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Best Folding Clothesline Australia
In search of the best folding clothesline Australia has to offer?
With the plethora of options available, we understand that it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one that suits your needs.
So in this article, we'll provide you with an overview of the top folding frame clothesline models available right now.
We'll talk about the importance of choosing a clothesline over a tumble dryer, durability, capacity, and other wonderful benefits of opting for a simpler yet effective way to dry clothes the eco-friendly way.
Topics in This Article:
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Features to Consider When Buying a Folding Clothesline
Additional Features (such as adjustable height or built-in cover)
Conclusion and Final Recommendation for the Best Folding Clothesline
Importance of Clotheslines in Australia
Since the majority of our country experience warm and sunny climate, Aussies have always opted for clotheslines as their primary means of drying laundry instead of using the energy-intensive clothes dryer.
Ditching the clothes dryer won't just help you save money on power bills, it also has a significant impact on the environment thanks to reduced carbon footprint.
To top it off, Aussies value the outdoors a lot plus sunlight and fresh air not only dries clothes fast but they also help prevent unwanted odours from developing because of the disinfecting aspects.
From a wider perspective, when you buy Australian, you're also supporting local businesses which greatly aids in boosting our economy, another reason to buy from local retailers.
At the end of the day, clothes lines play a significant role in Australian households.
These quiet but mighty workhorses offer a sustainable and wallet-friendly way to take care of our drying needs.
Benefits of Using a Folding Clothesline
Folding clotheslines allow you to hang laundry and washing without consuming a lot of space.
This feaature is perfect for the modern home with a smaller section size.
They can be folded down and out of the way when not in use.
A huge win for homes with limited outdoor space or for those who only have balconies that can double as drying space.
The market is also flooded with models that come in various sizes and designs so consumers have plenty of choices than can suit various needs.
Like mentioned earlier, clotheslines also help save on electricity bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and let you enjoy the benefits of drying laundry in the fresh air and sunshine.
Affordable, economical, and reliable, there is a lot to like about fold down clotheslines.
Features to Consider When Buying a Folding Clothesline
Since it's a given that most people prefer the installation of their fold down clothesline to be done by professionals (unless you're a DIY expert), we focused on other things that matter.
Apart from size and cost, there are various factors to consider when buying a clothesline in Australia.
By taking these factors into account, you can select a clothesline that perfectly suits your needs, resulting in greater overall value for your purchase:
Size and Capacity
Proper sizing depends on the available indoor/outdoor hanging space or drying space you require for your laundry.
A good ball park figure is at least 10 to 15 metres of line space per person so a household that has 4 adults will require 40 metres of line length at minimum.
You also have to take into account the weight capacity of the model you're interested in, most wall mounted fold downs can handle 30 kilograms or more.
It's best to have a look at the detailed specifications of the clothesline prior to purchase mostly if the users are on the bigger side -- larger garments and towels = heavier load for the airer.
Larger families will need more than that so it's a good idea to invest in a second fold down for such scenarios.
Another thing to consider is the footprint, if you compare a rotary clothesline against a fold down of similar capacity, the latter still uses less outdoor space due to the denser configuration of the drying lines.
You have to account for extra space given the width of a rotary clothesline so it's more suitable for install in a big garden or yard compared to fold downs that can be bolted on a wall in something like a narrow pathway.
Some fold downs are even designed to have a short overhang (depth) but with long line length that span multiple metres which are especially made for tight spaces around the home.
Rotaries are also designed just for outdoor use while there are plenty of fold downs engineered for indoor use.
So you get the gist: Fold downs offer utmost flexibility and uses the least amount of floor area, hence, their undeniable popularity.
Material and Durability
Cheaper fold down clotheslines made of plastic or light steel with a plastic/PVC coating may trap moisture and rust, resulting in weaker structural integrity over time.
That is not good in the even of storms or strong winds, that's an advantage that better built clothes airers have.
High-quality clotheslines are constructed out of thick galvanised steel tubing with or without powder coat paint, or even more durable 316 stainless steel.
Stainless steel resists rusting and maintains stiffness, these premium-tier clotheslines are especially suited to those living in coastal regions or rainy areas.
Aussie-made fold downs are also proven to have better quality compared to imported ones (like those that come from China) so get a unit that's made by a true blue brand if you want peace of mind.
Portability and Ease of Use
Fold down clotheslines are generally designed to be permanent therefore portability is out of the question unlike retractable clothesline units that can be installed using posts/poles and ground socket.
Some are installed on the wall, bolted on top of concrete/pavement or into the ground using special ground mount kits that are specifically designed for certain models.
Many folding clotheslines feature a simple and intuitive folding mechanism that allows them to be set up quickly and easily with just one hand.
Most fold downs also have an integrated line tensioning system to prevent line sagging and drooping of garments towards the centre.
Overall, the broad spectrum of available models and ease of use provided by fold down clotheslines make them a practical and versatile option for drying laundry both indoors and outdoors.
Weather Resistance
Fold down clotheslines are designed to survive varying weather conditions such as rain, wind, and sun exposure, better made ones even breeze through salty water and extreme storms or snow.
