Complete Hammock FAQ - Hammocks, hammock stands, chairs and accessories shipped worldwide

• What type of hammock is best?
We carry a wide variety of hammocks and each has their own unique features. The best place to start is by viewing our “quick buying guide” below.

Hammock Buying Guide

View Rope Hammocks
View Mayan Hammocks
View Brazilian Hammocks
View Nicaraguan Hammocks
View Poolside Hammocks
View Camping Hammocks
View Quilted Fabric Hammocks
View Hammock / Stand Combo

• Spreader bars or no?
This is a question of personal taste. Spreader bars are usually found on rope hammocks. They are usually made of wood and serve to keep the hammock open at both ends. They can enhance the look of a hammock (beautiful traditional style), however, they can also more prone to tipping.

• Can I use my hammock as a bed? Which hammocks are best for sleeping in?
Absolutely! Millions around the world use hammocks as beds every night. We recommend sticking to non-spreader bar hammocks as beds (in case of sleep movement). In particular, Mayan hammocks make the most comfortable beds (sponge effect). The Mayan people have used them as beds for generations.

Returns and Guarantees

• Do you offer product guarantees?
We are proud of the durable materials and quality craftsmanship in all our products and guarantee them from manufacturer defects for 1 year. This does not include negligent use of our products. Should you wish to return a product, please send us an email at info@hammockuniverse.com (please include reason(s) for return), we will reply with specific instructions promptly. In the case of a manufacturer defect, we will take care of all costs incurred, including shipping.

• Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee?
Yes. We offer a 30-day return guarantee. If you are not satisfied with your product(s), you can return or exchange them within 30 days of receipt as long as the item is returned in new; unused and resalable condition inside its original packaging.
Should you wish to return an order, send us an email at info@hammockuniverse.com (please include reason(s) for return), we will reply with specific instructions promptly. Please note that the customer will be responsible for return shipping costs incurred.

Ordering from Hammock Universe

• Why order from Hammock Universe?
Since 2001, we've exceeded customer expectations throughout the world with our:

Service
We are not a huge Corporation that will treat you like a number. Customer service with us is fast, friendly and personal. No call centres here!

Reliability
We don't just say it; we mean it: at Hammock Universe, your satisfaction matters. Because we're a smaller people-friendly business, we're always willing to adhere to special requests (i.e. custom hammocks; local deliveries, etc.)

Better Products
We only sell top quality hammocks (and we're VERY discriminating!). That way, we're comfortable (no pun intended) saying that we only offer the best hammocks out there.

Better Prices
We're serious about offering the best value-for-money products. We do regular price research to ensure our prices can't be beaten. We offer a best price guarantee.

Our Hammock Philosophy
Our job is easy. We know it - hammocks are an easy sell. In our hectic lives, they provide a comfort cocoon that melts away stress and regenerates us in a way nothing else can.

• Which payment methods are accepted?
- Visa
- MasterCard
- PayPal (includes direct bank transfer, AMEX, Discover Card, etc.)
- Cheque or Money Order (if you wish to pay by cheque or money order, please call 613-686-5619 or email info@hammockuniverse.com for instructions)

• Do you Charge Sales Tax?
- Ontario Residents: 5% GST, 7% PST (no PST on shipping)
- Canadian Residents outside Ontario: 5% GST
- United States – No Sales Tax
- International – No Sales Tax

Maintaining and caring for your Hammock & Accessories

• How long will my hammock last?
This depends on many factors such as the type of hammock and how well you take care of it. With minimal care (taking it indoors during bad weather conditions) – our hammocks (regardless of the type) should last for many years.

• Do I need to bring my hammock in when it rains?
In order to maximize the lifespan of your hammock, we recommend taking it inside during bad weather conditions. Certain materials such as cotton can attract mildew and will eventually rot (in the long term) if left out in the rain. Alternatively, some hammock protection can be used to protect your hammock from the elements.

