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!
