If you've been eyeing those big lots outdoor swings for a while, you probably know the struggle of trying to find the right balance between comfort and a price that doesn't make your eyes water. There is something about a swing that just transforms a backyard from a "patch of grass" into a legitimate hangout spot. Whether you're looking to hide from the sun under a canopy or you want a cozy little nook to read a book, Big Lots usually has a surprising amount of variety that fits the bill without breaking the bank.
I've spent quite a bit of time browsing their outdoor section over the years, and one thing I've noticed is that their inventory shifts fast. You might see a beautiful three-person swing one week and then find a totally different cushioned lounger the next. That's sort of the charm of the place, though. It's like a treasure hunt for your patio.
Why Big Lots is a Go-To for Patio Gear
Let's be real for a second—outdoor furniture can be incredibly expensive. You go to some of those high-end specialty stores, and you're looking at prices that rival a used car. That's why people flock to big lots outdoor swings. You get that "expensive look" for a fraction of the cost.
The secret sauce for Big Lots is often their partnerships with brands like Broyhill. You get these sturdy, well-designed pieces that look like they belong in a luxury resort, but the price tag is much more approachable for regular folks. Plus, they often have those massive "Big Rewards" events or seasonal clearances where you can snag an even better deal. If you're patient, you can usually time your purchase to save a bundle.
The Different Styles You'll Encounter
When you walk into the store or scroll through their site, you're not just seeing one type of swing. They've done a good job of diversifying. Most people are looking for the classic three-seater with a canopy, but there's more to it than that.
The Classic Canopy Swing
The most common big lots outdoor swings are the three-person canopied models. These are the workhorses of the backyard. They usually come with a sturdy metal frame and a fabric top that you can tilt to block the sun as it moves throughout the afternoon.
What I love about these is the "nap factor." If you get one with thick enough cushions, it's basically an outdoor sofa that moves. Some of the newer models even feature seats that fold down flat into a daybed. If you haven't experienced a Sunday afternoon nap on a swinging daybed, you're missing out on one of life's simple pleasures.
The Trendy Egg Chairs and Single Swings
While not a "swing" in the traditional sense of a park bench, the hanging egg chairs at Big Lots have become huge. They usually hang from a C-stand and give you that gentle swaying motion while cocooning you in a teardrop-shaped basket. These are perfect if you have a smaller deck or even a sturdy balcony. They feel a bit more modern and "Pinterest-worthy" than the larger canopy swings.
Traditional Porch Swings
Sometimes you just want that classic, nostalgic vibe. While Big Lots leans heavily into the cushioned, freestanding models, they occasionally stock wooden or wicker-style swings meant to be hung directly from your porch rafters. These are great if you want that farmhouse aesthetic, though you'll definitely want to add some of their outdoor throw pillows to make them truly comfortable for long periods.
Is the Quality Actually Good?
This is the question everyone asks. "It's cheaper, so is it going to fall apart in a month?" Honestly, it depends on how you treat it. I've found that big lots outdoor swings are surprisingly durable for the price point, but they aren't bulletproof.
Most of the frames are made of powder-coated steel. This is great for preventing rust, but if you live in a salt-air environment or somewhere with constant rain, you'll want to keep an eye on the joints. A little bit of maintenance goes a long way. The cushions are usually made from UV-resistant fabric, which helps prevent fading, but let's be honest—the sun is a beast. If you leave those bright blue cushions out in the scorching July heat for three months straight, they're going to lighten up a bit.
The "pro move" here is to invest in a furniture cover or just bring the cushions inside when you know a storm is coming. If you take care of the fabric, the swing will look new for years.
Creating a Backyard Vibe
Buying the swing is only half the fun. The real magic happens when you style it. When I look at big lots outdoor swings, I don't just see a piece of furniture; I see the center of a "relaxation zone."
You can grab some of those outdoor string lights (the ones with the big Edison bulbs) and string them up around the frame of the swing. Suddenly, your backyard looks like a cozy bistro. Toss in an outdoor rug underneath the swing to define the space and keep your feet off the grass. Big Lots usually has these items right in the same aisle, which makes it way too easy to walk out with a full patio makeover when you only intended to buy a birdfeeder.
The Reality of Assembly
Let's talk about the elephant in the room: putting these things together. Most big lots outdoor swings come in a big, flat box, and yes, some assembly is required.
I'll be the first to tell you, don't try to do this alone if you can help it. Having a second pair of hands to hold the heavy metal frame while you're trying to line up a bolt makes the process ten times faster. The instructions are usually pretty straightforward, but you'll want to make sure you have a clear space on your patio or in your garage to lay everything out first. And a little tip? Don't tighten all the bolts all the way until the very end. Keep them a bit loose so you have some wiggle room to get everything aligned, then go back and tighten the whole thing once it's standing.
Timing Your Purchase
If you aren't in a desperate rush to start swinging, timing is everything. Big Lots is famous for its seasonal transitions. They start putting out the patio furniture way earlier than you'd think—sometimes as early as February or March.
The best deals on big lots outdoor swings usually happen during three specific times: 1. Early Season Promotions: When the stock first hits the floor, they often have "Friends & Family" coupons. 2. Holiday Weekends: Memorial Day and the Fourth of July are prime time for outdoor sales. 3. End of Summer Clearance: This is the big one. By late August, they're trying to make room for Halloween and Christmas decor (I know, it's early). If you can wait until then, you can sometimes find swings at 50% to 75% off. You might only get a month of use out of it before winter, but you'll be all set for next spring at a fraction of the cost.
Final Thoughts on Comfort
At the end of the day, a backyard is meant for living. It shouldn't be a museum where you're afraid to sit on the furniture. That's why I like the big lots outdoor swings approach. They are nice enough to be proud of, but they aren't so precious that you'll freak out if the dog jumps up on the cushion or if a little bit of chocolate gets dropped during a backyard BBQ.
They offer a solid middle ground for people who want a comfortable, stylish outdoor space without spending their entire savings account. Whether you go for a full-sized canopy swing or a trendy little egg chair, it's all about creating that spot where you can sit back, kick your feet up, and actually enjoy the fresh air for a change. And really, isn't that the whole point of having a backyard in the first place?