Slings
There are many factors that affect the service life of a sling, including everything from weather and storage conditions to frequency of use and handling. Because of this, it is impossible to calculate a definitive service life expectancy. Figure A serves as a general guideline for when to replace your sling, however it is extremely important to perform a thorough regular check and take into account the stresses and exposures your sling is subjected to.
Learn more about how to check your sling below.
A regular and thorough check of your slings is a must to ensure they are safe to use. Replace a sling immediately if:
- It sustains a heavy fall (extreme mechanical load).
- The 'indicator' color-contrast core shows through.
- The stitching or webbing is damaged.
- It is heavily and irreversibly soiled (e.g. with grease or oil).
- It was exposed to extreme heat or friction and shows signs of fusing or melting.
Hand wash your slings in lukewarm water using a touch of mild detergent or soap. Be sure to rinse well and hang it to dry, away from the sun. You can also machine wash your slings using a gentle wool wash cycle. An additional rinse cycle is recommended. Do not tumble dry. Do not dry clean.
Store your slings in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from sunlight, chemicals, and heat sources. Do not store in a sealed container.