8 Best Clothes Drying Racks, Tested by Experts
These picks are sturdy, space-saving and Lab-tested for real-life laundry loads.
Reviewed by Carolyn FortéHome Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director
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Drying racks might not get as much attention as washers and dryers, but for many households, they’re an essential part of laundry day. Whether you're hanging delicates to air-dry, trying to save energy or just need a reliable place to dry a few damp towels, a good drying rack should be sturdy, easy to use and compact enough to tuck away when not in use.
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we’ve tested and have experience with many drying racks through the years and called in some of our favorite brands whose shoe racks and household organizers have done well in previous testing and proved sturdy over time for in-lab testing. We assessed how easy they were to assemble, how much they could hold, how well they handled repeated use, and how simple they were to store.
From space-saving solutions for apartment dwellers to heavy-duty racks for big families, we found standout options for every kind of home.
Brabantia HangOn Laundry Drying Rack
Pros
- No assembly required — sets up in seconds
- Large capacity, fits a full medium load of laundry
- Adjustable side wings for flexible drying space
Cons
- On the heavier side compared to more compact models
Material: Stainless Steel | Weight: 13.5 lbs | Weight limit: 49.61 lbs
This all-in-one drying rack from Brabantia impressed our testers for its thoughtful design, generous capacity and ease of use. It requires no assembly — just unfold the legs, raise the side racks and it’s ready to go. Each side rack can be set flat or angled upward depending on your laundry needs, and the small middle rack is perfect for socks, undergarments or hand towels.
What sets it apart is the built-in hanging rail with integrated hooks, ideal for hang-drying shirts, dresses and delicates that benefit from a little extra structure. There are four hanger slots on each side panel, plus hooks on the garment rail ends for even more vertical space. When you’re done, the rail folds down to make the rack more compact for storage.
Our expert testers found the rack large enough to accommodate an entire medium-size load of laundry, making it a smart pick for anyone without a dryer or trying to cut down on energy use. Just note: its larger size and solid construction mean it’s a bit heavier than other models, so you’ll want to set it up where it can stay put between laundry days. It's helpful that it folds flat for easy storage.
Polder Compact Accordion Clothes Drying Rack
Pros
- Fully assembled and easy to set up
- Rustproof, powder-coated steel construction
- Stable and compact — great for small spaces
Cons
- Narrow rungs make it difficult to dry adult-size clothing flat without folding or bunching
Material: Powder coated steel | Weight: 3.8 lbs | Weight limit: n/a
If you’re short on space but still want a reliable solution for air-drying laundry, the Polder Compact Accordion Rack is a sturdy, affordable pick that doesn't skimp on performance. It arrives fully assembled and pops into place with a simple accordion-style setup. Our expert testers appreciated how solid it felt, with minimal wobbling and durable rungs that outperformed similar racks in this price range.
Despite its smaller size, it offers 16 linear feet of drying space, enough for hand towels, delicates, workout gear and smaller loads of laundry. The top shelf is especially useful for sweaters or flat-drying items, while non-skid feet help keep the rack stable and prevent floor damage. Made of powder-coated, rustproof steel, it’s built to last and folds down flat for easy storage in a closet, under a bed or in a laundry nook.
The main trade-off is that the rungs are just 18 inches wide, so larger garments like pants or adult-size shirts may need to be folded or scrunched, which could lead to some wrinkling. But for apartments, dorms or anyone looking for a compact and dependable rack at a great price, this one is hard to beat.
Honey-Can-Do Tabletop Gullwing Drying Rack
Pros
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Mesh shelf is perfect for sweaters
- Quick, no-fuss setup
Cons
- Holds only a few garments at a time
Material: Carbon steel | Weight: 16 ounces | Weight limit: 15 lbs
Compact, functional and surprisingly sturdy, the Honey-Can-Do Tabletop Gullwing Drying Rack is a go-to for anyone short on space. Whether you're air-drying a sweater or a few delicates, this small but capable rack fits neatly on a countertop, table or even a deep windowsill — and folds flat when you're done.
Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care & Cleaning Lab, has personally relied on this model for years. “I’ve used it for years and love it,” she said. “It folds flat so I can stash it away in a cabinet, and it offers ample drying space for a small rack — even a mesh bottom for laying sweaters flat.”
It’s well-built, easy to set up and fits virtually anywhere, but the size does limit capacity. It’s best for a few small items and isn’t designed for large garments or hang drying. Still, if you need a compact drying solution that’s reliable and unobtrusive, this one checks all the boxes.
Pros
- Protective padding prevents door damage
- Generous hanging area
- Arrives ready to use
Cons
- Most doors won’t close when rack is hanging
Material: Metal | Weight: 2.61 lbs | Weight limit: 17 lbs
This well-designed over-the-door drying rack from Brabantia is a practical pick for anyone looking to add extra drying space without permanent installation. It requires no setup — just unfold the arms and hook them over the top of a door. The adjustable arms can slide along the frame to fit different door widths, and a locking mechanism keeps everything secure whether it's in use or folded flat for storage.
