Rope is something most of us have around the house, but either it mysteriously disappears when we need it, or we overlook its many uses.
It’s especially handy for backyard living and for hauling stuff. Rope is great for camping, too, whether it’s tying down a tent, marking your site with a colorful one or using a clothesline for drying towels.
“Clothesline is the top-selling type of rope, without a doubt,” says Jamie McGlumphy, product manager for the Lehigh Group, which manufactures ropes of all kinds. “We’ve found that more than 43 percent of Americans dry their laundry on a clothesline or drying rack.”
Here’s how to get the right rope for the job you have in mind.
Sisal
Good for: Gardening
The natural fiber knots well (ideal for staking tomatoes and other plants) and resists sunlight. Also use for bundling, impromptu napkin rings and craft projects. For example, you can wind it around vases.
100 feet of 1/4-inch rope, $6
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Polypropylene/polyester mix
Good for: Clothesline
Durable yet flexible and holds knots well. Remember to check with your city and homeowners association about whether outdoor clotheslines are allowed.
100 feet of 3/16-inch rope, $5
Braided nylon
Good for: Hammocks and tree swings
It’s a helpful material in backyard spots because it resists abrasion, sunlight damage, rot and mildew.
50 feet of 3/8-inch rope, $12
Twisted polypropylene
Good for: Water sports
For pools, tubing or towing water skiers, the rope is lightweight, floats and holds knots well without slipping.
100 feet of 1/4-inch rope, $10
Braided poly
Good for: Camping
Tie down tents with ground stakes and these ropes. It is resistant to rot, mildew, oil, acid and sunlight.
50 feet of 5/16-inch rope, $5
Rope storage
Cool, dry place
Off the floor
Out of children’s reach