Need to Get Away? Get A Hammock.

After a long day or a long week, it’s so relaxing to take a leisurely nap in my hammock.  It’s like my own stay-cation (especially after the lawn is mowed, the leaves are raked, the flowers are deadheaded …)!  In fact, I think I actually enjoy my hammock more in the fall than either spring or summer.   Fewer bugs, lower humidity, and cooler temperatures – I’ve even been known to snuggle under a blanket while enjoying a full moon or a beautiful starry night from the comfort of my hammock!

If you don’t already have one you should really consider investing in your leisure time.  And if you’re lucky enough to have a couple of trees 13′ – 17′ apart, you just need to purchase a hammock to hang in between and start relaxing.  Otherwise, hammock stands work great and easily move to the shade or the best location for stargazing!  (Pictured at right:  this hammock set comes with pillow, stand, and hammock! And right now get save 42% – it’s less than $ 200 for the set!)

You might be surprised how many different materials and styles are available.  Some are more durable, some are more comfortable, and some are better for small children.  Here’s a quick review to help you decide which hammock is best for you or the gift you need to buy:

• Rope hammocks are probably the most recognizable and most popular style (I love mine!).  All come with spreader bars at both ends that separate the sides of the hammock,  support the weight from the bed, and keep it open to make it easier to get in and out.  Cotton rope hammocks stretch and contour to the body which makes them a bit more comfortable.  However, they do absorb moisture so are more apt to mildew.  Polyester rope hammocks are a bit less flexible than cotton but more durable and less susceptible to mold and mildew (meaning they normally last a bit longer than cotton).  Rope hammocks are not recommended for small children because of the large spaces created by the weaving rope, which makes it easier to get a hand or small foot caught.

 

• Quilted hammocks are great for cooler climates and include spreader bars like rope hammocks.  They feel similar to a lightweight comforter with a fiberfill lining between two layers of fabric and are often reversible with different fabrics on each side.  Make sure the fabric is weather and fade resistant.  Since they don’t have gaps or holes, quilted hammocks are suitable for families.

 

• Mayan hammocks are brightly colored and hand woven with thin string.  Originating in Central America, Mayan hammocks are flexible yet still provide supportive.  Most styles do not have spreader bars and therefore, easily contour to the body shape.  If the string is cotton, it may not be very durable for outdoor use.  But because they are so lightweight, they are great for backpackers, campers, and maybe even small apartments and dorm rooms!  However, because of their intricate weave and the thin materials, they can be more easily damaged.

 

• Brazilian hammocks are made from cotton fibers and woven very tightly into a think fabric that may be more suitable for cooler climates (minimal air flows through the material).  They are great for families with children since they are solid with no gaps.  They are available with or without spreader bars and usually come in a variety of colors and sometimes fringe!

 

• Nicaraguan hammocks have a double weave using soft spun cotton cords that are durable and more difficult to snag.  Usually availalble without spreader bars, these hammocks allow good air flow but can still be damaged with sharp objects, buttons or snaps on clothing.  They’re usable indoors and outdoors but should not be kept outside when not in use.

 

• Poolside hammocks are very durable, especially in salt water or high humidity areas.  Specifically made for outdoor use, they’re resistant to fading and less susceptible to mold/mildew.  Because of their high durability, you may not think they are as comfortable as other spreader-bar styles (like rope or quilted styles).  Most poolside fabrics easily clean with soap and water.

 

• Camping or travel hammocks are typically hung between two trees but some are available with a built-in stand.  Materials are extremely durable, portable, and lightweight (like parachute nylon) so are perfect for camping or enjoying the great outdoors.  For even more protection, you may want to select one that has a mosquito net.  Some styles even come with a backpack for easy carrying.

Make it easy on yourself!  Take advantage of SALE prices and FREE GROUND SHIPPING now!  Click here for one stop shopping - choose your hammock from all the top manufacturers, many different colors, fabrics, and all the styles described above.   Check out all the different hammock stands or complete sets available now for your backyard retreat.  Order today and it ships tomorrow!  And what a great gift of leisure to give someone else.

Relaxing in a backyard hammock gets our green thumbs up!