Like we've mentioned, there are models made with materials that resist rust, corrosion, and fading which ensures their durability and long service life -- sometimes even outlasting the house or the owner!
Some range of folding frame clotheslines feature a UV-resistant coating or weather-resistant materials such as stainless steel or aluminium.
Some models are compatible with third party waterproof covers to protect clothes from the dust, bird droppings, rain or even intense sunlight which causes fading of coloured fabrics.
In general, the weather resistance of folding clotheslines make them a reliable choice for drying laundry -- no matter the weather condition.
Additional Features
(Such as Adjustable Height or Built-in Cover)
Some fold down clotheslines like the uniquely designed Foxydry Wall comes with a height-adjustable rack which is combined with a pulley system and a unique friction mechanism.
This ingenious approach allows you to smoothly raise or lower the drying racks/washing line to your desired height -- regardless if fully loaded or not -- making laundry errands a lot easier.
Not only does a height-adjustable clothesline unit make clothes hanging easier, they also help prevent back pains and injuries due to their inherently ergonomic design when compared to fixed-height ones like a retractable clothesline.
Opting for a folding clothes line unit with built-in cover or storage box like the Brabantia Wallfix can also help minimise maintenance requirements such as replacement of drying lines and oiling of hinges and joints.
Since these components are well protected from the elements instead of being exposed 24/7, you can save more in the long run and keep enjoying a clothes line that just works for years and years.
Clothesline manufacturers like Eco, Hills, and Austral even make sturdy double frame versions of their fold downs that are specifically engineered for variable capacity usage.
Double frame fold down clotheslines are a great way to utilise space in a smarter way because you only use the amount drying space you actually need.
These models also come in a bevy of colours such as Woodland Grey, Surfmist, Cottage Green, and more to better match your home's exterior.
Top Folding Clotheslines Available in Australia
Below is a list of the best clotheslines in the folding category which are ranked according to customer ratings on multiple websites as well as the opinion of our experts and user reviews online.
When curating this list, we mainly focused on three factors that had significant impact on their ratings: Durability, Capacity, and Price.
ECO 300
Undoubtably one of the most renowned fold downs on the market with a reputation for simplicity, quality, and reliability.
Boasting up to 30 meters of line space for multiple loads of washing, the Eco 300 provides ample hanging space for demanding households.
This clothesline is also compatible with an optional Lowline Attachment, making it ideal for bigger families or those with heavier washing needs.
Pros:
Spacious
Proudly Aussie Made
Built like a tank
Easy to use
Price (Frequently on Sale)
Can be converted to freestanding
Cons:
Big size
The clothesline features a straightforward and user-friendly design, making it easy to raise and lower the lines with just one hand.
It also comes equipped with a built-in line tensioning system that keeps the lines taut, ensuring that clothes dry quickly and efficiently by preventing dreadful line sags.
Crafted from galvanised steel and coated with a baked-on environmentally safe powder coat finish to prevent rust and corrosion, the Eco 300 is perfect for those seeking a clothesline that is both practical and eco-friendly.
AUSTRAL ADDALINE 35
The Austral Addaline 35 is one one of the hottest dual frame fold downs right now -- for a good reason!
This mighty behemoth provides up to 35 meters of line space making it one of the biggest on the market that's suitable for large families or households with heavy laundry drying requirements.
Made from high-quality galvanised steel with tough powder coating for optimum corrosion resistance, it is also backed by a 10-year structural warranty.
Pros:
Incredibly spacious
Variable capacity
Space-saving
Known for reliability
Made in Australia
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Can be converted to freestanding
Cons:
Large size
Limited colour availability
Price
This ensures that the clothesline will withstand the elements and provide reliable drying space for decades to come.
The Austral Addaline 35 clothesline can also be converted to a freestanding unit too!
Wall-mounted or ground-mounted with the optional ground mount kit, it's your call.
The dual frame design also provides greater flexibility in how you use the drying space -- out of the way when drying less clothes than usual or go all out with both frames if need be.
HILLS DOUBLE
Hills never fails to deliver in terms of aesthetics and value.
Redesigned from the ground up, the Hills Double clothesline offers a dual frame design while boasting great looks for a smarter take on drying laundry.
Just like the Eco and Austral, this clothesline can be mounted to a wall or converted to a free-standing unit with the compatible Hills Ground Mount Kit (sold separately) which makes it a great choice for many scenarios.
Pros:
Spacious
Dual frame design
Looks better than most fold downs
Renowned Hills quality
Can be converted to freestanding
Cons:
Not as capacious as others
Plastic components
Very limited colour options
Made in China
The Hills Double Clothesline provides 28.8 metres of total line space which allows you to hang large loads of laundry without fuss.
Fashioned from high-quality materials such as powder-coated, galvanised steel and reinforced UV-resistant plastics, this fold down won't let you 'down' for many years to come.
Both frames can be easily raised and lowered as required and the clothesline has built-in line tensioning system to ensure that lines remain taut for efficient and effective drying.
