It’s not unusual for the average person to have a box or drawer of items that they don’t really use, but also don’t want to throw away. That could be because there’s still something those items can be used for down the line.
If this box is in your garage, then it more than likely contains a few tie down straps that you’ve been using for years. Perhaps you have already replaced your tie downs, but the used ones are not worn enough to warrant being tossed out. Are there other, less strenuous uses for slightly worn ratchet straps?
Fun Ways to Repurpose Old Tie Downs
At their optimal strength, tie down straps are used to secure loads to trucks, trailers and any other cargo vehicles. Using the correct type of ratchet strap will ensure that your load remains secure during transit which in turn also keeps everyone around you safe from falling items.
However, if you use tie down straps all the time, or more than the average person, then you know that they often need to be replaced to avoid tearing or snapping. Instead of throwing them out, you may consider reusing the older straps for other purposes. Here are a few ideas.
Use Them to Make a Hammock
If you like to spend time in the outdoors, just relaxing on a hammock and reading a good book, then you’ll like this first idea. Use your older ratchet straps to secure your hammock to two sturdy trees and eliminate the risk of a rope snapping or coming loose.
Alternatively, if you don’t have a hammock, you can easily make one out of a blanket and two tie down straps. You can also use a piece of heavy-duty netting if you prefer. Creating a makeshift hammock is also an excellent way to keep gear and supplies off the ground when you’re out camping.
Create a Light Line
Still on the subject of camping…tie down straps also make excellent light lines. This is a line that you create between two trees on your camping site. Use this line to hang a lantern or two, to have light in the camp at night.
Doing this ensures that small children aren’t left feeling scared in the dark, especially if this is their first camping experience. If you have more than one tent to set up, be sure to arrange them in a circle around the centre of the camp. Hang your light line off to the side furthest from the fire.
It’s a good idea to speak to your tie down strap supplier about a few tree protectors. These will ensure that you don’t damage any trees when you lace the straps around their trunk. Our experts recommend using these when you secure your hammock to the tree as well.
Tie Down Loose Items on Your Ute
Going to pick up a few loose items from a friend’s place or even the store? Instead of trying to get everything to fit into the front of your Ute (utility vehicle/pickup truck), it may be a good idea to secure the items with one of your recyclable ratchet straps.
If the items are in bags, you can easily thread the straps through the openings of the bags and then secure them to your Ute or truck. In this instance, it’s best to opt for strong, durable bags that won’t get torn easily.
Use Them to Secure DIY Projects
No matter what type of DIY projects you like doing, two hands aren’t always enough. If you have large items that need to be secured or held in place while work is being done to another part of the material, it’s a good idea to use a ratchet strap to secure the item.
Essentially the tie down straps will act as a giant clamp and can easily hold an item in place until glue or paint dries. This works especially well with woodwork items but can also be used to secure metal or other materials. In addition to holding items in place, tie downs are also good for suspending items that you’re working on, around or underneath.
Create Rope Swings
Keeping kids entertained the whole day can be quite challenging. Fortunately, if your children enjoy the outdoors, you can easily use two tie down straps to tie an old tyre or a piece of square plank to a strong tree or post. This will instantly form a fun swing that will keep younger children entertained for hours!
Final Thoughts
There are many things you can do with a ratchet strap. The only real consideration to keep in mind is the working load. Only use your tie downs to secure items within their predetermined working load limit. This will ensure that your straps don’t snap, resulting in people getting hurt or items breaking.
Now, why not plan a camping trip to give yourself an excuse to repurpose your tie downs?
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