to swing and from kit to kit. It also depends a lot on your space, weight/age of the child using it, how you plan to use it, etc.

Once your swing hardware is fully installed, you'll want to make sure that you follow these basic safety recommendations for swings as well.

So that's it. That's everything you need to know about how to install a sensory swing. Good luck with your installation!

Safety Guidelines for Sensory Swings

Safety guidelines for sensory swings: tips for keeping kids safe while using a sensory swing.

---

Swings can be a great way to support a child's sensory needs and help them regulate.

That's why you'll often find swings set up in sensory rooms and why swinging is a common activity to use as part of a sensory diet. After all, there are lots of benefits of swinging for kids.

However, there are some important safety guidelines for sensory swings that you should keep in mind as a way to reduce the risk of injury. Regardless of what type of swing you are installing or where you are installing it, you should follow these guidelines.

Important Safety Guidelines for Sensory Swings

To reduce the risk of injury when using sensory swings, there are a few safety recommendations to keep in mind.

1. Proper Installation & Anchoring

First things first, you want to make sure that the swing is installed properly. That includes making sure that the swing's hardware is installed correctly and is securely fastened to the ceiling (i.e., it should be installed into a support beam or ceiling joist) or door frame. That also means following manufacturer guidelines and installation instructions.

You also want to ensure that the hardware can handle the full weight of the swing AND the weight of the child who will be using the swing. Be sure to double check the weight limits for the swing, the swing holds, and the carabiners or fasteners used to attach the swing to the holds.

It's also important to make sure you install the swing with enough clearance for use. Remove any furniture or obstacles that could cause injury while swinging.

Finally, make sure the swing is fully attached and connected to the swing holds. I always like to give the swing a gentle tug down to make sure it's fully attached and not going to slip off. Then I always sit in the swing myself to ensure it can hold me up and is securely attached (thankfully, I fit in the weight limits in order to do this).

2. Regular Maintenance & Inspection

Before using a sensory swing, it's important to first check over all components, hardware, ropes, and swings for wear and tear. Look for any rips or tears in the fabric or ropes. Make sure the carabiner clips aren't damaged. And double check that the swing hooks, including any eye bolts, on the ceiling or door frame aren't loose.

3. Set Up a Safe Space

I mentioned that it's important to ensure that you install the swing with enough clearance for use. But there are some additional safety factors to consider when actively using the swing.

For instance, you might want to consider setting up floor mats beneath the swinging space or reminding other children in the play space not to run in front or behind the person swinging.

If your swing is installed in a doorway, you might want to install foam padding or use pool noodles on the door frame to reduce the risk of bumping into the frame while swinging.

The point is to evaluate your space, make sure it is clear of obstacles, and use safety equipment to reduce the risk of injury.

4. Use Proper Supervision

It's important to supervise the child while they are using a sensory swing. That includes:

• Staying within arm's reach

• Never leaving a child unattended

• Monitoring the child for any signs of discomfort or overstimulation

• Adjusting the swing for individual needs (e.g., motion, intensity, height)

• Being aware of surroundings

• Following manufacturer guidelines and using the swing as intended

• Helping the child get in and out of the swing safely

• Using built-in safety equipment, such as harnesses or straps, if included

• Practicing safe swinging behaviors

• Put swings away when not in use

Basically, use common sense, follow manufacturer guidelines, and keep an eye on the child at all times.

5. Consider the Child's Individual Needs

When using a sensory swing, it's important to consider the child's sensory needs, their age, their abilities, and their size, among other things. That might include:

• Limiting use to prevent overstimulation

• Consulting with professionals, especially in regards to the child's sensory needs

• Using a swing that fits the child's ability level

• Using a swing that's the right size for the child

• Tailoring the speed, motion, height, and intensity of the swinging

• Picking a swing that meets the needs and preferences of the child (e.g., avoiding anything too cocoon-like if they are claustrophobic or dislike deep pressure)

• Determining whether or not to include additional activities while swinging

Remember, the experience of using a sensory swing should be tailored to the individual. For example, if they don't like spinning, then don't spin them in the swing.

A Quick Recap on Keeping Kids Safe While Using a Sensory Swing

When it comes to using sensory swings with kids, it's important to follow these safety recommendations:

• Properly install the swing

• Perform regular maintenance and inspection of all swings, hardware, ropes, and other components

• Set up a safe space, make sure the area is clear of obstacles, and use safety equipment

• Use proper supervision and follow manufacturer guidelines

• Consider the child's individual needs

To reduce the risk of injury and to maximize the benefits of swinging, be sure to follow these safety guidelines for sensory swings.