Mineral Oil makes an excellent economical choice for conditioning natural fiber ropes for bondage. This transparent “liquid paraffin” is a colorless, odorless, non-allergenic, and shelf-stable petroleum distillate. Unlike vegetable or animal oils it will never oxidize or turn rancid. Mineral oil is also approved by the FDA for use in personal care and cosmetic products, as a food additive, and to condition cutting boards for food preparation.

Our “white” mineral oil is food grade; so besides using it to safely condition your natural fiber ropes you can also use it to preserve and protect wood and bamboo poles that may be pressed against the skin or placed in the mouth.

As with all conditioning oils, use mineral oil sparingly; not much is required to improve the rope’s handling, whilst protecting and lubricate the fibers in the rope. As a rough guide 1oz is sufficient to condition up to 225 feet (70 meters) of rope. 

How to Apply Mineral Oil

To apply, lightly dampen a small piece of cloth, or leather, with a few drops of mineral oil and lightly run the ropes through the cloth in your palm. For a 7-8 m length of rope, lightly re-oil the cloth and repeat in the other direction on the rope. The oil will spread evenly into the rope overnight.