Found in many household tool kits, bungee cords are an incredibly versatile and useful piece of equipment for a wide range of tasks, from securing cargo to storing your garden tools away in your shed. However, knowing how to use them safely is paramount. 

A big fear many people have is “what if a bungee cord breaks?”, and it’s a valid concern. Understanding how bungee cords work, along with their safety and limitations, is essential to prevent accidents – including it breaking. 

In this post, we’ll explore bungee cord safety and address the potential risks, including what can cause a bungee cord to break and how to use them safely at home. 

How are bungee cords made?

Many people don’t even know how bungee cords are made – yet it’s such an important thing to know, in order to use them safely. 

Bungee cords are made by combining elastic rubber strands with a synthetic woven outer covering – typically made of nylon or polypropylene. 

The core is composed of multiple thin strands of natural or synthetic rubber, which provide the bungee cord’s elasticity. These strands are bundled together and then encased in a braided or woven sheath, which protects the rubber and adds further durability to the cord. This construction gives the bungee cord its characteristic stretch and resistance.

Many bungee cords also come as bungee assemblies, where the ends of the cord are often secured with bungee hooks or loops – attached using crimping or stitching for additional strength.

How strong are bungee cords? 

Bungee cords are designed to be highly elastic and strong, however their strength depends on factors such as cord diameter, material quality, and construction. 

Bungee cords are often used for securing loads, bundling items, or absorbing shock in outdoor and industrial applications. However, they stretch under tension, and their strength diminishes as they wear, so they must be chosen carefully to match the required load capacity.

How safe are bungee cords?

Bungee cords are almost always safe when used properly, but they also carry risks if mishandled or used incorrectly. 

The biggest safety risk with bungee cords, despite many people’s fear of it breaking, is that the elastic tension in the cord can cause it to snap back with significant force, potentially leading to injuries like eye damage, cuts, or bruises. Additionally, the metal hooks often found attached to bungee cords can detach or slip, posing a risk of whipping injuries. 

Generally speaking, bungee cord safety depends on selecting the right cord for the load, ensuring it’s in good condition (not frayed or worn), and using it in controlled, appropriate settings.

Can a bungee cord break?

Yes, a bungee cord can break – however, it is rare when used correctly. 

Regular inspection for signs of damage, such as fraying or cracks, and adhering to the recommended load limits can help prevent bungee cord breakage. However, proper maintenance, storage and usage are crucial for ensuring the bungee cord remains safe and functional.

What would cause a bungee cord to break?

A bungee cord can break due to several factors:

1. Excessive stretching

Overloading the bungee cord beyond its rated capacity can cause it to overstretch and eventually snap.

2. Wear and tear

Prolonged use can lead to the degradation of the rubber or fabric, resulting in weakened strength and increasing the risk of the bungee cord breaking.

3. Environmental exposure

Exposure to UV light, extreme temperatures, moisture, or chemicals can weaken the materials over time, making the bungee cord more susceptible to breaking.

4. Improper storage

Storing a bungee cord in harsh conditions or failing to store it properly can lead to damage, which could potentially cause it to break over time.

5. Manufacturing defects

Defects in the production process, such as poor quality materials or construction flaws, can cause premature failure in bungee cords.

6. Age

As bungee cords age, the elasticity of the rubber can deteriorate, reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of it breaking.

What bungee cord diameter do I need? 

As bungee cord strength and susceptibility to breaking partially depends on the cord’s diameter, it’s important to understand what diameter you need for your intended application in order for you to use it safely. Here’s a quick guide to help:

2-3mm diameter 

A 2 to 3mm bungee cord diameter is ideal for lightweight crafting applications. This could include jewellery making, swing tickets, beading, inside garments, and menu loops.

4-5mm diameter 

A 4 to 5mm bungee cord diameter is also mainly used for more lightweight applications, however, tends to have more outdoor, practical uses. This could include things such as securing tent poles and boat covers, and use when camping, sailing and backpacking.

6 mm diameter 

A 6mm bungee cord diameter is typically ideal for lightweight securing applications, often found in luggage straps or for securing luggage to roof racks and trailers. It can also be used with securing kayaks, canoes and small boats, as well as tie downs for lightweight groundsheets. 

8mm diameter

A 8mm bungee cord diameter is typically used in a wide range of outdoor applications. This could include securing standard groundsheets and tarpaulins for trucks and trailers, when caravanning and boating, securing loads to motorbikes, and upholding banners and billboards.  

10mm diameter

Generally, the thickest and strongest diameter, a 10mm bungee cord diameter is particularly suitable for more heavy-duty applications. This could include securing weightier tarpaulins, tie-downs and groundsheets, marquees and tents, trampolines and heavy garden furniture in the wind. Many other uses include securing swimming pool covers, pick-up loads and roof racks.

How to use bungee cords at home safely

If you use bungee cords around the home, garden or in your workshop, to do so safely involves a few key practices:

1. Choose the right bungee cord

Select a bungee cord with an appropriate length, diameter and strength for your specific task. Avoid using bungee cords that are too weak or too strong for the load.

2. Inspect the bungee cord regularly

Check the bungee cord for signs of wear, such as fraying, cracks, or weakened elasticity. Replace any damaged or worn bungee cords immediately and do not use them.

3. Secure the bungee cords properly

Ensure that the bungee hooks or loops are securely fastened and that the bungee cord is evenly distributed across the surface it’s holding. Avoid overloading the bungee cord, as this can cause it to snap.

4. Avoid extreme stretching

Do not stretch the bungee cord beyond its recommended length, as this can weaken it and increase the risk of breakage.

5. Use protective gear

When working with bungee cords, especially if there’s a risk of snapping, wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles to safeguard yourself against any potential injuries.

6. Store the bungee cord properly

Store bungee cords in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and harsh chemicals to prevent premature degradation.

7. Avoid sharp edges

Ensure that the bungee cord does not come into contact with any sharp edges or surfaces that could damage it.

8. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines

Adhere to any usage guidelines provided by the manufacturer, to ensure safe and effective use of the bungee cord.

When it comes to bungee cords, we’re the experts. For everything you need to know about bungee cords, explore our blog or contact us today for helpful advice, insights and ordering information.