There’s something timeless about laundry drying outdoors, the way the sun leaves its scent in the fabric, the way the wind adds a softness no dryer can give.
This folding rack feels like a companion to the seasons, opening wide to catch the light and closing again once the work is done.
Specially, it’s portable, reliable, and somehow turns a daily routine into a moment of peace, like hanging your thoughts out to dry alongside your clothes.
Materials Needed
- 12 wooden dowels (each 36” long, ¾” diameter)
- 4 wooden side supports (each 40” × 2” × 1”)
- 8 small brass hinges (1.5” each,)
- 16 wood screws (¾” length, flat head)
- Sandpaper (medium grit)
- Wood glue
- Optional: Outdoor wood sealant
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut and sand all wooden dowels and supports. Then smooth edges thoroughly so fabrics won’t snag.
Step 2: Lay two side supports parallel on the ground.
You now attach 6 dowels evenly spaced across with screws and wood glue, creating one drying frame. Repeat with the other two supports to make a second frame.
Step 3: Connect the two frames together using hinges at the ends so the rack can fold like scissors. Then add two dowels at the bottom as crossbars for stability.
Step 4: Test the fold and unfold motion. You can adjust spacing if needed so the rack stands firmly without wobbling.
Step 5: Apply a coat of sealant if you plan to keep it outdoors often. Let it dry fully before use.
Tips:
I found that angling the legs slightly outward gives more balance, especially when hanging heavier towels. If you’re drying smaller items like baby clothes, you can add extra dowels closer together.
And don’t forget, placing the rack in a sunny corner of the yard not only speeds up drying but leaves your laundry with that unmatched “sun-kissed” freshness.