All ropes, particularly those used in life critical applications should be kept clean and free of dirt, chemicals and other contaminants to prevent damage and wear that will reduce the strength, effectiveness, and durability of the rope. Where ropes have been exposed to chemicals, excessive dirt or other contaminants, we recommend discarding the rope, or downgrading it to a non-critical application.
We recommend the following when washing synthetic rope:
- Any particularly dirty or mud caked rope should be rinsed with water. A soft nylon bristle brush can be used if required.
- The rope can be soaked in a tub of water with a mild detergent such as Zero that is safe for washing the type of fiber your rope is manufactured from (e.g. nylon, polyester). Alternatively, the rope can be washed in a commercial washing machine using cold water. It is a good idea to run the machine through an empty cycle first to make sure it is free of any contaminants or residue from harsh detergents.
- By looping the rope into a daisy chain, or loosely bundling it in a large mesh bag prior to washing in a machine, you will help prevent the rope from tangling or getting caught in the machine. A front loading washing machine is best, as the agitator in the middle of standard washing machines can cause damage to the rope by abrasion.
- Rinse the rope in a washing machine.
- The rope should be hung to air dry in a cool, shaded place away from the UV rays of the sun or fluorescent lights. A rope must never be dried in a clothes dryer as the temperature in the dryer can be high enough to damage the rope.
