The washing line comes complete with all the pieces needed to install it, but you will need an electric drill. We used a hammer drill to get it onto the wall of our house, but it can also be installed onto a sturdy post or the side of a shed. The washing line case slots onto the bracket you fasten to the wall, and you'll need to install hooks at the other side of your garden for the lines to fasten onto. Alternatively, caribiners make it easy to secure the lines by looping them round tree branches.
I'd recommend installing the washing line as high as you can (while still being able to reach it) so your washing has plenty of clearance.
When you come to use the line, stretch it out to your hook, then pull a bit of extra length to wind around the rubber hooks - this will make sure the lines are good and taut. This part takes a bit of perfecting, but once you get the hang of it, it's straightforward.
Although the rubber hooks do a good job of locking the washing line's length in place, as well as keeping it taut over a short distance, a prop is essential for longer gardens, to prevent sagging as you add washing to the line.
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What's the Minky Retractable Duo Reel Washing Line like to use day-to-day?
Having used a rotary washing line for about a decade, I wasn't sure how I'd get along with a retractable. They're generally pitched as a good enough alternative if you can't fit a rotary in your garden, but I actually think I might prefer it. With a rotary the washing in the middle doesn't get as much airflow as the outer layers, not so with a retractable. Plus I like how quick and easy it is to store away when not in use, taking up practically zero storage space.
The washing line itself is great quality, with a sturdy, UV-stable case and strong lines. Reviewers say that with good care the lines can last years and years. the instructions advise retracting the line and bringing the case inside when not in use, or at least during bad weather and over winter, to prolong its life as much as possible.
After almost two years of using this line, I must admit I've never taken it off the wall to store, and it's still looking good as new.
The routine of getting the line out and putting it away does take a little getting used to, as it involves walking up and down the garden to hook the line and lock and unlock it - but once you get the hang of it, it's not a problem.
The washing line can take up to 25kg (about 3 loads) of laundry with both lines fully extended. I've only needed to use one of the lines so far for a single load, and had no issues with weight, even when washing towels, trainers and dog harnesses. Once the washing's dry, I can easily move down the line un-pegging everything and popping it into my laundry basket.
I also like the flexibility of being able to secure the washing line to a closer point (a tree branch) for a smaller load, or to keep the other end of the garden free.
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Does the Minky Retractable Duo Reel Washing Line offer good value for money?
While there are cheaper double retractable washing lines out there, the Minky is the one most highly recommended by Mumsnetters and reviewers, thanks to its sturdiness and quality. It has a chunky case to protect against the elements, and has the highest maximum weight of the retractable washing lines in our round-up, and I for one think it's a worthy contender against a rotary design.
At £19 at the time of writing, it's one of the cheapest ways to dry your washing. The versatility of two lines mean it can be installed in a garden, balcony or courtyard, maximising the space you have available.