With a sleek design that doesn't sacrifice utility, this clothesline is the one to have if you are on the lookout for an eye-pleasing fold down.
EVOLUTION FOLDING
The Evolution Folding provides impressive drying capacity, stunning looks, and craftsmanship that gives the brand a prestige that lesser ones can only dream of.
With multiple depth options, the Evolution Folding is a great option for households with moderate to large laundry needs, from heaps of towels to multiple King sized beddings.
The Evolution Folding Clothesline also has a simple self-locking hinge that does away with the for struts and components that will eventually break down.
Pros:
Designed to last
Suitable for coastal areas
Little to no maintenance needed
Impeccable craftsmanship
Great design
Multiple depth options
Cons:
Expensive
Wall mounted install only
Made of 316 stainless steel through and through -- from the frames down to the lines, nuts and bolts, this clothesline will only laugh at coastal areas and the extreme conditions we experience here in Australia.
Zero maintenance, drying lines strong enough to tow a truck, quality that leaves you impressed... there's nothing to hate about this clothesline -- well, unless it's out of your price range.
This is a clothesline made for those who only want the best of the best and won't settle for anything less.
How to Properly Use and Maintain Your Folding Clothesline
A folding clothesline is an investment that will keep on giving even when it receives very little.
Given the simplicity of these might workhorses, it's easy to overlook that they also need a little tender loving care every now and then.
We took the liberty of providing you with step-by-step instructions and additional tips on how to get the most out of your trusty laundry companion, scroll on down to keep reading!
Step-by-step Instructions for Setting Up and Using a Fold Down Clothesline:
(Skip steps 1 to 3 if already installed by a professional)
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Choose a Proper Location - Select a spot for your clothesline that receives ample sunlight and airflow. Ideally, it should be near your laundry area or in a spot that is easy to access.
(Note: Before proceeding to the next step, we suggest reading Mounting Clotheslines on Modern Surfaces to determine the integrity of the surface you'll be working on)
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Install the Clothesline - Using a drill and screws, install the frame of the clothesline on the wall or posts. Make sure that the frame is level and sturdy enough to support the weight of wet clothes.
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Install the Clothesline Cord - Unroll the clothesline cord and attach one end to the frame using the hardware provided. Stretch the cord across the frame and attach the other end in the same way.
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Adjust the Tension - Use the tensioner to tighten the clothesline cord until it is taut. Make sure it is level and the height of the line is suitable for your height.
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Test the Clothesline - Hang a few lightweight items, such as t-shirts or socks, to test the strength and stability of the clothesline. If everything is secure, you're ready to use the clothesline!
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Hang the Laundry - To hang your clothes, simply clip them onto the clothesline using a clothes peg. Be sure to evenly distribute the weight of the laundry to prevent the line from sagging.
Take Down the Laundry - Once the laundry is dry, remove peg from clothes and fold the clothesline back up against the wall or posts to save space.
Tips for Maximising Clothesline Effectiveness:
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Check the weather to avoid surprises, never forget to check the weather forecast for the week prior to using your clothesline. We recommend using 'hyperlocal' weather applications like Apple's built-in weather app or Brolly for the most accurate minute-by-minute forecasts.
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Airflow is key, hang thick and thin items alternately (like a checkered pattern) to ensure even air distribution between items -- prioritising the thickest, heaviest items at the frontmost part of the frame.
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Use a fan if you're in a rush and want your clothes to dry faster.
Use a dehumidifier if you're using a fold down clothes airer indoors and ensure that all windows and doors are sealed for fast and efficient drying, with a properly sized dehumidifier, it normally takes around 4 hours to fully dry your clothes -- less if you use a more powerful unit with 'Laundry Mode'.
Maintenance Recommendations to Ensure Clothesline Longevity
To summarise, using a fold down clothesline provides significant benefits over a tumble dryer that one shouldn't overlook.
You get to save energy and the environment, enjoy savings on electricity bills, cheaper to own, prolongs the life of garments, saves space, and result in brighter, fresher smelling garments.
Conclusion and Final Recommendations for the Best Folding Clothesline
The Best and Most Recommended Clothesline:
ECO 300
Put simply, it boasts amazing value and durability at this price point.
Not to mention, you get to further expand the capacity of this clothesline with the optional Lowline Attachment.
The flexibility in terms of installation is also a big deal since it is compatible with the Eco Ground Mount Kit allowing you the freedom to have it set up anywhere on your property.
The Second Best Clothesline:
Evolution Folding
It's simply the best folding clothesline out on the market if price is not an object.
Nothing beats the strength and longevity of marine grade stainless steel.
Couple that with awesome engineering and a design that turns heads, this is the ultimate fold down that money can buy.
If you've decided on the next clothesline to get with the help of this article, bear in mind that you must choose a store with reputable customer service.
Choose a retailer that's known to care about their products starting from proper packaging all the way to shipping, delivery and installation.
Buying a clothesline isn't just about receiving a product in one piece, you are also spending on the quality of after-sales support that will resolve issues that may arise in the future so choose wisely!
