10 Awesome Clothes Line Ideas in Australia: Space-Saving and Stylish Options (2024)

Searching for the perfect clothes line solution in Australia that marries functionality with style?

Look no further. We’ve curated a list of the “10 best clothes line ideas in Australia”...

...that cater to the unique Australian climate, from bustling city balconies to sprawling suburban backyards.

Whether you need a space-saving retractable line or a robust rotary that can withstand the Aussie breeze, our selection promises to offer practical, stylish options suited for every type of home.

Dive into our expert picks and discover your next laundry day game-changer.

Short Summary

• Australians have a variety of clothes line options suitable for different spaces and family sizes, including rotary, fold down, and retractable clothes lines, providing flexibility, style, and space-efficiency.

• Indoor clothes line options like ceiling-mounted lines and portable clothes lines offer space-saving solutions that are perfect for compact living areas or homes without outdoor space.

• Eco-friendly and customisable clothes lines are available to meet personal preferences and environmental consciousness, complemented by accessories and maintenance tips for longevity and efficiency.

Topics in This Article:

• Why These Clothes Lines Suit Me and My Needs?

• Why It Won't Work for Me?

• Top Clothes Line Options for Australian Homes

  1. Rotary Clothes Lines

  2. Retractable Clothes Lines

  3. Fold Down Clothes Lines

• Indoor Clothes Line Solutions for Small Spaces

  1. Ceiling-Mounted Clothes Lines

  2. Portable Clothes Lines

• Clothes Line Accessories to Enhance Your Laundry Experience

• Aesthetic and Stylish Clothes Line Designs

• Clothes Line Installation Tips and Considerations

• Customisable Clothes Lines for Personalised Solutions

• Eco-Friendly Clothes Line Options

• Clothes Line Maintenance Tips for Longevity

• Top 10 Clothes Line Ideas for Space-Saving and Style

  1. Austral Standard 28 Clothesline

  2. Eco 300 Clothesline

  3. Hills Hoist 8 Line Rotary Clothesline

  4. Austral Super 5 Clothes Hoist

  5. Austral Retractaway 40 Clothesline

  6. Hills 5 Line Retracting Clothesline

  7. Hills Portable 170 Clothesline

  8. Sunchaser Mobile Clothesline

  9. FoxyDry Mini

  10. 6 Lath Supreme Ceiling Airer

• Frequently Asked Questions/Recap

• Final Words

In the diverse landscape of Australia, with its varying climates and living spaces, the selection of clothes lines presented here addresses a wide range of personal and practical considerations.

Rotary clothes hoists are ideal for those with spacious yards and large families, providing a traditional, robust, high-capacity drying solution.

For urban dwellers or those with smaller yards, fold down and retractable options offer space-efficient, stylish functionality.

Ceiling-mounted lines and portable clothes lines reflect a deep understanding of the challenges faced in compact living situations.

Eco-friendly options and customisable features allow for personalisation while being mindful of environmental impact.

The emphasis on accessories and maintenance tips ensures a harmonious blend of efficiency, durability, and aesthetic appeal in the home.

While the range of clothes line options presented caters to diverse preferences and needs, they might not be ideal for everyone.

Individuals residing in tiny apartments lacking balconies could find even the most space-efficient clothes lines unfeasible.

Tenants in rental properties often encounter installation restrictions imposed by landlords on permanent fixtures.

Moreover, those with physical limitations may seek clothes lines specifically designed for accessibility, which the general options may not provide.

Additionally, the aesthetics of clothes lines, despite modern designs, might not suit everyone's taste, leading some to opt for dryers due to convenience, speed, or personal choice.

The most common types of clothes lines in Australia are the sturdy rotary clothes hoists, space-saving fold down clotheslines, and the convenient retractable clothes lines.

Renowned for their high capacity and height adjustability, rotary clothes hoists hold up well against the strong Australian breeze.

They’re constructed with durable materials like aluminium or galvanised steel, making them resilient against the Australian weather.

Conversely, there are three types of clothes lines that you can consider:

1. Rotary clotheslines, which offer a large drying space and can be easily folded down when not in use.

2. Fold down clotheslines, which are perfect for space-constrained settings as they can be folded away, leaving your garden or yard clear for other activities.

