For those who want it, here is a pdf file of our care-sheet. It contains much the same info found on this page, plus a few helpful illustrations. So if you'd like a hard copy, or to get a glimpse into how we did things in the last century, click the green link.
Don’t be intimidated by the quantity of info below. Despite from the fact that I don’t know when to shut up, these tips will help you avoid the most common hazard to the Mayan hammock: snags.
Once you are familiar with the proper handling of your hammock, avoiding snags becomes second nature quickly.
HERE is the numero uno, most essential tip you should heed if you want to avoid the hassle of a significant snag, a broken string or strings, or any combination thereof.
Are you ready? Here it is:
NEVER, EVER, (AND I REALLY MEAN NEVER), WEAR CLOTHING
WITH BUTTONS, HOOKS, ZIPPERS, SNAPS OR ANY OTHER
HARDWARE WHEN USING YOUR MAYAN HAMMOCK.
Ideally, you will want to wear soft clothing, like fleece pajamas, sweatpants, workout clothes, etc, that lack not only hardware, but also the raised corners of jean pockets or other contours that can work their way between the weave and stress the threads of the hammock when you move your weight across the bed. Also avoid wearing watches, jewelry with edges that can catch, or using box cutters, open flame, industrial solvents, meat axes, chain saws, and, well, you get the idea.
You should also take care around your hammock when it is not in use (for example, when moving it to a new location or when it’s hanging in place but empty). Because the weave is loose in a relaxed (empty) hammock, it is particularly easy to snag a string and pull out a a loop. If more than a few inches of string is ‘looped out’, you will want to work it back into the weave before using your hammock again (check out our ‘repairing snags’ VIDEO).
When opening or hanging your hammock, be certain that the "wrist-knot" isn't snagged to the bed:
Typically, the wrist-knot is well enclosed by the end-string cluster where it meets the end-loop, but on rare occasions, it may become exposed. Opening or getting in the hammock when this knot is snagged on the bed can ruin your hammock, so be aware of it and take care.
Note to campers: The Mayan hammock is a wonderful way to sleep under the stars in fair weather. Despite the presence of zippers, you can use your favorite sleeping bag in your Mayan hammock. But do be extra vigilant about snags when bedding down and climbing out in the morning. Also beware of tree bark as you hang it up. Rough barked trees have an especially voracious appetite for the Mayan hammock!
Other DO’s & DON’Ts ~
DO hold your hammock well above the ground when carrying and avoid catching it on nails, bark, shirt buttons, etc. when handling. It’s best to put it in a bag whenever you want to transport it. A plastic grocery bag is the ideal size and you can't beat the price! (check out our ‘world's cheapest hammock bag’ VIDEO.)
DO check your hammock for snags and broken strings regularly. With proper care, they should not be a problem. If you damage your hammock beyond your ability to repair it, contact me by email at info@hammex.com, and include a photo if possible. Include a phone number and I’ll be happy to advise you free of charge, even if you didn't buy it from Hammex.
If this happens, it is possible to untangle by passing the end-loops back through the end-strings, in the reverse manner. It's not overly complicated to undo, but can be easily avoided if you never allow the end-loops to dangle freely during handling (check out our ‘detangling fouled end-strings’ VIDEO).
DON’T leave it out in the elements. You can add years to the life of your hammock if you take a few minutes to store it (remember that cheap bag!).
DO be certain your hammock is thoroughly dry before you store it in a plastic bag. Mildew and mold can grow quickly if you store your hammock damp in a relatively airtight container.
DON’T forget to call your mother once in a while. It wouldn’t kill you, ya know.
