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Foldable vs. Retractable clotheslines: Which is better?

· Home and Decor

What Is a Fold-Down Washing Line?

This is one of the most versatile and commonly used types of washing clotheslines in Australia. It's especially ideal for those of you who are tight on space and for those of you who like to keep your outdoor area clean, tidy and well-organised. They are pretty easy and simple to use, and after each use, you should simply fold it down and that's it. The greatest thing about investing in a foldable washing line is that it allows for being used both indoors and outdoors. You can even have one in both places which will improve your drying area especially when it isn't raining.

This beauty of foldable washing line is aesthetically appealing, functional, and available in different sizes, colours and numbers of drying lines. This allows you to choose the right clothing lines for the needed area without having to worry about anything regarding design, style and size. Quite often they are made from galvanised steel because is the most cost-effective yet durable option available on the market. Of course, you can also choose from ones made from aluminium and stainless steel, out of which the latter is the most expensive type and the least used.

When in the search for the right model, make sure to choose one that it's simple to fold up and down which is powered by a good lock and release mechanism. You should also look for one that comes with a longer warranty period in order to be sure that you'll get the best out of it.

Where to Place It?

Fold down clothes line

As you may already know, these washing lines can be used literally anywhere, even in dead spaces like a narrow walkway or a small laundry. You can install them on your balcony, in the laundry room or anywhere where there's a free place on the wall. Just don't forget to take into account the amount of space you'll need when unfolded for drying clothes. Regarding the size, they are available in different sizes in order to meet different spaces which means that choosing the right one won't be a problem at all. To keep it clean, it's recommended to simply wipe it with a damp cloth and mild detergent once a month. Regarding the joints, in order to keep them working smoothly, you can apply car wax on them.

The last thing to have in mind though when searching for a foldable clothesline is that you can also choose from the traditional rotary line that is designed to collapse (fold down) when you don't need it. It's also known under the name folding head hoist and instead of being installed on the wall, this clothesline should be installed on the ground. It's way bulkier and larger than the previous models which doesn't make it the perfect option for everyone. While this clothesline allows for being folded, lifted out of the ground socket and stored in a shed or garage, keep in mind that it's quite large. Some models can even provide around 60 metres of drying space which is a lot.

How to Install a Foldable Washing Line?

This clothesline is extremely easy to install as it allows no previous knowledge nor some complicated tools for its installation. You just need a firm surface, follow the manufacturer's installation instructions and that's it. When shopping from a trusted seller, you can have a piece of mind that the chosen model will come with all the needed tools and screws for installing it.

What Is a Retractable Clothesline?

Retractable clothesline

This is another popular and affordable option people use, however, not all people can rely on it since it requires to be installed on two opposite walls. This clothesline requires pulling it out of the housing in order to attach it to a wall or post on the opposite side. Once you have dried your clothes, you can simply retract it back into the housing.

The biggest benefit of this washing line is that it can be retracted and moved out of the way when not used, it has a slimmer design and it's easy to install. Balconies are one of the most common places where people love to install a retractable clothesline, however, you can also do it on patios and backyards. They are available in different colours, sizes, lines and line space which gives you the freedom to pick the one that suits you the most.

When in the search for the right one, you should certainly do research and choose one that comes from a trusted and reliable manufacturer and seller. That way you can be sure that you'll receive the best possible deal.

As you can see, both of these clotheslines are super useful and easy to use, so it's really up to you which one you choose.