Will a Retractable Clothesline Sag?

Retractable clotheslines are a favourite in Australian homes for their space-saving design, clean look, and easy everyday use.

But the big question remains: do retractable clotheslines sag over time? The short answer is they can—if capacity, mounting, or tension aren’t set up correctly.

Will a retractable clothesline sag over time?

In this guide, The Clothesline Store explains how to prevent sagging, maximise performance, and choose the right retractable clothesline for your home.

We’ll cover load ratings, recommended spans, mounting into brick, concrete or posts, correct installation height, and how to set and re-tension lines so heavy items like towels, sheets and nappies dry fast—without drooping. TABLE OF CONTENTS

You’ll learn what causes sagging, how to prevent sagging, and how to properly install and maintain your retractable washing line for long-term durability.

What Is a Retractable Clothesline?

A retractable clothesline is a wall-mounted or post-mounted clothesline unit that contains one or more clothes line spools inside a compact cabinet. You simply pull the lines out when needed and retract them when you're done. These systems are ideal for:

• Balcony

• Courtyards

• Bathrooms

• Indoor laundry room

• Small backyards

• Garages

• Multi-use outdoor spaces

Because they’re compact and often feature a modern design, retractable washing lines are especially popular in urban homes and apartments.

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Does a Retractable Clothesline Sag?

The short answer is: yes, but only if improperly installed, tensioned, or overloaded.

Like any laundry line, a retractable line can sag if the line is not taut, if it's extended beyond its recommended length, or if it's weighed down by wet or heavy items over time.

However, a properly installed retractable clothesline that is tensioned correctly will stay straight and strong for everyday laundry use—even with bed sheets and wet towels.

Common Causes of Clothesline Sag

Understanding why sagging happens is the first step to preventing it. Here are the top reasons your retractable washing line might sag:

Heavy Weight Loads

Hanging too many clothes, or heavy items like blankets and wet towels, when you hang clothing improperly is the most common reason for a sagging retractable washing line.  They weigh down the washing line, particularly if hung in the centre.

Overextension Beyond Recommended Length

Every retractable model has a maximum extension—usually between 6.5m and 7.5m per line. Extending beyond this limit puts excess strain on the line and spools.

Insufficient Tensioning

Most quality retractable models (like Hills 5 Line and Hills 7 Line) come with individual tension controls that lock securely . If not used properly, the line will slacken with use.

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Incorrect Mounting Points

Lines mounted between walls that aren't level or aren’t secured to a solid wall or post may sag prematurely.

Old or Stretched Lines

Over time, the line material may naturally stretch, especially in hot weather or if overloaded regularly.

How to Prevent Sagging in a Retractable Washing Line

Here’s how to keep your retractable clothesline tight, secure, and performing like new:

Mount on Secure, Level Surfaces

Install the unit on a solid wall—brick, concrete, or a properly anchored post. Avoid flimsy timber or unsupportive surfaces.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Installation Instructions

Use the correct height, angle, and line extension recommendations. Hills retractable clotheslines, for example, come with a mounting template to ensure accurate alignment.

Use All Lines Evenly

When possible, spread laundry evenly across all lines to reduce weight in any single section. Don’t overload just the middle of the line.

Tension Each Line Regularly

Most high-quality retractable clothesline units include one-touch tensioning knobs. Adjust these regularly to ensure taut lines.

Avoid Overloading

Each line has a recommended weight limit. For most retractable washing lines that’s around 3–5kg per line. Don’t exceed it or your line will be sagging.

What Makes a Retractable Line “Heavy Duty”?

If you're worried about sagging and need a heavy duty clothesline, look for these features:

• UV-resistant polycord or PVC line

• Rust-resistant casing and internal spools

• Independent locking mechanisms per line

• Reinforced brackets and secure anchors

• Rated for outdoor exposure and heavy daily use

Heavy-duty models, such as those from Hills, are designed to last years with minimal maintenance and excellent load security.

