Sensory Pod Swings
A pod swing is a hanging seat that closes around the child, so it feels like a hug while they sit, read or rock gently. Ours are made from waterproof Oxford polyester canvas, measure 140cm by 70cm, and are rated to 80kg. Oxford Polyester has better weather and moisture resistance than the common cotton alternative.
The waterproof canvas is what sets these apart from cotton pod swings: they can be used outside, wiped down, and are not damaged by moisture. Each pod comes with a removable cushion that arrives vacuum packed, and is then inserted into the zipper area of the pod. The zip should face the inside of the pod. The pod is for sitting rather than swinging, with the seat no more than 35cm above a soft surface. The blue and green colour is the most popular, and both colours come on their own or bundled with the 2.1m X-Stand, chain, and carabiners for rooms without a hanging point.
Pods hang from a single point: a ceiling anchor plate, a beam, a tree strap or a stand. The manual suggests bare feet or soft shoes, sitting in the centre with full weight when alone, and adult supervision. Some children add a blanket around the outside of the seat to make it warmer and flatter.
A pod hangs from one point: a ceiling anchor plate, a beam or tree with tree straps, or the X-Stand, U-Stand or a swing set stand. Set-up heights and stand details are covered in our guide, How to hang a sensory swing: ceiling, beam, tree or stand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sensory pod swing?
A pod swing is a fabric seat that wraps around the child on three sides and hangs from a single point, combining light pressure with gentle rocking and turning. Ours are 140cm by 70cm, rated to 80kg, and made from waterproof Oxford polyester canvas with a removable cushion. Parents of children with autism and child occupational therapists are the main buyers, and many use them in bedrooms, sensory rooms and clinics.
Can the pod swing be used outdoors?
Yes. The Oxford polyester canvas is waterproof, so the pod can hang outside and be wiped clean. The manual asks you to avoid leaving water pooling inside if it gets wet, and to bring the swing in and store it dry at the end of the season.
How high should a pod swing hang?
No more than 35cm above the ground, over grass, sand, wood chips or a mat rather than concrete. The pod is for sitting, not strong swinging, so it needs less clearance than a nest or wrap swing. Adjust the set-up height so the child can get in and out easily.
Do I need a stand for a pod swing?
Only if you have nowhere to hang it. A pod hangs from one point: a ceiling anchor plate, a beam, or a tree strap. If drilling is not an option, the pod and X-Stand bundle includes a 2.1m stand with a 1.1m by 1.1m base, rated to 120kg, plus a chain and carabiners to select the height. The stand is designed for sitting and gentle swinging, which is exactly what a pod is for.
Why is the zip supposed to be on the inside?
Because it takes the load off the stitching. After fitting the cushion, the zip should sit on the inside of the pod, so if it is on the outside, you should turn the pod inside out. The cushion arrives vacuum packed, so let it expand before zipping it in.
