Hammock camping is a fun and enjoyable adventure out in the wild. With the hammock season ahead you must get your gear ready. A hammock faces a lot of dust, trails, spills, and stress during the camping season. If you have been sweating a lot in your hammock then it is time for a wash. Beginner campers don’t have the idea of whether washing a hammock is safe or not and what is the right process to do it without spoiling it. Let’s learn How to wash a Hammock?
Yes, we can definitely wash our hammock and it is very easy to wash a hammock. Hammocks are made up of parachute nylon fabric which is very easy to care for and maintain. You can wash your hammock by hand wash or machine wash.
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How to Wash a Hammock- Step By Step Guide
Hammocks are meant to get dirty because we use them in our backyard, and in the wild, so they require periodic cleaning. This guide will cover two ways of washing a hammock and some tips on how to care for your hammock.
You can clean a hammock in two easy ways first is Hand Wash and the second is Machine wash.
Hand Washing Your Hammock
Step 1– Before you start washing your hammock don’t forget to take out the sling attached to the continuous loop of the hammock, any carabiners, peak bags, bug net, guylines, and any zippers. If this is not done it can damage the hammock while washing.
Step 2– Once you take them out the next step is to soak the fabric in a bucket of water(approximately 5 gallons of cold water), use a mild detergent, and leave it for 15 minutes.
Step 3– Once it is completely soaked for around 15 minutes take it out and start scrubbing with your hand gently to wipe off any stain on the hammock. You can use a soft brush alternatively to remove any tough stain on the hammock. A hammock is long so take a section at a time to rub and wash it and then move on to the next section.
Step 4– Once you are done with it rinse your hammock in fresh clean water in another bucket. Make sure you rinse off all soapy water from the hammock.
Step 5– The last step in this process is to hang dry your hammock in an open area where there is air. Always check your hammock is completely dry before you put it into the bag or is ready for reuse.
Machine Washing Your Hammock
Machine washing is not bad for the hammock if you do it in the proper manner.
Step 1– The first step is to detach or remove any slings, carabiners, or peak bags from the hammock.
Step 2– Put the hammock fabric into the washing machine(do not use the center agitator). Use a mild liquid or powder detergent to wash the hammock fabric.
Step 3– Use the gentle cycle with a cold water setting and let the machine ash for about 30 minutes.
Step 4– Once the washing is complete rinse it with water to remove any excess soap water.
Step 5– The final step is to let the hammock dry in the air. Don’t choose a place that is humid, hang it in an open place where there is air.
Once your hammock is completely dry put back the sling and carabiners and it is ready to be packed or used in the wild.
Do’s and Donts of Washing a Hammock
Here are some guidelines which you need to follow in order to safely wash your hammock.
Do’s
- Use the Cool water low delicate spin cycle setting in the washing machine
- Use your bathtub to clean your hammock because you get a bigger space to wash it.
- Remove the bug net before washing your hammock.
- One of the difficult jobs is to wash the string hammock without getting the strings tangled. Make a bunch of the strings and tie a plastic rope in the middle real tight. This will prevent the strings from opening up while washing. Do this for both ends and you will have a good time washing your string hammock.
Dont’s
- Do not use any fabric softener, bleach, or stain removal to wash your hammock
- Do not put your hammock in the dryer
- Do not use the center agitator as it may tear your hammock
Tips and Tricks While Washing a Hammock
- Use a bit of vinegar with the detergent to get rid of the smell in your hammock
- Some hammock manufacturers have introduced hammock soap which can be used to clean hammocks.
- Use Woolite with handwashing to clean your hammock.
- To avoid washing your hammock use socks, caps, and gloves to keep it clean and free from dirt & sand.
- Soak your hammock in a 5% permethrin solution in a bucket to keep your hammock guard against ticks and mosquitos in the wild.
Conclusion
Hammocks are made from durable materials and are comfortable to use. It is essential to do periodic cleaning and inspection for any small holes, stains, and tears in the hammock. Our step-by-step guide on how to wash your hammock is a must-read to save your hammock from getting ruined.
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