Best rotary washing lines: outdoor clothes dryers for fresh, clean-smelling laundry

RRP: £149 | Buy now from John Lewis

Key specs

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 

• Mumsnetters and experts love this brand 
• Adjustable height, which makes it easy to load washing comfortably 
• Convenient design - arms have holes for coat hangers 
• Compact when folded (hanging loop included)
• Ground spike included  

What we don't like 

• Expensive in comparison to alternative models
• Some previous customers noted build was not as sturdy as previous models 

What Mumsnet users say

"Brabantia 50m Lift-O-Matic, love it, 15 years and going strong." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user edoc)

"Brabantia here as well. I think it's a good ten years old now and still works brilliantly." (Brand recommended by Mumsnetter  mommybear1)

Our verdict

When it comes to recommendations for the best rotary washing line on the Mumsnet forums, one brand comes up again and again – Brabantia. Parents, in particular, name-dropped the Brabantia Lift-O-Matic 50m rotary washing line as a model designed to make drying your laundry as convenient as possible.  Mumsnetters especially loved the brands' durability, which the manufacturer backs up with a five-year guarantee, covering both the UV-protected line and the included ground spike.

Using a 'Lift-o-Matic' system, you can quickly unload your washing machine at a comfortable height before hoisting it up to 187cm from the ground (great for bed sheets and towels you don't want to drag on the floor!). There is no waiting around for items to dry, either. With 50m of taut washing line and integrated holes for coat hangers, you can dry up to three loads at a time (or five large ticket items). Simple to store away come winter, its lightweight frame and hanging loops mean you can pop it back in your garage to protect it from the elements until the spring. The only hang-up for us is the price. However, according to Mumsnetters, with Brabantia models being reported to last up to 15-20 years, you’re guaranteed to get your money's worth.

RRP: £19 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Brand: Minky | Dimensions open:  H18.5 x W16.5 x D12.5cm | Material: Plastic | Ground spike included: No - includes wall fittings | Cover included: Plastic housing for line - retractable | Maximum load: 25kg

What we like 

• Protected from the elements by plastic casing when retracted (also keeps your garden looking neat)
• Double line 15m in length - perfect for large laundry loads 
• Can be clipped off and put away in the winter 
• More attractive casing than other brands 

What we don't like

• Gets a bit unstable when windy - previous customers recommended adding extra support and using your own screws to keep the line stable 

What Mumsnet users say

"We had a Minky one at our last house. It had two lines, so it was great for a full load. No complaints." (Suggested by Mumsnet user WeAreTheHeroes)

"Second, the Minky. 2 x 15m lines. Recommend a line pole/support to help with weight though. Puts less strain on the internal retractor thing." (Vetted by Mumsnetter CoffeeBeansGalore)

Our verdict

What's better than saving money on your energy bill? Saving money on the rotary washing line you're purchasing. If you're looking for something simple to let you dry a whole load of washing outside at a very affordable price, then the Minky Retractable Duo Reel Washing Line is for you. Although it isn't strictly a rotary washing line, we noticed that some Mumsnetters felt like they spoiled the view of their garden and preferred one that could be hidden - hence this recommendation. We also love that it is a budget-friendly alternative to our best rotary washing line. 

Perfect for small (or big gardens as they have a 30m version), it is one of the most recommended retractable washing lines by Mumsnetters for families as it can hold up to 25kg of washing (or three average-sized loads!). Neat and more stylish than its competitors, no one will even know it's there at your family BBQs in the summer. When you're finished using it, just let it wind back into its casing for protection from the elements, or unclip it from the wall in the winter and pop it in your shed. However, previous customers advised that you reinforce the fitting with your own fixings and add additional galvanising cleats, as one poorly timed gust of wind has had some break away from the wall entirely. 

