Hammocks are perfect bed substitutes generally used outdoors for relaxation and have become synonymous with holiday fun on beaches, in camps and treks and even for picnics. A necessity for survival a couple of thousand years ago in damp, insect infected areas, hammocks have become a fashionable fad simply because of the comfort they offer besides being so convenient to use. A hammock is a simple, raised bed that is made out of fabric or rope and hung like a sling a few feet above the ground. Used for centuries in tropical regions and countries like Venezuela, Mexico and Brazil, the hammock has had diverse uses, and has evolved in design for each specific environment. It has served as a safe crib for babies in the midst of open fields, as a bed inside homes, as a sleeping place outdoors on treks, camps, picnics, on the beach, not to mention one’s own backyard and garden.
Over the years hammocks have become popular beyond doubt but this has also led to many myths being attached to them, most of which are far removed from reality. Myths about hammocks have also been perpetuated from generation to generation and though many defy all kinds of logical reasoning, they are difficult to shake off. However, it is important to reveal the reality that is in sharp contrast to the myth. The following are some of the most common myths associated with hammocks:
• Hammocks are meant for lazy people. This is just not true since hammocks serve everyone. People, who go on long treks down treacherous paths or go for rock climbing or mountain climbing expeditions, are far from lazy and yet use hammocks for sleep. Hammocks are merely an accessory for relaxation. They may just as well be suited for lazy afternoons but that does not restrict their usage.
• Hammocks are not safe. Nothing could be farthest from the truth. Hammocks are so safe that they are used for babies in open areas. This myth may have started due to a specific company designing a particular hammock that may have proved unsafe, but almost all other hammocks are so safe that an entire night can be spent in them and falling from them with their raised sides is virtually impossible. They are protective rather than unsafe.
• Cotton hammocks are the best. While cotton hammocks may be the most popular they cannot be rated as the best since rope hammocks and the modern ones made out of duracord have far more advantages that cotton hammocks do not have. Cotton hammocks are often not the final choice since they are not durable, fade easily and are not quick drying. They also become high maintenance and less portable.
• Hammocks can be left hung forever. This again is not correct since the durability of the hammock depends on how it is kept. Hammocks that are left hung outdoors are constantly exposed to the elements and this will weaken the rope or fabric and its constant exposure to the sun will make it less strong and firm. They would also get wet in the rain, fade under the sun and get flown by the wind.
• Hammocks are meant exclusively for outdoors. This is not rue from the time they were invented. Since the earliest times Venezuelans have used hammocks to raise entire families in them. They even have hooks permanently pushed into walls to hang them. Hammocks are great indoors as well and it is not unusual to find them in bedrooms replacing the bed, or can be found hung in corners devoted to reading and relaxation.
• Hammocks are expensive. Many people do not even consider buying hammocks since they have this notion that they are expensive. While some very expensive hammocks are available but a whole range of hammocks are available at very cheap rates. It is not difficult to find a hammock for as little as $15. Some of the cheapest hammocks are available online and discounts are frequently available.
These myths defy logical reasoning but do detract from the further popularity of the hammock. It is important to delve deeper into the truth before blindly believing a myth about a hammock.