3. Retractable clotheslines, which are convenient and subtle, disappearing when not in use and effortlessly extending for your laundry days.

These options make your laundry day as smooth as the Australian wind.

Rotary clothes lines are a staple of many Australian backyards, offering high capacity for drying large amounts of laundry.

Their rotating design allows easy access to all lines, making hanging and retrieving your laundry a breeze.

Even the most compact models offer more line space than many alternatives, catering well to the laundry needs of large families.

In addition to their sturdy construction, renowned brands like Hills Hoist and Austral Foldaway offer user-friendly features, including ground socket installation kits and warranties, further enhancing their appeal.

Although they are generally stationary, some models can be removed from the ground when not in use, providing flexibility for your outdoor space.

Therefore, if your backyard is spacious and your laundry loads are large, a rotary clothes line could be the ideal solution.

For those with smaller or narrow spaces, retractable clothes lines are a godsend.

They extend from a sleek metal box when needed, and retract back seamlessly when not in use.

This makes them ideal for multiple settings, including bedrooms, kitchens, and balconies.

The designs of retractable clothes lines are such that they blend effortlessly with modern Australian home aesthetics, adding style to functionality.

A standard model can offer up to 6 lines, accommodating a substantial laundry load.

Whether you’re drying your clothes indoors or outdoors, retractable clotheslines offer a blend of convenience, style, and space-efficiency, making them a great option for compact living spaces.

Fold down clotheslines are another popular choice in Australia, especially for their space-saving design.

They offer a straightforward mechanism, allowing for effortless raising and lowering.

When not in use, they can be discreetly tucked away, freeing up your outdoor space for other activities.

Depending on the model chosen, it may be wall-mounted or ground-mounted, and may come with multiple folding frames.

From compact units suitable for singles or apartment living to large Eco fold downs for big families, there’s a fold down clothes line to suit every need.

Thus, if an easy-to-use, space-saving laundry solution is what you need, a fold down clothesline could be the way to go.

Not all homes in Australia have the luxury of outdoor space for a traditional clothesline.

But does that mean you need to compromise on the benefits of air-drying your clothes?

Definitely not!

Indoor clothes lines are a perfect solution for small spaces, ensuring efficient use of limited area for drying clothes indoors.

From ceiling-mounted lines that utilise your room’s vertical space to portable models that can be moved around, indoor clothesline options are designed to fit a variety of compact living spaces.

Hence, irrespective of whether you live in an apartment or a small house, you need not miss out on the energy-saving advantages of air-drying.

When space is at a premium, every inch counts.

This is where ceiling-mounted clothes lines come into play.

These lines are installed on your ceiling, effectively utilising an often-overlooked area of your home.

They come equipped with a pulley system, allowing you to easily lower the lines to hang your laundry and then retract them back up.

This not only saves precious floor space but also allows your laundry to benefit from the warm air that rises to the ceiling, speeding up the drying process.

With their space-saving design and easy operation, ceiling-mounted clothes lines provide ample line space, making them a practical choice for homes with a compact space, offering more room for other activities.

Sometimes, the best solution is the one that moves with you.

Portable clothes lines are a testament to this philosophy.

Lightweight and compact, these lines can be easily relocated to wherever you need them, be it your living room, balcony, or even outdoors on a sunny day.

Most models are enhanced with features like wheels for mobility and peg slots for stability, making them a versatile laundry solution.

After you’re done drying, your dry clothes can be folded flat for easy storage, ready for their next use.

Therefore, if you need a clothesline to match your dynamic lifestyle, a portable one could be the perfect choice.

Aside from the clothes line itself, several accessories can enhance your laundry experience.

These include:

• Built-in tensioning systems for maintaining cord tightness

• Clothesline covers for protecting your laundry from the elements

• Stainless steel clothes pegs for added durability

Regular cleaning can also prevent premature corrosion and maintain smooth operation of the clothesline.

By investing in these accessories and maintaining your washing line, you can guarantee an efficient, hassle-free laundry day.

After all, who said laundry has to be a chore?

With the right tools and accessories, it can be as breezy as the Australian wind blowing through your washing lines.

