How to Restring a Hills Hoist (Step-by-Step Guide)
The Hills Hoist is one of Australia’s most loved backyard icons. Over time, sun exposure and everyday wear can cause the line to sag, snap, or lose tension.
Fortunately, restringing your Hills Hoist is a simple, budget-friendly DIY task. With a few basic tools and a new clothesline cord, you can bring your hoist back to life in under an hour.
This detailed guide from The Clothesline Store explains everything you need to know—from tools and preparation to tensioning tips—so you can enjoy a smooth-operating, properly tensioned clothes line once again.
Plus, we highlight the best modern rotary and wall mounted clotheslines, including tips for folding rotary clothesline restring, with fast dispatch and free shippingBLE OF CONTENTS
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How Does This Help You Choose the Best Clothesline Solution?
Learning how to restring a Hills Hoist clothes line helps homeowners understand what makes a quality clothesline last for decades.
Whether you plan to upgrade to a folding rotary clothesline or a wall mounted clothesline, this guide helps you spot the right materials, design, and durability for your outdoor space.
With insights from The Clothesline Store, you’ll know exactly which rotary clothesline or retractable model suits your backyard layout and lifestyle.
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Tools and Materials Needed When Restringing a Hills Hoist Clothesline
Simple Tools Required
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Pliers
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Sharp scissors or wire cutters
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Tape measure
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Work gloves
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Ladder (optional)
Materials
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Replacement clothesline cord (UV-stabilised, weather resistant)
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Cord tensioner or tension lock lever
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Zip ties or clips
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Marker for measuring segments
Having the right tools and materials is essential for a clean, professional finish. If you ever feel unsure, you can always seek further assistance or ask for a professional clothes line installation service to help with mounting or re-tensioning.
Having the right tools and materials is essential for a clean, professional finish. If you ever feel unsure, you can always seek further assistance or ask for a professional clothesline installation service to help with mounting or re-tensioning.
Step-by-Step Guide to Restringing a Hills Hoist
Step 1: Remove the Old Line
Start by putting on gloves to protect your hands from frayed cords. Use scissors or pliers to cut and remove the old line.
Unthread it carefully from each arm and pulley, ensuring the frame remains intact. Inspect the structure for rust or damage before fitting the new line.
This first step in the restringing process ensures a stable, safe frame before replacing any cord.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the New Line
Measure the total line length using a tape measure—most Hills clotheslines require between 35–45 metres.
Always cut slightly longer than needed to allow for adjustments. Lay the old cord on the ground to compare lengths if possible.
A new clothes line with extra slack makes the clothesline restring process smoother when it’s time to tension.
Step 3: Thread the Line Through the Arms and Clips
Start from one arm and thread the clothesline cord through each hook or eyelet. Follow the original pattern, which usually loops in a spiral between arms.
Keep the line taut but avoid pulling too tightly just yet. Some Hills rotary clotheslines and retractable clotheslines use unique threading systems—always check your model’s manual for guidance.
Step 4: Feed the Line Through the Central Tensioner
Next, feed the end of your new line through the tension lock lever or built-in tensioner system.
This mechanism is designed to make small adjustments easier and keeps your clothesline properly tensioned.
Gently pull to remove slack, checking that all lines remain even across the arms. Do not over tighten—this can affect smooth rotation.
Step 5: Adjust the Tension and Secure the Line
When all cords are in place, gradually adjust tension until the line feels firm. Use the tension lock or tie a secure knot at one end.
Spin the hoist and check that your clothes line rotates smoothly without sagging. If you hear creaking, loosen slightly and re-secure.
The goal is to achieve a smooth operation without strain on the arms.
Step 6: Repeat for Remaining Arms and Layers
If your hoist has multiple tiers, repeat the restringing process for each. Start at the inner circle and work outward.
Each line should be evenly spaced for balanced drying. Check that no other lines are crossing or twisted before final tightening.
Proper spacing ensures efficient drying and a professional look.
