Hammock Instructions, Use and Care Guide

Congratulations on your new hammock! Purpose-built for comfort, support and durability, your hammock will provide many years of relaxation with proper setup and care.

1. Hanging Your Hammock

Whether attaching to sturdy trees, veranda posts or masonry walls, always ensure your fixing points are structurally sound before hanging your hammock.

Hanging Quick-Reference

*Applies to Mexican hammocks only. For Colombian hammocks, the recommended hanging distances are provided on the packaging and product pages.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Unpack carefully: Unroll your hammock and hold it only by the end loops to avoid tangling the suspension cords.
2. Set your fixing points: For Mexican hammocks, secure your anchor points 3.5m to 4.2m apart. The fixing point height should be approximately half the hanging distance. For example, if the hanging distance is 4 metres, the fixing points should be approximately 2 metres high.
3. Timber posts and studs: Use heavy-duty screw eye hooks as illustrated below, or eye bolts screwed directly into structural studs or joists.

• Masonry and brick: Pre-drill and fit heavy-duty DynaBolts or concrete anchor hooks. These can be sourced from a hardware store.
• Trees: Use hammock tree straps to avoid damaging the tree and to easily adjust the hanging length as required.
• Connect hardware: Always use smooth carabiners, S-hooks and/or nautical-grade rope to connect the hammock loop to your anchor. Avoid rough metal edges or constant friction that could abrade the hammock loops.

A suitable hammock rope knot is shown below. 

Too Short on Hanging Space?

If your anchor points are closer than recommended, you can shorten the hammock by tying a loose overhand knot in one or both arms, near the loop ends rather than in the woven body, as shown below. Each knot reduces the required hanging distance by roughly 40cm.

Hammock Chairs

Hammock chairs only require a single overhead fixing point, such as a pergola beam or sturdy tree branch. Hang using a sturdy, outdoor-resistant rope such as polypropylene or hammock chain and a suitable hook.

For timber fixing points, you can use a screw eye hook. If hanging from a tree branch, use a hammock tree strap.

2. How to Use Your Hammock Comfortably & Safely

The Diagonal Lie

Traditional Mexican and Colombian hammocks have no spreader bars. They are designed to be laid in diagonally. Lie at an angle across the weave so the hammock fabric spreads open. This provides maximum support for your body and helps avoid the cocooning effect.

Getting In

Stand with your back to the hammock. Spread the fabric wide using your hands, sit down into the centre, then pivot your legs and bottom as you lean back. See below for a video tutorial.

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Gentle Sways Only

Hammocks are designed for gentle swaying. Never swing vigorously, stand up or jump into your hammock. Heavy swinging is not only dangerous but will also shorten the life of your hammock.

Snag Prevention

Buttons, buckles, Velcro, jewellery and pet claws can snag the delicate weave. It's best to empty your pockets and remove your shoes before using the hammock.

3. Care, Weather Protection & Storage

Sun & Rain Protection

• Store inside when dry: Constant Australian UV exposure weakens fibres and fades cotton hammock colours over time, while dampness can cause mould and mildew.
• HamacTex/Polypropylene vs. Cotton: While HamacTex fabric is water-repellent and UV-stabilised, storing any hammock undercover when not in use will significantly extend its lifespan.
• Use a hammock sleeve or cover: If keeping your hammock outdoors permanently, protect it with a weather-resistant hammock cover sleeve, as displayed below.

Packing & Storage

• Twist and Knot Method: Hold both end loops together and twist the body gently in opposite directions to gather the loose cords. Fold the hammock over your arm and tie a loose knot in the centre.
• Resort (Spreader Bar) Hammocks: Roll the fabric tightly around each wooden bar towards the centre, then tie loosely with rope or string.
• Store in a breathable bag: Place your hammock in a cotton canvas bag or pillowcase and store in a cool, dry place.
  

4. Cleaning Instructions

Always ensure the cords are secured before washing to prevent tangles.

Method A: Hand Wash (Recommended)

1. Fill a large bucket, laundry sink or bathtub with cool to lukewarm water and a mild, wool-safe or colour-safe liquid detergent.
2. Submerge the hammock and gently agitate the water with your hands.
3. Soak for 1–2 hours, then drain and rinse thoroughly with clean, cold water until all soap residue is gone.
4. Hang outside in the shade to dry completely before storing.

Method B: Machine Wash (Delicate Only)

1. Stretch the hammock out and use string or zip ties to bind the suspension cords and body at 15–20cm intervals.
2. Place the bound hammock into a large, zippered pillowcase or mesh wash bag.
3. Wash on a gentle, cold-water cycle using mild detergent.
4. Never spin dry or tumble dry. Hang immediately by its end loops in the shade to dry.

Need Hardware, Straps or Assistance?

Explore our hanging kits, tree straps and covers on our online store, or get in touch with our team at Hammocks Australia if you need personalised advice for your space.