How to clean decking rope

Sprucing up your decking ready for the warmer months?

So far, you’ve:

• Cleared the area
• Tackled the cobwebs
• Brushed away the fallen leaves
• Scrubbed the timber
• Rinsed off the grub and grime

All that’s left to do now is… freshen up your decking rope. 

With the telltale signs of last summer’s BBQs still visible and battered by the wind and rain of the winter, it’s likely to be ready for a pre-season clean up!

Thankfully, most decking ropes – including both synthetic and natural fibre varieties – are designed to last for many years in an outdoor environment. And it’s quick and easy to clean them up and ensure they’re in tip-top condition for the year ahead.

We’d always advise checking the manufacturer’s instructions first, as this should include the best cleaning method for your specific decking ropes. But for most, the following five-step process will do the job perfectly – refreshing the fibres, without causing any damage.

5 steps to clean your decking rope

It’ll be as good as new in no time.

Step 1 – Inspect

First things first, carefully remove any rope fittings and set these to one side. 

Then take a good look at the decking ropes. Overall, are they still in good condition? 

Check for any obvious signs of wear and tear, such as fraying, broken fibres, exposed sections of the core or areas that have generally worn away. If you do find a significant level of damage, it may be worth investing in new ropes. But if not, you’re ready to start the cleaning process. 

Step 2 – Vacuum 

Vacuuming? Outside?

It may seem strange, but Henry Hoover is by far the quickest and easiest way to get rid of any surface dust. Simply work your way along the length of each decking rope, using a nozzle to tackle large sections and a crevice tool to clean the hard-to-reach areas between strands.

If your decking ropes are still wet or damp from the latest downpour, it may be worth popping them in the shed for a few days – allowing enough time for the fibres (and dust!) to dry out.

Step 3 – Clean 

When it comes to cleaning your decking ropes, there are three key rules:

No bleach. No washing machines. No strong cleaning chemicals. 

Whether the fibres are synthetic or natural, these could all potentially damage the structure, strength and appearance of your ropes – so we’d always advise against them. Instead, we recommend using a very mild detergent or a mixture of mild soap and warm water. 

Lay the ropes out fully on your decking or another hard surface (e.g. a path or driveway). Then, with either your hands or a brush, scrub the soapy solution methodically into the fibres.

Step 4 – Rinse 

Once you’ve finished cleaning, rinse away the soap residue – plus any grime that’s been lifted. 

Ideally, this should be done using a garden hose. You could also use a pressure washer. However, be sure to keep it at a relatively low setting. If the water pressure is too high or overly powerful, this could damage the rope’s fibres and compromise its integrity. 

Step 5 – Dry 

The last step is to let them dry.

As eager as you may be to re-install your decking ropes and finish the job, we wouldn’t recommend bringing them inside or using any form of artificial heat. Simply leave them in situ, in your garden, to dry naturally – keeping them away from direct sunlight where possible.

Decking ropes looking a little worse for wear?

Decking ropes are designed and made with extended outdoor use in mind. With the right maintenance, their robust fibres should last for many, many years in the garden – even when they’re subjected to the UK’s inclement weather! Nevertheless, they’re not invincible.

Perhaps you installed your decking ropes when you first moved in, circa 1990? Maybe they’re looking particularly tired or have been well used by children and pets? Or you just fancy having a little upgrade and wish to give your decking a new lease of life?

At some point they may need to be replaced – and if that’s the case, be sure to check out RopesDirect.

A leading online supplier with excellent reviews, they have a comprehensive selection of decking ropes to choose from – including synthetic hemp, synthetic sisal, polysilk, jute and manila. As well as a variety of metal fittings to aid installation and ensure the best results. 

Why not head over to their website and browse their full range?

If you’re unsure which is the best decking rope for your project, they also have lots of useful information to help with your decision – including insightful blogs and a ‘Help Choosing Rope’ page, with tips and advice on long-lasting options that require little maintenance.

Keyword:

Decking rope 1700