How to Clean a Climbing Rope

To keep a climbing rope in prime condition you need to clean it regularly. If dirt particles become embedded in your rope it becomes unsafe for use. Follow these steps to learn how to clean a climbing rope.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Lay a large tarp on the ground. Shake out your rope to remove loose dirt. Don't step on your rope when shaking it out or you may push the dirt particles deeply into the rope.

2. Fill a bath tub with cold water and a mild, non-detergent soap. Hand wash your climbing rope until it is clean.

3. Rinse the climbing rope thoroughly, making sure it is free of soap. Don't rinse it under running water; water pressure can weaken the rope. Fill the tub with clean, cold water and submerse the rope.

4. Hang the climbing rope to air dry out of direct sunlight. You can also spread it out on a tarp in the shade. Allow it to dry completely.

5. Store the climbing rope in a storage bag and keep it at room temperature.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not clean the climbing rope in bleach or other harsh chemicals. It will destroy the rope.

• Never dry your climbing rope with a dryer or any other heat source. The rope will become brittle and unsafe to use.