Gone are the days when clothes lines were considered an eyesore.

Modern clotheslines are designed to integrate seamlessly with your outdoor decor, striking a balance between functionality and aesthetics.

From clothes lines with patented brackets that enhance their appeal to ones that offer modular designs adaptable for various locations, the options are limitless.

Some even offer customisation options, allowing you to choose colours and finishes that match your home’s aesthetic.

With these stylish designs, your clothesline can be more than just a utility item; it can be a statement piece that adds to the visual appeal of your outdoor space.

Proper installation is key to ensuring your clothes line functions efficiently and lasts for a long time.

When choosing a location for your clothesline, make sure it’s in a place that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight and has good airflow.

Install the clothes line at a height that’s comfortable for you, usually around 50mm higher than your head height.

It’s also important to adhere to safety protocols during installation, such as avoiding electrical wires and wearing protective gear.

Keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a proper installation of your clothesline, ready to serve you for years.

Much like other aspects of life, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to clothes lines.

Thankfully, many manufacturers offer customisable clotheslines to fit your specific needs.

From adjustable length and width to personalised colours and finishes, your clothes line can be tailored to your preferences.

Some models even offer one-handed operation, making them easier to use.

With these customisable options, you can ensure that your clothes line is not only functional, but also a perfect fit for your home and lifestyle.

In a world increasingly aware of our environmental impact, eco-friendly clothesline options have become more popular.

These models, like the Greenway solar-powered clothes dryer, utilise renewable energy to dry your clothes.

Others are made of sustainable materials like bamboo or recycled elements.

These eco-friendly clothes lines not only reduce your carbon footprint, but also make life easier and reduce energy bills.

Opting for an eco-friendly clothesline not only serves as a practical choice for your home but also reflects your conscious decision for environmental sustainability.

Regular maintenance is vital to maintain your clothes line in prime condition.

Simple tasks such as wiping the clothesline monthly to remove dust, tree sap, and bird droppings can prevent premature corrosion and maintain smooth operation.

For retractable clothes lines, it’s also beneficial to retract them when not in use to prevent UV damage.

Inspecting the clothesline regularly to identify wear or damage and using appropriate lubricants can also ensure smooth operation and reduce noise.

By practicing these maintenance tips, you can ensure your clothes line lasts for years, giving you the best value for your investment.

Having explored an array of clothes lines, it’s time to delve into top ideas that harmoniously merge style and space-saving techniques.

In this section, we’ll look at 10 innovative clothes line designs that not only meet your laundry needs but also enhance the aesthetics of your space.

These clothes line options showcase a combination of functionality, design, and eco-friendliness, proving that you don’t have to compromise style for utility.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional rotary clothesline, a sleek retractable line, or something in between, there’s a stylish and space-saving solution for you.

Let’s explore these top choices that can turn your laundry day into a pleasant experience.

10 Best Clothes Line Ideas for Space-saving and Style:

1. Austral Standard 28 Clothesline

2. Eco 300 Clothesline

3. Hills Hoist 8 Line Rotary Clothesline

4. Austral Super 5 Clothes Hoist

5. Austral Retractaway 40 Clothesline

6. Hills 5 Line Retracting Clothesline

7. Hills Portable 170 Clothesline

8. Sunchaser Mobile Clothesline

9. FoxyDry Mini

10. 6 Lath Supreme Ceiling Airer

Let’s delve into each of these top picks in more detail.

The Austral Standard 28 Clothesline, renowned for its simplicity, offers a durable and functional solution for outdoor drying.

Its robust construction is designed to endure the harsh Australian weather, ensuring longevity.

This model is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, hassle-free clothes line experience.

With Lifestyle Clotheslines’ fast delivery and expert installation services, setting up your Austral Standard 28 is incredibly easy.

As a result, this clothes line stands out as a practical option for anyone in need of a sturdy and straightforward drying solution.

If you prioritise durability and ease of use, the Austral Standard 28 Clothesline is certainly worthy of your consideration.

Pros:

• Has a built-in line tensioner

• Aussie made

• Perfect for a family of 3-4

• Customisable colour

• Can fit queen sized sheets

Cons:

• May require professional clothesline installation

• May be too big for tight spaces when not folded

Buy Austral Standard 28

The Eco 300 Clothesline, designed with eco-friendliness in mind, boasts a modern design that complements its sleek lines and robust construction.

