The Metamorphosis
Perhaps the first thing you thought when you read the title of this article is, “Why would you even want a hammock inside your dorm room?”
And the answer to that is, “Why wouldn’t you?”
A hammock is just the kind of add-on you want in your room. It’s one of those items that instantly make your room homier.
It offers a great place to relax, read a book, listen to music, write some notes, and do whatever it is you do in your free time. Adding a hammock to any of your study activities instantly makes them more fun and enjoyable.
Studying at your study table? Boring.
Reading your study notes inside your hammock? Cool as hell.
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Different Ways You Can Hang Your Hammock Inside Your Dorm Room
Take note that each dorm and college will have their own rules with regards to what you can do to the room. Most colleges don’t allow add-ons that will affect the structural integrity of the building, which is fair.
Some dorms are not so strict on their rules, though. You just have to find the right installation set-up.
Using a Hammock Stand
One of the most popular, and probably the most non-destructive way to install a hammock is to get a hammock stand. I’m pretty sure almost all dorms would allow this since you don’t need to drill holes.
One downside is it does take a lot of space. If your dorm room is on the smaller side, maybe look into other options.
Wall Hammock
This option takes up the least amount of space. However, you may need to do some drilling along with some tools to install your hammock.
If your dorm wall is made of dry walls, you need to use a stud finder to identify the strongest part of the wall. Ideally, you should install the screws or drill hooks on the part where two studs meet since this is the strongest part of the structure.
Make sure to inform your dorm association, though.
Ceiling Hammock
This is the most versatile way of installing a hammock. You can choose to have one or two anchor points for your hammock.
The most difficult part of installing your hammock this way is finding a beam that is strong enough to support your weight.
Bunk Bed Hammock
This one’s pretty self-explanatory. You hang the hammock using the rails of the upper bed.
Out of all of these hammock styles, this one’s probably the easiest to do. What’s more, if you can take it down within minutes.
It does look ugly, though, and is the most restrictive of all.
Suspension Method For Indoor Hammock – When Should You Use It?
When you think of a hammock, the first installation system that comes up in your mind is probably a suspension type. It’s where there are two or more anchor points, usually installed across opposite walls.
If your college dorm allows for it, this is definitely my recommendation. It offers the most relaxation factor, in my opinion. It does take more work to install, though.
You need to make sure that the anchor points can carry your whole weight. You need to find a stud that is strong enough. I don’t suggest using metal studs as anchor points because those things bend. Stick to wooden studs (if your college dorms use them) because they stick to anchor points better.
What Materials Do You Usually Need?
Installing a hammock is pretty straightforward. The only real issue you may face is finding a strong-enough stud for the anchors or hooks. But once you do, it’s all just a matter of drilling and installing the hooks in.
Here are some of the materials you may need:
- Hooks
- Rope or cord
- Chains
- Hammock
- Drilling equipment
- Stud finder
- Marker
As for the suspension, the material is up to you. You can opt for a rope or a chain. It depends on what style you are going for.
Installing a hammock is as simple as can be. It is one of those things that you just know what to do even without experience.
Indoor Hammock Hanging Safety Concerns
One of the most common issues when installing a hammock is wall or ceiling structure damage. This is usually a result of drilling into the drywall instead of the stud.
You can avoid this by using a stud finder.
Make sure to install the anchor points in the strongest part of the stud, and at the appropriate height.
Do You Need Hammock Straps?
You can get away without using a hammock strap for your hammock. All you need is the actual hammock. You can even use a blanket if you want.
Some hammocks do come with a hammock strap. If your hammock comes with it, it is recommended that you use it.
One advantage of using a hammock strap is the added strength. Most straps register a breaking point of up to 1,000 pounds, which is enough to support 5 people. Don’t test it, though.
What’s the Best Choice for a Dorm Room?
You may consider this a lazy answer, but it depends on your dorm room. The two things that would dictate which hammock you can install are the room size and the dorm rules and regulations.
If your dorm association is lenient on what you can install inside your room, then a suspension hammock is the best choice.
It is the most comfortable type of hammock available. It does take a lot of space, though—same with a hammock stand.
If your room is small, a ceiling hammock is the best choice. It may be a bit snug in there, but that comes with having such a limited space.
The hammock that is easiest to install by far is the bunk bed hammock. If you want a simple and hassle-free hammock and your room has bunk beds, this is the best way to go.
