Friday, February 12, 2010

Hammocks - Brazilian Hammocks

There are today a half-dozen popular styles of hammock. But for centuries one of the most widely used was the Brazilian hammock. Similar in design to its northern cousin, the Mayan hammock, this type has some key differences. Traditional Brazilian hammocks are made from a relatively thick, tightly woven sheet of cotton. Mayan hammocks, by contrast, are a much looser weave. That design method yields a hammock that is strong, warm and very comfortable.

The thick, tight fibers of a Brazilian hammock allow it to bear a lot of weight given the proper supports, of course. A typical hammock can easily support over 400lbs. That's useful not only for larger people who want to enjoy the comfort they provide, but smaller individuals as well.

A hammock has to support much more than just the dead weight of someone lying in one. When you sit down, move around or stand up out of a hammock, much more force is applied to the surface than when you lie still. Mayan hammocks are also very comfortable, but they have much more stretch than the Brazilian type so the latter will not give so much as you move in, around and out.

That relative lack of stretch has other advantages. A Brazilian hammock can be hung much lower than some other types because the surface doesn't sag near the ground when it's in use. That makes finding a place to put one easier. It also makes the hanging process simpler, since ladders aren't usually required. Hammock stands are in much wider use with Brazilian hammocks, since there's less reason to worry that the lowest point will hit the ground.

Like others, though, Brazilian hammocks do require some care. The canvas-like surface is durable and long-wearing, but cleaning and protection is still needed from time to time. Left in the sun, colors will fade. Ink dyes are invariably changed by long exposure to UV and Brazilian hammock fabric is no exception. Washing is still needed occasionally.

Because of the large size and thick fabric, it can be a challenge to wash a Brazilian hammock in the washing machine. Fortunately, that's rarely needed. You can just hang one end of the hammock from a pole or branch and spray with a hose. For stubborn dirt or stains a simple fabric cleanser will usually do the job.

Be sure to let the hammock dry properly, and don't allow it to be wet continuously for long periods in general use either. Because it's made from natural material, mildew and other organisms can grow on the hammock. That makes clean up much more difficult and also weakens the fibers.

The ropes used to support the cloth bed are subject to the same cautions. They're often stretchable cotton and need to be kept clean and dry. Traditional Brazilian hammocks don't use spreaders - bars threaded through or attached to the cloth to make the bed a rectangle. But hybrid styles are available for those who prefer the flat surface they create.

Individual designs are colorful and available in a variety of styles, often as much as 5 feet wide and 12 feet long. Finding one that suits your decorating desires and body style is easy.