Quick Answer
The Clothesline Store recommends fixing Hills folding frame brackets level into solid masonry or using a ground mount kit. To fold it down, clear the lines, release the struts and lift the frame flat to the wall.
Hills folding frame clotheslines are popular across Australia because they fold away flat when not in use, freeing up space on patios, side passages and small yards. This guide covers installation, folding, troubleshooting and maintenance.
How to Install a Hills Fold Down Clothesline
1. Choose your mounting surface. Solid brick, block and masonry walls are best. Timber weatherboard walls need structural support timber behind the mounting point first. We don't recommend installing a fold down clothesline on a timber or Colorbond fence. If you don't have a suitable wall, a ground mount kit is the best option.
2. Set the height. Position the brackets at a comfortable reach height for pegging.
3. Fix the brackets level. Use a spirit level and the correct masonry fixings so the frame folds evenly.
4. Attach the frame and struts. Follow the Hills instructions supplied with your model.
5. Tension the lines. Lines should be firm but not over-tight, as incorrect tension affects how smoothly it folds.
Prefer not to DIY? See our clothesline installation and removal service.
How to Fold Down a Hills Clothesline
1. Clear the lines. Remove all washing and pegs.
2. Stand centrally in front of the clothesline.
3. Release the struts. Press the side struts upward or inward, depending on your model, to unlock them. On newer models the struts release when you lift the lines slightly.
4. Lift the front frame. Using both hands, lift and guide the frame slowly until it sits flat against the wall.
5. Check the lines. Make sure no lines are caught between the arms or brackets.
To open it, reverse the steps and lower the frame until the struts lock into place.
Why Won't My Hills Clothesline Fold?
A stiff or stuck fold down clothesline is usually caused by a locking clip that hasn't been released, lines that are too tight to let the frame fold flat, brackets that aren't level so the frame binds, or debris, rust or corrosion in the hinges or brackets. Check your model's instructions for the locking clip first.
Maintenance Tips
Wipe the lines and arms regularly with a damp cloth, check the brackets and fixings at least once a year, and keep line tension even, not too slack or too tight. A clothesline cover helps protect lines and washing from bird droppings and falling leaves.
Related Guides from The Clothesline Store
Read why ground mount installation beats fence mounting and how to choose the right sized clothesline. And The Best Australian Made Fold Down clothesline.
Hills Folding Frame Clothesline FAQs
Can I install a Hills fold down clothesline myself?
Yes. Hills fold down clotheslines come with DIY instructions and suit a confident DIYer with a drill and spirit level. For masonry, uneven walls or ground mount installs, The Clothesline Store's installation service makes sure it's level, secure and correctly tensioned.
What surfaces can a Hills fold down clothesline be mounted on?
Solid brick, block and rendered masonry walls are best. Timber weatherboard walls need structural support timber behind the mounting point first. If you don't have a suitable wall, use a ground mount kit. Never mount a clothesline on a Colorbond or timber fence.
How long does professional installation take?
Most Hills fold down clotheslines are installed in around an hour, depending on the site and mounting surface.
What's included in The Clothesline Store's installation service?
Full assembly and secure installation, correct line tensioning, advice on operation and care, and removal of packaging.
How do I fold a Hills clothesline that is stuck?
Check the locking clip is released, loosen over-tight lines and clear any debris from the hinges. If the brackets aren't level, the frame may need to be re-fixed.
Where can I buy a Hills fold down clothesline?
Online from The Clothesline Store, Australia's largest private clothesline stockist since 2003, with a 4.9 out of 5 star customer rating.
Final Thoughts
With level brackets, a solid mounting surface and even line tension, a Hills folding frame clothesline is simple to install and easy to fold away every day. Need help choosing or installing? Contact our team.
Shipped Direct From Our Warehouse
As Australia's largest private stockholder of clotheslines and accessories, The Clothesline Store ships in-stock items the same or next business day from our own national warehouse, with a 4.9 out of 5 star customer rating.
ClevaCover Clothesline Covers
Protect your washing by using a ClevaCover Clothesline Cover that provides high UV protection while it dries, and shelters it from overhead rain, bird droppings and falling leaves, so you can hang your washing out and leave it with confidence.
ClevaCover for fold down clotheslines. Fits Air Dry, Hills Folding Frame, Austral, Eco, Daytek and other fold down brands, mounted on a wall or ground mount legs.
