Last updated: 27 September 2026
Quick Answer
Measure wall width, projection depth and a 1800mm line height, allow 50mm each side and 500mm in front, then mount to brick, concrete or a ground mount kit. The Clothesline Store's measuring guide.
To measure for a folding frame clothesline, measure your available wall width, projection depth, and check for standard 1800mm mounting height clearance. Always allow at least 50mm of side clearance and ensure you mount to a solid brick/concrete wall or use a dedicated ground mount kit rather than a timber or Colorbond fence.
Choosing a folding frame clothesline from The Clothesline Store can save you serious space—but only if it fits your wall, courtyard, or backyard properly. Whether you're after a compact drying solution or a wide-frame clothesline with maximum line space, understanding how to measure for installation is crucial.
In this guide, we'll show you how to measure your space for a folding frame clothesline, explain wall mounted vs ground mounted installation, and share expert tips to ensure the model you choose from The Clothesline Store fits perfectly.
Introduction to Clothesline Measurement
Before browsing product pages or clicking add to cart, take a moment to measure your available space. This will ensure the fold down clothesline frame clears walls, fences, or paths, you maximise your line space for drying efficiency, you choose the right installation type (wall or ground mounted), and you avoid return hassles or incorrect sizing.
Types of Clotheslines & Why It Matters
Understanding the type of clothesline affects how and where you measure. While rotary and retractable clotheslines suit larger or flexible spaces, folding frame clotheslines are ideal for side passages and courtyards where space is limited.
How to Measure Your Space for a Fold Down Clothesline
Measure Wall Width
Use a tape measure to determine the total width available on the wall. If your wall is an unusual size, Air Dry folding frame clotheslines can be custom-made to your exact millimetre requirements.
Measure Available Depth (Projection)
This is how far the clothesline extends from the wall when folded down. Ensure there are no doors, windows, or pathways obstructed.
Check the Height
The ideal mounting height is typically around 1800mm above ground level to prevent long garments dragging.
Ground Mounting vs Wall Mounted Installation
Wall mounted: Best suited to solid brick or concrete walls. Ground mounted: Ideal where no suitable wall exists, using a ground mount kit. Base plate kits: Perfect for fixing posts directly onto existing concrete.
Environmental Considerations
Sunlight: North-facing locations dry clothes faster. Airflow: Adequate clearance improves drying efficiency. Laundry proximity: Shorter distance saves time and effort.
Space Clearances: Measure Once, Install Once
Insufficient clearance: Always allow side and front clearance. Double check you have at least 50mm either side of the fold down frame and if you are considering a narrow path at least 500mm in front of the clothesline. This way your clothesline will fit correctly and not block the pathway when extended or your washing brush up against barriers either side of it.
Timber or Colorbond fences: Folding frame clotheslines must not be fixed directly to fence panels. Never bolt a folding frame directly to a timber or Colorbond fence panel. The structural load of wet washing requires either a brick wall or a dedicated Ground Mount Kit to prevent fence collapse.
BBQ proximity: Smoke and grease can stain clean laundry. Avoid measuring a space that is close to a BBQ or outdoor kitchen. Airborne grease and smoke will settle on your clean laundry, leading to stains and odours.
Miscalculating Line Height: Do not measure from the ground to the base of a coat hanger, if you use these regularly. Measure to the clothesline cord height. If the height of the person using the line is unknown, install the frame 1800mm above the ground surface.
Choosing the Right Model for Your Space
Space Width 1.5–1.8m: Ideal Product Width 1500–1800mm. Best For: Courtyards, balconies, tight pathways.
Space Width 2.1–2.4m: Ideal Product Width 2100–2400mm. Best For: Standard backyards.
Space Width 2.7–3.3m: Ideal Product Width 2700–3300mm. Best For: Larger families with more space and for those who do not want a rotary.
Safety & Maintenance Tips
Follow manufacturer's installation instructions carefully. Check for overhead power lines before installing tall frames. Clean lines with a damp cloth monthly to prevent grime buildup.
Maximising Drying Efficiency
Hang heavier clothes on outer lines and lighter items on inner lines. Ensure line tension stays firm so laundry doesn't drag. Fold down the frame when not in use to extend its life.
Conclusion
Choosing a folding frame clothesline is an easy way to save space, but it all starts with accurate measurement. By checking your clearances and mounting height, you'll enjoy years of easy clothes drying.
Professional Clothesline Installation Service
The Clothesline Store offers professional installation in most capital cities and regional areas across Australia. Our service ensures your new clothesline is installed quickly, safely, and to manufacturer standards. This service is ideal for anyone looking for a stress-free solution with lasting results.
Want More Size Options? Consider Air Dry
If a standard size doesn't suit your wall, an Air Dry fold down clothesline is 100% Australian made from 100% Australian steel, in a wide range of ready made sizes or made to order for the perfect fit. It's The Clothesline Store's number one fold down pick.
Related Guides from The Clothesline Store
Find out how to choose the right sized clothesline, why ground mount installation beats fence mounting, how to measure for a rotary clothesline, and view the best Australian made fold down clotheslines.
FAQs: Measuring for a Folding Frame Clothesline
Can I install a folding clothesline on a timber fence?
We do not recommend mounting on to colourbond or timber fences, if there is no alternate wall, choose either a ground mount or base plate kit to install your fold down clothesline.
What is the ideal height for a clothesline?
If the user's height is unknown, the best practice is to install the fold down so the cord height is 1800mm above the ground surface.
How much clearance does a fold down clothesline need?
Allow at least 50mm either side of the frame, and at least 500mm in front if the clothesline sits beside a narrow path.
What size fold down clothesline suits a standard backyard?
For a 2.1–2.4m space, choose a clothesline 2100–2400mm wide. Courtyards and balconies suit 1500–1800mm, and larger families suit 2700–3300mm.
Can I get a fold down clothesline made to my exact wall width?
Yes. Air Dry folding frame clotheslines can be custom-made to your exact millimetre requirements.
Where can I buy a folding frame clothesline?
Online from The Clothesline Store, Australia's largest private clothesline stockist since 2003, with a 4.9 out of 5 star customer rating.
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.
Clothesline Covers for Your Clothesline
Clothesline covers protect your clothing from the harsh Australian UV rays. A ClevaCover clothesline cover gives your washing high UV protection from the Australian sunlight 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.
ClevaCover for folding rotary clotheslines. Fits Hills, Austral and Daytek folding rotary clotheslines.
ClevaCover for fixed head rotary clotheslines. Fits Hills Hoist and Austral fixed head rotary clotheslines, giving shade across the whole hanging area.
