Bodies are not clean. Rope goes on bodies. Extrapolate from there.

Rope can (and should) be cleaned but cannot be fully sanitized. If rope comes into contact with bodily fluids other than sweat — for example, if it’s run between the teeth or between the legs, through/around the genitals or across the anus — there is no guarantee that you will be able to remove all traces of those fluids or materials.

What if a piece of rope was around someone’s foot and they had athlete’s foot and then that same piece of rope is placed in your mouth? – Ick –

Consider STI transmission. The risk here is relatively low compared to other forms, but it can still be a risk.

If you would like to reduce the risk in this area, use a barrier method between your partner and your rope. Alternatively, if a Top plays with a particular person routinely, they may reserve a particular piece of rope –a personal rope — for that person.

Many rope bottoms take on this responsibility themselves for their own health and hygiene. They carry their own personal rope kit that is “fluid bonded” and will only ever be used on them. If plans call for rope to touch their genitals or mouth, they use their own personal rope.