The Best Swing Chairs to Relax in Style

Swing chairs come in a range of different designs and configurations. The type you choose will depend on how much space you have available, whether it will hang indoors or outdoors, and the structural availability for hanging. Here, we’ll consider different swing chairs and what to consider when choosing your new piece of furniture.

Types of Swing Chairs

Rope hammock

Rope hammock chairs require either ?one or two ceiling points or beams to attach to and have a more casual style. They offer plenty of slack so you can sit or recline with the chair adapting to your body shape. These are ideal for covered verandas and patios or indoor spaces.

Since they are made from woven cotton or polycotton, they can take a long time to dry if they get wet and aren't great at resisting the outdoor elements. There are options made specifically for outdoor use from polyester that are fast-drying and mold-resistant, although the fabric may not be ?as soft.

Padded swing chairs

These chairs look similar to their hammock cousins but are designed ?for more sitting than reclining and have more cushioning. They are made from soft fabric in multiple layers for increased comfort.

Outdoor padded swing chairs are made with dyed acrylic, which is breathable, mildew-resistant, and fade-resistant. However, we don’t recommend leaving them out in poor weather ?as they will wear much faster.

Hanging baskets and egg chairs

Rattan chairs can be more exepnsive than other types of chairs and can be hung from ceiling beams or independent chair stands. Natural rattan is beautiful for indoor use, while all-weather wicker or synthetic rattan should be used for outdoor chairs. These chairs are easy to clean and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Bubble chairs

Bubble chairs are a fun choice for retro-themed spaces and are made of polycarbonate or acrylic, which makes them ideal for indoor and undercover outdoor areas. They feel like a little cocoon, keeping you cozy while reading or simply listening to your favorite music.

Structural materials

We’ve briefly discussed the ?materials that are commonly used in the design of swing chairs. When choosing your chair, it's important to make sure the material is robust and durable. It should be able to hold the required weight without cracking or unraveling.

Since indoor swing chairs are less prone to harsh sunlight, rain, and dust, they have more fabric and material options to choose from. If you are placing the chair outdoors, we recommend always keeping it in a covered area such as a patio or veranda and ensuring that the materials are specifically for outdoor use. The materials should resist fading, rust, mold, and mildew, and must be easy to clean.

Hanging your swing chair

A swing chair can either be hung from two ropes that allow it to rock, or it can hang pivot-style. A pivot-style installation will allow you to rotate full circle. It is essential that you follow the recommendations and installation instructions for the specific model you choose. The last thing you want is to come crashing down while taking a nap.

Consider the following before setting up your swing chair:

• If you don’t have visible beams, you’ll have to use a stud finder to locate the ceiling joist where you want to hang the chair. Select a place along the center of the joist for installation.
• Ensure that the beam is strong enough to hold the weight of the chair and the person sitting in it.
• Check that there is enough clearance underneath and around the chair. There should be at least 3.3 feet (1 m) open behind the chair and 14 inches (35 cm) on either side to prevent hitting a wall, objects, or railings.
• Check that the chair comes with the required installation hardware such as S-hooks, chains, or ropes.

Swing chair FAQ

Q: How do I secure a swing chair to a branch or patio beam?

A: If you are using a rope, wrap it around the beam or branch multiple times and use a tight bowline knot to secure it. Fasten the rope to the eye of the swing chair using a carabiner.

Q: Is it safe to hang my hammock inside?

A: Yes, as long as you are drilling anchor points into a ceiling joist and not into plain drywall, it is safe. Be sensible about the anchor points and ensure they can hold the required weight.

Q: How much weight can a swing chair with a stand hold?

A: The weight capacity will depend on the specific chair type, materials used, and how it’s made. The company should state on the packaging what the weight capacity is. This ranges between 250-350 pounds.