The post Hammock Maintenance 101: Keeping Your Hammock in Top Shape appeared first on UK Construction Blog.
There is something almost magical about lying in a hammock on a warm afternoon. The gentle sway of the hammock creates a perfect sanctuary for relaxation and contemplation. Whether hung between two trees in your backyard or packed away waiting for your next camping trip, a few outdoor furniture items offer a unique and relaxing experience like a hammock.
The benefits don’t stop at relaxation, either. Gentle swings from a hammock may facilitate internal sleep rhythms, helping you get deeper sleep. Hammocks can also help reduce back pain since they provide excellent support for the spine when hung correctly. Add fresh air into the mix, and it is easy to see why hammocks have become increasingly popular.
However, maintenance is necessary if you want that enjoyable experience year after year from your hammock. A well-maintained hammock lasts longer and also remains safe and comfortable. Here are five essential tips to keep your hammock in top condition.
1. Maintain Proper Storage Practices
How you store your hammock plays a major part in determining its lifespan. Unfortunately, some owners leave their hammocks outside year-round, exposing them to elements that break down the fibers over time.
For example, sunlight can make cotton brittle and weaken synthetic fabrics in your quality hammock swing chair suspended outside. Rain poses another risk as it can lead to mildew and even rot. So, if you won’t be using your hammock for an extended period, storing it in a clean, dry place would be ideal.
In most cases, a storage bag is ideal to keep dust off the chair while allowing air to circulate. However, ensure the chair is completely dry before storing it; otherwise, you may find mold and mildew when you retrieve it.
Similarly, when coiling outdoor hammocks with rope, twirl them loosely so you don’t create any permanent kinks in the rope. You should also consider folding hammock swing chairs made from fabric or other flexible materials rather than wading them up and stuffing them into storage.
2. Clean your Hammock Regularly
A clean hammock looks better and is likely to last longer. Like any other type of furniture, as you spend time in your hammock, dirt, tree sap, sweat, and food spills will accumulate over time, creating a perfect environment for bacteria. It might even break down some materials if left unchecked for too long.
For fabric hammocks, gentle hand washing with mild soap and cool water will do the trick. Wet the surface thoroughly, use a mild soap solution and gently rub it into your hammock. If you have a rope hammock, you can use a soft brush or rag to remove dirt between the fibers.
Remember to rinse well when finished, as leftover soap residues could later attract dirt. While at it, avoid putting your hammock in a dryer; instead, hang it in a shaded, well-ventilated area until completely dry. Exposure to direct sunlight during drying can cause the fabric to fade and weaken, potentially affecting its lifespan.
3. Inspect Your Hammock’s Suspension Systems
The suspension system is a hammock’s lifeline, keeping you safely suspended. Regular inspection should become second nature, particularly before prolonged use or at the beginning of each season.
Inspect all suspension and attachment components for signs of wear, fraying, thinning, or other obvious signs of damage. Are there broken fibers in a rope system? Or is the hammock rope flattened at any particular spot?
If you notice any damage that requires replacement, consider upgrading to more durable materials. For example, consider switching from rope to webbing straps that distribute weight more evenly. To ensure your hammock’s suspension system lasts longer even after replacements, always adhere to manufacturer weight limits to prevent undue stress on the entire system.
4. Prevent your Hammock Chair from Direct UV Radiation
The greatest threat to your hammock’s lifespan is ultraviolet radiation. All fabrics in your chair degrade under prolonged exposure to sunlight. Cotton becomes brittle, colorful clothes turn pale, and synthetic materials decompose biologically.
The best strategy, of course, is preventive—minimizing your hammock’s exposure to the sun when you’re not using it. That doesn’t mean you can’t use it in a sunny spot. You just have to get into the habit of taking it down or covering it up when you’re done hammocking.
If your hammock is already showing signs of sun damage, there are fabric restorers for outdoor fabrics that will help strengthen weak fibers. Also, applying a UV-resistant spray (choose a brand appropriate for your type of hammock fabric) will slow further damage by ultraviolet rays.
5. Practice Proper Hammock Hanging Techniques
How you hang and use your hammock directly impacts longevity and comfort. Most hammock issues stem from improper hanging techniques that place uneven stress on fabric or suspension.
For example, it’s recommended that you hang your hammock at about a 30-degree angle from horizontal at suspension points. This sag is needed to cradle your body comfortably while keeping it taut enough for support. Follow this up by maintaining attachment points 4-5 feet off the ground. Avoid over-tightening, which stresses fabric, stitching, and suspension components.
To maximize your hammock’s use, lie on the diagonal for a more comfortable and ergonomic body position. The diagonal creates an extra surface that distributes your weight better than if your head and feet were scrunched at both ends of the hammock. Exceeding the recommended capacity can permanently stretch fabric or damage structural components.
Final Thoughts
Your hammock is more than just a piece of outdoor furniture—it’s a gateway to relaxation. Proper care keeps it in top shape and ensures it serves you for many years. Adequate storage, regular cleaning, and inspecting its suspension systems will all help extend the life of your hammock. By incorporating the above-shared hammock maintenance practices, you’re preserving future moments of tranquility.
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