Hammock Care & Instructions
Simply Light Designs hammocks are designed to provide years of comfortable use with proper setup and care. Whether you're new to hammocks or have been using them for years, a few simple practices can help you get the most out of your gear.
Fabric Weight Ratings
Before using your hammock, make sure the fabric you selected is appropriate for your body weight.
Different hammock fabrics have different weight ratings, and those ratings can vary depending on whether the hammock has a single-layer or double-layer construction.
Never exceed the recommended weight rating for your hammock's fabric and configuration. Choosing an appropriate fabric is important for both safety and long-term durability.
For more information, see the Hammock Fabric Guide and Weight Ratings section of the Hammock Options Guide.
Setting Up Your Hammock
Choosing a Location
Select healthy, sturdy trees with no visible signs of damage or dead branches overhead. Avoid hanging over sharp rocks, steep slopes, or other hazards.
Use appropriate tree straps to protect the bark and distribute the load. Check that your suspension is properly attached before entering the hammock.
Suspension Angle and Height
A suspension angle of approximately 30 degrees from horizontal is a commonly used starting point for gathered-end hammocks. Hanging the suspension too tightly can increase the forces placed on the hammock, suspension, and anchor points.
Adjust the hammock so that its lowest point is roughly chair height when occupied. The ideal setup will vary depending on the hammock length, suspension system, and distance between trees.
Getting In and Out
Before sitting down, check that the hammock and suspension are secure. Sit near the center of the hammock and gradually transfer your weight into it.
Once seated, swing your legs inside and adjust your position for comfort.
Avoid jumping into the hammock or applying sudden, concentrated loads.
Finding a Comfortable Position
Most gathered-end hammocks allow you to lie diagonally across the fabric rather than directly along the centerline. This can provide a flatter sleeping position.
Comfort is subjective, and small adjustments can make a noticeable difference.
If you experience a pronounced ridge of fabric beneath your legs, try adjusting your position or the hammock's setup.
Structural Ridgeline
A structural ridgeline helps maintain a consistent hammock shape and sag, even when the distance between your suspension points changes.
For hammocks with integrated bug nets, the structural ridgeline is essential. It maintains the intended shape of the hammock and netting while preventing excessive tension on the bug net and zipper assembly.
Without the structural ridgeline, hanging the hammock too tightly can place excessive stress on the netting, seams, and zippers, potentially causing them to tear or fail.
Always use the structural ridgeline supplied with your integrated-net hammock. Operating the hammock without it can result in damage and will void warranty coverage for damage caused by its removal or nonuse.
For the Trail Lair and other integrated-net hammocks that require a structural ridgeline, inspect it before every use. Check that it is properly installed and is not slack when the hammock is occupied. Unexpected slack can transfer excessive tension to the integrated netting and cause damage or tearing. If you discover slack, contact Simply Light Designs.
The structural ridgeline is not intended to support a person's weight or to be used as a handle.
Suspension and Attachment Points
Inspect your suspension regularly and before each trip for abrasion, damaged stitching, cuts, or excessive wear, paying particular attention to whoopie slings and continuous loops.
Repeated movement and swinging can accelerate suspension wear. Replace worn components rather than continue using damaged suspension.
Make sure adjustable suspension components are properly secured and that knots, hardware, and connections are appropriate for the system you're using.
Continuous Loops
Some SLD hammocks use Amsteel continuous loops at the gathered ends. Depending on the selected configuration, these may be permanently installed or removable.
Continuous loops provide a convenient attachment point for suspension components and can simplify suspension changes.
If replacing or adjusting removable loops, ensure they are correctly attached and seated before using the hammock.
Accessory Attachments
Only use accessory loops, ridgeline organizers, and other attachment points for their intended purposes.
They are not designed to support a person's weight or other substantial loads.
Bug Nets and Zippers
For hammocks with integrated bug nets, take care when entering, exiting, and operating the zipper.
- Keep loose fabric and netting away from the zipper slider.
- Avoid pulling the zipper while the surrounding fabric is under excessive tension.
- If the zipper catches, stop rather than forcing it.
- Gently relieve the tension and carefully work the caught fabric free.
- Keep dirt, debris, and loose threads away from the zipper.
When storing the hammock, avoid packing sharp hardware against delicate netting.
Protecting Lightweight Fabrics
Hammock fabrics are designed to balance weight, strength, and packability. Even durable fabrics can be damaged by concentrated loads or abrasion.
- Keep sharp objects such as keys, tools, and exposed hardware away from the hammock body.
- Avoid dragging the hammock across rough surfaces.
- Be mindful of zippers, buckles, and other hardware when packing.
- Keep the fabric away from open flames, sparks, and excessive heat.
- Inspect and address developing snags or small tears before continued use so they do not worsen.
Some ultralight fabric choices require greater care than heavier alternatives.
Tenacious Tape can be useful for certain minor fabric repairs, subject to material compatibility. It does not restore the original load-bearing strength of damaged fabric. For damage affecting structural fabric, seams, or suspension attachment areas, contact Simply Light Designs for evaluation.
Cleaning and Storage
Allow your hammock to dry thoroughly before storing it, especially after exposure to rain, condensation, or damp ground conditions.
For washing instructions, see General Cleaning, Drying & Storage.
Inspect your hammock periodically, paying particular attention to the suspension, end channels, stitching, netting, and zipper.
Setup & Use Questions
How can I adjust my hammock for comfort?
Tree spacing, suspension tension, and your position in the hammock can all influence comfort. Try making small adjustments to your setup before assuming there is a problem with the hammock itself.
What is a calf ridge, and how can I minimize it?
A calf ridge can occur in gathered-end hammocks because of the way the fabric is gathered and tensioned. Adjusting your position and setup can help, although individual comfort varies.
Can I replace my suspension?
Many SLD hammock configurations allow the suspension to be changed or replaced. The procedure depends on whether the hammock has permanent or removable continuous loops and the suspension type.
If you're unsure about your configuration, contact SLD before making changes.
Can two people use one hammock?
SLD hammocks are designed for single-person use.
Questions or Repairs?
If you're having difficulty with your setup or notice damage, feel free to contact Simply Light Designs.
A description of the issue, along with a few clear photographs when applicable, can help identify the problem.