Part 4
How to store and treat rope
Most of your ropes’ lives will be spent in storage – unless you work with them professionally or just love to adventure. This is why remember these few important tips for storing your ropes can help make them last for years even with regular use.
Use a rope bagRopes should always be stored in a rope bag as this helps protect the rope from possible contact with chemicals, unnecessary moisture or things that could cut or get stuck on the rope that could damage it in some way.
Store ropes when dryThe second thing to remember when storing ropes is to do so when they’re dry. If wet, a better option is to leave the rope bag open so that the rope can ventilate until it is dry, and to store the bag itself in a cool place away from unnecessary heat.
Never store in your carThe main mistake people make – especially frequent climbers – is keeping their rope bag in their car. Aside from potential exposure to a spare car battery (see
PART 1 for more on acid), temperatures can vary greatly in a trunk or backseat. This makes for a less than ideal spot to store your rope compared to a garage or washroom which have more consistent temperatures year-round.
Note: Make it a habit to take your rope out of your car regularly and see how much longer it can last. Watch the video to learn how to properly coil your rope for storage.
Use a tarp when climbing and preparing
Finally, when using your rope in the wild, be sure to lay a tarp on the ground and the rope on top of it to stop it picking up unnecessarily dirt, sticks and the like, which can contribute to wear and tear. These small elements can have a big effect over time, so better to be prepared by setting up your space before your climb.