Folding Rotary Clothesline for Effortless Drying

In Australia, where the sun shines brightly for much of the year, a clothesline is an essential outdoor fixture for many households. Whether you’re drying sheets, towels, or your favourite clothes, the traditional rotary clothesline has long been the go-to for efficient, eco-friendly drying.

However, a modern twist on this classic solution – the folding rotary clothesline – offers even more advantages, particularly for those with smaller yards or limited outdoor space.

With its ability to fold down and be removed from the ground when not in use, a folding rotary clothesline provides both practicality and space-saving convenience, without compromising on drying efficiency. TABLE OF CONTENTS

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using a folding rotary clothesline in your Australian home, how to choose the best rotary clothesline model for you, and offer insights into installation, maintenance, and care.

What is a Folding Rotary Clothesline?

A folding rotary clothesline combines the traditional design of the old fashioned fixed head rotary clothesline with a modern folding mechanism. Unlike the traditional rotary clotheslines, which can not be removed from the ground, with a folding rotary clothesline you can fold the head down and it can be easily removed from the ground socket, then down and stored away when not in use. This makes it an ideal solution for households with limited space, such as smaller urban backyards.

Typically constructed from durable materials like steel and have a powder coated finish, a folding rotary clothesline is designed to withstand the harsh Australian elements. The key advantage of rotary clotheslines is the space-saving design, which allows homeowners to maximise their outdoor areas while maintaining the flexibility to use the clothesline as needed.

Benefits of Using a Rotary Clothes Hoist

A rotary clothes hoist is an excellent drying solution for anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint, save energy, and dry clothes efficiently. Here are some of the key benefits of using a rotary clothes hoist:

Maximising Line Space: One of the biggest advantages of rotary clotheslines is their ability to offer more hanging space compared to traditional lines or clothes airers. The circular design allows you to hang more clothes on a single clothesline, making it perfect for larger loads of washing or families with many members. This aspect is especially important when drying bulky items like king-sized sheets, towels, or blankets.

Sturdiness and Reliability

A sturdy clothesline like a rotary hoist is built to handle heavy items. It provides the perfect balance of strength and stability, ensuring your clothes stay secure even on windy days. The galvanised steel or powder-coated materials used in the construction of these clotheslines mean that they can withstand the tough Australian climate, from hot, dry summers to rainy winters days.

Ease of Use

Rotary clotheslines are incredibly easy to use. The rotating arms allow for easy access to all sections of the line, making it quick to hang and remove clothes. Whether you’re hanging delicate items or thick towels, the rotary design makes laundry day simpler and faster.

Durability and Long-Lasting Performance

Investing in a rotary clothes hoist is a long-term decision, as these units are built to last. The combination of weather-resistant materials, solid construction, and a simple design means that a rotary clothesline can serve your family for years, with little to no maintenance required. And since clotheslines are a long term investment, you’ll save money on electricity bills by avoiding the use of tumble dryers.

Key Features of Rotary Clotheslines

When choosing the best folding rotary clothesline for your needs, it’s important to consider a few key features to ensure you get the most out of your investment.

Sturdy Design and Quality Materials

Look for a folding rotary clothesline made from high-quality materials like galvanised steel or powder coated metal. These materials offer superior resistance to rust and corrosion, which is especially important in Australia’s diverse weather conditions.

A strong, durable frame will ensure that your clothesline lasts for many years without breaking or bending under the weight of your laundry.

Size and Hanging Space

Consider the size of the rotary clothesline in relation to the amount of laundry you typically do. If you have a larger family or regularly dry large items like king-sized sheets, you’ll want to choose a clothesline model with longer lines. Folding rotary clotheslines come in various sizes, and this is determined by the head diameter. 

The larger the diameter head, the more lines and hanging area you will have.  Generally, the diameter of the head is between 3.0mtrs to 5.0mtrs Make sure to pick a suitable one that suits your laundry loads while still fitting comfortably in your outdoor space.

Ground Socket for Easy Installation and Removal

A ground socket is an essential feature for many folding rotary clotheslines, providing the option to securely anchor the clothesline in place.

It’s typically concreted into the ground, which allows for easy installation, as well as simple removal when you need to free up the space. This feature is particularly useful for households that need to use their outdoor space for other activities like barbecues, family gatherings, or even kids’ playtime.

Replacement Line and Maintenance

Over time, the line on your clothesline may wear out. Look for a rotary clothesline that offers a replacement line option, so you can easily replace the cord without needing to buy a new unit. Regular maintenance is also important – keep your folding rotary clothesline clean and inspect it for any signs of wear and tear to ensure it continues to function at its best.

Locking Mechanism

These rotary clotheslines have a locking mechanism to secure the rotary hoist when in use. A reliable locking system ensures that your clothesline stays up and ready for use.

