Clothesline Selection Guide: Choosing the Right Clothesline for Your Home
When it comes to line drying your clothes, selecting the best clothesline can make all the difference.
With so many options on the market today, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer variety of choices.
Whether you’re looking for a new clothesline for your large family, a retractable clothesline for a compact area, or something sturdy to accommodate heavy loads, this clothesline buyers guide will help you navigate the process of finding the perfect clothesline. TABLE OF CONTENTS
How Much Space Do You Need for Your Clothesline?
One of the first questions you should ask when considering a new clothesline is how much space you have available.
The line space required will depend on the load size of your household, do you wash once a week or wash three times a day, then consider the location and area available in your laundry room or outdoor location where you want to install the clothesline.
For large families with large loads of washing, you’ll need to ensure that your clothesline can handle plenty of garments while leaving room for air to circulate.
If you live in an apartment or have limited space, then a retractable clothesline or a folding clothesline might be a good alternative.
These options are great for narrow spaces because they can be mounted on the wall and then extended out when needed.
Choosing the Right Clothesline for Your Space
When it comes to choosing a suitable clothesline for your home, there are a few key factors to consider:
Location:
Do you have an outdoor location, or will you be using the clothesline indoors?
The outdoor clothesline is the best option for those with backyards or gardens, as it allows for maximum line drying.
However, if you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor area, an indoor clothesline or wall-mounted folding clothesline might be more suitable.
Durability:
If you’re investing in a new clothesline, you’ll want to choose one made from galvanised steel or durable metal.
These materials are sturdy and able to withstand exposure to the elements, making them perfect for ground mounting or wall-mounted installations.
Capacity:
Make sure the clothesline you choose has enough lines and line space to handle your typical laundry load.
The more people who use the line the larger the clothesline you, and a rotary clothesline with ample lines will provide the necessary drying space.
On the other hand, if you only need to hang a few items, a mini folding clothesline may be a better fit.
Types of Clotheslines to Consider
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular clothesline options:
Rotary Clotheslines
A rotary clothesline is an iconic Australian choice, perfect for homes with plenty of outdoor space. This design allows you to hang clothes all the way around the line, offering ample line space for big wash loads.
Models like the Hills Hoist are well-known for their durability and longevity.
If you need something that’s going to withstand heavy loads and stand up to the elements, a rotary clothesline is an excellent choice.
Remember with these lines the only thing you will be folding is the load of washing you hung out. The rotary head is fixed and can not be closed!
Folding Frame Clothesline
Wall Mounted Clotheslines
Fold down clotheslines are ideal for most homes, as they can be mounted on the wall and folded down when not in use.
These wall-mounted clotheslines are a convenient and space-saving solution regradless if you have limited space or massive backyard.
Whether you’re installing a wall-mounted line indoors or outdoors, you can easily hang your clothes and fold it back up when done.
Many folding clotheslines can accommodate large loads of washing and are available in different sizes to suit your home.
Ground Mounted Clotheslines
A ground mount kit is designed for folding frame clotheslines. If you have a bit of extra backyard space, this installation style may be the perfect solution.
Ground mounting kits allow you to install your clothesline in a fixed position, either in the soil or on a concrete slab.
Custom Made Clotheslines
The quality Air Dry Fold down clotheslines can be customised based on length and depth
Those dimensions ultimately determine how long your washing line cord will be; from 9mtrs to 48mtrs. Its always important to know the longer the cord the larger the load of washing you can hang out to dry!
There is the added bonus, with Air Dry Clotheslines, there is a far greater colour selection that should complement the exterior of your home.
All Air Dry clotheslines stocked by Simply Clotheslines are made from galvanised steel, with a poly cord line.
Retractable Clotheslines
A retractable clothesline is perfect for homes with limited outdoor space. The reason being the length they can be extended is up to 10 mtrs and their width is under .9 of a metre!
Most retractable clotheslines have the options for the number lines starting a 4 and finishing at 7, and provide extensive hanging area that can easily handle king sheets and other large items.
This type of clothesline can be mounted on a wall, and the line can be extended when needed. Once you’re done, simply retract it back into the cabinet casing, freeing up space.
These are great for indoor use as well, allowing you to dry clothes inside when it’s too rainy outside.
The Benefits of Line Drying vs. Using a Clothes Dryer
Many Australians rely on their clothes dryer to get their washing done quickly sometimes stuffing so many items in the dryer they over load it, haven't cleaned the lint filter and hey presto a house fire is started.
However, air drying is an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative. Using a clothesline not only saves on electricity but also reduces wear and tear on your garments, helping them last longer.
Air drying outside allows clothes dry in the fresh air, giving them a crisp, fresh smell that an electric dryer simply can’t replicate. It’s a good alternative to the dryer that can save money in the long run.
Plus, you’re doing your bit for the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.
Installing Your New Clothesline
Installing your new clothesline it's essential to ensure it's properly installed so you don't void the manufacturers warranty.
No matter the type of clothes line you choose, be sure to follow the installation instructions carefully, and before you know it, you'll be hanging out your washing with ease.
Just a quick heads up: when installing your new outdoor clothesline, make sure it’s placed well away from trees. Not only can falling debris cause a mess, but our cheeky native birds often like to leave their "call cards" on your freshly washed clothes!
Keeping your clothes line clear of trees will ensure your laundry day stays as hassle-free as possible.
Making the Right Choice
At the end of the day, choosing the best clothesline depends on your space, budget, and laundry needs.
Whether you need a folding clothesline for your laundry room, a rotary clothesline for your large family, or a retractable clothesline for your apartment, there’s a solution for every home.
To make your search easier, consult a clothesline buyers guide and determine your preferences.
With the right information, you’ll find the perfect clothesline to suit your lifestyle and save you money in the long run.
Conclusion
Choosing a new clothesline doesn’t have to be difficult. By considering your available space, the length of line you need to dry your washing and the installation process, you’ll be able to find the ideal clothesline for your home.
Remember, investing in a durable, high-quality clothesline that can handle be exposed to the harsh Australian elements, today will save you money and time in the future, while also giving your clothes that fresh, sun-dried scent.
Happy hanging, and may your clothes always smell like sunshine!