THE BEST CLOTHES-DRYING RACK FOR SMALL SPACES
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Small Laundry Room / No Room
Living in a small townhouse with just a laundry closet instead of a full laundry room means space is always at a premium for us. I'm constantly searching for ways to maximize every square foot, especially when it comes to laundry day.
One of the best solutions we've found for making the most of our limited space is a folding laundry rack. It’s been a game-changer; it gives us flexibility without sacrificing room, and it easily tucks away when not in use. Whether you're living in a small space like us or are simply trying to streamline your laundry routine, the right laundry hanging rack can make a big difference.
Wayfair Deals
Before we go any further, I've rounded up a brand new round of Wayfair deals,, including the solution to our hanging drying rack problem. As always, I've hand-selected the best home products that will help you decorate on a budget; my top picks are highly reviewed, on-trend, and affordable.
10. Wayfair Basics® 1800 Series Sheet Set, $22 11. Boudreaux Solid Wood Coffee Table, $224 12. Noland Tree Skirt, $24
Our Previous Drying Rack
Our previous clothes rack had definitely seen better days. It was a traditional drying rack (there was nothing innovative or special about it) and the plastic coating started peeling, which was not only ugly to look at, but also became a real problem when it started chipping off and catching on our clothes. It was frustrating to find delicate fabrics snagged or even damaged.
On top of that, the rack just wasn’t sturdy enough for our needs and I couldn't put a full load of laundry on it. If we loaded it with a particularly heavy batch of laundry, the bars would bend, making it feel like it was on the verge of collapsing. We knew it was time for a sturdier, more reliable solution—one that wouldn’t ruin our clothes or buckle under the weight.
Best Drying Rack for Small Spaces (it's Collapsible!)
My hunt for the best clothes drying rack was fuelled by a few attributes. I wanted it to:
be gullwing style (the arms fold out)
collapsible
made of aluminum
have clips for socks and small items
be lightweight
Best Overall Clothes-Drying Rack
It has two layers of drying space with 21 rails, 10 side clips for drying smaller items / delicates, and even 4 shoe holders that can be used to dry your shoes. The adjustable top wings, with five height options, allow me to hang different types of laundry without hassle. It’s also incredibly easy to open and fold for quick storage, which is a lifesaver in our small townhouse. It came fully assembled, which was an added bonus that I wasn't actively looking for, but was pleasantly surprised by.
The Clothes Drying Rack In Our Space
Since we don't have a laundry room, we set up our laundry drying rack at the landing at the top of our stairs. It's not ideal, but it's literally the only place in our home that can accommodate the size and is the most out of our way. This rack is more narrow than our previous one, which frees up floor space and means it's easier to slip by it to go to our rooftop patio. When we aren’t using it, we fold it up and tuck it next to our washer and dryer.
The Laundry Drying Rack that's Best for Small Spaces
I'm so happy with this dryer rack, but most of all, I hope that it illustrates that you can make small spaces work for you. A small home/having no laundry room at all is challenging, but we work with what we have and the right space-saving products make it that much easier.
Thanks for finding it with me.
If you love seeing products in real life, check out a tour of my home; if you want more Wayfair deals, check out the sources for my modern organic home decor, and if you want to organize your home, check out my small space organization hacks.
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Best Clothes-Drying Racks FAQs
1. What is a clothes drying rack and why is it essential for small spaces?
A clothes drying rack is a versatile piece of equipment designed to air dry freshly washed laundry without the need for a dryer. For individuals living in cramped spaces, a clothes drying rack is the perfect solution because it provides an efficient way to dry clothes while conserving space. Unlike traditional drying methods that may take up a lot of room, a collapsible or wall-mounted drying rack can be easily set up and stored away when not in use. This not only helps maintain a tidy living environment but also saves energy by reducing reliance on electric dryers.
2. What are the benefits of using a drying rack instead of a dryer?
Using a drying rack has numerous benefits, especially in smaller spaces. Firstly, it is an eco-friendly option that reduces energy consumption, making it a sustainable choice for those looking to lower their carbon footprint. Secondly, it helps to preserve the quality of clothes, as dryers can cause wear and tear over time. Additionally, rack is designed to handle various types of laundry, from delicate undergarments items to heavy-duty garments.
3. What should I consider when choosing the best clothes drying rack for small spaces?
When looking to find the best clothes drying rack for cramped spaces, several factors come into play. You should consider the size, linear feet, and dimensions of the rack, ensuring it fits comfortably in your designated area. The material is also important; options like heavy duty metal or bamboo provide durability for draping clothes. Additionally, features such as collapsible designs or over-the-door drying racks can save space. Lastly, think about the weight capacity; the best overall drying racks should accommodate your typical laundry load without tipping over. Pro tip: choose a product that has been tested and reviewed to get real life feedback.
4. What types of clothes drying racks are best for apartments and townhouses?
The best clothes-drying racks for small spaces typically include collapsible models, accordion racks, gullwing drying racks, and over-the-door drying racks. If you're short on closet space, you can even get racks with rooms for hangers, which will maximize your space usage even more.
