Drying Rack: The Alternative to Clotheslines

Rack 'em up and hang them anywhere Apartment dwellers and others with limited access to outdoor space are turning to clothes drying racks over clotheslines, because they maximize space and are endlessly portable, fitting into the tightest spots. You'll find a tantalizing variety thanks to creative vendors who keep finding fresh ways to use space. What are you made of? Clothes drying racks can be made of metal, wood or plastic. Each construction has its advantages, depending on the application: Wood is strong, attractive, and naturally disinfects itself. It's perfect for floor stands and accordion drying racks used in tight spaces. Plastic never rots, never rusts, never stains. Choose plastic drying racks for small units, as it is prone to sag under heavy loads or long runs. Metal provides a good combination of light weight and strength. Metal drying racks can hold heavy towels dripping over the tub, and still be put away one-handed. Treat it with care, because if the protective finish scratches off, metal will rust.

All shapes and sizes

A basic wooden drying rack is a sturdy, efficient stand that holds a surprising amount of clothing in a small space. Thanks to renewed interest in natural air drying, you can find a clothes drying rack for any specific application. Some attach over your tub, so wet items can drip-dry. Accordion drying racks pop out of a wall-mounted box and extend well out into the room when you need them, like a cuckoo clock. Sweater drying racks include a large flat screen, so delicate clothing can be gently laid flat to avoid stretching out.

Some designs are almost as much fun to look at as they are to use. Spindly, spider-legged racks take up a room if you need it and still fold up tight as an umbrella. And umbrella hangers multiply your space by adding arms to your existing hangar. Garment hangers put "arms" through your shirt and sweater sleeves, supporting them so they can hang without stretching or wrinkling.

Almost all clothes drying racks have one thing in common: they fold or collapse into easy-to-store bundles, out of the way, so you get your room back. Okay, two things: clothes drying racks also let you save money on energy and wear, providing fresh-smelling clean clothes in return.