How to Hang a Hammock Indoors for Maximum Relaxation

Life is stressful. Add some chill vibes by installing a hammock in your apartment. Plus, you don't have to worry about mosquitos or sunburn when swinging inside.

Bring the relaxing goodness of a hammock indoors by following a few simple installation steps. It's easier than you think to add this whimsical and functional piece to your space! In no time at all you'll be happily suspended and able to read, binge Netflix or take a nap all from the comfort of your climate-controlled home.

Choose your hammock

The comfort level of your hammock depends on how you're going to use it and when. If it's just for the occasional nap you don't need anything fancy. If you're planning to sleep in it night after night, which some people do, it's probably a good idea to spring for an extra-comfy model.

Hammocks come in a wide range of materials, including polyester, cotton, rope, quilted fabric and even parachute material. The great thing about indoor hammocks is that the elements aren't an issue, so you don't need to worry about durability as much.

If possible, try out a range of different hammocks to see what feels best to you. Some people like the security of a rope hammock, but others think they're too bulky and knotty. If firsthand use isn't an option, the safe bet is to choose a cotton hammock. These are especially popular because they are soft, strong, easy to clean and breathable. Plus, they come in attractive designs to complement all decor styles. Whichever style you're leaning toward, check online reviews for hits and misses.

Next, decide what type of indoor hammock you want. If the mounting process seems too daunting, a hammock stand is a great alternative. Be aware, however, that stands take up more space than wall-mounted versions. Stands are also not as easy to remove from the hooks and chuck in a closet if needed.

Steps to hang an indoor hammock

It's easy enough to hang an indoor hammock as long as you have a rudimentary understanding of home projects and how to work a power drill. Even if you don't, simply grab a handy friend and get to work! Before proceeding, review any instructions that came with your specific hammock.

1. Collect materials

Before buying anything extra, check the hammock you purchased for any included hardware. The vast majority of hammock installations require the following materials and tools:

• Power drill with bits
• Stud finder
• Measuring tape
• Pencil to mark for drill points
• Screw eyes
• Carabiners, short chains or s-hooks (up to 300 pounds)

Whatever you do, only use high-grade hanging hardware. You're risking a fall of only a few feet, but man, that can hurt.

2. Figure out where to hang it

Unless you're Smurf-sized, your hammock of choice is probably pretty big. So, it's necessary to find just the right place to hang it. This may require rearranging some existing furniture, but in the end, you'll have a hammock, so it'll be worth it!

Some things to consider:

• Add a minimum of two feet to the length of your chosen hammock. That's how much distance is necessary between wall mounts. For example, if the hammock is 10 feet long, make sure to have at least 12 feet of space between wall mounts. This way, your butt won't scrape the floor! If using a hammock made from extra-stretchy fabric, add more space.
• Find a wall stud for each end of the hammock to mount into. This is important so that the hammock actually stays securely mounted once it's up. Use your handy stud finder to do this, and don't be surprised if it “beeps" around any men in the room. This is a common defect reported by many wives, girlfriends and partners. You can also use two ceiling joists or solid wood posts, but studs are more plentiful in the average apartment.
• Make sure you're able to install the hammock at least four feet above the floor

3. Install the hardware

It sounds complicated, but it's really not that difficult to install an indoor hammock. Follow these basic steps to properly and safely install indoor hammock hardware:

1. Use the stud finder to locate studs at least four feet up on each wall. They run vertically, so if you find one at any height it should also be present at the four-foot mark.
2. Mark the center of the studs in pencil.
3. This is where it can vary, depending on provided hardware. The Home Depot suggests drilling a pilot hole for a screw eyes fastener at the center of the stud. They recommend a general-purpose ⅜-inch bit. Repeat on the other end.
4. Then, fasten the ends of the hammocks to the screw eyes hardware. To do this, you can use A-grade carabiners, short chains or S-hooks. Anything that can hold up to 300 pounds should do the trick safely.

4. Test and enjoy!

Now, pull a few times on the hammock ends near the hardware to ensure they stay in place. If they do, load up a few books or other semi-heavy items to make sure the hammock doesn't collapse under their weight. If everything seems nice and sound, hop on in and enjoy your new piece of furniture!

Happiness is a hammock

An hour or two of installation effort is all it takes to make an indoor hammock a reality. Now you'll be able to literally “hang out" anytime you want in this comfortable and unique accent piece.