How to Install a Retractable Clothesline: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (Any Wall Type)

Installing a retractable clothesline is one of the easiest home upgrades you can do. GorillaLine Max comes with all hardware included and installs in 15 minutes. Here's the complete guide for every wall type.

Watch: How to increase tension on your GorillaLine retractable clothesline.

What You'll Need

• GorillaLine Max (includes housing, cord, end hook, screws, wall anchors)
• Drill + appropriate bit (or hammer for wall plugs)
• Level (or use a level app on your phone)
• Tape measure
• Pencil for marking

No additional hardware purchases needed — everything is in the box.

Step 1: Choose Your Location

Before drilling anything, decide on your mount points:

• Height: Shoulder height or slightly above works for most people. Too high and you'll struggle to reach; too low and long items drag on the floor.
• Distance: Measure the span. GorillaLine Max extends to its rated length — make sure your wall span doesn't exceed it.
• Clearance: You need at least 18–24 inches of clearance below the line when fully loaded to prevent clothes dragging.
• Indoor tip: Over the bathtub works perfectly — drips go straight into the tub.

Step 2: Mark Your Drill Points

Hold the housing unit against the wall where you want it. Use a pencil to mark the screw hole positions. Use a level to make sure it's straight — a crooked mount will make the cord sag to one side.

Step 3: Install by Wall Type

Drywall with stud

Use a stud finder or the knock test to locate a stud. If your mark lines up with a stud, drill directly with the included screws. This is the strongest mount option — no anchors needed.

Drywall without stud (most common)

Use the included drywall anchors. Drill a pilot hole the size of the anchor, tap the anchor in flush with the wall, then drive the screw into the anchor. The anchor expands behind the drywall for a secure hold.

Tile (bathroom)

Use a tile/masonry drill bit. Go slow and apply light pressure to avoid cracking the tile. Use the included anchors. Pre-drilling tile requires steady hands — mark the spot with tape to prevent the bit from slipping.

Concrete or brick

Use a masonry bit and hammer drill if available. Standard drill works but takes longer. Concrete anchors (included) expand when the screw is tightened, creating a very strong hold.

No-drill (adhesive)

For surfaces where drilling isn't possible or desired, heavy-duty adhesive strips rated for the clothesline's weight capacity can work on smooth, clean surfaces (painted drywall, tiles). Note: adhesive capacity is lower than mechanical fasteners. Best for lighter loads.

Step 4: Mount the Housing Unit

Align the housing with your anchor points and drive the screws in. Don't overtighten — snug is enough. The housing should sit flush against the wall with no wobble.

Step 5: Install the Far-End Hook

Measure your cord length and mark the opposite wall. The end hook just needs one screw — use the same method as above for your wall type. The hook should be at the same height as the housing unit (use your level).

Step 6: Extend and Test

Pull the cord out to the hook and attach it. Load test with a few items before trusting it with a full load. Check that the retraction mechanism pulls the cord back smoothly when you unhook it.

Troubleshooting

Line is sagging

The hook-end anchor may be slightly lower than the housing. Remount the hook 1–2 cm higher. Also check that you're not over the weight limit for your model.

Won't retract smoothly

The spring is likely stiff — this is normal when new. Use it a few times and it loosens. If it snags, check the cord for any knots or kinks that caught in the housing slot.

Mount is loose

If using wall anchors, the anchor may not have fully expanded. Remove the screw, pull the anchor out, and replace with a larger-diameter anchor. For tile, you may need a larger drill bit.