Meet the Other Phone. Only the apps you allow.

Meet the Other Phone.
Only the apps you allow.

Buy now

What is a sex swing? A guide to types, benefits and usage

If you’re looking for ways to spice up your bedroom activities, here’s everything you need to know about sex swings… Plus the best ones to shop.

By Jade Biggs | Last updated Mar 18, 2025

Our writers test and research products independently. When you buy through a link on our site we may earn a commission, but we’ll only ever publish an honest review. Find out more.

A woman wearing a black lace bra lies on top of her male partner under the covers, their faces out of view

Sex swings - many of us have heard about them, but how many of us have actually tried one? Admittedly, sex swings can seem intimidating at first glance, especially compared to toys like vibrators, but installing one at home could be the key to perking things up in the bedroom between you and your partner. 

With that in mind, we spoke to Lovehoney’s resident sex expert, Annabelle Knight, to answer all your sex swing questions (see: what is a sex swing and how to use a sex swing) and bring you the best sex swings to shop right now.

What is a sex swing?

It’s not everyday that sex swings come up in conversation, but here at Mumsnet, these sexcessories are a hot topic. “I've always been intrigued by a sex swing,” HornyBee recently said in a thread about sex parties and orgies, while NoProblem123 shared that they’d “love to have a go in a sex swing.”

While they’re not often the first sex toy added to anyone’s collection of bedroom buys (vibrators, clit suckers and the ilk are typically the go-to) Lovehoney’s Knight says sex swings are growing in popularity - and for good reason.

“A sex swing is a type of harness that usually hangs from the ceiling or is hooked onto a door frame, it lifts and suspends one partner comfortably off the ground, while the other partner(s) have free movement,” she says when asked about the purpose of a sex swing. 

“Sex swings have soared in popularity in recent years because they are a cheap and cheerful way to ramp up the accessibility and excitement in your sex life,” Knight adds, pointing to how you can enhance intimacy with a sex swing. “Couples are able to effortlessly expand their sexual repertoire, adding new positions to their arsenal that would be difficult or otherwise impossible to achieve.”

Related: Discover the best types of wand vibrators

Types of sex swing

Given how popular they’ve become there are different types of sex swings you can opt for, including door sex swings and freestanding sex swings. Each of these, Knight says, have their own pros and cons.

“A standard sex swing is a type of sex swing that features two main straps that support the swing, foot stirrups, and a seat for the user,” she explains. “Many come with headrests and/or handles, and this type of sex swing can be hung suspended from the ceiling with hooks.”

Looking for something that requires a little less DIY? “A door sex swing is perhaps the easiest to install,” Knight tells us. “It’s simply attached over a door frame and is great for beginners due to its low price point.” That being said, if you’re after some real rocking and rolling, Lovehoney’s sex expert advises that “the location of a door sex swing does limit the range of motion and the sex positions you’ll be able to achieve.”

A young couple passionately kiss in bed while holding each other

Tired of being in the sheets? Enter your sex in a swing era.

If you’re tight on space, a freestanding sex swing (or sex sling, as they’re also known) is another type of sex swing to consider. “This type of sex swing looks a little like a hammock, and features a large seat designed to support the entire body,” Knight says. “They come in a range of materials including leather, fabric, and even wood,” she adds, although because of their design you might be limited in the range of positions. Nevertheless, she says “they are certainly incredibly comfortable!” We’re sold.

There are a few more types of sex swing you can choose, such as a body sex swing (which Knight says is a “wearable harness that attaches to the person themselves as opposed to a wall, the ceiling, or a swing stand”) as well as a spinning sex swing (which she describes as “probably the most versatile swing on the market, capable of spinning 360 degrees in both directions”).

Related: Best cock rings for you and DH

Benefits of using a sex swing

Now you know about the types of sex swing, you’re probably wondering what a sex swing is used for and what the benefits are. “The aim of a sex swing is to make sex more comfortable and accessible,” Knight says. 

“As enjoyable as sex on the bed is, there are certain positions or movements that will be restricted; a sex swing eliminates many of these obstacles by suspending one partner in the air.” Essentially, “the weight (or ‘load’) is taken by the swing, allowing for more elaborate positions to be tested and achieved without the need for human support.” 

Benefits of using a sex swing range from comfort to better intimacy and reduced strain. Not to mention the many, many new sex positions you’ll be able to explore through using one. “A sex swing allows you to achieve those challenging positions while minimising strain on the muscles and joints for all parties involved, making sex far more comfortable and enjoyable.” See ya later, libido-killing leg cramp.

By alleviating some of the physical pressure that comes with love making (or a sweaty sex sesh, as is more likely in this instance), Knight goes on to explain how you can enhance intimacy with your partner by using a sex swing. “The very act of you both using a sex swing together can result in increased communication and better intimacy, as you navigate this new sexual experience together.”

Taking all that into account, there’s no denying that sex swings sound incredibly fun. But they’re also useful if you or a partner has additional accessibility needs. “My friend has a sex swing - she has poor mobility but she and her husband have a very active sex life, as I've been told countless times,” Mumsnet’s PandemicAtTheDisco recently said. “She thinks everyone should have one.”

Knight agrees. “If one or both partners has mobility issues or physical limitations, sex swings are the perfect way to explore new positions that would otherwise be difficult or impossible.” 

Related: Best rabbit vibrators, tried and recommended

How to use a sex swing safely

Depending on the type you go for, the sex swing installation and safety instructions will differ. As long as you carefully follow these, Knight says “sex swings are an incredibly safe addition to the bedroom.”

