As the cold creeps in and the frost settles, we bring out the big coats, crank up the heating, and tidy away the garden bits for another year. But while garden furniture like tables and chairs get a lot of attention, it’s easy to forget about your swing sets, swing benches, or baby swing seats.
Knowing how to cover a swing in winter is one of the easiest ways to protect it from harsh weather, extend its life, and keep it looking great for the spring.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to cover a swing, what kind of cover to choose, and how to prep your swing for winter like a pro.
Why you should cover your swing in winter
From heavy rain, frost, and even snow, the great British winter can be tough on outdoor furniture, especially on swing seats, frames, and canopies. Here's why covering your swing set is worth it:
1. Protects from rain, frost, and snow
Cold, wet conditions can cause plastic to become brittle, wood to crack, and metal parts to rust. Moisture buildup in tiny cracks may freeze and expand, damaging the frame over time.
A good cover creates a snug, waterproof barrier that helps prevent rain from pooling and frost from forming.
2. Helps prevent mould, mildew, and rot
A quality waterproof swing cover helps reduce the chance of mould or mildew forming, especially on wooden swing sets or rope attachments.
Left uncovered, swings can absorb moisture and develop rot, ruining both their look and function.
3. Stops UV damage
Even on cold, bright days, UV rays can still cause fading and wear to outdoor furniture. Look for a UV-resistant swing seat cover to help prevent fading and extend the style and durability of your set.
4. Reduces dirt and debris
From dust, mud, and tree sap to blown leaves and twigs, your swing can get messy fast. Covering it keeps everything cleaner year-round and saves you time when the warmer weather returns.
How to cover a swing: step-by-step
1. Measure your swing
First things first: measure your swing seat or swing set properly. You’ll want the dimensions of the frame, canopy (if it has one), and seat.
A good rule of thumb is to add around 30cm to the width and height for a perfect fit that still allows airflow and protection.
2. Choose the right swing cover
Here’s what to look for in the best swing seat cover:
-
Waterproof and tear-resistant material
-
UV-resistant to block sun damage
-
Durable design with strong seams, buckles, or ropes to secure it
-
Rust-resistant eyelets for attaching to the frame
-
Carry bags or storage bags for easy packing
High-quality polyester is one of the most suitable materials. It’s tough, lightweight, and easy to clean. You could also choose vinyl or heavy-duty plastic if you need extra coverage in exposed areas.
Look out for garden furniture covers designed specifically for swing benches, canopy swings, or children’s swing sets. Each comes in different styles, shapes, and sizes.
3. Clean before covering
Before attaching the cover, wipe down the swing with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove any dirt, dust, or hidden contaminants. Don’t skip this; covering a dirty swing could trap moisture, encouraging mould, mildew, and staining.
4. Cover and secure
Drape your swing cover over the frame, ensuring full coverage of the seat, ropes, and canopy if needed. Secure all corners using the built-in buckles, cords, or adjustable ropes.
Got a DIY cover or using a tarpaulin? Use tie-downs, bungee ropes, or weights to stop it from blowing off in the wind.
Find winter-proof swing sets and more at Outdoor Toys
Here at Outdoor Toys, you’ll find durable swing sets to withstand everything a great British winter could throw at them!
Our single, double, and triple swing sets are crafted from pressure-treated timber for maximum strength and longevity. For an extra boost of fun, check out our swings with monkey bars and swings with climbing frames (or standalone climbing frames)! Plus, if the winter hasn’t been too kind to your swing set, find replacement seats and other swing accessories to restore it to its original glory!
With 48-hour delivery and 0% finance on orders over £99 with Paypal, there’s never been a better time to swing into action!