Read next: The best trampolines for every garden

RRP: £41 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Brand: BPIL | Dimensions open: Unspecified | Dimensions closed: Unspecified | Material: Alloy steel | Ground spike included: Yes | Cover included: Yes | Maximum load: Unspecified 

What we like

• It is made from weatherproof/rust-resistant materials 
• Choice between three sizes - 60m/50m/40m
• There are no additional purchases, as it includes a ground spike and protective cover
• Adjustable, sturdy design 

What we don't like

• Washing line loosens over time 
• Issues with arms locking in place over time 

What Mumsnet users say

"I have a four-arm heavy duty one - hated the concept at first (being an old fashioned single line type of girl) but now love it - can get two whole loads from my large machine on there every other line." (Type suggested by Mumsnet user  Whoamireally)

Our verdict

Is your laundry basket overflowing? Does your family produce a seemingly never-ending pile of dirty clothes and sheets you struggle to find space to hang up and dry? In that case, our best heavy-duty rotary washing line by BPIL could be the one for you.  Choose between three sizes to find one that's right for your garden. 

Built to withstand all weather and entirely rust-proof, its four-arm hoist system can hang out up to six loads of washing at once, giving you more of a chance of getting on top of your laundry mountain. Of course, even with the space-saving design of a rotary dryer, this one will take up more room than others on this list – it has four arms, and up to a whopping 3.16-metre diameter when fully extended on the 60m model, so make sure you've got room. It comes with a metal ground spike and a protective cover too, so you won't need to spend any extra money. 

RRP: £110 | Buy now from John Lewis

Key specs

Brand: Brabantia | Dimensions open: H200cm x W295cm x D208 (turning diameter) | Dimensions closed: H200cm x W18cm x D11cm | Material: Steel and aluminium | Ground spike included: Yes | Cover included: Yes | Maximum wash load: 4+ washing loads 

What we like 

• Convenient, adjustable design 
• No additional purchases with ground spike and cover included 
• Holds 4+ wash loads (ideal for a large family)
• 5-year Brabantia guarantee and service 

What we don't like

• More expensive than other options on this list 
• Some customers noted it was not as sturdy as previous models

What Mumsnet users say

"I've also got the Brabantia 60m Lift-O-Matic and have had it for 20 years, and it is still going strong (re-strung once)." (Vetted by Mumsnet user Lilymaid)

"Brabantia with the cover. I have one of those covers, and it's great not having to get up when it looks like rain is on the way. If you look very somewhere really windy though, it does become about of a sail." (Tried and tested by didireallysaythat)

Our verdict

When you've used your best fabric softener on your brand-new bedsheets, the last thing you want is them flapping in the breeze and the mud simultaneously, which is why the 60m Brabantia Lift-O-Matic Rotary Washing Line has also made the list. Another well-loved option by Mumsnetters, unlike our best overall winner, you get a cover and ground spike included in the price (so, no extra spending required!). 

With a five-year guarantee, this ultra-light rotary airer seamlessly adjusts to your ideal working height while keeping the lines taut. The dryer arms turn smoothly even when fully loaded, so there's no need to keep repositioning your wash basket as you load/unload your laundry. Plus, all arms are fitted with holes for clothes hangers so dresses and delicates can be hung without creasing (so you won't have to break out your best clothes steamer later on).  As with the earlier version, the price is the main downside of buying a Brabantia. However, it is reported to last longer than other models, so it could be considered an investment in the long run. 

RRP: £218 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Brand: Brabantia | Dimensions open: H19.5 x W108.5 x D18.5cm (turning diameter) | Dimensions closed: Unspecified | Material: Metal | Mount Type: Wall mount | Cover included: Storage box | Maximum wash load: 2  wash loads 

What we like

• Space saving, ideal for small gardens 
• Effortless to pull out and fold away into the stylish storage box  
• Ideal working height 
• Covered by Brabantia's five-year warranty

What we don't like

• Some customers found it challenging to install 
• The storage box does increase the price 

What Mumsnet users say

"Brabantia Wall Fix - I have a Brabantia wall-mounted washing line which looks like a rotary when unfolded but is bracketed onto the back wall of my house. Very highly recommended if you have a small garden and don't want to look at washing or need space for a child to play." (Suggested by Mumsnet user WhatAFeline)

"Another vote for the Brabantia Wallfix. I love mine" (Recommended by Mumsnetter FrogFairy)

Our verdict

Brabantia, as a brand, really steals the show with Mumsnetters. Many raved about this product, the Brabantia Wall Fix, in particular, as a unique space-saving rotary washing line for small gardens or those without a suitable patio or lawn to fix a traditional one into.

