How To Clean Climbing Harness?

Keeping Your Ascent Safe: How To Clean a Climbing Harness

Ever wonder how to properly care for the gear that keeps you safe hundreds of feet in the air? A clean climbing harness isn’t just about appearances; it’s about maintaining its integrity and ensuring your safety. Dirt, grime, and even seemingly harmless substances can degrade the materials over time, compromising its strength. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about how to clean a climbing harness, extending its lifespan and keeping your climbs secure. We’ll cover everything from quick wipe-downs to more thorough cleaning procedures, and what to avoid to prevent damage.

Quick Answer: To clean a climbing harness, hand wash it with mild soap and lukewarm water, rinse thoroughly, and air dry away from direct sunlight or heat. Avoid harsh chemicals, washing machines, and dryers, as these can damage the webbing and hardware.

Takeaway:

Regularly inspect your harness for damage.
Clean your harness after heavy use or exposure to dirt/chemicals.
Always air dry your harness completely before storing.

Why Cleaning Your Climbing Harness Matters

Think of your climbing harness as a critical piece of life-support equipment. It’s designed to withstand immense forces, but its performance relies on the integrity of its materials. Regular cleaning removes abrasive dirt and grime that can wear down the nylon or Dyneema webbing. Beyond abrasion, substances like chalk, sweat, and even sunscreen can break down the fibers over time. A well-maintained harness is a safe harness, and a little preventative care goes a long way.

Understanding Your Harness Materials

Before you start cleaning, it’s important to understand what your harness is made of. Most harnesses are constructed from nylon webbing, but some use higher-performance materials like Dyneema or Spectra. The buckles and adjusters are typically made of metal (usually aluminum alloy). Knowing these materials will help you choose the right cleaning methods.

Nylon: Durable and relatively easy to clean, but susceptible to UV damage and degradation from certain chemicals.
Dyneema/Spectra: Extremely strong and lightweight, but can be more sensitive to abrasion and heat.
Metal: Generally corrosion-resistant, but can still benefit from occasional cleaning to remove dirt and grime.

Gathering Your Cleaning Supplies

You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to clean your climbing harness. In fact, keeping it simple is best. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mild Soap: Dish soap or a specialized gear cleaner (like Nikwax Tech Wash) works well. Avoid harsh detergents or bleach.
Lukewarm Water: Hot water can damage the webbing.
Soft Brush: An old toothbrush or a soft nylon brush is ideal for scrubbing.
Clean Cloths: For wiping and drying.
Large Basin or Tub: To soak and wash the harness.

The Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Now, let’s get down to the actual cleaning. This process is designed to be gentle yet effective.

Inspection: Before you begin, thoroughly inspect your harness for any signs of damage, such as cuts, abrasions, or frayed webbing. If you find any damage, do not use the harness and consider replacing it.
Prepare the Wash: Fill your basin or tub with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild soap. Mix well to create a soapy solution.
Soak the Harness: Submerge the harness in the soapy water and let it soak for 15-30 minutes. This will help loosen dirt and grime.
Gentle Scrubbing: Use your soft brush to gently scrub the webbing, buckles, and adjusters. Pay particular attention to areas that are heavily soiled. Don’t scrub too hard, as this can damage the fibers.
Rinse Thoroughly: Remove the harness from the soapy water and rinse it thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water. Make sure to remove all traces of soap. Residual soap can attract dirt and grime.
Air Dry: This is crucial! Lay the harness flat on a clean surface or hang it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. Direct sunlight and heat can damage the webbing. Allow the harness to air dry completely before storing it.

Dealing with Stubborn Stains and Smells

Sometimes, a simple wash isn’t enough. Here’s how to tackle stubborn stains and smells:

Chalk: Use a damp cloth to wipe away excess chalk. For stubborn chalk residue, try a mild solution of vinegar and water.
Sweat: Sweat can cause odors and degrade the webbing. Soaking the harness in a solution of water and baking soda can help neutralize odors.
Sunscreen/Bug Spray: These can be particularly damaging. Try to remove them as soon as possible with a mild soap and water solution. If the stain persists, consult a gear specialist.
Mold/Mildew: If you suspect mold or mildew, clean the harness with a specialized mold and mildew remover designed for outdoor gear. Follow the product instructions carefully. You might also consider taking it to a professional gear cleaning service.

What Not To Do When Cleaning Your Harness

Avoiding these mistakes will help you preserve the life and safety of your harness.

Don’t Use a Washing Machine: The agitation and heat can damage the webbing and hardware.
Don’t Use a Dryer: Heat is the enemy of nylon and Dyneema.
Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, strong detergents, and solvents can weaken the webbing.
Don’t Iron the Harness: Heat, again, is a no-go.
Don’t Store a Damp Harness: This can lead to mold and mildew growth.

Harness Storage Best Practices

Proper storage is just as important as cleaning. Here’s how to keep your harness in top condition when it’s not in use:

Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your harness in direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or humid environments.
Hang or Lay Flat: Avoid folding the harness tightly, as this can create creases and weaken the webbing.
Keep Away from Chemicals: Store your harness away from solvents, oils, and other chemicals that could damage it.
Regular Inspections: Even when stored, periodically inspect your harness for any signs of damage.

FAQ: Your Climbing Harness Cleaning Questions Answered

How often should I clean my climbing harness? Clean your harness after every few uses, or more frequently if it gets heavily soiled.
Can I use a gear wash specifically designed for outdoor equipment? Yes, gear washes like Nikwax Tech Wash are excellent choices for cleaning climbing harnesses.
What if my harness smells even after cleaning? Try soaking it in a solution of water and baking soda overnight.
Is it okay to use a toothbrush to clean the buckles? Yes, a soft-bristled toothbrush is perfect for cleaning buckles and hard-to-reach areas.
How long does it take for a climbing harness to dry completely? Depending on the humidity and ventilation, it can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours for a harness to dry completely.
Can I use a steam cleaner on my harness? No, the heat from a steam cleaner can damage the webbing.

Conclusion: A Safe Climb Starts with a Clean Harness

Cleaning your climbing harness is a simple yet vital part of maintaining your safety and extending the life of your gear. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your harness remains in top condition, allowing you to focus on the climb ahead. Remember to inspect your harness regularly, clean it after use, and store it properly. A little preventative care can make all the difference between a thrilling ascent and a dangerous situation. So, take the time to clean your climbing harness – your safety depends on it!