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10 Best Retractable Clothesline Outdoor 2025 in the UK

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Vileda Cordomatic Retractable Washing Line with 15m Outdoor Clothes Line

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,237
Material
Retracting Mechanism
Installation
Material
Thick plastic and one of the reasons I purchased was the thickness of the cleat at the bottom. So many others are very thin and that's the part that breaks.
Retracting Mechanism
Quick to put the line away when not in use and it takes two seconds to take down and store for Autumn and Winter if you don't want to leave it out to the elements.
Installation
This item was so easy to install. Very sturdy and a useful addition to our patio for extra laundry.
Weight Capacity
The last one we had was a cheap and cheerful reel line from Sainsbury's and it was £8. It lasted 6 years. This one is much sturdier.

The Vileda Cordomatic Retractable Washing Line is a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor use, offering a generous 15 meters of line length, which caters well to those with ample washing needs. Its retracting mechanism is automatic, adding convenience by allowing users to easily draw the line back into its casing when not in use, thus saving space and protecting the line from weather elements when it's not in use. The line's material is strong, durable plastic, which is a plus as it promises longevity, and its red color helps increase visibility, reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Installation is straightforward since it's wall-mountable, making it adaptable to various spaces, be it a backyard or a laundry room. However, the installation process might require some basic DIY skills or tools, which could be a slight inconvenience for those not familiar with such tasks. The weight capacity is another highlight, as it can hold up to 15 kg of laundry. This makes it suitable for large loads and heavier items like towels or jeans, which is ideal for family use.

On the downside, while the product is made from durable materials, the plastic construction might not be as robust against extreme weather conditions over time as metal might be. Despite these considerations, the Vileda Cordomatic's user-friendly design and practicality make it a strong contender for anyone in need of a reliable outdoor clothesline solution.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,237
Material
Retracting Mechanism
Installation
Material
Thick plastic and one of the reasons I purchased was the thickness of the cleat at the bottom. So many others are very thin and that's the part that breaks.
Retracting Mechanism
Quick to put the line away when not in use and it takes two seconds to take down and store for Autumn and Winter if you don't want to leave it out to the elements.
Installation
This item was so easy to install. Very sturdy and a useful addition to our patio for extra laundry.
Weight Capacity
The last one we had was a cheap and cheerful reel line from Sainsbury's and it was £8. It lasted 6 years. This one is much sturdier.
#2

Minky Retractable Duo Reel Washing Line, Grey, 2x15m

Rating
9.8
Material
Retracting Mechanism
Installation
Material
Well-constructed and sturdy, though slightly heavy, it requires a strong fence post or solid wall for installation and can be removed when not in use.
Retracting Mechanism
The retractable design makes it easy to pull out and automatically wind up, offering convenience and proving to be worth every penny.
Installation
Perfect for small backyards, this clothesline is easy to set up and can be mounted on various surfaces, including walls, posts, and under porches.

The Minky Retractable Duo Reel Washing Line offers a practical solution for outdoor laundry drying. With two lines, each extending up to 15 meters, it provides ample space for hanging clothes. The fully retractable design with a UV-stable protective casing ensures durability and protection from the elements.

The material, polyvinyl chloride, is known for its resistance to wear and tear, making it a reliable choice for outdoor use. Installation is straightforward, as it includes all necessary wall fixings and can be clipped off the bracket for easy winter storage. However, assembly is required, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users. The weight capacity of 25 kg (approximately 55 pounds) is decent, though it might not be sufficient for very heavy loads.

This clothesline is lightweight and easy to handle, with a total product weight of just 1.23 kg. Customer reviews are largely positive, with a 4.4-star rating out of over 42,000 reviews, indicating general satisfaction with the product. This clothesline would be ideal for those looking for a convenient and space-saving option for drying laundry outdoors, particularly in smaller gardens or patios.