Proper Installation Matters

Your installation technique plays a massive role in how well your laundry line holds up.

Tools you’ll need:

• Drill with masonry bit (for brick)

• Spirit level

• Screws, plugs, and anchors (included)

• Measuring tape

• Template (if provided)

Ensure that:

• Both mounting points are level and aligned

• You use the correct wall or post combination (e.g. wall to wall, wall to post, post to post)

• The recommended height is maintained (usually 1.8m or higher)

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Let The Clothesline Store Help You Get It Right

At The Clothesline Store, we know that the perfect purchase of a clothesline starts with the right installation — and that means nailing the height. Whether you’re shopping for a wall mounted clothesline, a robust rotary clothesline, or a discreet retractable clothesline, we’ve got expert advice, top-rated brands, and everything you need for a smooth installation process.

So if you’re not keen on installing your new clothesline at The Clothesline Store we make the process of clothesline installation incredibly easy, with our professional clothesline installation service that ensures your clothesline is set up effortlessly.

• ✔️ Browse by space, size, and style

• ✔️ Explore colour options 

• ✔️ Get expert support for ground mounting, core drilling, and custom installs

• ✔️ Enjoy fast delivery and competitive prices

Need help choosing the right height for your clothesline?

We offer delivery alongside tailored recommendation based on your space, surface, and needs:-

What Kind of Clothes Can I Hang?

A properly installed and tensioned retractable washing line can safely hold:

• Everyday clothing

• Bed sheets and doona covers

• Bath towels and hand towels

• Cloth diapers

• Undergarments and socks

• Light blankets

For indoor use, retractable lines are perfect for drying delicate items or using in your laundry room or bathroom, where space is tight.

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Bonus: Indoor Outdoor Retractable Clotheslines

Retractable washing lines aren’t just for outside. Many customers choose to install their clothesline:

• Inside a laundry room

• Under a covered balcony

• Along a veranda or patio wall

• In a bathroom for small family homes

• Over a bathtub to make use of vertical drying space

If installed correctly, the same rules for prevent sagging apply indoors. Just make sure to anchor into wall studs or concrete for stability.

Space-Saving and Money-Saving Benefits

Choosing a retractable clothesline over a dryer isn’t just good for space—it’s good for your wallet and the environment too. Here’s how:

• Save money on electricity

• Protect clothing from shrinkage and wear

• Extend the lifespan of delicate garments

• Reduce your environmental footprint

• Create flexible drying zones without clutter

Whether you're using it in the garden, on a balcony, or inside your home, a retractable unit delivers maximum function in minimal space.

What to Look for When Buying

When you're ready to purchase a retractable washing line, keep these tips in mind:

• Check the line length and number of lines

• Confirm if the unit is wall-mounted or post compatible

• Choose a model with a locking mechanism to hold extended lines securely

• Opt for rust-resistant and UV-stabilised materials

• Look for good customer reviews and support from trusted sellers

Brands like Hills offer all of the above in a product that’s easy to install, neat in appearance, and reliable in performance.

🔍 Featured Models: A Closer Look at Retractable Clotheslines That Stay Strong

Not all retractable washing lines are created equal. Some are purpose-built for larger families and outdoor use, while others are compact solutions for indoor drying. Below, we break down the most popular options available at The Clothesline Store, highlighting their specs, line spool setup, and suitability for different homes.

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Hills 5 Line Retracting Clothesline

• Lines: 5

• Min/Max Extension: 2 m – 6.75 m

• Total Line Space: 33.75 m

• Spool Type: Multiple spools (one per line)

• Best For: Medium-sized households, outdoor wall-to-wall or post-to-wall setups

This model is rust-resistant, UV stabilised, and includes individual line tensioners—making it one of the best value-for-space retractables available. When tensioned correctly, sagging is minimal even with heavier items like bath towels.