Installation Location: When selecting a suitable location in your backyard for your folding frame clothesline, it’s important to choose an area that is free of overhanging trees, away from the wall of the house, boundary fences, or other obstacles.

These can obstruct the drying space, reduce airflow, and potentially damage your clothesline over time. Ideally, place your clothesline in an open, sunny spot, in your backyard, to maximise drying efficiency, as exposure to sunlight and good ventilation will help your clothes dry faster.

Before making a purchase, be sure to carefully measure the available space to ensure the folding rotary clothesline will fit comfortably and provide enough room for your laundry loads. By considering the location in advance, you’ll optimise both the functionality and longevity of your new clothesline.

Top Brands for Folding Rotary Clotheslines in Australia

When it comes to choosing a folding rotary clothesline, there are a few brands that stand out for their quality and reliability. Two of the top brands for rotary clotheslines in Australia are Hills Hoist and Austral.

Hills Hoist Folding Rotary Clotheslines

Hills Hoist is perhaps the most iconic brand when it comes to clotheslines in Australia. Known for their sturdy design and high-quality materials, Hills Hoist offers a range of folding rotary clotheslines to suit various needs and budgets.

Their products are made from galvanised steel, ensuring they are rust-resistant and built to last through all types of weather. With a long-standing reputation for reliability, Hills Folding Rotary Clotheslines are a top choice for Australian households looking for a premium clothesline.

Hills Everyday 37 Rotary Clothesline – 37 metres of line, compact and durable design, powder-coated finish.

 Hills Rotary Clothesline – 8 Line – 58 metres of line, classic design, large capacity, foldable for easy storage.

Hills Large Rotary Clothesline Everyday 47 – 47 metres of line, weather-resistant, ideal for large wash loads.

Austral Clotheslines

Another popular choice is Austral, which offers a wide range of folding rotary clotheslines.

Known for their focus on durability and design, Austral clotheslines are an Australian made clothesline, ensuring high-quality materials and construction, Austral is a very good quality choice.

Austral FoldAway 45 (Woodland Grey) – 45 metres of line, stylish powder-coated finish, easy to fold, carry and store.

Austral FoldAway 51 Rotary Clothesline – 51 metres of line, corrosion-resistant construction, adjustable height.

Use and Installation Tips

Installing and maintaining your folding rotary clothesline properly will ensure that it performs well for years. Here are a few helpful tips:

Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and maintenance. Proper installation is key to ensuring that your clothesline remains sturdy and secure during use.

Regularly Inspect and Clean the Clothesline: It’s important to keep your rotary clothesline clean and well-maintained. Regularly inspect the line for signs of wear, and wipe down the frame and arms to remove any dust or dirt. Cleaning your clothesline ensures that it remains rust-free and functional.

Check for Replacement Lines

Over time, the line on your clothesline may degrade or break. Many rotary clotheslines offer replacement lines to ensure that you don’t have to replace the entire unit. Keep an eye on the condition of your lines, and replace them as needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When purchasing and maintaining your folding rotary clothesline, avoid these common mistakes:

Not Following Installation Instructions
Improper installation of the rotary hoist can lead to instability or damage. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure the clothesline is set up correctly.

Neglecting Regular Maintenance
Failing to clean and inspect your clothesline can lead to wear and tear. Make it a habit to regularly check the condition of your rotary hoist.

Overloading the Clothesline
While rotary clotheslines are built to handle substantial wash loads, overloading them can strain the frame and cause damage. Remember the maximum weight capacity recommended for your rotary hoist and distribute the laundry evenly across the arms.

Using a clothesline cover on your folding rotary or any other style of clothesline, will void your manufacturer’s warranty. 

Conclusion

A folding rotary clothesline is the perfect solution for those looking for an efficient, space-saving, and environmentally friendly way to dry their laundry. With its easy-to-use design, durable construction, and line space that accommodates multiple loads of washing, it’s an excellent investment for any home.

Whether you choose a Hills Hoist or Austral, both brands offer reliable, high-quality options made from galvanised steel and built to last. By following the installation and maintenance tips in this article, you can enjoy effortless drying for years to come. So, choose the best folding rotary clothesline for your needs and say goodbye to high energy bills and tumble dryers

Recap - Top Picks for Folding Rotary Clotheslines

Here are two of the best folding rotary clotheslines available in Australia:

Hills Hoist Folding Rotary Clothesline

The Hills Hoist Folding Rotary Clothesline is known for its robust design and ample hanging space. Made from galvanised steel, it can withstand harsh weather conditions and is perfect for large families with multiple laundry loads. The height adjustable feature allows for easy adjustment based on your needs, and it folds down easily for convenient storage.

Austral Folding Rotary Clothesline

The Austral Folding Rotary Clothesline is another great choice for Australian homes. Manufactured locally, Austral offers a durable, powder-coated model with a sturdy frame and ample line space.