If you’re investing in a brand new clothesline, it’s important to spend a few minutes choosing the right spot for it. After all, you want to get the best out of your new line! Here are some things to consider before you install.
Rotary lines
Try to find a nice flat area with at least a metre of free space around the clothesline. That way, on windy days, you won’t run the risk of your clean sheets and clothes flapping against walls, fences or trees.
Be sure to check the height of the clothesline in relation to anything like decks or trees. Ideally, you want to avoid being beneath the canopy, or you run the risk of birds leaving little presents on your washing. But if your options are limited, at least ensure that if the line folds up, it won’t tangle with overhead branches.
Also, check the position of your underground services so that when you dig the hole for the post, you won’t hit any cables or pipes.
Folding frame lines
When installing a folding frame line, make sure that you have enough free space to fold it right out and still stand comfortably in front of it to hang up your washing, plus about 10cm clear space on either side. For safety reasons, always install it just above head height to remove the risk of hitting your head on the bar.
Folding frame lines need a secure mount, such as a brick wall, the studs inside a clad wall (or a backing board secured to the studs), or posts set in the ground. We don’t recommend mounting directly to a fence or Hebel panels. Again, if you are ground-mounting your line, make sure to avoid digging where there are underground services.
Retractable lines
Ideally, you should allow for a metre of free space on each side of your retractable line so that when your laundry blows in the wind, it doesn’t rub against anything, and so that you have ample space to stand on either side to hang out your washing.
Because retractable lines tend to dip with the weight of your clothing more than the other kinds, we recommend mounting them a little higher – around 20cm above head height. A retractable line should be mounted to something solid like brick, wall studs, or ground-mounted poles.
A word about the weather
When choosing a location for your new clothesline, bear in mind that the strong summer sun can discolour your clothing. The best spot for drying is somewhere lightly shaded that gets a good amount of breeze.
Need a new washing line or some TLC for your existing line?
Auckland Clotheslines can help
If you are looking for a new clothesline talk to us about our stock of quality rotary lines and folding frame washing lines. We stock high-quality brands designed to withstand New Zealand conditions. We ship across the country and if you are in Auckland or Christchurch we can arrange installation for you to at an affordable price.
If you are in Auckland or Christchurch and your existing line could do with some TLC, we also offer repairs and rewiring for most types of lines using quality spare parts.
Give us a call to find out more.