Natural Ropes

What are the benefits and uses of natural rope?

Before the introduction of synthetic ropes (like our polypropylene ropes), natural ropes such as cotton, hemp and manila were the standard materials used for many industries – and they’re still widely used today. Natural ropes are used for decking, decorative work, cat-scratching posts, gardening, farming, clothing, manufacturing and much more. 

These natural fibre ropes are eco-friendly and biodegradable, meaning they will eventually naturally decompose. Our plant-sourced ropes can be used both inside and outside, but we recommend they are treated for outdoor use to get the most durability out of them. This is because ropes made from natural fibres can shrink in length and expand in girth when wet, so it’s best to order more than required and leave a little slack in the rope. 

Exposure to the elements will also eventually lead them to deteriorate if left untreated. We therefore advise treating them with a water repellent spray or decking oil before use as a decking rope and not to drill the posts until your rope has been received, as they can often measure thicker than stated. Once treated, a natural rope can last for years before needing to be replaced, even with regular outdoor use.

Frequently asked questions about natural rope

What’s the longest lasting natural rope?

Manila rope and natural sisal rope are both very strong natural materials, but manila in particular can be very long-lasting without treatment because of the natural oils used in its production. Manila is also very resistant to rot compared to other natural ropes, so it’s a great choice for outdoor use (e.g. for gardening). However, manila rope is also quite rough in the hands and has quite a strong odour. Sisal rope is odourless but it has to be treated if being used outdoors.

What is the strongest natural rope?

Manila and sisal are the strongest natural fibre ropes on the market. Our manila ropes and sisal ropes are extremely strong, durable, thick and sturdy, making them historically the type of rope that would be used on ships and for lifting applications. However, these days manila and sisal are used more for decorative applications such as garden decking and barrier rope, and untreated sisal rope is often used for cat scratchers, pet toys and general DIY applications.

How long does natural rope last?

Although natural ropes generally don’t last as long as synthetic ropes, you can still get plenty of use out of them. If you look after them well and treat them before using them outside, your natural ropes should last for a few years, even with regular use. Once you notice excessive fraying and stretching, you’ll know it’s time to replace your rope before it breaks.