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The clothesline we had growing up was a big, bulky affair and I hated the chore of hanging the clothes out to dry. So, for the past few years, I've happily been tossing everything in the dryer. But when it's hot outside and the news is full of stories about global warming I started to feel bad about not using a clothesline.
A quick trip to the hardware store revealed (new to me) clothesline technology--a retractable line. It's 40 feet long and only took 10 minutes to install between my fence and garage. The only tools I needed were a drill and screwdriver. When not in use the line rolls up and is inconspicuous on the fence.
With only 40 feet of line I won't be hanging every sock and shirt --I plan to use this just for large or bulky items that would take a lot of time in the dryer (sheets, towels, blue jeans). Still I'm pleased I'll save a bit of energy and a few dollars in energy bills.
One lesson learned: hang the line a touch higher than you think because it seems to sag a bit no matter how tight you lock it. I was limited by the height of my 6 foot fence and my large sheets drag on the lawn.
I hope this tip isn't too silly but really, I'm quite excited about my new clothesline (I even took it's picture!)
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Re: Save energy the old fashioned way--use a clothesline
Clotheslines are great. I guess I'm lucky to live in a warmer climate - unlike Janeybug. But in the winter if it rains we just take the clothes in to dry. We have a couple of racks which we take inside and they hang there a safe distance away from the heater.
I'm not a fan of dryers - they shrink your clothing and there's always lint on your clothes afterwards.
Re: Save energy the old fashioned way--use a clothesline
Thats nice if you live in a dry area. In the Pacific Northwest there woud not be too many days where you could have your clothes out long enough to get dry I think it's a great idea though.
(June 2007) (
I think it's a great idea though.