What is JBO?

Why We Avoid JBO-Treated Jute: Understanding the Difference

Jute rope has long been a favoured material for rope bondage, especially in the context of shibari. Its balance of strength, texture, and tradition makes it a top choice for many practitioners.

But not all jute is created equal. If you’ve ever picked up a coil that reeked of chemicals or felt sticky to the touch, chances are you were holding rope processed with JBO.

At The Azure Strand, we believe your rope should feel as good as it looks and be safe for your skin, your partner, and the planet. That’s why we exclusively offer JBO-free jute, batched instead with high-quality soybean oil.

Here’s why that matters.

What is JBO?

JBO stands for Jute Batching Oil. It is a mineral oil fraction derived from petroleum, used in the jute industry to soften the coarse fibres and make them easier to process through machines. It has no benefits to the rope itself, only as a lubricant for the machines that process the rope.

While it's efficient in industrial settings, its presence in rope intended for close human contact raises concerns.

The Downsides of JBO-Treated Rope

Chemical Odor That Lingers

One of the most noticeable traits of JBO-treated jute is its acrid, chemical smell. This odor can permeate a room and cling to skin and clothing.

While it does fade over time, it never fully disappears—and for some users, it is enough to make the rope unusable.

Potential Skin Irritation

JBO is not meant for prolonged skin contact, especially on sensitive areas.
People with chemical sensitivities or allergies may experience irritation,
itching, or rashes from JBO residues. It has also been found to have carcinogenic
effects.

In a practice where connection, comfort, and trust are everything,
that’s a deal-breaker.

Incompatibility with Conditioning

JBO-treated rope does not respond well to natural conditioning products. It often repels other oils and waxes, making it more difficult to soften and condition over time.

This limits the rope’s longevity and makes it harder to care for using rope butter or other oils.

Ethical and Environmental Concerns

JBO is a petroleum product, contributing to fossil fuel dependency. For those who prioritize natural and sustainable materials, it is an undesirable ingredient.

Using rope batched in JBO contradicts the values of many practitioners who seek connection with nature and body through their rope.

Removing JBO from Rope

Many merchants who sell jute rope intended for bondage will attempt to remove JBO through methods like baking, boiling, or repeated washing. While these processes do work to reduce the chemical smell and residue to an extent, they come with significant drawbacks:

Weakened Fibers

Exposure to heat and moisture shortens the rope’s lifespan and reduces its tensile
strength. Lower strength means smaller margins of safety for suspension work.

Potential Structural Warping

After boiling or washing, jute must be dried properly under tension to prevent the strands from warping, twisting, or shifting.

Without controlled tension-drying, the rope can become warped and/or high-stranded.

Lingering Contamination

Even after such aggressive treatments, small amounts of JBO often linger, along with its distinctive odor.

The Alternative: VOT Jute

Jute rope sold by The Azure Strand is instead processed using VOT (vegetable oil treatment)—specifically, a soybean oil blend that’s clean, skin-safe, and environmentally conscious.

This treatment not only avoids harmful chemicals, but also makes the rope more receptive to conditioning and more pleasant to handle from the start.

VOT jute is:

Odorless or has only a mild, natural scent
Kind to skin, even with extended use
Fully compatible with our rope butter for easy maintenance
Natural and vegan, with no petroleum derivatives

Final Thoughts

Rope bondage is an intimate art. Whether you're tying for connection, performance, or self-expression, the tools you use matter.

Choosing JBO-free, plant-oil-batched rope isn't just about avoiding unpleasant smells or dangerous chemicals, it’s about honoring the safety, care, and intention that should be at the heart of every scene.

At The Azure Strand, we’re proud to offer jute that’s as clean and conscious as it is beautiful. Free from harmful additives, crafted with care, and ready to become part of your practice.