Once you’ve read through the sex swing’s user manual (paying attention to how much weight the swing can hold and how it should be fastened etc), you can start experimenting with your new equipment. But, Knight says, always listen to your body and adjust how you’re using your sex swing if something doesn’t feel right. More importantly, the sex expert says you should never (ever!) leave a suspended partner alone, even for a moment. 

A young couple being intimate on top of white sheets, the woman is smiling while the man kisses her back

Safe use of sex swings is easy, just follow the set-up instructions carefully.

On the topic of safe use of sex swings, Knight notes there are a few more things to keep in mind. “While sex swings are typically safe for most people, there are some who may want to avoid using a swing, or seek medical advice before they do so,” she says. “Pregnant folks should avoid using a sex swing as the positions and movements could potentially cause harm to both foetus and carrier - although little to no research has been done on this topic.”

What’s more, Knight points out that if you have pre-existing injuries or medical conditions (such as neck/back problems; other musculoskeletal issues; conditions that could be exacerbated by sudden movements/pressure changes etc), you may want to avoid a sex swing altogether or go about it with extra caution.

Related: Best finger vibrators for foreplay and sex

Best sex swing positions

“Believe it or not, many of the best positions to try out on a sex swing can be done on a bed or floor,” Knight says, before adding that “doing them in zero gravity simply allows you to experience them in a brand new way.”

So, what are the best sex swing positions, according to Lovehoney’s Knight?  

1. Reclined missionary

Have the receiver sit in the swing and lean back as far as they can, holding onto the hand straps to support their weight. The giving partner stands between their legs and can use the swing’s suspension to help with movement. This tweak on the classic missionary can allow for deeper penetration and clit stimulation.

2. Doggy style

Exactly the same as a reclined missionary, except the receiver is lying on their front in the swing rather than being sat. Be sure to position one of the straps across your chest so all the weight isn’t being held on your stomach. If you’re an ass lover, then this is a dream position for you.

3. The lie-back

Similar to reclined missionary, but with the receiver hooking their ankles over the giver’s shoulders. This allows for far more depth to be achieved, along with clit stimulation and intense eye contact.

4. Swinging cowgirl

The penetrating partner should sit in the swing, with the receiving partner straddling on top; they can then use the straps above them to hold most of their weight and assist with moving up and down. With this one, don’t worry so much about thrusting, and focus more on grinding together.

5. Queening

If your swing is positioned close to the ground, this is perfect for oral sex lovers. The receiving partner should sit in the swing with their partner lying underneath them to go down on them. The bottom person can hold onto their partner’s thighs and use the swing to gain maximum range of movement.

Are sex swings safe?

Yes! Providing that you take the time to read and follow the instruction manual of your sex swing (remember, each one will be different) it will be safe for use. Beyond the installation of your swing, Knight reminds us to consider consent as part of safe sex swing use. 

“If you are using a sex swing as part of bondage play or BDSM, make sure you and your partner discuss consent and boundaries beforehand,” she says. “Agree on a safe word that - if used - means all play stops immediately.” 

Related: Best bullet vibrators of all time

How do you install a sex swing at home?

As mentioned, different types of sex swings (door sex swings, freestanding sex swings etc.) will require a different set-up. Ensure you thoroughly follow the installation manual and user guidelines to safely enjoy your sex swing.

What are the best sex swings for beginners?

If you’re new to the world of sex swings (why else would you be here?), then you’re probably wondering about the best sex swings to buy for beginners. Luckily, Lovehoney has plenty of sex swings that are ideal for beginners, like this adjustable over-the-door sex swing that is super easy to install.

That being said, don’t expect your sex swing adventures to be five-star from the very beginning. “Depending on the type of swing, the positions you’re trying, or your levels of flexibility/mobility, some people may find sex swings uncomfortable at first,” she advises. “Try not to focus on what you see online or what you ‘should’ be doing, and focus instead on incorporating this new toy into your sex lives.”

Can sex swings support all body types?

“Absolutely!” says Knight. “Sex swings have been specifically designed to enhance sexual pleasure for everyone.” She continues: “All models and types of sex swings can be a great enhancement to anyone’s sex life, but this is particularly true for those with physical limitations or who require a little more assistance with accessibility.

“If you’re looking for something specific from your new sex swing, make sure you do your research and figure out the best design for you and your partner, your preferred material, and check the size and weight capacity so you can find your ideal bedroom addition.”

Related: Best nipple suckers for extra pleasure

Where can I buy a high-quality sex swing? 

Again, our go-to for shopping the best sex swings is Lovehoney. In addition to the quick-to-install beginner-friendly options (see above), you can find the ideal sex swing to suit your needs. 

If you fancy something with all the bells and whistles, the Deluxe Fantasy Bondage Swing has padded stirrups and functionality to rotate 360 degrees, while this purple sex sling has been designed with comfort (and elevated pleasure) in mind.

Happy (sex) swinging!

About the expert

  • Annabelle Knight is the resident sex and relationships expert for Lovehoney.

About the author

Jade Biggs is a freelance journalist with a decade of experience within the industry. Across her career she has worked with publications including Cosmopolitan UK, Refinery29 UK, Women’s Health UK, and Glamour UK, covering women’s lifestyle, beauty, health and fitness, and sexual wellness and relationships. 

In the sex and relationships sphere, she’s deep dived into everything from the best vibrators to the best cock rings, brought you guides on how to edge in the bedroom, and put AI’s erotic-writing capabilities to the test. 

Read next: Discover the best vibrator of all time