The clue’s in the name – you fix it to a wall rather than the ground. Included are the fixtures you need and clear step-by-step instructions on how to attach them safely. All you need to do is decide the height best for you, and you're good to go. Not all found the installation easy, so consider enlisting help if you're feeling overwhelmed by the idea. It offers 24 metres of line space when it's fully unfolded, perfect for large items, and its 184cm diameter should fit all but the tightest spaces. Once finished, you can easily fold it back and into its protective storage box to ensure durability. 

RRP: £40 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Brand: Minky | Dimensions open: H33.5 x W9.8 x D5.1cm | Dimensions closed: Unspecified | Material: Metal | Ground spike included: No (Freestanding) | Cover included: No | Maximum wash load: 1+ wash loads 

What we like 

• Affordably priced, great for homes with small gardens or flats with limited outdoor space 
• Versatile, can be used indoors and outdoors and taken away when travelling
• Easy to fold down and put away 
• No drilling or fixing is required 

What we don't like 

• Not as secure as other models, but does come with ground pegs for additional support 

What Mumsnet users say

"This one is free-standing, no grass or hole needed!" (Suggested by Mumsnet user HokeyCokeyJubileeMyArse)

"I have one of those free-standing ones that Hokey linked to.  I just wedge three bricks in the bottom, and it's fine, not huge, but holds a full load, just make sure to hang heavy stuff out evenly." (Tried and trusted by 1sassylassy)

Our verdict

If the idea of digging a hole in your garden or drilling a hole in your wall fills you with dread, Minky's rotary washing line might just be for you. It is freestanding, lightweight and incredibly versatile, as you can use it indoors and outdoors or even take it with you on holiday. When not in use, fold it up and stick it in the garage, avoiding the struggle or wrestling with a cover. 

It is much smaller than other models, with only 15m of line space. However, this may be enough depending on your needs and family size; for example, it is great for couples with a new baby! It does claim to hold one load of washing or possibly two if the loads are small. Our only recommendation is that you don't try to use it outside on a windy day, as the Minky only comes with a few ground pegs, which won't survive in a strong wind.

Read next: We've got a Mumsnetter-recommended guide to the best laundry detergents (perfect for new parents!). 

RRP: £155 | Buy now from John Lewis

Key specs

Brand: Leifheit | Dimensions open: H167cm x 303cm (turning diameter) | Dimensions closed: Unspecified | Material: Aluminium | Ground spike included: No | Cover included: No | Maximum washing load: 4 washing loads 

What we like 

• Lines retract inside the arms when collapsed (no cover required)
• Easy to use and set up 
• Excellent washing capacity for the average-sized family 
• Lightweight frame that can be stored away in the winter 

What we don't like 

• Have to purchase their ground socket separately

What Mumsnet users say

"I have a large rotary line down the side of my house in a sunny area. I can get two or three loads hung on it, although I do plan where items go...and I dry on it all year round. It's quick and convenient to hang on, with no traipsing through wet grass and mud, and I can load it from one spot!! It's on a patio area, and it doesn't get in the way if the children are playing in the garden etc...oh and I have a cover and always collapse it and cover it when it's not in use - so it stays clean and dry." (Type recommended by Mumsnet user jazzandh)

Our verdict

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.

It offers 50 metres of drying space, plus eight hooks for hanging shirts. Of course, it is a fair bit more expensive than others on the list and requires additional spending for their brand of the ground socket. However, the aluminium frame is lightweight and rust-free, so you probably won't spend any time worrying about it once it's up. 

