Types of Washing Lines UK 

Outdoor Washing Lines

The sight of a line full of washing blowing in the breeze. This of course refers to the standard washing line. There are really 3 parts to having a good washing line:

• The quality of the washing line
• The method you use to setup your washing line such as posts or wall brackets
• The washing line props

Below you will find useful information on lines, posts and props. This section concentrates on the quality and types of washing lines that are available. The majority of washing lines are pretty standard as they are made from some type of steel core, which has been covered in PVC.

Most standard washing lines are 50 metres (54.6 yards) in length. They are usually about 4 mm thick and can hold a weight of around 200 Kg (440 lbs)

Outdoor Washing Line Posts, Brackets & Pulleys

Depending on your individual set up, your washing line may have 1 or poles to hold the line in place. Your washing line will only be as good as the strength of the poles that hold it in place.

It really isn't the poles that matter that much, but rather how those poles are put into the ground. We have also included some information on washing line brackets and pulleys.

Outdoor Washing Line Props

Most washing lines will benefit from a prop of some kind. These are usually extendable and they help support and raise the line so as your laundry can blow and dry in the wind.

The important things to understand is the height of these and also how they attach to your existing washing line.

Rotary Washing Lines

These are very popular with many UK buyers. They are often referred to as whirly lines. They have a number of arms and the line is threaded through these arms. The arms are attached to a pole, and this pole goes into a holder in the ground which is usually some form of spike.

When the wind blows, the weight of the washing blows the line around to help dry the laundry. These are made by brands such as Brabantia, Vileda and JVC.

Rotary Washing Line Covers

We have explained the rotary washing lines above. One of the weaknesses of that type of line is that they can rust if left unprotected in our great British weather. You can however buy covers for these and those can be quickly put on when the line is not being used.

Retractable Washing Lines

Some UK buyers prefer using a retractable washing line as they are convenient and handy. You can pull these out to hang up your washing, and then retract them when the line is not in use. They are really handy especially if you are pushed for space.

Dual Retractable Washing Lines

Some UK buyers prefer using a dual or double retractable washing line as this can quickly double up your hanging space. You can pull these out to hang up your washing, and then retract them when the line is not in use. They are really handy especially if you are pushed for space or have a small garden or yard.

Where Can You Buy Washing Lines in the UK?

There are a number of places where you can buy washing lines in the UK. These include:

• Argos - they keep a range of washing lines including retractable, rotary, and outdoor lines and posts - around 34 different options
• B&Q - they have around 18-20 washing line options that include retractable, washing lines, posts and poles, 
• Dunelm - they have around 32 products that include rotary lines, washing lines, posts and props, covers, and retractable
• Homebase - they have around 30 products that include rotary lines, washing lines, posts and props, covers, and retractable
• The Range - they have around 24 products that include rotary lines, washing lines, posts and props, covers, and retractable

Home Bargains may also stock some washing line options from time to time, but it really is hit and miss.

You can also buy these online at Amazon UK, eBay and most of the stores listed above through their online stores.