Picture you’ve just hung your clothes out, the sun is shining, and then, out of nowhere, dark clouds roll in. Normally, you’d rush outside in a panic.
With this clever covered rack, you can relax. The sloped canopy shields your laundry from rain, yet lets breezes flow freely through the hanging clothes.
Plus, it’s peace of mind built into a simple structure, making laundry day far less stressful.
Materials Needed
- Polycarbonate roofing sheet (4-6 ft wide × 3-4 ft deep)
- Galvanized steel or wooden frame (custom fit to your wall)
- 3 strong wall brackets (2” each, heavy duty)
- Clothesline cord or rods (cut to the width of your frame)
- Drill, screws, and anchors
- Measuring tape and level
- Optional: gutter attachment
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Choose a sunny wall space close to your laundry area. You measure the width you want your rack to span.
Step 2: Install the wall brackets securely with screws and anchors. Make sure they’re level to keep the rack straight.
Step 3: Build a simple frame with your wood or steel supports. Then attach the polycarbonate sheet on top at a slope so rainwater runs off easily.
Step 4: Stretch clothesline cord or install rods beneath the cover. You should space them evenly for efficient drying.
Step 5: Test it by hanging wet clothes and spraying water on the roof, you’ll see how well it protects your laundry while keeping airflow intact.
Tips:
I once saw a neighbor add a small gutter to theirs, and it worked wonders for directing rainwater into a barrel for garden use. If you’re eco-minded, this turns your drying rack into a mini sustainability station.