Read next: Keep your laundry appliances in tip-top shape with our guides to the best dehumidifiers, the best water softeners, the best mould removers and the best washing machine cleaners. 

RRP: £28 | Buy now from Wilko

Key specs

Brand: Wilko | Dimensions open: H190cm x W14cm x 14cm (depth) | Dimensions closed: Unspecified | Material: Steel | Ground spike included: Yes - plastic ground socket | Cover included: No | Maximum washing load: 25kg

What we like 

• Affordably priced 
• Sturdy, adjustable steel frame 
• Good value for money 

What we don't like

• Have to buy a cover separately 
• Some reported issues with plastic ground socket 

What Mumsnet users say

"Got a cheap one from Wilko three years ago when we moved, and we’ve had no probs with it so far. It has a cover, and I bought a proper twist-in spike with a closing lid. It stays out (with a cover on) all spring and summer and goes into the shed in autumn. I think if you look after it, a cheap one will last ok, but I've never had an expensive one to compare!" (Vetted by Mumsnet user LangClegsOpinionIsNoted)

Our verdict

Wilko's rotary washing line is designed to do exactly what it says on the tin. There's nothing fancy about this model. It's a no-faff, no-fuss and reasonably-priced option for those who aren't looking to splash out. It offers 40 metres of drying space using its three-arm design, enough to hang up to 25kg of washing in one go.

As with most rotary airers, you can fold away the collapsible arms when you're not using them so that they won't spoil your view out the back window. The trade-off here is that the supplied plastic ground socket has mixed reviews for its durability, so if you´re worried about its stability, you might want to buy a stronger metal spike separately.

RRP: £47 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Brand: Vileda | Dimensions open: H57.9 x W165 x D265cm (turning diameter) | Dimensions closed: Unspecified | Material: Alloy Steel | Ground spike included: Yes - Plastic Socket | Cover included: No | Maximum washing load: 4 wash loads 

What we like

• Lightweight and adjustable design 
• Perfect size for small and medium-sized gardens 
• Convenient features like holes for coat hangers
• Good capacity for the average family 
• Mid-budget and affordable 

What we don't like

• It can be stiff to open the first time, and the lines might need to be given more slack 

What Mumsnet users say

"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

Vileda has a little bit of a love-hate relationship with Mumsnetters, and it all comes down to how stiff their rotary washing lines can be to open (especially the first time). Some suggested you needed Herculean-type strength, but previous customers noted it became easier over time (a little bit of UB40 might be helpful, too!). 

That being said, its 4-arm 45m Rotary Washing Line still earned a place on our list because it gives you all the convenience of some more expensive models at a more affordable price point. With 45m of line space, convenient hanger holes and an adjustable height, it can still fit four washing loads without being overly large and unsightly. Good news for the average family! 

RRP: £50 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Brand: Chimney Sheep | Dimensions: 39.6cm x 29.8cm x 6.2cm | Material: Waterproof fabric and rust proof brass | Weight: 2.09kg

What we like

• Fits three and four-arm rotary washing lines 
• Protects clothing from rain, bird poop and sun bleaching
• Made from high-quality materials
• British small business
• Environmentally friendly 

What we don't like

• Need to purchase or already own a rain prop

What Mumsnet users say

"We have one. We use it a lot in the summer and a bit in the winter as you can leave things out there for days if you want. It's good just to not have to think about rain and leaving it out overnight" (Tried and trusted by Mumsnet user didireallysaythat)

Our verdict

As if doing the laundry isn't already a chore, the Great British weather (hi rain!) can make getting things dry even more of a challenge. That's why the Chimney Sheep Large Laundry Mac laundry protector could come in handy. It's a cover with a diameter of up to 2.5 metres designed for rotary washing lines with three or four arms to keep the rain off and let you leave the washing out longer.

It’s a large circle of waterproof, breathable fabric that fixes to your rotary washing line. However, you will need a clothes prop to extend from the centre of the dryer to keep the cover clear of your clothes. This can be bought separately but is an additional purchase you will want to consider.