How to Install a Clothesline

Clotheslines have grown less common ever since electric dryers appeared, which is a shame, because installing a clothesline is simple! It will also save you time and money on powering a dryer. Here's a straightforward plan to quickly reap the benefits of a clothesline.

Planning and Supplies

To make a proper clothesline, you'll only need a few items. Make sure your equipment list includes: a metal shovel, a level, a hoe, one bag of cement (plus water), wooden or steel poles, and a wagon or wheel barrel for hauling supplies. Next, select an even plot of land situated away from tree branches and other obstacles that could interfere with your clothesline. Also, ensure there are no pipes or wires underground where you plan to dig.

At this point, you should also decide what type of clothesline you want. A traditional horizontal clothesline consists of two poles with lines hung between each one. The alternative is an umbrella clothesline, which is a single pole in an inverted umbrella shape.

Installing the Clothesline

First, clear the ground you've chosen of any debris, and dig a hole about one foot each in depth and width for your pole. Fill the hole no more than halfway with cement and add water. For best results, stir this concrete mixture with the hoe to make it an even consistency.

Then you'll want to place your pole gently into the concrete filled hole, maneuvering it until the level shows it settling straight. If you're doing an umbrella clothesline, then you can stop, but repeat the process with a second hole about five to ten feet away for a horizontal clothesline.

After the poles are planted, wait at least twenty four hours for the cement to harden. To complete it, just string the line between your horizontal poles or insert a prefabricated umbrella mechanism on top.

Using these basic tools and tips, even a novice can enjoy a clothesline in about a day's time.