Hammocks - Outdoor Furniture Designed For Relaxation
Hammocks:
Hammocks have always been the picture of rest and relaxation, and it’s no wonder they turn up at just about every house in the summer. Maybe it’s the way they hug your back, rest under the shade and sway with the breeze—the perfect way to enjoy a good book or soak up some sun. If you have yet to get one for yourself, you may be surprised at the range of choices available, from size to style to material. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
History of Hammocks:
Many countries hold claim to the invention of the hammock, including Brazil, Ecuador, and much of Central America. However, it’s generally accepted that Mayan Indians built first hammocks about a thousand years ago, using the bark of the Hamak tree. They tried out other materials to find something more sustainable and eventually settled with sisal fiber, a tough string that could be softened by rubbing against the skin. The name “hamak” stayed, however, and eventually got adopted by the English language.
The hammock found its way around the world through the Mayans’ extensive trade routes. People began using whatever materials were available: the Brazilians used cord and rope, Americans used fabric, and European seafarers used canvas cloth. Cotton hammocks were only introduced about 50 years ago. Several styles have also evolved, although the original web-like design remains popular today.
Types and Materials:
Hammocks may be made of cotton or one of several synthetic fibers. Cotton is easily the best choice if you’re after comfort—it’s soft, flexible, and body-conforming—but it’s not made to last outdoors. Synthetic materials will hold up better, but are far less comfortable.
Three of the most common synthetics are nylon, polyester and Duracord. Polyester is the closest to cotton in terms of comfort, but nylon and Duracord are more resilient. Duracord is the only one that uses colorfast dyes, so it can stay out all summer and still look like new. The downside is that it hardly stretches and can leave deep marks on your skin. A cotton-polyester blend (polycotton) offers a good compromise—it’s good for several summers and offers a fair bit of stretch and air flow.
Hammocks also come in a wide range of styles, but they all fall under three main types: rope, fabric, and string.
Rope Hammocks:
Rope-style hammocks can be made of cotton, synthetics, or a combination of the two. The ropes are knotted together and spread over a pair of spreader bars known as “staves”. Because they are stretched flat, they don’t conform to the body as well as “stave-less” varieties, but the open weave makes them more breathable.
Rope hammocks tend to leave a waffle-like imprint on your skin if you lie on them too long. You can try padding them with a thick blanket, but this can limit the airflow. Choose one with thicker ropes to reduce the pressure instead.
Fabric Hammocks:
Fabric hammocks may come with or without spreader bars. Common fabrics used are cotton, canvas, polyester, and quilted fabric. The tighter weave eliminates the “waffle skin” caused by rope hammocks, but it doesn’t offer the same ventilation. Spending a couple of hours on a fabric hammock indoors can leave you hot and sweaty. Fabric hammocks are best used outdoors on cool, breezy days.
String Hammocks:
Also called the Mayan hammock, this style keeps the original web-like weave used by its inventors. It’s the only style that’s completely stave-less and portable, making it a favorite among sailors, backpackers and other outdoor types. It’s more breathable than the fabric hammock and more body-conforming than rope. It absorbs moisture but dries fairly fast, so it’s also more resistant to rotting.
Buying Tips:
You can get a high-quality hammock and stand for $200 to $450, but there are also some good ones in the $100 to $150 range. Nylon and polyester are usually the cheapest, and cotton and quilted fabrics are on the high end. Some things to consider include:
Weight capacity. Most hammocks will have no problem holding a 150-lb person, but go for a stronger one if you have kids who like to bring along toys or books. Rope hammocks are usually the strongest, with capacities of up to 700 lbs.
Hanging options. You can hook up your hammock between two trees or hang it from your ceiling. You can also but a free-standing hammock stand. Portable stands are also available, which can be useful if you’re taking it to the beach or a campsite.
Protective features. If you’re buying a hammock for outdoor use, look for one with UV protection and mold, mildew and fade resistance.
Care and Maintenance:
Dirt and dust will always find their way into your hammock, so the best you can do is shake it off once in a while. Avoid spill stains by bringing a small table or chair along for your food and drinks. If your hammock is cotton, hang it close to your house so you can bring it in when it rains.
Most hammocks are washable, but be sure to follow washing instructions. Hammocks without spreader bars can be hand-washed or machine-washed. Don’t just throw them in the tub, though—this can loosen the weave and weaken the fabric. Instead, fold them in half and place them in a closed pillow case. If you can’t remove the hem rings, just tie them together to keep them from getting tangled. After washing, untie the edges and hang up to dry.
If your hammock has spreader bars, hand-washing is your only choice. Lay it out on a flat, dry surface and clean both sides with warm water and mild detergent. Be sure to wipe out dark or black spots, which are signs of mildew infestation. Hang it up to dry and apply a protective spray before storing.
Samuel Francis is an avid furniture collector who specifically enjoys outdoor furniture. For more of his articles on garden furniture, please visit http://www.outdoorgardenfurniture.net, supplier of high quality Outdoor Furniture, including Garden Swings and Hammocks.
Tags: fountains, garden decor, garden furniture, hammock, hammocks, outdoor furniture, patio furniture, teak