It provides ample space for drying laundry, catering to the needs of environmentally conscious consumers.

The installation process is straightforward and user-friendly, facilitated by the expert service offered by Lifestyle Clotheslines.

This model comes with a variety of installation options to ensure it seamlessly fits into your outdoor space.

If you're in the market for a clothesline that combines style with a commitment to sustainability, the Eco 300 Clothesline is an excellent choice.

Its practicality is matched by its aesthetic appeal, making it a standout addition to any Australian home.

Pros:

• Compatible with clothesline cover

• Highly customisable

• Compatible with the lowline attachment

• Aussie made

Cons:

• May require professional clothesline installation

• May not be suitable for small wall space

Buy Eco 300

The Hills Hoist 8 Line Rotary Clothesline is a testament to the quality and durability of traditional rotary clothes lines.

Offering eight lines of hanging space, this model can handle large laundry loads with ease.

Despite its generous capacity, it features a compact design that fits easily into most backyards.

Plus, with the expert installation service from Lifestyle Clotheslines, setting up your Hills Hoist 8 Line Rotary Clothesline is a breeze.

So, if you’re looking for a reliable and spacious clothesline, this model is worth considering.

Pros:

• Ideal drying capacity for larger families

• Included ground socket allows line to be easily stored away when not in use--freeing up yard space

• Various colour options to suit your home

Cons:

• Plastic lines

• Not as robust as fixed rotary hoists

Buy Hills Hoist 8 Line Rotary

The Austral Super 5 Clothes Hoist is a classic option that combines traditional design with modern functionality.

This rotary clothes hoist offers plenty of hanging space, making it perfect for large households.

Despite its large capacity, it features a compact design that doesn’t take up too much of your backyard space.

Also, with the professional installation service from Lifestyle Clotheslines, you can rest assured your Austral Super 5 Clothes Hoist will be set up perfectly.

If you appreciate the time-tested design of a rotary hoist and need a large drying space, this model is a perfect choice.

Pros:

• Big head diameter of 5m for lots of washing

• 50m of line space = our biggest fixed rotary

• Features a breeze brake for one position pegging on windy days

• Aluminium crank case is durable and built to last

• Aussie made

Cons:

• May require professional clothesline installation

• Not removable when you need your garden/backyard space

Buy Austral Super 5

The Austral Retractaway 40 Clothesline is an ideal choice for those prioritising space-efficiency and convenience, offering a clever retractable design that's there when you need it and invisible when you don't.

Despite its discreet profile, it provides an impressive drying space, ample for handling most laundry loads with ease.

Installation is a breeze, thanks to the comprehensive hardware kit included.

Constructed from high-quality materials, it's built to last, enduring through the rigors of frequent use.

To top it off, Lifestyle Clotheslines provides expert installation service, ensuring your clothes line is set up without any fuss.

For a versatile, space-saving laundry drying solution, the Austral Retractaway 40 Clothesline is a contender worth your attention.

Pros:

• Aussie made

• Has a line tensioning system

• Perfect for narrow spaces

• Wall or ground mounted with optional ground mount kit

• Huge 40 metres of line for any sized family

Cons:

• May require professional clothesline installation

• Post to post installation not recommended for wet soil areas

Buy Austral Retractaway 40

The Hills 5 Line Retracting Clothesline offers a perfect blend of convenience and style.

This retractable clothes line extends when you need it and discreetly retracts when not in use, making it an ideal solution for compact spaces.

It also offers five lines of hanging space, enough for most laundry loads.

Plus, with the expert installation service from Lifestyle Clotheslines, setting up your Hills 5 Line Retracting Clothesline is a breeze.

So, if you’re looking for a stylish and convenient clothes line, this model is worth considering.

Pros:

• Lifetime warranty for peace of mind

• Monument colour blends with any home setting

• Professional installation is available for your convenience

• Compatible with lots of optional extras to suit individual requirements

• Smooth and easy to retract and use

Cons:

• May require professional clothesline installation

• Spans a wide area, may not be suitable for very small yards

Buy Hills 5 Line Retracting

The Hills Portable 170 Clothesline offers a unique solution for those with a dynamic lifestyle.

