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Home » Articles » Folding Clotheslines: Frame vs. Rotary Head Hoist

Folding Clotheslines: Frame vs. Rotary Head Hoist

Having a generous amount of line-drying space makes hanging out a load of laundry much more enjoyable. But as New Zealand gardens get smaller, having a large clothesline in the middle of your lawn is often no longer practical. That’s why folding washing lines have become so popular, offering the best of both worlds. But with such a large array of models available, which is the best clothesline for you?

Folding Frame Clotheslines

Folding frame clotheslines are a classic and space-saving solution for drying clothes. They feature a frame made of sturdy materials such as galvanized steel or powder-coated aluminium. The key advantage is their foldable design, allowing them to be easily collapsed when not in use so you can reclaim your outdoor (or indoor) space. They come in a range of sizes and shapes, accommodating the needs of both small and large households.

There are two main kinds – rotary head hoist and folding frame.

Austral Compact 28 on Base Plate Ground Mount
austral-foldaway-51-rotary-clothesline-3

Folding rotary clotheslines

Folding rotary head hoist clotheslines offer you the classic shape and drying room of a traditional rotating clothesline with the added convenience of being able to fold the arms down, and even remove the entire clothesline from the ground socket. The design allows for easy rotation of the clothesline, exposing clothes to optimal sunlight and air circulation. This feature is particularly helpful in speeding up the drying process.

We stock robust models made by Hills and Austral that offer between 34 and 58 metres of drying space, the latter being enough to accommodate king sized sheets or large loads of laundry. They come with long warranties of 10 or 20 years, and we can install them for you (for an additional fee) if you’re in Auckland or Christchurch.

Austral Fold Away Rotary 51 (Recommended)

Austral Fold Away Rotary 45 (Recommended)

Hills Rotary 8

Hills Rotary 7

Hills Rotary 6

Folding frame clotheslines

Folding frame clotheslines are great for areas with limited space. Usually rectangular, they can be mounted to the side of a house, a fence, or on their own metal poles. Their shape makes them ideal for use in the narrow area down the side of a house. When not in use, they can fold flat against the wall.

Not only are folding frame clotheslines great for smaller sections, but they are also perfect for balconies or indoor drying rooms, as they range from large outdoor models all the way down to mini lines that you can put in your laundry or bathroom. Our largest line will easily service a family of five. Our extensive range of Hills and Austral clotheslines includes the new balcony clothesline with non-climbable cords, making it safer to use around your children and pets.

Austral Compact 39 Fold Down Clothesline (Recommended)

Austral Standard 28 Fold Down Clothesline (Recommended)

Austral Compact 28 Fold Down Clothesline (Recommended)

Austral Slenderline 20 Fold Down Clothesline (Recommended)

Austral Slenderline 16 Fold Down Clothesline (Recommended)

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Choosing between rotary and frame folding

To determine the best option for you, consider the following factors:

Space Availability

Frame Clotheslines: Ideal for small spaces where you need a clothesline that can be easily folded and stored.

Rotary Head Hoist Clotheslines: Suitable for larger outdoor areas where the circular design can be fully utilized without taking up too much ground space.

Drying Capacity

Frame Clotheslines: Offer multiple lines for drying, making them suitable for households with moderate laundry needs.

Rotary Head Hoist Clotheslines: Provide a larger drying capacity, making them ideal for families with substantial laundry loads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a folding washing line indoors?

Yes, we have small folding frame clotheslines for indoor use. Ensure you use wall anchors or mount them to a stud and that the room is well-ventilated to avoid dampness issues.

Are folding clotheslines durable?

Both folding frame and rotary head hoist clotheslines are designed to be durable and weather-resistant, with materials such as galvanized steel and powder-coated aluminium providing longevity. All our models come with generous warranties, and we only stock quality brands.

Do folding clotheslines offer less space than non-folding clotheslines?

It depends on the model you choose. Some of our folding rotary clotheslines offer more drying space than the fixed rotary clotheslines. In general, the folding frame clotheslines are smaller, but several or our models will happily accommodate the washing of up to four people. If you’re planning to dry bedsheets, it’s a good idea to measure them and choose a clothesline that is slightly wider, so you don’t have to scrunch them up on the line.

How do I maintain a folding clothesline?

To keep your clothesline in good condition, wipe it with a damp cloth and mild detergent once a month. We also suggest regularly folding and unfolding it to keep the joints operating smoothly. Using oil on the joints is not recommended. An application of good quality car wax every six months will extend the durability of your metal components.

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Need a new clothesline and not sure which clothesline would be best for you?

If you are looking for a new clothesline talk to us. We ship across the country and if you are in Auckland or Christchurch we can arrange installation for you to at an affordable price. 

Give us a call to find out more.

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