How to hang clothes on a clothesline

If you’ve ever pulled stiff or wrinkled clothes off a line, or watched your favourite shirt fly away in the wind, you might be wondering — is there a right way to hang clothes on a clothesline? Absolutely.  

In this article, we’ll show you exactly how to hang clothes on a clothesline for faster drying, fewer wrinkles, and clothes that last longer. 

Why proper hanging matters 

Hanging clothes isn’t just about saving energy — it’s about air circulation, fabric care, and drying efficiency. Doing it wrong means longer drying times, stretched collars, and even mildew if items stay damp too long.  

Whether you’re drying outdoors in the garden or using a rotary dryer like the Vileda SupaDry Hoist Airer, the method matters. 

How to hang different types of clothes 

Shirts and blouses 

Hang upside down by the bottom hem using clothespins on the side seams. 

This avoids pin marks on the shoulders and helps maintain the shirt's shape. 

For delicate or structured tops, hang them on a hanger and clip the hanger to the line. 

Trousers and jeans 

Hang upside down by the cuffs, using one peg for each leg. 

For better airflow, clip each leg to a separate line if available. 

Turn pockets inside out to help them dry faster. 

Sheets and towels 

Drape fully over the line (not folded). 

Use at least three clothespins — one at each end and one in the middle — to stop flapping in the wind. 

Leave space between the layers so air can flow through and speed up drying. 

Socks and underwear 

Hang socks by the toes and underwear by the waistband. 

Pair socks together by clipping both toes with one peg to keep them from getting lost. 

You can hang multiple small items in a row, but give each enough room to dry properly. 

Tips for better drying on a clothesline 

Shake before you hang 

Give each item a quick shake to remove extra water and reduce wrinkles. This helps clothes dry flatter and faster. 

Leave space 

Avoid overcrowding. If clothes touch, they trap moisture and dry unevenly. Leave gaps between items to boost airflow. 

Use enough pegs 

Don’t cut corners. Use separate pegs for each item or section. One peg for two garments can cause them to overlap and dry poorly. 

Face the breeze 

Hang your line or place your rotary dryer in a breezy spot. The wind does most of the work by increasing airflow. 

Watch the weather 

If you’re drying outdoors, keep an eye on rain. Or use an indoor airer like the Vileda Infinity Flex when the weather’s unreliable. 

Learning how to hang clothes on a clothesline the right way makes laundry day easier and your clothes last longer. With the right technique and tools — like Vileda’s durable clothes airers — you’ll save energy, time, and effort. Try these tips and see the difference on your very next wash.