How To Wash A Climbing Rope

How to Wash a Climbing Rope and How to Clean a Climbing Rope

A climbing rope is an incredibly vital piece of equipment for rock climbers across multiple disciplines. It is important for the safety and performance of the climber and must be treated with care. Washing and cleaning your rope is an important part of keeping it in working order, and prolongs its life. In this article, we`ll walk you through the steps for washing and cleaning a climbing rope.

Steps for Washing a Climbing Rope

When washing a climbing rope, you should always follow the manufacturer`s instructions above all. But in most cases, you will want to use the following steps:

• Test the water temperature: You should always use warm, not hot, water. Test the temperature of the water with your hand to make sure it is not too hot – it should be comfortably warm.
• Load the rope: Load the rope into the washing machine, along with a mild, unscented detergent. Close the lid.
• Set the washer: Set the washing machine to “gentle” or “delicate” mode. Avoid using a high spin setting – the more your rope is spun, the more wear and tear it will incur.
• Run the cycle: Depending on the type of rope and the dirt level, you may want to run the cycle more than once. Do a light rinse cycle between cycles to clear out any remaining soap.
• Dry the rope: Once the washing is complete, remove the rope and dry it thoroughly either in the machine with a low-heat setting or outside on a line. Air-drying a rope helps to keep it from breaking down.

Steps for Cleaning a Climbing Rope

Clean the rope while it is dry. Doing this makes the rope more durable and helps to prevent long-term damage from dirt and grime. In most cases, you`ll want to do the following:

• Inspect the rope: Look over the rope for any damage, fraying, abrasion, or wear and tear. If you find any of these issues, it`s best to replace the rope. If the damaged sections are small, they can only be cleaned, not repaired.
• Vacuum the rope: Use a small vacuum cleaner to gently remove dirt and debris from the rope. Make sure to get into all of the crevices and be sure not to rub too hard – the rope should not be bent or stretched during the cleaning process.
• Brush the rope: Once you`ve vacuumed the rope, use a soft-bristled brush to remove any remaining dirt and grit. Pay particular attention to the areas adjacent to the rope sheath – dirt accumulates here easily.
• Wipe the rope: To finish, use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the entire rope. Make sure you get into all of the nooks and crannies and use a light touch so that you don`t damage it.

By consistently washing and cleaning your climbing rope, you`ll help ensure that it stays in optimal working order. Not only will it last longer, but it will be safer to use on a climb, as dirt and grime can affect the rope`s performance. When it comes to buying a new rope, always make sure you get one from a reputable brand and read the instructions carefully to ensure its proper cleaning and maintenance.