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How to Clean a Climbing Rope

How to Clean a Climbing Rope
Climbing for sport and recreation is a great way to stay in shape and learn new skills. But one important aspect climbers often overlook is the health of their rope. This important lifeline can get black with dirt and grime quickly. It needs a thorough washing to preserve the integrity of the rope and keep your hands clean. It just takes some fresh water and a little soap to get your climbing rope looking new again.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Mild detergent or rope wash Bucket of cold water Clean place for drying
  • Mild detergent or rope wash
  • Bucket of cold water
  • Clean place for drying
Step 1
Examine your climbing rope for cleanliness. If it looks brown or black and leaves dirt on your hands when using it, then it needs to be washed with soap and water.
Step 2
Shake the rope hard to remove excess dirt and stray particles. Or, grab the rope with both hands about two feet apart and let it go slack. Then snap it taut to remove any grit. Wear goggles to keep dirt from getting in your eyes.
Step 3
Fill a bucket or sink with cold water and add a mild detergent like Wool-lite or rope wash from a local sporting good retailer.
Step 4
Use your hands to knead the rope for about ten or fifteen minutes. Then, let the rope soak in the bucket or sink for about two hours.
Step 5
Drain the sink or bucket and fill it again with clean water. Rinse out the rope either in the sink and avoid using running water. This helps prevent the rope from weakening under the water's force.
Step 6
Find the end of rope and squeegee out the extra water from the rope and let it drain into the bucket.
Step 7
Take a large hanger or hook and dry the rope outdoors on a warm day. You can also lay it loosely on a clean tarp to dry. Wrap the rope and store it in a dry and cool place until it's ready for use.

Tips & Warnings

 
Allow your rope to dry naturally and do not use a heat source that could damage the fibers. Using bleach on a rope will cause it to break down and become unsafe for use.
 
Allow your rope to dry naturally and do not use a heat source that could damage the fibers.
 
Using bleach on a rope will cause it to break down and become unsafe for use.

Article Written By Contributing Writer

Write for Trails.com

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