Rating
9.8
Material
Retracting Mechanism
Installation
Material
Well-constructed and sturdy, though slightly heavy, it requires a strong fence post or solid wall for installation and can be removed when not in use.
Retracting Mechanism
The retractable design makes it easy to pull out and automatically wind up, offering convenience and proving to be worth every penny.
Installation
Perfect for small backyards, this clothesline is easy to set up and can be mounted on various surfaces, including walls, posts, and under porches.
#3

Minky VT20500103 Retractable Reel Washing Line with 15 m of Drying Space, Grey

Rating
9.6
Retracting Mechanism
Installation
Retracting Mechanism
Pulls out when you want to use it and automatically winds up when putting away, making it very easy to use and worth every penny.
Installation
Easy to put up and take down, even for small backyards. It can be mounted on a wall, post, or under a porch, and includes hooks for securing the lines.

The Minky VT20500103 Retractable Reel Washing Line offers a practical solution for outdoor drying, featuring 15 meters of drying space. Its retractable nature means it can be easily stored away, making it a space-efficient option. The UV stable protective casing ensures the line’s durability under sunlight, which is a significant advantage for outdoor use. Installation is made straightforward as it includes necessary wall fixings, and the ability to clip off the bracket is convenient for winter storage, preventing weather damage.

Made from Polyvinyl Chloride, the line is built to withstand the elements, which aligns with the needs of an outdoor clothesline. Its weight capacity is 33 pounds, which should suffice for most family laundry tasks, though it might be limited for heavier items. This product is especially suitable for those who prefer a minimalist setup or have limited outdoor space.

Some users may find the required assembly slightly challenging if they are not handy, as it involves securing the line to a wall. Furthermore, while the casing is durable, the actual retracting mechanism isn't highlighted as reinforced, which might be a consideration for long-term use. The Minky retractable line strikes a balance of functionality and ease of storage, making it an appealing choice for many households, provided the weight limits are within expectations and users are prepared for a bit of assembly effort.

Rating
9.6
Retracting Mechanism
Installation
Retracting Mechanism
Pulls out when you want to use it and automatically winds up when putting away, making it very easy to use and worth every penny.
Installation
Easy to put up and take down, even for small backyards. It can be mounted on a wall, post, or under a porch, and includes hooks for securing the lines.

Buying Guide for the Best Retractable Clothesline Outdoor

Choosing the right retractable clothesline for outdoor use can make a significant difference in your laundry routine. A retractable clothesline is a convenient and space-saving solution for drying clothes naturally. When selecting the best one for your needs, consider factors such as the length of the line, the material, ease of installation, and the retraction mechanism. These elements will determine how well the clothesline fits your space, how durable it is, and how easy it is to use.
Line LengthThe line length of a retractable clothesline determines how much drying space you have. It's important because it dictates how many clothes you can hang at once. Clotheslines typically range from 20 to 50 feet. If you have a large family or do laundry frequently, a longer line will be beneficial. For smaller households or limited spaces, a shorter line may suffice. Consider the space available in your yard or balcony and choose a line length that fits comfortably without overcrowding.
MaterialThe material of the clothesline affects its durability and weather resistance. Common materials include plastic, stainless steel, and heavy-duty nylon. Stainless steel and nylon are more durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for outdoor use. Plastic may be less durable but can be suitable for areas with mild weather. Consider the climate in your area and how often you plan to use the clothesline when choosing the material.
Retracting MechanismThe retracting mechanism is what allows the clothesline to extend and retract smoothly. This feature is important for ease of use and storage. Some clotheslines have a manual retraction system, while others are automatic. Automatic systems are more convenient but may be more prone to mechanical issues. If you prefer simplicity and reliability, a manual system might be better. Consider how often you'll be extending and retracting the line and choose a mechanism that suits your lifestyle.
InstallationInstallation refers to how the clothesline is mounted and secured. This is important for stability and ease of setup. Some clotheslines require wall mounting, while others can be attached to posts or poles. Wall-mounted options are great for permanent setups, while pole-mounted ones offer more flexibility. Consider your available space and whether you want a permanent or temporary solution. Ensure that the installation process is straightforward and that you have the necessary tools and skills.
Weight CapacityThe weight capacity of a clothesline indicates how much weight it can hold without sagging or breaking. This is crucial if you plan to hang heavy items like towels or blankets. Clotheslines with higher weight capacities are generally more robust and durable. If you frequently wash heavy items, opt for a clothesline with a higher weight capacity. For lighter loads, a standard capacity should suffice. Assess your typical laundry load to determine the appropriate weight capacity.