As you’re spending more time outdoors, does it feel like something is missing on your porch or patio? Having an outdoor swing for adults is a great way to slow down and enjoy nice weather. Plus, it’s one of many simple ways you can affordably upgrade your backyard. And Amish porch swings are known for their premium quality, durability, and variety of styles, which means you can easily find one that can handle outdoor weather while matching your preferred decorating style.
Below we’ll discuss different styles of swings available and what kind of upkeep they require. That way you can choose the best type for your outdoor space.
Swing Materials Available
When shopping, you’ll typically see swings are either made of wood or poly material. Both materials can make for a comfortable swing but have slight differences in how they age.
Poly Swings
There are a lot of benefits when you choose poly furniture, one of the best ones being that it requires very little maintenance. Poly furniture is durable (it can last up to 20 years) and can withstand:
- Moisture
- Heat
- Direct sun
This means that you won’t have to battle mold, mildew, cracks, splits, or fading. Plus, you don’t have to worry about taking extreme precautions to protect it during the cold winter weather.
Poly material is also a great eco-friendly product. Among frequently asked questions about Poly material, most people want to know what exactly it’s made from. Poly material is typically composed mostly of recycled materials like milk jugs, plastic bottles, and other post-industrial materials.
Wood Swings
Always a classic look, wood furniture has a timeless appeal that you just can’t beat. If you like the natural look and feel of wood, then it’s the perfect choice to use for your porch swing.
Over time, wood weathers as well. This can create an attractive, rustic look that complements your outdoor space’s style. Plus, you can also stain it or paint it over time if you decide you want to change its look.
Wood is also an economical choice for furniture. And if you choose a type of wood known for wearing well against the elements, it can provide long-lasting use just like poly furniture. It just requires a bit more maintenance to ensure it lasts longer.
Styles of Amish Porch Swings
If you’re interested in adding a stand-alone Amish porch swing, you’ll notice two style options are available. You can choose from either a regular style swing or a glider swing.
Glider swings are a great option as they:
- Don’t require the work of hanging
- Use less space while in motion
- Won’t leave damage or marks on surfaces
- Offer better balance than a rocking chair
However, opting for a regular stand-alone lawn swing isn’t a bad decision either. With a normal swing, you’re in control of the motion. And thanks to its design, you can place a swing anywhere in your yard.
If you’re looking to install a more traditional hanging swing, first scope out a spot. Make sure it has adequate support for adults and then follow these porch swing hanging practices to make sure you install the hardware correctly. That way you can safely enjoy your new porch swing.
No matter what style you choose, adding a swing is a great way to create a beautiful outdoor space. Plus, the best perk of porch swings is that you can enjoy sharing a seat with someone else, making it a great way to also connect with others.
How to Care for Your Swing
Once your new swing is set up, maintenance is the key to helping you enjoy using it for years to come. Here are some suggestions on how you can keep it in nice condition.
How to Care for a Poly Swing
The good news is that there isn’t much you have to do to keep your swing looking nice. If you notice your swing getting dirty simply:
- Mix up warm water with a little dish soap in a bucket.
- Find a clean cloth or rag.
- Wipe down your furniture with the mixture.
- Rinse completely.
If you have tougher stains or want to sanitize surfaces, just mix up ⅔ water and ⅓ bleach and instead, wipe down the swing, and rinse.
How to Care for a Wood Swing
Similar to a poly one, it’s easy to care for your wood swing. Occasionally you’ll notice it may need a good cleaning. If that’s the case follow these steps:
- Mix up warm water with a little dish soap.
- Find a clean cloth, rag, or scrub brush.
- Wipe away dirt and use the brush for hard-to-reach spots.
- Rinse completely.
If that’s not cutting it, sometimes you can also try using baking soda to clean your patio furniture. Or you can also power wash it and then re-stain the piece. However, if you keep up with cleaning any spills or dirt on your swing then you won’t have to deep clean it over time.
A swing is one of the best outdoor investments you can make if you’re looking to enjoy your space more. And with the right type of swing for your environment and a little bit of maintenance, it can be the best way to spend time drawing near to nature and to others.
Interested in adding a swing to your outdoor space or looking for a new one? Check out our variety of beautiful, handcrafted Amish porch swings and outdoor furniture, available in a variety of styles!