How To Take Care Of Home Bungee Cords For Longevity

Bungee cords are one of those household items that you don't seem to think about until you absolutely need one, often hiding amongst your garage clutter. There's nothing worse than finally finding an available bungee cord, only for it to snap the second you expand it. Not only is it a massive inconvenience, it can lead to some serious injuries. But how can you avoid this? Just like any other tools that every homeowner should have, bungee cords need proper maintenance in order to remain safe and usable. With a bit of TLC, you can expand the lifespan of your bungee cords, keeping them ready for any home organization project.

Before tackling the care of your bungee cords, it's important to understand what exactly makes them snap, and how to avoid it. Bungee cords are made of a solid rubber core that is surrounded by a polypropylene sheath. When combined, the pair can sustain bulky weights and stretch to significant lengths. The capacity of each cord depends on the material and brand that you are using, but these limits are important to know in order to prevent snapping. Environmental conditions, overstretching, and going over the designated weight limit can all contribute to your bungee cords' short-lived use. If a bungee cord is exposed to sunlight over prolonged periods, it can become brittle due to UV degradation, making it more prone to snapping. Additionally, utilizing your bungee cords beyond their stretching and weight limits can also wear it down and cause unexpected snapping. With this in mind, there are a few helpful tips for maintaining your bungee cords, extending their lifespan in your home.

The best way to increase the lifespan of your bungee cords is proper storage. It not only helps keep your garage organized like a professional, but it can also eliminate potential hazards from your cords. Bungees should be kept in a cool, dry area of your home, as too much moisture or exposure to sunlight can quickly wear down the rubber. You should keep them in a temperature regulated garage or a dedicated storage bin for optimal protection. When putting them away, you want to remove any kinks or twists in the cords, as this can wear down your bungee cords. To avoid this, you can either lay them in a designated bin or hang them in an area that doesn't receive direct sunlight. With these simple storage practices, your bungee cords shouldn't wear down as much, protecting their longevity around your home.

Regular inspections and cleaning are also important for protecting your bungee cords. Thoroughly check them for any fraying, cracks, or deformities that may hinder their performance. If your cords start to look a bit questionable, it's better to simply replace them rather than risk accidents and injuries. With sustained checks, you should be able to eliminate any risk of snapping before using a damaged bungee cord. Furthermore, you should be regularly cleaning your bungee cords after every use, removing any dirt or debris before storing them. Whether you're using your bungee cords around the house or in a garden, they can quickly get pretty nasty, and if one gets wet, allow it to completely dry before putting it away to avoid mold growth.