What Is a Sex Swing?

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributor, Shawna Seed
Medically Reviewed by Zilpah Sheikh, MD on November 07, 2024
4 min read

A sex swing is a device that lifts and suspends one partner off the ground while the other partner or partners can move around them freely to engage in sex. Usually made of rope, fiber, leather, or another sturdy material that can hold a person’s body comfortably and safely, sex swings provide flexibility and variety for sexual activity.

There are many different kinds of sex swings and different ways to use them. Most people use them as a way to spice up their sex life. There are a few general types:

Traditional sex swings 

These include two primary straps and stirrups with additional options such as handles and headrests. You can install them in many different ways, such as ceiling hooks, free-standing frames, and between the walls in a hallway. They allow for the highest number of sexual positions.

Body sex swings

The partner wears the sex swing like a life jacket with additional straps to support the buttocks and legs. There are handles and leg straps for the partner on the ground to move and control the harness.

Door sex swings 

These swings are installed over a door and secured by the door frame. They work like a playground swing, where the partner in the air is supported by a strap across their butt. These can also include leg and arm straps. While there is a limited range of motion, installation is quick and easy.

Sex slings 

Sex slings are like hammocks and usually come with a free-standing base for support. Sex slings tend to be more expensive and have a limited number of position options compared to other swing styles, but they are comfortable for the swinging partner.

Sex swings have become popular because they provide an easy way to have more exciting and better sex. Sex swings allow you and your partner to try new positions and stimulate parts of the body from angles that aren’t possible when having sex on a bed.

People also like sex swings because they are relatively cheap and easy to use. Most sex swings cost less than $100. The more upscale models cost up to a couple hundred dollars. You can find them online or from retailers that specialize in sex toys.

Adaptive devices such as swings can also help people with disabilities have more satisfying sex lives.

First, think about which swing you and your partner would like to try. One expert recommends starting off with a door sex swing because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to set up.

Second, identify where to set it up. Will you keep it up permanently or will you need to store it after each use? One good, safe location to hang a sex swing is from a sturdy ceiling bar in the middle of an open room. Another approach is using a sex swing with its own support system. Those with a swing stand are more expensive and require more effort to set up, but they could be easier than taking out the hammers, nails, screws, and screwdrivers that some of the other swings require.

Regardless of which sex swing you choose, make sure to read the instruction manual and installation guides carefully.

It’s important to clean any sex toy, especially if you use it with a partner. You can clean cloth sex swings in a washing machine and simply use antibacterial soap and water for nylon or leather swings.

A sex swing lifts one partner off the ground. That gives other partners freedom of movement to engage in sex. Sex swings are popular because they allow you to add new positions to your sexual routine. There are several different types of swings. Make sure you read the installation and instruction manual before you try out your swing for the first time. Clean your swing after every use, following the instructions for the type of material involved.

Is it safe to use a sex swing?

Yes, as long as you follow the instructions for installation and use that come with your particular swing.

How does it impact pleasure?

Using a sex swing introduces an element of novelty and allows you to try out different positions for sex.

What is the cost of a sex swing?

The cost depends on the type you buy. You can spend less than $100 or as much as $350 for a sex swing.