Hills 7 Line Retracting Clothesline

• Lines: 7

• Min/Max Extension: 2 m – 6.75 m

• Total Line Space: 47.25 m

• Spool Type: Multiple spools (one per line)

• Best For: Large families needing maximum drying area in a compact footprint

With 7 separate lines and independent spools, the Hills 7 Line offers more hanging space than any other Hills model. Ideal for sheets, cloth diapers, and heavier loads—if you’re concerned about sagging, this model’s design keeps everything aligned and taut.

Austral Retractaway 40

• Lines: 5

• Min/Max Extension: 2 m – 8 m

• Total Line Space: 40 m

• Spool Type: Multiple spools

• Best For: Homes with moderate outdoor space, deeper wall-to-wall spans

With a slightly longer extension capacity than Hills, the Retractaway 40 is excellent for customers needing that extra reach. It’s heavy-duty, manufactured in Australia, and comes with a long-term warranty. Tension control is built-in for each line to help prevent sagging when used correctly.

Austral Retractaway 50

• Lines: 5

• Min/Max Extension: 2 m – 10 m

• Total Line Space: 50 m

• Spool Type: Multiple spools

• Best For: Larger yards, long garden walls, or wide post-to-post spans

If you want maximum reach, this is the retractable to choose. The 10 m extension gives you commercial-level drying space. To prevent sagging with the longer run, installation accuracy is crucial—mount on solid, level surfaces and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Daytek 6 Line Retractable Clothesline

• Lines: 6

• Min/Max Extension: 2 m – 7 m

• Total Line Space: 42 m

• Spool Type: Multiple spools

• Best For: Families who need flexibility and strength for regular daily use

The Daytek is known for its sleek black design and robust performance. Its 6 lines are easy to pull out and tension evenly. Thanks to its durable materials and line-locking mechanisms, it offers excellent sag resistance even with bulky laundry.

Brabantia 22 m Indoor Pull-Out Clothesline

• Lines: 5

• Max Extension: 4.4 m

• Total Line Space: 22 m

• Spool Type: Single multi-line spool

• Best For: Indoor bathrooms, laundry room, and apartment balconies

This wall-mounted unit is compact but efficient for small homes or renters. It’s easy to install, pulls out in one smooth motion, and works best with lighter clothing and delicates. Due to the shorter reach, sagging is rarely an issue unless overloaded.

Hills Cordomatic Retractable Clothesline

• Lines: 1

• Max Extension: 15 m

• Total Line Space: 15 m

• Spool Type: Single spool

• Best For: Small spaces, caravans, camping, or lightweight indoor drying

The Cordomatic is a compact, budget-friendly unit for lightweight drying needs. It works well for quick jobs or emergency indoor use. It’s not designed for large loads, so to avoid sagging, always stick to small, light items. However it is a great indoor outdoor retractable clothesline and favourite with campers.

Discover The Right Retractable For You Here

Final Thoughts: Will It Sag?

Here’s a fact: any washing line can sag, but with proper installation, use, and care, a high-quality retractable clothesline will stay straight and sturdy for years.

Choose a reputable brand, follow the setup instructions carefully, and be mindful of how much weight you're hanging at any one time as this is the leading reason for a sagging retractable washing line.

✅ Invest in a clothesline that suits your needs
✅ Use the lines evenly and maintain tension
✅ Avoid overloading and overextending
✅ Choose a design that works with your space

Whether mounted indoors or out, retractable washing lines offer flexibility, efficiency, and long-term clothes drying power—without the hassle of a bulky frame or permanent fixture.

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Why Choose The Clothesline Store?

As Australia’s trusted specialist in outdoor clothes drying solutions, The Clothesline Store offers unmatched value, fast dispatch, and expert service.

We are the country’s largest private stockist of premium clothesline brands including Hills, Air Dry, and Austral, with in-stock items ready to ship the same or next business day from our own national warehouse. Shop Clotheslines Here

With a focus on value, convenience, and service, The Clothesline Store is your go-to destination for clotheslines that are built to last and ready to use.

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