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When it comes to laundry design, there are plenty of innovative features that can instantly improve the functionality and aesthetics of the space, making for a much more pleasant everyday experience. Just one of these is the pull-out drying drawer, an affordable and easy D.I.Y. project that offers yet-another spot to dry clothes when it’s wet outside. But unlike traditional drying racks, it can be neatly packed away when not in use, leaving your laundry free of clutter.
This D.I.Y. project can be completed in a day in your existing space, without the need to change too much, but you will need an existing draw to transform. We’ll essentially be removing the base of the draw, installing rods to sit across the width and then affixing them to the existing sides to create a versatile drying rack that can be pulled in and out when required.
Choose the drawer you’re going to use – remember that it’s likely clothing will hang from the rods downwards, so consider what’s underneath before finalising your decision. Will it be a hindrance if clothing hangs in front of anything? It also needs to be easily accessible for everyday use.
Ideally, your new drying rack will be over a heating vent, but this may not be the case for all laundry designs.
Remove the drawer from its case and unscrew the tracks from each side. Pop the base of the drawer out and slide out, leaving you with four sides. If your drawer doesn’t unscrew, use a jigsaw to cut out the base.
Using the tape measure, measure the width of the draw to establish how long each rail should be. Make sure you measure the inside space so that the rails can slot straight in. You’ll also need to measure the length of the drawer to figure out how many rails will fit.
Measure each rail and mark the correct length with a pencil. Use the hacksaw to cut to size, using a clip to help hold the rail down if need be.
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Make a note of how many rails you’re going to use, and then use the tape measure and pencil to mark even points down the length of the drawer side. Pre-drill holes at these marks for each rail. Slot the bracket into the pre-drilled holes.
Once you’ve finished preparing your drawer, it’s simply a case of grabbing your rails and pushing them into place.
Replace the tracks that you unscrewed earlier and slide your new drying rack back into its slot.
You’re now ready to dry jumpers, socks, jeans - the laundry world is your oyster!
Watch this laundry makeover with Steph Pase to get some inspiration on how to organise and style your laundry.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
