To hang washing on a washing line effectively, you generally shake out items, choose appropriate pegs, and fasten the clothes to the line, often following specific techniques for different garment types to optimize drying and avoid marks.
While the basic idea is simple, applying a few smart techniques can make a difference in how quickly your clothes dry and how they look afterwards.
Basic Steps for Hanging Clothes
Here are the fundamental steps to hanging washing:
- Prepare the Clothes: Remove clothes from the washing machine immediately after the cycle finishes. Give each item a good shake to remove excess water and reduce wrinkles.
- Gather Supplies: Have your clothes pegs ready.
- Choose the Line: Select a clean section of the washing line.
- Attach the Clothing: Fasten each item to the line using pegs. Ensure the fabric is securely attached but not overly stretched.
Smart Hanging Techniques: Tops vs. Bottoms
There are different opinions when it comes to hanging washing, especially concerning different types of clothing. A widely recommended rule, as highlighted in textile care advice, suggests:
- Hang tops from the bottom
- Hang bottoms from the top
This means items like shirts, t-shirts, and jumpers are best attached to the line using pegs along their bottom hem. Conversely, trousers, shorts, and skirts are often hung by the waistband.
Why This Technique Works
Following this rule offers several benefits:
- For Tops (Shirts, Jumpers): Hanging from the bottom edge with pegs stops the shoulders from getting stretched out of shape. It also helps avoid unsightly peg marks appearing on the shoulders, which are typically more visible on a finished garment.
- For Bottoms (Trousers, Skirts): Hanging from the waistband allows the weight of the wet fabric to pull down, helping to smooth out wrinkles. Peg marks on the waistband are less noticeable than on other parts of the garment.
Additional Tips for Effective Drying
Beyond the top/bottom rule, consider these tips for faster drying and better results:
- Spacing: Leave adequate space between items on the line to allow air circulation. This speeds up drying time and prevents musty smells.
- Heavier Items: Hang heavier items like towels or jeans on stronger sections of the line or use more pegs for support.
- Delicates: Hang delicate items like knitwear or silks flat over the line or on a hanger attached to the line to prevent stretching.
- Weather: Consider the weather. On windy days, use extra pegs, especially for lighter items. On cooler or damp days, ensure maximum airflow.
- Inside Out: For items that might fade, like dark colours, consider hanging them inside out to protect the fabric from direct sunlight.
By applying these techniques, you can ensure your clothes dry efficiently while maintaining their shape and appearance.
