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

Product Information

We don’t like how it attaches at the free end. The user has to wrap it around the anchor point on the base of the unit, and it can sometimes slip, leaving a sag in the line.

The nub or anchor point for tightening the line takes some getting used to. It can be a bit fiddly to use at first, but once you get the hang of it, it is manageable.Most retractable washing lines can be used indoors and outdoors, even if they are only advertised for outdoor use. There are, however, some retractable washing lines which are only intended for indoor use and these will be advertised as such. Even if you have a tumble dryer at home, using it is expensive, bad for your clothes and bad for the environment. Basically, you want to air dry if you possibly can, but that isn’t always easy. Your outdoor space may be too precious for you to want to give up any of it to a washing line, or you may only be able to air dry clothes indoors. The Minky double retractable washing line provides good value and a neat way to dry your clothes outside – great if you don’t have the room for a fixed-line.

Each rod is capable of holding up to 2.5 kg, and it extends out to over half a meter. The frame is constructed from steel and is plastic coated for better protection. The unit is robust considering its size, and the rivets are rugged, which helps it to support up to 20kg. This washing line can be used safely indoors and outdoors. If you’re installing a retractable washing line indoors, then the obvious place for it is over a bath, however, this is not the only place for it, which is just as well given the number of modern flats which only have showers! Bathrooms are still good drying places since they tend to have hard floors, but really you can install a retractable washing line anywhere in your home, if the flooring underneath is carpeted, just put some clothes down before you hang up your washing. The next valuable quality has to be the overall available capacity of your washing. You will need plenty of lines, especially if you have a larger family. However, there is an apparent trade-off between storage capacity and convenience with some retractable washing lines as they are often made for use in smaller spaces inside the home. Don’t expect a retractable to compete with a rotary washing line. However, the capabilities of some models will surprise you. Its a matter of personal preference whether you choose a single or double lined washing line, but the available space you have for hanging washing will likely force your hand. Double-lined just means you have two lines that come out of one body which means you have double the hanging capacity. They are a fantastic invention, but they do come at a higher cost, so it’s worth considering how many lines you need before you buy one. Line construction Choose a place that is obstacle-free and somewhere out of reach of the children. Make sure it isn’t too high or too low. If it’s too high, you will struggle to extend it and hang out the washing. If it is too low, it will sag, and your washing will end up on the garden floor. Also, you have to consider where the loose end of the line will go. You need to choose a location that is within reach. At the open end, you will need to fit a hook for the line to attach to, and that’s it. Job done!Aim to wash “little and often” so you can give your clothes plenty of space making it easier for the air to get between them. Even if you are renting, you might want to consider swapping out your standard light fitting for one with an integrated ceiling fan. These are widely available, very affordable and easy to fit.