Rope Care and Use

Caring for natural materials as part of the practice

Hemp is a living fiber. It responds to use, environment, and time.
Care is not about preserving perfection, but about supporting longevity, feel, and responsiveness.

EcoLSD ropes are designed to change subtly with practice. Patina, softening, and texture evolution are signs of relationship, not wear to be avoided.

General Use

• Use on smooth surfaces when possible

• Avoid excessive, repetitive abrasion on concrete or rough asphalt

• Allow the rope to dry fully if it becomes damp

• Expect the rope to soften and relax with use

Sweat & Salt
Occasional sweat exposure is normal and does not harm the rope.
If used heavily in hot conditions, near saltwater, or on sand, a light rinse and full dry is recommended to prevent salt or grit from accumulating in the fibers. This prevents odor, stiffness, and premature abrasion.

Break-In Period

New hemp rope may feel firmer, slightly textured, or less relaxed at first. This is normal.

The rope is fully usable from day one. Break-in simply reflects how the material adapts through practice. It happens naturally through movement, friction, handling, and time.

With regular practice, the rope will:

• Soften and relax

• Develop a smoother hand feel

• Become more responsive and fluid in motion

Avoid aggressive methods intended to “speed up” break-in (machine washing, heavy soaking, over-waxing). Use, time, and attention are the best conditioners.

Cleaning

Hemp does not require frequent cleaning under typical use.

When needed:

• Brush gently with a natural bristle brush to remove dust and debris

• Wipe gently with a clean, soft cloth

• For deeper cleaning, coil rope loosely, submerge in lukewarm water, add a very small amount of castile soap (Dr. Bronner’s works great), and gently agitate, squeeze, or lightly brush dirty areas. Rinse thoroughly under cool water until water runs clear

• Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring)

• Avoid washing machines, abrasive soaps or detergents, very hot water, chemical cleaners, and prolonged soaking. These will damage fiber structure

• Hang or lay flat to air dry completely

Cleaning should restore feel and responsiveness, not “strip” the rope.

Waxing & Conditioning (Optional)

Periodic light waxing can offer protection from moisture and grime while maintaining smoothness over time.

*All ropes are waxed and conditioned with a mixture of beeswax, jojoba oil, and hemp oil prior to shipping*

• Use natural waxes only (beeswax or hemp-compatible blends)

• Apply sparingly

• Warm the rope slightly with friction or ambient warmth

• Buff gently with a cloth, brush, or hands

Over-waxing can mute feedback. Less is more. The rope should never feel oily or sticky.

Storage

• Store in a dry, well-ventilated space

• Avoid prolonged storage in direct sunlight

• Do not store tightly compressed for extended periods

Coiling loosely helps preserve the rope’s natural lay.

Never store the rope while wet or without adequate ventilation. Trapped moisture can lead to stiffness or mildew odor.
If a musty smell develops, a gentle wash and full air dry will restore the rope.

Wear & Patina

Softening, slight coloration change, and surface variation are normal with natural fiber.
These changes do not indicate failure; they reflect use and adaptation.

With proper care, structural integrity can be preserved for many years of regular practice.

A Note on Responsibility

EcoLSD ropes are crafted from natural materials and intended for mindful movement practice.
Care and use are part of the relationship between practitioner, tool, and material.

EcoLSD ropes are designed for movement practice. They are not intended for load-bearing or climbing applications.

If you have questions about care, reach out, we’re happy to help.