How to Clean a Rope Hammock in 3 Easy Steps

Written By Matthew Cordero

With all the fun in these hectic summer-filled days comes a bit of upkeep, especially when it comes to keeping your favorite spots clean, like your trusty rope hammock. It’s easy to make sure your hammock is wiped down or aired out after each use, but how can you keep your rope hammock in tip-top shape in just a few easy steps? 

To clean a rope hammock, start by taking the hammock down and scrubbing the ropes with a soft brush and mild detergent. Then rinse the hammock completely and hang it out to dry in the sun before re-hanging.

We’ve got you covered. In this article we'll guide you on how to clean a rope hammock in just three easy steps.

Cleaning a Rope Hammock

Cleaning a rope hammock is often a necessary but daunting task, not only because of the size and shape of the item but also because such material can be prone to damage from harsh chemicals. Fortunately, with the right tools and techniques this endeavor doesn't have to be overly difficult or time consuming.

On one hand, depending on the extent of dirt and debris that has been accumulated within the hammock, it is sometimes possible to vacuum away most of the loose dirt that may exist without relying on any form of chemical cleaners. However, if more intense cleaning is required then it is advised that mild soap and water be used in order to remove more deeply-embedded dirt and grime particles.

Also, it is important to ensure all of the soap has been rinsed off as excess soap can leave soapy residue in different parts of the hammock which can create an uncomfortable environment for whoever will be using it.

On the other hand, some individuals may choose harsher chemical-based products instead of a combination of mild soap and water as option for cleaning their rope hammocks. While these types of cleaner may provide a deeper clean than the other method described above, it does come with potential risks including discoloration or degradation of rope or fabric materials due to over-exposure of these harsh chemicals.

If a chemical based-cleaner must be used, care should be taken to diligently follow instructions provided by manufacturer as well as performing test patch on a small non-visible area before attempting application over entirety of fabric material.

Overall, when selecting a cleaning method for your rope hammock, it is important to take into consideration factors such as climate conditions where the hammock is being housed as well as the level of dirt and debris accumulation expected within the fabric material. With knowledge in hand, you are then able to make an informed decision with regards to which technique would better fit your needs while still maintaining fabric integrity intact.

Once you have finished cleaning your rope hammock and ensuring that there isn’t any remaining residue on its surface, your next step should be to soak it in water for approximately 15 minutes in order to remove any further impurities contained within its structure.

Soak the Hammock in Water

Once the hammock has been cleared away of debris and dirt, it’s time to start cleaning it with water. This process should be done carefully to avoid damaging the fibers that make up the hammock’s material. For example, if a cotton or polyester hammock is put under too much pressure it may warp or stretch out.

Soaking the rope or string in warm water can bring out any embedded particles such as pollen that give the hammock its yellow or brown discoloration. Adding a teaspoon of mild detergent into the warm water will make sure that any grit and grime is removed from the material. Drain off the soapy water before washing further, preventing soap from hardening on the fabric once it dries.

After soaking and rinsing out the rope hammock, dry it off properly by hanging onto a clothesline or draped on a large towel. The longer it’s left to air dry means less likelihood of mold appearing due to humidity collecting in the damp fabric.

Now that you have a clean and fresh-smelling rope hammock, what’s the best way to maintain its condition? The next step requires adding a mild detergent solution to further enhance cleaning this outdoor furniture piece.

Add a Mild Detergent to the Water

Adding a mild detergent to the water is often a recommended practice for effectively cleaning a rope hammock. A popular suggestion is to use a gentle, non-abrasive soap like dishwashing liquid or even oxygen-based stains remover. The quantity of detergent used should be low to minimize residue in the rope fibers that can decrease the ability of the ropes to absorb moisture after drying.

It is important to note, however, that this step may not be required depending on how dirty your rope hammock is and what caused the dirt in the first place. If you wish to take extra precautions and be certain everything is cleaned well, then adding some mild detergent should do the trick.

One argument against adding detergent is that it may not be necessary if the rope hammock isn’t too dirty. By being overly cautious and adding more than necessary soap, it might leave behind residue which causes more harm than help by inhibiting moisture absorption in the rope fibers.

However, one argument in favor of detergent would be that it makes this job easier and faster, especially if there are stubborn stains like sap or paint. Scrubbing with just water will require a lot more effort and time which could prove to be impractical for most people. Solution of warm water and white vinegar can soften stubborn dirt and stains making them easier to remove whereas dishwashing liquid can make removing simple general dirt much simpler as compared to using just water.

