Important Considerations When Buying a Rope Hammock

When the word 'hammock' is mentioned most people instantly visualize a rope, net-like bed swinging between two trees. This traditional hammock has long been the most popular type and remains so today.

The two basic types of rope hammock are cotton and synthetic, both having their advantages and disadvantages.

Cotton rope hammocks

The greatest selling feature of a hammock made from cotton is its softness. It has a pleasant feeling to the skin, allowing it to breathe and does not cause any itching or irritation. After all, so many clothes are made from cotton. This natural material actually conforms to your body shape and thereby maximizes the comfort of the hammock. Therefore, it is very relaxing and comfortable to let your body sink down into a cotton hammock.

Cotton hammocks are best suited for indoor environments such as summer houses, conservatories, games rooms etc. This is because they will degrade when left outside and need to be brought indoors to preserve them. Intense sunlight fades the cotton fibers and wet and humid climates will cause mold and mildew to grow. In these conditions you would not expect the hammock to last beyond three years.

Cotton also requires diligent upkeep. Hammocks need to be kept clean by swishing them in soapy water and then drying them thoroughly as quickly as possible. It is important to use only mild cleaning agents as harsh chemicals weaken the cotton fibers.

Synthetic rope hammocks

For those who like to use their hammocks a lot outdoors in the garden, and enjoy taking them on camping trips and to the beach, a hammock made from synthetic rope is the better choice because of its durability. Polyester is able to withstand heavy wear and all types of weather conditions, and needs very little care. Polyester fibers also retain their shape very well which helps prevent the rope hammock sagging over time.

The downside of polyester rope hammocks is that they are not as soft as cotton and are more rigid; therefore, people are more conscious of the rope mesh pressing against their skin. The most common complaint is that they leave rope indentation marks on the skin after using them for an extended period. Since hammocks are often used outdoors in sunny weather you will usually be wearing less clothes and so more skin comes into direct contact with the rope which can make it unpleasant if you intend to spend the afternoon in your hammock. One way to overcome this discomfort is to spread a sheet on the hammock first so there is a soft barrier between you and the rope.

One of the very best materials for a rope hammock is DuraCord. This synthetic fabric combines the advantages of both cotton and polyester, providing softness and durability. DuraCord is stain resistant, holds its color, dries very quickly, and needs very little attention, making it the most popular choice of rope hammock material.

Choices

Whatever rope hammock you choose, there are a wide variety of color options available such as white, brown, black, blue, red and green to suit different interior and outdoor decors. Hammocks also come in different sizes and weight capacities. If you like to share the hammock with someone special or your pet dog always wants to curl up with you, then it is important to ensure you choose one that is safe to accommodate you both!