Washing, it's a never-ending job.
The actual washing part is simple enough, it's the drying part which can be a struggle if it's too wet outside for the washing to dry. Living in a small space trying to maneuver around numerous clothes horses was not only tedious but they didn't give us the line space we actually needed for larger items such as sheets and towels.
This month we had 850mm of rain, which is amazing for the farms, rivers, wildlife and local bushland but not so helpful when trying to get the washing dry for a large family. Not that we are complaining, we are grateful for every drop of it! But it meant we needed to come up with a cheap, effective indoor solution that freed up floor space and allowed us to dry large things like sheets and linen inside.
Some people don't like washing hanging on dryers around the house as they think it looks messy, but a house should also be a functioning home and fresh clean washing is just a part of that. Line drying is gentler on clothing meaning it will last longer as well as being greener and a serious money saver when it comes to the electricity bill.
So I thought I would do a quick DIY post of how to make an indoor line for those looking for a cheap and space-efficient way of drying washing. Having a proper line means the floors remain clear for easy tidying, vacuuming and mopping and it can't be pulled over by busy young children.
You will need:
- x2 30-40cm timber lengths
- x4 sturdy hook and eye sets
- Thin nylon rope (we used 20m which gave us 4 strands of roughly 5m lengths)
- Drill
- Level
- Plugs and masonry drill bit (if drilling into a solid wall)
Instructions:
Pick a suitable area for the line. Choosing somewhere that is out of the way, near a window where there is good airflow, in a bright room is helpful. We often point a fan at the line if it's humid as the airflow drastically speeds up drying time and prevents the washing from becoming musty.
Ensure the spot you have chosen is on a stud wall as the line will need to be weight-bearing. If you are drilling into a solid wall you will also need plugs and a masonry drill bit.
Measure and mark the wall, use a level to ensure the line will be level on both ends as well as at the same height. Screw eye fittings in.
Evenly drill the desired number of holes in the two lengths of timbers. These are the holes in which you will thread your line. Drill and attach the hook fittings.
Thread and knot the line into the first hole and carefully measure the length of line you will need and thread accordingly. Knot when happy, the line may stretch a little once it has weight on it so make sure you can tighten again later if necessary.
When the line is not in use, simply unhook it, roll it up and pop in the laundry cupboard out of the way.
We only used one set of hook and eye fittings as we had space behind the timber and yurt frame to roll up the line and tuck it out of the way when it's not in use.
So there you have it, an indoor or undercover clothesline for the grand total of $10 and 30 minutes effort. Is getting clothing dry a problem for you in the wetter months? How do you overcome it?
Much love,
Emma
xx
