There are several things, that will form a threat to the quality – hence safety – of your ropes, regardless if this is natural of synthetic rope. In general, natural rope is usually more vulnerable to threats, mentioned below.

 Knots - not many people are aware of the fact that a knot will reduce the strength of a rope by 40 to 50 percent! This is why you should avoid things like reef knots and instead use windings, hitches and weaving.

Sharp turns - pulling a rope through a hoop, ring or karabiner will create a “sharp turn”. When putting any strain on the rope, internal (kernel) fibers are likely to break. This is invisible damage that will reduce the strength of your rope dramatically. Avoid hooks, rings (including the infamous “bondage ring”), karabiners, etcetera as much as you can. Try to make sure any “turn” has an inside diameter of around 4 inches (10 cm).

45 or more degree angles - such angles (like the edges of beams) – create shaving. This works like a knife on your rope. Either avoid these or protect your rope by placing jute coverage over the sharp angle.

 Dirt – Even the tiniest grain of sand - once inside the kernel of your rope – will work like a tiny knife inside your ropes. When using ropes outside (for outdoor bondages for example) you will need to replace these ropes more often.

Germs feed on rope fibers (especially natural fibers). Wash your ropes regularly to avoid them being eaten from the inside.

UV rays - Prolonged exposure to sunlight will quickly reduce the strength of your fibers. This is especially true for synthetic ropes. Store your ropes in a dry, dark storage place.

Humidity - Humidity kills ropes! Especially natural ropes. This includes residue body fluids such as sweat and sexual fluids. Store your ropes in long, free hanging loops (do not coil them up of tie them in fancy patterns when storing!) so your ropes can dry fully in between sessions and after washing.

The above article is a reprint from our information/educational site Kink Culture.
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