Retire a rope after no more than four years of occasional use, two years of weekend climbing, or one year of active use. Most ropes are retired because they become frayed, not because of the number of falls held. Watch for sharp edges like rock crystals, bolt hangers, glass, and even pack grommets, which can cut a rope's sheath. Retire your rope if you can see the core at an abraded area or if the rope feels lumpy or flat in spots. Keep your rope clean.
Dirt shortens rope life by causing internal as well as external abrasion.
Transport and store your rope in a protective bag or pack. Wash a dirty rope in cold water using mild, non detergent soap. Adding fabric softener while washing improves rope flexibility by lubricating the fibers. Do not bleach your rope. Air dry your rope away from direct sunlight.