This portable clothes line can be moved around easily, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor use.

Despite its compact size, it offers ample hanging space, enough for most laundry loads.

Plus, with the expert installation service from Lifestyle Clotheslines, setting up your Hills Portable 170 Clothesline is a breeze.

So, if you’re looking for a flexible and convenient clothes line, this model is worth considering.

Pros:

• Stable and strong portable clothes drying unit

• Easily moves and folds up when not in use

• Ideal for extra drying space in a compact unit

• Suitable for a 1-3 person wash anywhere in and around the home

• Lightweight design makes it easy to move unit between rooms

Cons:

• 2 washloads capacity only

• May need 2 or more of this for huge loads of laundry

Buy Hills Portable 170

The Sunchaser Mobile Clothesline is a stylish and practical solution for those in need of a flexible drying solution.

This mobile clothes line offers easy mobility, allowing you to chase the sun throughout the day for the most efficient drying.

Its compact size makes it perfect for small spaces, such as urban balconies or cozy backyards.

It provides ample hanging space, enough for most laundry loads, making it a versatile choice for various household sizes.

Plus, with the expert installation service from Lifestyle Clotheslines, setting up your Sunchaser Mobile Clothesline is incredibly straightforward.

If you’re in search of a clothes line that’s both stylish and practical, this model merits your consideration.

Pros:

• Free Standing, Portable and Easy to Move

• Easy to Use Folding Frames for Simple Storage Solutions

• Strong and Durable Steel Construction

• Perfect for larger families

• Compatible with cover

Cons:

• Too big for small spaces and apartments

• Not compact

Buy Sunchaser Mobile

The FoxyDry Mini is a compact and versatile clothes line perfect for small spaces.

This model can be installed on your ceiling, effectively utilising an often-overlooked area of your home.

Despite its compact size, it offers ample hanging space, enough for most laundry loads.

Plus, with the expert installation service from Lifestyle Clotheslines, setting up your FoxyDry Mini is a breeze.

So, if you’re looking for a compact and versatile clothes line, this model is worth considering.

Pros:

• The Foxydry Mini can be lowered up to 1.8m down from the ceiling

• Hang your washing & laundry at the perfect height for you

• New frictionless mechanism that reduces wet laundry weight

• Easily raises up to 10 kg of laundry without the slightest effort

• Can install Foxydry Mini both indoors and outdoors

Cons:

• 1 washload capacity only

• Not suitable for larger families

Buy FoxyDry Mini

The Kitchen Main 6 Lath Supreme Ceiling Airer is a stylish and efficient clothes line that's perfect for small spaces.

This ingenious model capitalises on vertical space by installing on your ceiling, an area of the home that's often underutilised.

Despite its compact size, it offers an ample hanging area that's more than sufficient for most laundry loads.

The installation process is a breeze, especially with the expert assistance provided by Lifestyle Clotheslines.

If you're seeking a clothes line that combines style with practicality and efficiency, the 6 Lath Supreme Ceiling Airer is an excellent choice.

With its space-saving design and ease of use, it's a smart solution for compact living areas.

Pros:

• Ideal for the family wash as suits 2-4 people

• 6 shaped and smoothed laths to hold the laundry

• Choice from stunning cast iron, brass or chrome ends

• Eco-friendly

• Can be put in kitchen, laundry, or balcony

Cons:

• 1 washload capacity only

• Multiple units required for a family of 4

Buy Kitchen Maid 6 Lath Supreme

In conclusion, choosing the right clothes line for your home involves considering a variety of factors, from the amount of available space and your laundry needs to the aesthetic appeal and installation options.

Whether it’s a sturdy rotary hoist for large laundry loads, a sleek retractable line for compact spaces, or a stylish ceiling-mounted airer for indoor use, there’s a clothesline to suit every Australian home.

With the variety of innovative designs and eco-friendly options available, air-drying your clothes can be a breeze.

So, why not embrace this timeless Australian tradition, save on energy bills, and add a stylish touch to your backyard or laundry room?

After all, with the right clothes line, every day can be a great laundry day.