• Washing and storing your hammock without spreader bars
Machine Washing:
Tie ends together with string just below the end loops. Tie hammock again at the other end, and once more in the middle. This will prevent tangling. Put the hammock in a pillow case and tie it closed tightly. Use mild detergent, not bleach. Hang hammock to dry quickly after wash.

Hand Washing:
Tie ends together with string just below the end loops. Tie hammock again at the other end, and once more in the middle. This will prevent tangling. In bathtub or a large sink, immerse your hammock in a water/mild detergent mixture (do not use bleach). Agitate the hammock until clean. Hang hammock to dry quickly after wash.

• Washing and storing your hammock with spreader bars
Lay your hammocks on a flat surface (driveway or deck) – clean with water and mild detergent using soft bristle brush. Hang your hammock immediately after wash for quick drying.

• My stand wiggles a little; does that mean it’s defective?
No. Stands are made to wiggle to allow for hammock motion.

• What to do if my hammock stand begins to rust?
Although made to resist rust, stands can eventually (in the long term) show scratches and begin to rust. To correct, sand it down and repaint it.

Hanging your Hammock

• Hanging Instructions

Mayan Hammocks

- Getting Into your Mayan Hammock: NEVER climb in feet first. Sit with your back to the hammock, as if you were sitting on a chair. Reach behind you and spread out the hammock before sitting (this will ensure you make full use of the space and your weight is distributed evenly). Now sit, lay back and relax.

- Finding an Angle: The most comfortable way to enjoy your Mayan hammock is to lay at an angle. This ensures better distribution of weight, lessening tension, and greater back support. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite position.

Mayan Hammocks

- Hanging Indoors: Hang hammock from wall studs or ceiling beams. Find center of stud or beam and screw in hooks with a power drill. Ropes or chains can be used to compensate for extra distance. Never hang loops end directly from hanging hook. Suggested distance is 12+ feet.

- Hanging Outdoors: Can be hung from trees, strong fence posts, side of garage, patio beams, etc… Hammock should be hung about 6 feet from the ground. Use rope or chain to compensate for extra distance. Never hang loops end directly from hanging hook. Suggested distance is 12+ feet.

- Mayan Hammock Care

* Hand wash in mild detergent
* Always tie up arms to avoid tangles
* To store hammock, hang both ends from one hook on the wall, or fold and store (fig. 1)
* Never hang hammock directly on hooks as friction may occur. Instead, loop a chain or rope from a hook through the loop end of the hammock (fig. 2)
* Should a string break on a hammock, tie the 2 broken ends to avoid the development of a hole

Mayan Hammocks

Rope Hammocks

- Rope Hammock Care

While our rope hammocks are made to be thoroughly enjoyed indoors and especially outdoors, like all things natural the spreaders are eventually susceptible to the elements. It's a good idea to wax them regularly, to help prevent moisture from affecting the wood and to extend the beauty of the spreaders. In addition, since sharp-toothed animals are everywhere, count them among the elements! Some have a predilection for hammock cord to line their nests, or simply to have something to chew on. So when hanging or storing your hammock, make sure it is out of reach of such animals.

- Hanging your Rope Hammock

The hammock should be strung between two solid support structures preferably the length of the hammock apart or slightly more, but a little less is doable. Solid support structures include strong trees, sturdy well-secured posts, and a portable hammock stand. Our stands are 2 or 3 feet longer than the hammocks, and come with chains to bridge the gap.

Always ensure that the hammock is securely attached. This means, if you're using hooks to attach to a tree, turn the hooks deep into the wood, not just into the bark of the tree. Since every good hammock has a little "give" when you lie in it, install the hooks about 4 feet from the ground to avoid "scraping bottom". You can also adjust the tightness of the hammock: the tighter it's stretched, the higher you stay off the ground. Always ensure that the hammock is safely located. This means that you should not hang it too close to the edge of your deck or any other precipice, or anywhere someone might get hurt after getting out in an uncontrolled fashion.

Brazilian Hammocks

- Brazilian Hammock Care

Our Brazilian hammocks can be left outdoors, but will fade like that comfortable pair of jeans with the sun. Your hammock should not be put away wet… avoid mildew! Hand wash with mild detergent and hang dry… no machine washing of drying, please!

