Winter in Australia: a time for hot cuppas, thick socks, and, if you’re anything like us, a constant battle with damp laundry.
While the rest of the world might think we’re exaggerating about the chill inside Australian homes, we know the truth—sometimes it feels colder inside than out!
And if you’re living in a small apartment, caravan, or campervan, the struggle to dry your clothes without turning your living space into a laundromat is all too real.
But never fear, because one clever couple has found a solution that’s not only practical, but also budget-friendly—and it’s all thanks to a quick trip to Bunnings.
The great Australian laundry dilemma
Let’s face it: drying laundry in winter is a universal headache. The cold, damp air means clothes take forever to dry, and using a dryer can send your power bill through the roof.
For those of us in compact homes or on the road in a van, the problem is even trickier. Where do you hang your washing when every square centimetre counts?
Enter Caitlin and Lachlan Golding, a young couple from Port Lincoln who’ve been travelling around Australia in their campervan since April.
As Caitlin puts it, ‘It feels like we’ve been following the rain.’ With a makeshift line strung through their van, they found themselves living in a cluttered, damp space—hardly the dream of van life!
A Bunnings breakthrough
On a mission to reclaim their living space, the Goldings made a pit stop at their local Bunnings.
There, they stumbled upon a retractable, foldaway washing line for just $40—a near twin to the much-loved (but much pricier) Vendline clothesline, which retails for up to $160.
‘It was easy to install in our ensuite bathroom and is the perfect size for a load of washing or to hang the towels on,’ Caitlin shared.
The couple was so impressed, they took to social media to spread the word, and were quickly met with a flood of gratitude from fellow vanlifers and small-space dwellers.
Why this hack works
So, what makes this Bunnings find such a game-changer? For starters, it’s compact—just 80cm wide—making it ideal for tight spaces, whether you’re in a van, a tiny apartment, or just need a little extra drying room in your laundry.
The frame is made from powder-coated steel with aluminium rails, so it’s sturdy enough for a full load of washing or a few towels.
Some van owners were concerned about the weight (2.4kg compared to the Vendline’s 1.6kg), but as Caitlin points out, the difference is minimal, especially considering the price gap.
‘There isn’t much more weight in it, so we weren’t too stressed,’ she said.
The only real downside? The Bunnings model doesn’t come with a lock, so if you’re bouncing down a rough road, it could pop open.
But Caitlin has a simple fix: ‘You could easily add one yourself.’
Not just for caravans
While this hack is a godsend for vanlifers, it’s also perfect for anyone living in a small space.
The retractable line can be installed in a bathroom, laundry, or even on a balcony—anywhere you need a bit of extra drying space without the clutter of a traditional clothes horse.
And let’s not forget the savings. At just $40, it’s a fraction of the cost of other options, leaving you with more money for the important things—like a good bottle of red to enjoy while your washing dries.
Other clever winter laundry tips
If you’re still struggling with damp, musty-smelling clothes, here are a few more tips to help you outsmart the winter weather:
- Use a dehumidifier: These handy gadgets can speed up drying and prevent that dreaded musty smell.
- Hang clothes with space between them: Good airflow is key, even indoors.
- Try a heated airer: If you have a bit more room, these can be a great energy-efficient alternative to a tumble dryer.
- Open windows when possible: Even a little fresh air can help reduce condensation and speed up drying.
Join the conversation
Have you discovered a clever laundry hack for small spaces? Or maybe you’ve tried the Bunnings retractable line yourself?
We’d love to hear your tips, tricks, and stories—share them in the comments below and help your fellow YourLifeChoices members stay warm, dry, and clutter-free this winter!
Also read: Family reveals surprising caravan hack to save $97—and why no one gets it
