Which Retractable Clothesline Is Best? Top Australian Brands Ranked!
Which retractable clothesline is best for you?
Many of us have struggled with traditional clotheslines that are cumbersome and take up too much area in our outdoor areas.
These non-retractable, non-foldable lines often become a permanent eyesore in our gardens or balconies, limiting our usable area.
Flimsy designs can lead to frequent breakages, leaving us frustrated with the constant need for repairs or replacements, especially during a busy laundry day.
This persistent inconvenience can be particularly aggravating and makes one yearn for a more efficient solution.
Fortunately, retractable clothes lines offer a practical alternative, providing space-saving and durable options that integrate seamlessly into your home.
With models like the Austral Retractaway 50 and Hills 7 Line Retracting Clothesline, you can enjoy ample drying area without compromising on quality or style.
Although installing a retractable clothes line might not be the simplest DIY project, hiring a professional clothesline installation service can make the process smooth and stress-free.
Their retractable nature allows them to be neatly stored away when not in use, preserving your outdoor or indoor area.
Say goodbye to the hassles of traditional clotheslines and embrace the efficiency and convenience of retractable clotheslines today.
Short Summary
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Key factors in selecting a retractable clothesline include space availability, load capacity, material quality, and customisable lengths to suit various laundry needs.
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Top recommended models for 2024 include the Austral Retractaway 50, Clothesline, Brabantia Retractable Clothesline, and Hills Cordomatic.
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Proper installation and maintenance are essential for maximising the performance and durability of retractable clotheslines, ensuring they meet the user’s drying needs effectively.
Topics in This Article:
Key Factors in Choosing a Retractable Clothesline
Switching to a retractable clothesline completely transformed our laundry routine, and we bet many of you would find the same.
Although not the easiest DIY project, installation becomes a breeze with the help of a professional clothesline installation service.
Once installed, the ability to tuck it away when not in use keeps our backyard looking tidy—something we all appreciate.
With its solid load capacity, we no longer worry about sagging lines, even with heavy items like bed sheets and towel, which is a common concern.
The high-quality materials have withstood the elements, reassuring us that it’s a lasting investment.
Key factors in selecting a retractable clothes line include space availability, load capacity, material quality, customisable lengths, and total line length to suit various laundry needs.
We believe anyone would find that this type of clothesline makes laundry days more efficient and less of a hassle.
For those of us juggling busy schedules, it’s a small change that makes a big difference.
Installation Tips for Retractable Washing Lines
Installing a retractable clothes line initially seemed daunting, but with the help of a clothesline installation service, it became a breeze.
We realised that mounting it on a sturdy wall at the right height was crucial for maximising drying space, something many of you can relate to.
Tackling a brick wall installation required specific tools and expertise, and we appreciated the professional touch that ensured everything was secure.
We made sure to avoid placing it near trees, allowing for unobstructed sunlight and wind, which is key for efficient drying.
The Austral Retractaway 50 model's straightforward design made it a perfect choice, and the service ensured it was set up flawlessly.
Now, we enjoy a tidy, efficient drying solution that saves us time and hassle, a convenience we believe many would value.
Tips for Efficiently Using a Retractable Clothesline
Maximising the efficiency of your retractable clothes line can make laundry days smoother and more effective.
Here are some practical tips to get the most out of your clothesline:
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Space Out Your Clothes: Hanging clothes with a bit of space between them enhances air circulation, speeding up the drying process. This simple step can make a significant difference, especially on humid days.
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Alternate Thick and Thin Items: By alternating heavier items like towels and jeans with lighter ones, you ensure more even drying. This method helps maintain the line’s tension and prevents sagging.
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Use the Outer Lines for Heavy Items: Placing heavier items on the outermost lines helps maintain the overall tension of the clothesline, reducing the risk of sagging and ensuring a more stable drying setup.
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Regular Cleaning: Keep your lines clean by wiping them down with a damp cloth regularly. This prevents dirt and debris buildup, which can transfer to your clothes.
