You must enjoy the gentle sway and relaxing mood, that comes from owning a hammock, but has your hammock started squeaking, depriving you of that peaceful moment?
It can be quite annoying to experience a squeaking hammock, with the disturbance echoing through the entire campsite, or with you trying to enjoy a peaceful moment with nature. Let’s discuss how to remedy a squeaking hammock.
How to remedy a squeaking hammock, usually depends on the type of hammock setup. However, in most cases try tying on instead of clipping on the hammock. Also, replace the metal carabiner with a soft shackle for easy movement, or by applying lubricants to the suspension systems, to reduce friction.
You have to ensure, you’re not over the weight capacity of your hammock, and if there are other noises like fabric stretching or suspension tightening. It is normal for some new hammocks.
Read on to find out how to locate the squeaking sound and stop your hammock from squeaking.
How To Find The Squeaking Sound In Your Hammock
A quiet place or campsite, will help you locate the squeaking sound better, once all is quiet, place a small weight on your hammock, then step away from it, and let it swing.
Use this process, to identify and analyze the source of the squeaking sound, that way you can solve the actual problem.
In most cases, the squeaky sound comes from various suspension systems, like carabiners and straps. ropes or hammock stands, used for hanging a hammock. You can also check the anchor, or joints for any unusual noise. These steps can help you detect the cause as well.
How To Stop Hammock From Squeaking
The squeaky sounds from your hammock may occur because of aging or from buying a second-hand hammock. it is likely that the fabric is worn out and no longer as tight as before. Then try tying the hammock, instead of clipping it on. This will help tighten the fabric and reduce the noise.
As mentioned earlier, if your hammock is clipped on, try replacing the metal clips or carabiner, with soft shackles. A soft shackle is a loop of rope, that can open and close to connect two other loops together. In this case, the two other loops would be the anchor point on the hammock stand, and the loop on the end of the hammock.
Also, applying lubricants to the suspension systems of your hammock can be helpful. Try using a silicone-based lubricant, WD-40, or bearing lubricant, to help reduce the friction between the metal and fabric. For a long-lasting solution, it is recommended to use dry graphite lubricant or 3-in-One multi-purpose lubricant, on the suspension systems, as it will not wash away in the rain.
You can find any of these materials or lubricants at the hardware store, or check the hammock buyer’s guide, to locate which is better situated for the type of hammock you own. You can use kitchen oils as a lubricant if you need an on-the-spot solution.
It is best to test out these simple tips, before heading out on your next camping tour. It is a good way of identifying what works best for your hammock, and avoid not taking the right tool or material, and being stuck with a squeaky hammock, when camping.
When And How To Apply The Lubricant
It is best to apply lubricant before using the hammock for the first time, to help reduce any friction or noise that may occur. But if own an older hammock or one you e been using beforehand, you should apply lubricant frequently.
To apply the lubricant, you can spray it on the suspension system, or use a cloth to wipe it in. Check that you covered all the moving parts and metals, and let it dry completely before using your hammock.
Bear in mind, to lubricate only the various suspension systems and not the hammock fabric, as this would cause the fabric to break down and become damaged over time. After applying the lubricant, clean away any excess stain, so that it does not get on your clothes or skin.
In case It Is Not A Suspension Systems Issue
There are a couple of other tips to try out, should in case the suspension system isn’t the issue. You should check that your hammock is aligned properly and even. If it isn’t, adjust the position of the hammock, so that it hangs more evenly.
You should also tighten up the knots that are on the hammock stand or that are holding it in place. If the knots are loose, the hammock rubs against itself, and tightening them up can help remedy the noise. You should also check if the anchor system or tree used to hold the hammock is sturdy and healthy.
The anchor systems are important, as they are the pillar for the hammock, if you notice the anchor is weak, then change it, to avoid it collapsing. When camping, the tree is your best anchor, you can secure the tree by staking it down or adding guy lines, but if you notice the tree cannot hold the weight anymore, remove your hammock and source for another anchor system.
Lastly, ensure you’re not over the weight capacity for your hammock and opt to use the hammock that can hold your weight completely.
Conclusion
Always remember safety comes first, if you’re having difficulty setting up your hammock, find assistance or consult a professional.
Be sure to tie the hammock tight, lubricate often, and use guy lines for the tree. Now you can enjoy a peaceful experience when camping or outdoors.
