Aerial Silks: Proper Drying Methods, Safety, and Longevity

How Do You Dry Aerial Silks?

Properly drying aerial silks is crucial for maintaining their structural integrity, safety, and longevity, primarily involving air-drying methods away from direct heat sources to preserve the fabric's strength and elasticity.

Importance of Proper Drying

Aerial silks, typically made from high-strength polyester or nylon tricot, are subjected to significant dynamic forces and friction during use. Over time, they accumulate sweat, oils, and dirt, necessitating regular cleaning. However, the drying process is equally, if not more, critical than washing. Improper drying can lead to:

• Degradation of Fabric Fibers: High heat, such as from a clothes dryer or direct sunlight, can weaken the synthetic fibers, reducing the fabric's tensile strength and elasticity. This significantly compromises the safety of the apparatus.
• Mildew and Mold Growth: Leaving silks damp can foster the growth of mold and mildew, which not only causes an unpleasant odor but also degrades the fabric, creating weak spots and posing health risks.
• Unpleasant Odor: Residual moisture promotes bacterial growth, leading to persistent, sour odors.
• Reduced Lifespan: Consistent improper drying accelerates wear and tear, shortening the usable life of the silks.

Pre-Drying Considerations

Before drying, ensure your silks have been properly cleaned. Most aerial silks are machine washable on a gentle cycle with a mild, pH-neutral detergent, or hand-washed.

• Remove Hardware: Always remove all rigging hardware (carabiners, swivels, figure-8 descenders) before washing and drying to prevent damage to both the hardware and the fabric.
• Gentle Spin Cycle: If machine washing, use a gentle spin cycle to remove as much excess water as possible. This significantly reduces drying time. Avoid aggressive wringing if hand-washing, as this can stretch or damage the fabric.
• Check for Damage: While the silks are wet, take the opportunity to inspect them thoroughly for any signs of wear, tears, snags, or thinning. This is a critical safety check.

Recommended Drying Methods

The safest and most effective method for drying aerial silks is air drying. This process is gentle on the fibers and helps maintain the fabric's strength and elasticity.

Air Drying (Preferred Method)

1. Choose a Suitable Location: Select a clean, well-ventilated area indoors or in a shaded outdoor space. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause UV degradation and fade the fabric. Garages, basements with good airflow, or large rooms are ideal.
2. Hang Properly:
   • Lengthwise Hanging: The most effective method is to hang the silks fully extended from a sturdy, clean support, such as a clothesline, a large curtain rod, or a dedicated drying rack. Ensure the support can bear the wet weight of the silks.
   • Multiple Hanging Points: If possible, drape the silks over multiple points or a wide bar to maximize airflow and prevent creasing or concentrated stress on a single point.
   • Avoid Bunching: Do not pile or bunch the silks, as this traps moisture and prolongs drying time.
3. Ensure Good Airflow:
   • Open Windows: If indoors, open windows to facilitate natural air circulation.
   • Use Fans: Position oscillating fans to direct airflow towards the silks. This significantly speeds up the drying process by evaporating moisture more quickly.
4. Flip and Rotate: Periodically rotate or flip the silks, especially if they are draped, to ensure even drying of all surfaces.
5. Patience is Key: Air drying can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the humidity, temperature, and airflow in your drying environment. Do not rush the process.

Dehumidifier (Supplemental)

In humid environments or during colder months, a dehumidifier can be an excellent addition to your air-drying setup.

• Placement: Place the dehumidifier in the room where the silks are drying.
• Benefit: It extracts moisture from the air, creating a drier environment that accelerates evaporation from the silks.

Avoidance of Heat Drying

Never use a machine dryer or apply direct heat to aerial silks. This includes:

• Tumble Dryers: The high heat and tumbling action of a clothes dryer will severely damage the synthetic fibers, reducing their strength, elasticity, and overall lifespan.
• Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can degrade the fabric's polymers, leading to premature weakening and discoloration.
• Heaters or Radiators: Placing silks directly on or next to a space heater or radiator can cause localized overheating and fiber damage.

Signs Your Silks Are Dry

It is crucial to ensure the silks are completely dry before storage or re-rigging.

• Feel: The fabric should feel completely dry to the touch throughout its entire length, with no cool or damp spots.
• Smell: There should be no musty or damp odor. A clean, fresh scent indicates proper drying.
• Weight: The silks should feel light, returning to their normal dry weight.

Storage After Drying

Once completely dry, store your aerial silks properly to maintain their condition:

• Cool, Dry Place: Store them in a cool, dry, and dark environment to prevent moisture absorption and UV exposure.
• Breathable Bag: Use a breathable fabric bag (e.g., cotton or mesh) rather than an airtight plastic container, which can trap any residual moisture.
• Avoid Compression: Store them loosely folded or coiled to avoid unnecessary compression or creasing.

Frequency of Cleaning and Drying

The frequency of cleaning and drying depends on usage intensity and personal preference, but general guidelines suggest:

• Personal Use: Every 1-3 months, or sooner if they become noticeably dirty or sweaty.
• Studio Use (Shared Silks): More frequent cleaning is often necessary, sometimes weekly or bi-weekly, depending on traffic and studio policies.

Safety and Material Integrity

The integrity of your aerial silks is directly linked to your safety. Proper drying is not merely a matter of hygiene or aesthetics; it is a fundamental aspect of equipment maintenance that directly impacts the load-bearing capacity and reliability of the fabric. By following these guidelines, you ensure your aerial silks remain strong, safe, and ready for your next training session.