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Stabilise with a Post Kit: For outdoor setups, consider using a post kit with a ground socket. This provides additional stability and prevents the clothesline from wobbling, ensuring a secure and efficient drying space.
Benefits of Using Retractable Clotheslines
Switching to a retractable washing line has truly simplified our laundry routine, and we believe many of you can relate to the struggle of managing small spaces.
It’s a relief to have a drying solution that neatly retracts and be hidden when not in use, keeping everything organised and clutter-free.
We’re sure others will agree that hanging heavy towels and bed sheets without the fear of sagging lines is a huge plus.
The fresh scent our clothes have after natural air drying is something we genuinely enjoy, and it’s a bonus knowing we’re cutting down on electricity costs.
This change not only benefits our wallets but also feels like a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle.
Overall, it’s a small adjustment that has made laundry days more efficient and enjoyable for anyone juggling a busy schedule.
Maintenance and Care for Retractable Clotheslines
Maintaining our retractable washing line has been a straightforward yet rewarding experience, something we believe many can relate to.
Regularly wiping the line with a soft damp cloth and mild detergent helps keep our laundry fresh and free from unexpected marks.
We also make it a point to check for any loose screws and apply silicone oil to the moving parts, ensuring everything runs smoothly without those pesky squeaks.
Covering the washing line when it's not in use has shielded it from the weather and critters, which we think is a concern for most of us.
Retracting and storing it in a dry spot has kept it in top shape over time.
If you notice the line wearing out, a replacement line is available to maintain its peak performance.
Additionally, replace parts as needed to ensure the clothesline remains in excellent condition.
These small maintenance steps have made a noticeable difference, and we bet they could help others keep their clothesline working perfectly too.
Buying Advice and Recommendations
Choosing the right retractable clothesline involves considering several key factors to ensure it meets your laundry needs effectively:
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Line Space: Assess your typical laundry load and choose a clothesline that offers enough drying space. Whether you need to dry large bed sheets or smaller items, having sufficient line space is crucial.
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Weight Capacity: Ensure the clothesline can handle the weight of your wash loads. Look for models with a solid weight capacity to avoid sagging and breakages.
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Material Quality: Opt for clotheslines made from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel, UV-stabilised plastic, or powder-coated metal. These materials ensure durability and longevity, even in harsh weather conditions.
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Ease of Installation: Consider how easy it is to install the clothesline. Some models may require professional installation, while others are more DIY-friendly. Choose one that fits your comfort level and setup requirements.
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Warranty and Support: Check the warranty period and the after-sales support offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
By keeping these factors in mind and following the tips for efficiently using a retractable clothesline, you can find the perfect clothesline for your needs.
Enjoy the benefits of energy-efficient and cost-effective laundry drying, making your laundry routine more manageable and eco-friendly.
Top Retractable Clotheslines for 2024
Switching to retractable washing lines has truly transformed our laundry routine, and we think many of you can relate to the struggle with those cumbersome traditional lines.
They used to take up so much space in our garden, leaving it cluttered and unsightly.
Now, with the Austral Retractaway 50, we have ample line space without sacrificing the neatness of our outdoor area.
It’s a relief to hang even the heaviest bed sheets without worrying about sagging or breakages.
Plus, retracting the lines when not in use keeps everything tidy and organised, which we’re sure is a priority for many of us juggling busy lives.
This simple switch has made laundry days less of a hassle, and we believe others would appreciate the convenience just as much.
The Top 5 Retractable Clotheslines for 2024 are:
Let’s delve into each of these top picks in more detail.
Austral Retractaway 50 Clothesline
Switching to the Austral Retractaway 50 has completely transformed how we handle laundry.
With its 10-metre extension over five lines, we no longer stress about finding enough drying space for multiple loads.
The robust construction means we can hang heavy items like bed sheets and towels without worrying about sagging, which is a relief for busy households.
The 20-year warranty on the frame and 12 months on the cord adds an extra layer of confidence in its durability, making it a worthwhile investment for any family.
We appreciate how its retractable design keeps our outdoor space neat and organised, a huge plus for those of us with limited room.
It's been a practical solution that has made laundry days far less of a hassle, especially for larger families.
