This Addis Rotary Washing Line is a good option if you’re looking for a simple, affordable rotary washing line. Given its size and price, this is the best rotary washing line to buy on a budget. According to some Mumsnetters, using a heavy metal parasol holder (which you would need to buy separately) can be a way around having to dig a hole or use concrete to secure your rotary washing line. This seems to work well for lots of people – and has the added benefit of moving it around as needed – but bear in mind it probably won't be as secure as fixing it properly in the ground. Do I need to embed the ground spike in concrete? The washing line itself retracts easily into the UV-resistant casing when it’s not needed, and is long enough to hold approximately three loads of washing when fully extended. However, it does have a tendency to stretch, which is its biggest downside. These retractable washing lines offer a large amount of hanging space. Whilst some units only have one spool inside, other models can have two. The length of the line will depend on the model, but it’s possible for each spool to hold approximately 15 metres of line. If there are two spools in one washing line unit (a dual retractable washing line), this will give around 30 metres of hanging space.

For households of two people or more, look for approximately 30 m of line. This is sufficient to hold up to three loads of washing and is therefore a good choice for families. A 15 m retractable washing line will generally hold one-to-two loads of washing.I have a four-arm, Vileda one. Had it for seven years. It gets put in the shed when not in use, and the ground spike is concreted in. I'm in the outskirts of Edinburgh, and mine is in a windy spot and has always been more than up to the job." (Mumsnet user MrsBarryAllen recommended it for windy weather) Our verdict

The first thing to do is work out where you want your retractable washing line. Regardless of the type of line, it will need to be positioned on a strong wall or fence, nothing weak or flimsy. Putting up this rotary washing line, and collapsing it down, is done using a system that’s similar to opening and closing an umbrella. It is simple and effective, and there are just three ‘open’ positions to choose between. Rotary washing lines can hold anywhere from 10-25kg of washing (or so some of them claim), far more than a tumble dryer which averages about 10kg. How much should I spend?Have you ever reached for your washing line and run your finger along it before hanging up your laundry, only to find the lines are grimy? Well, the Leifheit Linomatic rotary washing line offers a handy solution to keep things clean: the lines automatically retract into the rotary arms when not in use, keeping them free from dirt, moisture and cobwebs. In terms of price, this rotary airer sits in a mid-range position, and its build quality reflects that. It is generally sturdy, but may struggle with the weight and size of larger, heavier items like duvets. A ground spike comes included, to fit the 32 mm pole. Spool retractable washing lines can sag which can make them frustrating to use, especially if clothes start to drag on the floor. Here are a few tactics that you can employ to stop your spool washing line from sagging: This is one of the primary benefits of a spool retractable washing line. The other main benefit is how compact the main unit is, and how little space they take up. Buying a spool line that is housed in casing is a good idea to keep the line clean and dry, even if it does make the wall unit slightly bulkier.

For the most part, concertina lines can extend outwards up to around 60 cm, and often they remain reasonably sturdy even when items are hung on the bars furthest from the wall unit. But beware if you hope to replace your old rotary airer with the Vileda Sun-Lift. Just like it's big brother the Vileda Sun-Rise, the Sun-Lift has a square base that may not fit any existing circular holes on your patio. Of course, the more space you have, the bigger the rotary washing line you can consider. Some offer as much as 60 metres of washing line space – enough to dry about six loads of washing in one go, but there's probably no point in getting one that size unless you think you will need it (the biggest ones take up about 3 metres squared when in use). How many arms should a rotary washing line have?Whilst these lines aren’t technically rotary lines, because they don’t rotate, they bear an aesthetic resemblance when open. When open, these lines can be quite large, often with 100 cm + space on each side. Therefore, they tend to be big enough for hanging larger items like sheets, if folded once. Brand: Brabantia | Dimensions open: H129-187cm x 295cm (turning diameter) | Dimensions closed: H200cm x W11cm x D11cm | Material: Steel and aluminium | Ground spike included: Yes | Cover included: Yes | Maximum Load: three washing loads What we like Below you’ll find information to help you find the best retractable washing line for your garden. Benefits of a Retractable Washing Line