How to wash a hammock

Like any material that is left in the great outdoors for a long period of time, wear and tear gradually creeps in. This is no different to your hammock! In order to keep things swinging and looking fresh, a good bit of TLC is required when wanting to get the most out of your hammock.

Unwanted bugs, discoloration/stains and mildew are all tell tale signs that your hammock is overdue a good wash.

This has probably got you wondering; How the devil do you clean such a large piece of material and what is the most effective method to keeping your hammock, a happy hammock?

Shake, shake, shake!

The first step to cleaning any hammock is to give it a good shake to get any obvious dirt off. The best way to do this is leave one end suspended and shake the other vigorously, be mindful to not receive any cheeky bits of dirt in your eyes.

Hopefully this has got rid of any unwanted outdoor debris, however for the extra stubborn bits find your self a brush and simply brush away any left overs.

It is likely you might find some bugs in your hammock including snails if left outside for long enough. Try to be cautious when removing these, after all they are just wanting to hang back like you.

Check the label

Check the hammock manufacturers instructions on cleaning your hammock this could vary your depending on your hammock material. Some hammocks are machine washable, if this is the case for your hammock wash on a gentle, cold cycle and then hang out to dry. If not machine washable then you will have to hand wash it.

Hand wash

Ideally a bath, bucket or washing up bowl can be used when washing your hammock. Fill the container up with warm water and add a small amount of dertegent, use a similar amount to what you would usually clean your dishes with.

Put the hammock into the tub and swish around. Once the hammock is completely soaked and submerged use both hands to rub the fabric together. Dispose of the soapy water and then refill your tub with cold fresh water and complete the same process. This whole process should take no longer than five minutes, just long enough to start thinking about your next camping adventure!

Once your satisfied your hammock is clean, drain away the water and squeeze your hammock between your hands, getting rid of any left over soap. If your hammock has strings attached to it, tie these up before washing using a simple knot to prevent them from becoming tangled.

Now your hammock is super squeaky clean find a suitable place to dry it, preferably on a washing line, raised high enough off the floor to not let it drag and pick up any dirt off the ground.

How to clean a hammock with spread bars

Lay your hammock out flat on a clean surface, ideally a decking.

Use a stain remover on particularly prominent stains.

Hose down your hammock, soaking the entire fabric.

Use a soft bristle broom and apply detergent to the bristles.

Start to gently scrub your hammock in a sweeping motion, ensuring detergent has covered every inch.

Hose down the hammock once more, washing away any renting dirt and soap, repeat this the other side.

Once satisfied with your deep clean, fold your hammock over a washing line and leave it to drip dry.

How to remove mildew from a hammock

Mildew is commonly found on any outdoor furniture and is normal for it to form in damp conditions. Aswell as leaving stains, mildew can be hazardous to your health if inhaled and has been known to affect the respiratory system. Mildew has also been known to cause skin irritation, leaving rashes if come into contact with. But have no fear! Mildew is easy to remove and more often than not will come off using the cleaning techniques stated above, however if you find yourself faced with some real stubborn mildew stains, follow these simple steps below.

Soak the mildew stains in white distilled vinegar.

Let the vinegar sit for an hour and then get a wet cloth and wipe over the stain, This should completely remove it.

If you still find you have stains, combine one teaspoon of baking soda with a large cup of water. Pour over the stains.

Scrub mildew with a brush. Rinse with warm water, then apply vinegar once more repeating the first two steps.

Can you leave a hammock outside?

Often many people ask us at feel alive outside, whether its okay to leave your hammock outside for long periods of time. The simple answer is yes! Hammocks are made for the great outdoors and are used best when hanging in the garden or in the wilderness. However, all hammocks will need some TLC if left outside for long enough as they will grow mildew on them.

Although leaving your hammock outside is fine, it is recommended to pack it away when not being used for a long period of time to prevent it becoming weathered. For the majority of hammock users this would tend to be during the cold winter months.

If your hammock has metal components attached to it using anti rust treatment is also highly recommended to preventing the metals rusting and corroding.

How to store a hammock

When the time of year comes and you have to start thinking about packing away your happy hammock, you may start to ask yourself; Where is the best place to store this?

The most important point to think about when storing your hammock is storing it in a dry place, this will prevent mildew build up and also prevent it from rotting and smelling. The best recommendation would be to fold it into a shopping bag and then placing it in a airing cupboard or out of thee way under a bed.