Austral Retractaway 50 Clothesline at a Glance:
Pros:
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Compact
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Can be installed into the ground or wall mounted
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Has a built-in line tensioning system
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Suits 1-6 people
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Can fit king sized sheets
Cons:
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May require professional clothesline installation
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Post to post installation not recommended for wet soil areas
What Others are Saying
"The Retractaway 50 is terrific. Very easy to put up, holds loads of clothes and then just disappears. Wouldn’t use anything else!"
Roz H. - Verified Buyer
"The Retractaway 50 is terrific. Very easy to put up, holds loads of clothes and then just disappears. Wouldn’t use anything else!"
Roz H. - Verified Buyer
Hills 7 Line Retracting Clothesline
The Hills 7 Line Retracting clothesline has truly transformed our laundry days, and we think many of you might relate to the struggle with sagging clotheslines.
Retracting clotheslines offer efficient drying capabilities, space-saving designs, and ease of installation, making them ideal for various household needs.
With its quality tension lock, we no longer worry about clothes, heavy towel and bed sheets slipping off.
Its sleek design fits perfectly in our outdoor area, and we appreciate how it retracts to keep everything tidy when not in use.
The lifetime warranty on the cabinet, and 12 months on the cord, offers peace of mind, knowing it’s built to last through countless laundry loads.
Although we were initially unsure about its extension length, it has efficiently handled all our laundry needs.
This clothesline has been a reliable and stylish addition, making the chore of laundry much more manageable.
It's a perfect clothesline for a family of 4 to 5, providing ample line space while maintaining a neat and organised outdoor area.
Hills 7 Line Retracting Clothesline at a Glance:
Pros:
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Lifetime warranty on the cabinet for peace of mind
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Monument colour blends with any home setting
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Professional installation is available for your convenience
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Compatible with lots of optional extras to suit individual requirements
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Smooth and easy to retract and use
Cons:
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May require professional clothesline installation
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Spans a wide area, may not be suitable for very small yards
What Others are Saying
"Very good. Easy to use and plenty of line space."
Tanya S. - Verified Buyer
"Very good. Easy to use and plenty of line space."
Tanya S. - Verified Buyer
Brabantia Retractable Clothesline
The Brabantia Retractable Clothesline is a favourite among many of us who appreciate a sleek and practical drying solution.
With its 22 metres of drying space, we've found it incredibly helpful for tackling various laundry loads, from socks and shirts to king-sized sheets, without dealing with sagging lines.
Its automatic locking mechanism is very helpful, ensuring clothes dry evenly and efficiently, a feature we all value.
For those living in apartments or with limited space, its space-saving design fits perfectly on balconies, seamlessly integrating into compact living areas.
Setting it up is simple, even for those of us who aren't particularly handy, requiring only basic DIY skills.
Its modern design effortlessly blends into any home, making it a stylish and functional addition that resonates with anyone seeking convenience and efficiency in their laundry routine.
Brabantia Retractable Clothesline at a Glance:
Pros:
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Compact pull-out clothes lines - space saving
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Smooth action - easy to use due to the automatic pull-out system
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Easy to fix between two walls
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Manufactured from corrosion resistant materials
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Suitable for the bathroom
Cons:
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May need two or more for larger families
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2 washloads capacity only
What Others are Saying
"Really happy with my purchase. It’s strong and well made. Small enough to be well hidden when not using it, large enough for what I need it for."
Maggie H. - Verified Buyer
"Really happy with my purchase. It’s strong and well made. Small enough to be well hidden when not using it, large enough for what I need it for."
Maggie H. - Verified Buyer
Hills Cordomatic Retractable Clothesline
The Hills Cordomatic Retractable Clothesline is a compact and affordable solution that many of us can relate to, especially if we're living in small spaces or frequently on the move.
Its extension of up to 1.4 metres offers just the right amount of drying space for those quick laundry loads, making it perfect for apartments, small outdoor areas, or even travel.
Many readers will appreciate its compact design, allowing it to be easily stored away, providing a space-saving solution that fits seamlessly into our busy lives.