Choosing the Right Clothesline Type
When replacing or upgrading, it’s important to understand the various clothesline types available, including the popular hills retractable clothesline .
A folding rotary clothes line is ideal for family homes, offering generous drying space with the ability to fold down when not in use. A wall mounted clothesline suits compact courtyards and apartments, while retractable clotheslines provide the flexibility to pull out and retract as needed.
For traditional backyards, a Hills Hoist clothesline or Hills rotary clothesline remains the classic choice. Modern materials and design make these options durable and weather resistant, ensuring years of reliable service.
Understanding the Restringing Process and Tools
Many homeowners are surprised how straightforward a clothesline restring can be. The key is preparation, having the essential tools ready, and considering the weight of the items you plan to dry.
Always check your tools and materials before beginning. A good new cord, quality clamps, and accurate measuring make the restringing process faster and safer.
If your frame is slightly uneven, small, necessary adjustments help align the arms and ensure a professional finish.
While most DIYers manage fine, you can always call for further assistance from a professional clothesline installation service for tricky installations.
How to Keep Lines Properly Tensioned for Smooth Operation
Over time, lines naturally stretch. Learning to maintain your clothesline properly tensioned extends its life and performance.
To re-tension, use the tension lock lever or gently adjust tension by loosening and retying the knot. Make sure the cord tight but not overstressed.
A fold down clothesline may require periodic checks, especially if frequently folded. Keeping cords firm ensures smooth operation and prevents clothes from sagging mid-dry.
When to Consider a Professional Clothesline Installation Service
The Clothesline Store provides expert, professional clothes line installation services to help you get the perfect setup for your home. If your space needs installation into brick, concrete, or another tough surface—or if you’re unsure about exact measurements—our professional clothesline installation service ensures the job is done right the first time.
Our experienced installers make sure your mounted clothes line is positioned for maximum sunlight and airflow, even in narrow or challenging spaces. Every installation is completed with care to deliver a secure, level, and long-lasting result.
At The Clothesline Store, we pride ourselves on offering great service and honest advice to make your clothesline selection and installation simple. Whether you’re setting up a wall mounted clothesline or a folding rotary clothesline, our friendly team ensures a perfect fit and reliable performance for years to come.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Restringing
- Over-tightening can cause lines to warp or tear.
- Skipping clips or guides leads to uneven cord hanging.
- Using poor-quality clothesline cord reduces lifespan.
- Failing to re-tension regularly affects performance.
Always use UV-stabilised, heavy-duty cord to prevent early wear. If you ever feel uncertain, a quick call to fix any issues or for further assistance ensures a professional finish.
Maintenance Tips for a Long-Lasting Hills Clothesline
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Clean your Hills clothesline seasonally to prevent dirt buildup.
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Check the line annually for sagging or fraying.
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Apply light lubricant to pulleys and crank mechanisms.
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Fold down your fold down clothesline in storms or high wind.
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Re-tension whenever you notice slack.
Upgrade Instead of Repair
Sometimes, replacing an old Hills Hoist clothesline with a modern rotary clothesline or wall mounted clothesline can save you time and effort.
Contemporary designs offer better ergonomics, smoother cranks, and longer-lasting cords. Explore the latest folding rotary clothes hoists and fixed rotary clothes hoists from The Clothesline Store for durable, stylish options that fit your outdoor space perfectly.
Every purchase comes with fast dispatch and free shipping, giving you a reliable drying solution without delay.
Conclusion
Restringing a Hills Hoist clothes line is a simple, rewarding DIY project that can be followed as a step by step process to keep your outdoor drying area efficient and tidy.
With a few essential tools, patience, and the right materials, you can restore your clothesline to full strength and enjoy years of dependable service.
or homeowners ready to upgrade, The Clothesline Store offers a full range of folding rotary clotheslines and wall mounted clotheslines with fast dispatch and free shipping. Choose the design that suits your home best and experience reliable drying every day.
