Shop Products
Houzz Logo Print

Clotheslines

1 Results
Some of us get a certain sense of satisfaction when we infuse our clothes with the scents of nature while drying them outside on a clothesline. Others enjoy the thought of saving electricity and being eco-friendly by foregoing a dryer in favor of a retractable clothesline. Whatever your reasons, hanging your garments to dry on a washing line definitely has its merits. Before you pick one up for your next laundry day, here are a few things to consider:

What type of clothesline should I purchase?


To get a sense of how you might be able to utilize a clothesline in your home, it’s best to compare the different styles of washing lines available.
• Umbrella or rotary washing line: This aptly-named style mimics the shape of an umbrella turned inside out. While this would be an unfortunate end for your bumbershoot, this smart design allows your clothesline to take up less space. Better yet, if you’re a bit hesitant about having a permanent laundry fixture in your yard, it can me removed and folded up until the next laundry day. Of course, if you have large loads of laundry or like to wash bulkier items like blankets, the umbrella clothesline may be at a disadvantage because of its small size and inability to support heavy objects.
• T-Pole or Pole-to-Pole: This traditional style features two metal, t-shaped poles that have two to three lines running between them. They’re a more permanent fixture than an umbrella clothesline since they’re typically secured with concrete, but they offer a sturdiness and size that makes them ideal for drying larger items. Keep in mind you’ll want to wipe off your lines with a damp cloth before use if they stay outside.
• Retractable clothesline: Another design perfect for saving space, these can be mounted indoors or outside. Some maximize your drying space by offering up to five or six lines. It’s recommended that you choose a design that features a heavier gauge line if you plan on using it often or hanging heavier items to dry.

What are the benefits of using a washing line versus an electric dryer?


There are dozens of reasons why a washing line can benefit your family. Here are some of the top reasons many people choose to go “old school” and dry their clothing on a clothesline:
• No static cling, less risk of shrinking and less ironing needed.
• Less wear and tear and garments stay softer to your touch.
• Eliminates noise and greenhouse gas emissions.
• No loss of air-conditioned or heated indoor air to the outdoors.
And perhaps the most convincing reason of all:
• It saves money and costs less to operate!