Despite its limited line length, the Hills Cordomatic is both practical and convenient, appealing to those of us mindful of budget and quality.
With a one-year warranty, it offers an extra layer of assurance, giving peace of mind to anyone who values reliability.
Whether you're drying a few items on a trip or need a small-scale solution for daily use, the Hills Cordomatic is a dependable choice that many of us have come to appreciate.
Hills Cordomatic Retractable Clothesline at a Glance:
Pros:
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Compact
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Can be used indoors or outdoors
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Can fit king sized sheets
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Suits 1-2 people which makes it a perfect extra drying unit
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Rust resistant material construction ensures long lasting nature
Cons:
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Not suitable for larger families
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Has 1 line only so it may require a longer hanging space or area for fitted sheets and blankets
What Others are Saying
"Great product. Have placed it under back verandah. Great for drying clothes out of the rain.."
Amanda H. - Verified Buyer
"Great product. Have placed it under back verandah. Great for drying clothes out of the rain.."
Amanda H. - Verified Buyer
Artweger RollDry Retractable Clothes Line
We've found that incorporating the Artweger RollDry Retractable Clothes Line into our routine has truly transformed our laundry days, echoing the experiences shared by many.
For those of us juggling limited space and hectic schedules, this clothesline is a lifesaver, fitting perfectly on small balconies while providing ample drying space.
Its sturdy, corrosion-resistant design gives us peace of mind, ensuring it can withstand any weather.
The automatic retraction feature is a blessing, keeping our area neat and clutter-free.
Despite its compact size, it effortlessly handles larger wash loads, making it very helpful for anyone looking to simplify their laundry routine.
It's a practical solution for anyone wanting to streamline their life without sacrificing precious space.
Artweger RollDry Retractable Clothesline at a Glance:
Pros:
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Has a tightening mechanism
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Compact
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Can easily install
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Can be used indoors or outdoors
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Ideal for use in the laundry, above a bathtub or in covered outdoor areas
Cons:
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Not ideal to be placed on open outdoor area with full sunlight
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Suits 2 persons only
What Others are Saying
"This is perfect and is exactly what I needed. Drying space is enough to hang my clothes and is compact and fits where I installed it."
Melinda B. - Verified Buyer
"This is perfect and is exactly what I needed. Drying space is enough to hang my clothes and is compact and fits where I installed it."
Melinda B. - Verified Buyer
Frequently Asked Questions
To install a retractable clothesline, secure it to a sturdy surface like a wall or post using an electric drill and the appropriate hardware, following the manufacturer's guidelines for best results.
This ensures optimal performance and durability of the washing line.
Yes, many retractable clotheslines, such as the Austral Retractaway 50, are engineered to support heavy items like bed sheets and towels without sagging.
Therefore, they can be a reliable option for drying such laundry.
The Hills Cordomatic Retractable Clothesline is the best option for small spaces due to its compact design and 1.4-metre extension, making it perfect for apartments and limited outdoor areas.
Its affordability also adds to its appeal.
To maintain your retractable clothesline effectively, clean the line with a soft cloth and mild detergent regularly, check for loose screws or wear...
...lubricate moving parts, and cover it when not in use to shield it from environmental damage.
Following these steps will ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
Retractable clotheslines are environmentally friendly because they utilise natural air circulation for drying, which minimises energy consumption and lowers your carbon footprint.
Ultimately, they promote sustainability in your laundry practices.
Final Words
Switching to a retractable clothesline has truly transformed our laundry routine, and we bet many of you can relate to the hassle of traditional lines cluttering your outdoor space.
Now, with the ability to retract the line when not in use, our garden stays neat and organised.
We've found the Austral Retractaway 50 particularly reliable, as it effortlessly supports heavy towels and bed sheets without sagging.
It's reassuring to have a clothesline that withstands the elements, ensuring efficient drying every time.
Regularly wiping it with a damp cloth and checking for loose screws has been easy, keeping it in great condition.
This small change has made laundry days far more manageable, and we think others would appreciate the convenience it brings to a busy lifestyle.