Either way, it is ultimately up to you to decide whether or not you want to add a mild detergent while cleaning your rope hammock, but whatever decision you choose should work out well enough if done correctly. When you are satisfied with the cleanliness of your hammock, it's time to move on to the next important step which is how to dry your hammock after washing.

When cleaning a rope hammock, it is recommended to add a mild detergent like dishwashing liquid or an oxygen-based stain remover to the water to effectively clean it. However, this step may not always be necessary depending on how dirty the hammock is and what caused the dirt in the first place.


Furthermore, when deciding whether or not to use a detergent while cleaning your rope hammock, it is important to consider both the pros (it makes cleaning easier and faster) and cons (it can leave residue that decreases rope fibers’ ability to absorb moisture).


Ultimately, it is up to the user to decide how much detergent should be used, if any at all. After the rope hammock has been cleaned, the next step is to dry it before using.

How to Remove Stains from a Hammock 

The easy way is to add some soap solution to water and swish the hammock over it. Scrubbing gently with your hands or a soft bristle brush should see the job done. For tougher stains like sap or paint you will have to take more drastic action. Solution of warm water and white vinegar can soften stubborn dirt and stains making them easier to remove. Rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can be used for cleaning oil-based stains. Be careful about adding fabric softeners during washing though as they might leave behind a residue on the ropes that inhibits their ability to absorb moisture. 

Cleaning Dirty Ropes  

When it comes to cleaning a rope hammock, the easy way is to add some soap solution to the water and swish the hammock over it. Scrubbing gently with your hands or a soft bristle brush should see the job done. While this method may be adequate for everyday stains, tougher stains such as sap or paint may require more drastic action.

Using a solution of warm water and white vinegar can soften stubborn dirt and stains, making them easier to remove. Rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can be used for cleaning oil-based stains. If you add fabric softeners during washing, however, you must be careful to not leave any residue that could inhibit the ropes' ability to absorb moisture.

For cleaning a rope hammock, there is an ongoing debate about whether soap and water, or harsher solutions like white vinegar is more effective in removing tough stains like sap and paint. Those who advocate using only mild detergents argue that stronger solutions may damage the material of the hammock by weakening or corroding it over time. They note that these materials are delicate and require special handling to avoid damage.

On the other hand, those who suggest harsher solutions point out that these tougher stains require strong products to break down and remove them effectively. They state that when used as directed, chemicals like white vinegar and rubbing alcohol are safe for use on rope hammocks without damaging them in any way.

Ultimately whichever approach is taken depends on personal preference. However, if using harsher solutions like water and vinegar or rubbing alcohol, it is important to be aware of the correct dilution ratios to ensure that no harm is done to the rope material itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any special instructions for removing stains from a rope hammock?

When it comes to removing stains from a rope hammock, there are some special instructions to follow. Firstly, the type of stain must be identified in order to use the appropriate cleaning product. Stains such as food or drink spills should be blotted up before they can set into the fabric.

For tougher stains, like oil and grease, use a mild detergent solution and scrub it with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse clean with water afterwards. For more stubborn stains on the fabric, pre-treat with a spot-cleaning solution then launder with a mild detergent. It is important to ensure the rope hammock is fully dried before hanging back up again.

Are there any methods for preventing dirt and debris from accumulating on a rope hammock?

Yes, there are ways to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on a rope hammock. The best way is to keep the hammock away from direct contact with the ground or other surfaces that may contain dirt. If the hammock is hung near a tree, try using mesh netting or a tarp between the tree and the hammock to act as a barrier.

Additionally, periodically cleaning the rope hammock (once every 2 to 4 weeks) will help keep it looking and feeling fresh for longer. Finally, make sure to cover your rope hammock when not in use with a breathable fabric cover which can help keep dirt, dust, leaves and other debris away while also protecting the material from fading in bright sunlight or becoming soggy in rain.

What materials will I need to safely clean a rope hammock?

To safely clean a rope hammock, you will need a few essential materials. First, you should get a quality, non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for cleaning rope hammocks such as a mild soap or detergent like Woolite®. Second, you will need some kind of soft brush or cloth for scrubbing. A heavy-duty hose with adjustable nozzle settings is also recommended for spraying and rinsing the cleansing solution off the rope hammock.

Finally, if your rope hammock has stains that are more difficult to remove, you may need to use additional specialized cleaners such as OxiClean® or baking soda mixed with warm water for spot-cleaning. Make sure to rinse the hammock thoroughly after each cleaning session and always monitor the pH levels of any cleaning solution you use to ensure it is safe for use on your hammock material.