- Hanging

Hang with a deep " U " curve and lay diagonally in the Brazilian Style.

• How much space do I need to hang my hammock?
The optimum distance for hanging a hammock is 10-15 feet. If the distance is LESS than that, it will be necessary to raise the location of the hooks. If the trees are MORE than the recommended distance, you can compensate with one of our Hammock Hanging Accessories. Our flexible Hammock Stands are also a good option. Hanging distance needed for specific hammocks will be visible on the product screen when selecting your hammock (also shown in the graph below).

• What height do I need to hang my hammock?

Hammock Height Hanging Guide

RED: Not Recommended

* Distance measured from loop end to loop end.

• What is my hammock’s weight capacity?
That depends on the hammock. Weight capacities are listed for all our individual hammocks in their descriptions. At the minimum, our hammocks can support one very large adult (often many more).

• Will hooks damage my trees?
Not likely, however, we recommend not taking the risk if you care about your trees. Instead of leaving holes in your trees, consider using Hammock Hanging Accessories.

• How to Install Posts
These supports can be metal or wooden poles. The poles must be buried in the ground to a depth of 1.5 to 2 feet. Additionally, the support poles should be cemented following the package instructions for the cement mixture.

• How do I hang my swing?
Hang from a solid beam. Ensure the structure should be solid and able to hold a large weight capacity.

Shipping

• How much is shipping ?
Incredibly, our FREE SHIPPING is applicable for all orders to the Continental USA and Canada.

• Where do you ship?
The answer is simple: anywhere in the world. All shipments are tracked and fully insured to guarantee delivery.

• Which shipping companies are used?
We only use the most reliable companies that provide accurate tracking information. At present, we use mostly FedEx. Canada Post and UPS are used on occasion (in areas FedEx does not deliver).

• Are orders tracked and insured?
Absolutely. Once the product leaves our warehouse, you will be sent a tracking number by email. All shipments are fully insured (we cover the cost of the insurance) and tracked to guarantee delivery.

• What are your delivery times?
During the checkout process, you will see the shipping options displayed - you will then be prompted to select your preferred shipping option (price and shipping speed comparisons will be displayed). All orders are shipped quickly –same or next day.

• Do you charge handling fees?
Absolutely not.

• I live in the USA; will I be charged custom duties?
Thanks to the free trade agreement between Canada and the US, custom duties are not charged to residents of the United States. We ensure that all necessary paperwork is taken care of to prevent customs duties being charged.

• I live in the USA; will I be charged sales tax on my order?
No. Regardless of your state, residents of the United States are not charged any tax. This is a great incentive to buy from us.

Privacy

• Are transactions on Hammock Universe secured?
Hammock Universe is an authentic SSL secure site.

We have taken great pains to ensure that any private information you provide us when placing your order is processed securely. All of your information, including your credit card number, name and address is encrypted with SSL (Secure Socket Layer) technology as it travels through the Internet. Therefore, even if the information is intercepted along the way, it appears as meaningless, undecipherable "jumble".

For example, a credit card number would have an undecipherable look such as: $#*(&!(~~***^B)&%*.

• How will you use my personal information?
We appreciate your patronage and respect your right to privacy. Any information you give us is used to process your order; reply to your questions and improve our website. We will not share it with anyone for any reason.

• Have another question? Contact Us
Please do not hesitate to contact us at:

Hammock Universe (Division of B&L Distribution E-Com)
1650 Greywood Drive (Hammock Universe is an Internet only store - no retail outlet exists at this location.)
Ottawa, ON
K1C 7L9
Canada

Email inquiries should be sent to info@hammockuniverse.com.

You can also phone us at 1-613-686-5619; however, the ideal way to communicate with us is by email.

We make it a point to respond to all inquiries promptly.

Please note that HammockUniverse.com is an Internet-only store - Local orders should be completed via out website. Shipping is fast (1 or 2 business days), reliable and FREE.

About Us | Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Sitemap

See all our Product Reviews