How to Hang a Mayan Hammock

Mayan hammocks have very different hanging requirements from the more commonly observed rope and bar hammocks. Following the guide lines below will ensure a safe installation and hours of unbelievable comfort.

How to Hang a Hammock Properly

At each end of the Mayan hammock are loops, called the eyes of the hammock. These loops should be 5 or 6 feet above the ground when the Mayan hammock is installed properly. The distance between supports can be about a foot less than the length of the hammock. For most Mayan sizes, this will mean 11-13 feet. If you have more distance, that is great. Use adjusting bars, and attach the hammock a little higher off the ground. The greater the hanging distance, the higher the attachment points must be. The hammock should hang in a catenary droop with the bottom about 2-3 feet above the ground. The best installations space the supports a little wider than the minimum, and take up the difference with the use of rope. This allows you to adjust easily for stretching.

A Special Tip : The first time you set up your Mayan hammock, hang it, then sit on it, unopened … and bounce your full weight a few times to test the installation and stretch the weave.

From Hammock Stands

If you have one of those typical low hammock stands that fit your old bar hammock. Forget about it. It just will not work. You will need a stand that is taller.

From Trees

Use "Tree Huggers", straps, or a strong rope tied around the tree trunk. Screwing hardware into trees is ill advised. Tree trunks or branches used to support hammocks should generally be at least 6 "to 8" in diameter to support the weight at the attachment height. If you use rope, be sure you know your knots, or you will get to know the ground!

From Posts

Set 10 'pressure-treated 4 "x4" or larger posts firmly in the ground approximately 12 -15 feet apart, depending on the hammock size. Bury the posts at least 3 feet in the ground, surrounding them with concrete, and allow the concrete to cure two or three days before using the hammock. Install 3/8 inch diameter 4 1/2 inch long lag eye screws in the posts for hammock attach points.

Inside Your Home

Locate a stud or beam by tapping the wall or ceiling or by using a stud-finder. You will hear a solid sound when you hit one. Hammer a small nail or drill with a narrow bit to make absolutely certain you're directly on the stud or beam. Locate the center of the beam by tapping additional holes to the left and right of the first one. Once properly located, drill a 1/4 "starter hole, then attach a heavy-duty 3/8" eye lag screw. Then use S hooks and poly rope to attach hammock. You MUST hang your hammock from a structural member such as a wall stud, ceiling beam, or concrete wall, etc. Never try to hang a hammock from plaster or wall board!

One Final Word: TEST BEFORE YOU REST!