The rack provides six sturdy rungs, plus the outer frame, offering nearly 15 feet of usable space for drying clothing, towels or delicates. Rubberized pads help prevent scratches and slipping, while large square hooks allow it to fit over thick or paneled doors. Testers appreciated its versatility for drying small laundry loads or delicate items that need to lie flat.
The only drawback is that you likely won’t be able to close the door fully when the rack is in place. Still, for laundry rooms or spare doors, it’s a solid, efficient option.
OXO Good Grips Folding Sweater Drying Rack
Pros
- Large drying surface for sweaters and knits
- Lightweight and folds flat for easy storage
- Stackable for expanded drying
Cons
- Not suitable for large bulky items
Material: Plastic/mesh | Weight: 1 lb | Weight limit: n/a
OXO’s Folding Sweater Drying Rack is a smart choice for anyone who regularly air-dries delicate items like sweaters, knits or workout gear. The generously sized mesh surface allows garments to dry flat without stretching or losing their shape. Our experts liked that it’s lightweight yet sturdy, and the mesh encourages airflow for quick drying. The rack's legs are offset from the corners so it can sit securely on countertops, washing machines or other flat surfaces without tipping.
When you’re finished using it, the legs fold in and the entire rack folds in half, making it easy to store in a closet or laundry cabinet. It’s a simple solution that doesn’t take up much space — and if you need more drying area, multiple units can be stacked securely with extra clearance between layers. We’ve tested this style of rack in the Lab and at home, and it continues to be a favorite for its durability and smart design.
Brabantia Lift-O-Matic Rotary Dryer Clothes Line
Pros
- Large capacity with 197 feet of drying line
- Adjustable height makes it easier to load and unload
Cons
- Requires outdoor space and initial setup in ground
Material: Carbon steel | Weight: 13.2 lbs | Weight limit: 88 lbs
If you need to air-dry large loads of laundry outside, Brabantia’s Lift-O-Matic Clothesline is a sturdy and practical solution. With 197 feet of total drying space, this rotary-style rack can handle up to four full machine loads at once. We’ve been impressed with all the products we’ve tested from Brabantia so we are comfortable recommending this outdoor dryer. Our experts appreciate the smart, height-adjustable design (ranging from just over 4 feet to more than 6 feet), which makes it easy to hang clothes without reaching or stooping. Whether you’re drying everyday garments or bulky items like comforters and towels, there’s plenty of space to work with.
The lines remain taut thanks to a clever tensioning system, and built-in holes on each arm let you hang clothes on hangers without them slipping. The ground spike creates a secure base for setting it up in your yard, and the included cover helps protect the lines from the elements when not in use. If your laundry routine could benefit from fresh air and sunshine, this is the rack to beat.
Polder Compact Accessory Drying Rack
Pros
- Requires no assembly
- Removable clips are easy to use
- Great for delicates and small garments
Cons
- May tilt if weight isn’t balanced evenly
Material: Plastic | Weight: n/a | Weight limit: n/a
When you only need to dry a few small or delicate items, this compact rack from Polder is a smart, low-profile solution. It comes fully assembled and ready to use; just hook it over a shower rod or laundry line and clip your garments in place. The 12 removable clips are easy to attach and adjust, making it ideal for air-drying things like swimsuits, lingerie, baby socks or workout gear.
Our testers appreciated its lightweight construction and thoughtful design. The silicone-coated hook keeps the rack from slipping, and the square frame provides enough airflow for faster drying. While it doesn’t take up much space, it is prone to tilting if clips aren’t balanced evenly. The hook is also on the smaller side, so it may not fit over larger shower rods. Still, it’s a useful rack to keep on hand for quick-dry items or overflow on laundry day.
Pros
- Holds up to 30 garments
- Two-tier design offers extra hanging space
- Straightforward to assemble
Cons
- Close spacing may slow drying if fully loaded
Material: Carbon steel | Weight: 4.69 lbs | Weight limit: 33 lbs
If you prefer to hang-dry your clothes on hangers, this two-tier tripod drying rack from Honey-Can-Do is a practical and space-saving solution. It holds up to 30 garments across two tiers of arms, each with built-in notches to keep hangers spaced and secure. The setup was simple during our tests: just connect the three poles, extend the arms and you're ready to hang.
This rack is especially helpful for air-drying button-downs, dresses or pants, and the top tier extends to over 6 feet tall, giving longer garments room to hang freely. The arms and legs fold down neatly when not in use, making it easy to store in a closet or laundry room. However, because the hanger slots are spaced only about two inches apart, airflow can be limited if it's fully loaded. You'll get the best results in a well-ventilated area.
How we test clothes drying racks
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, our Home Care & Cleaning Lab evaluates clothes drying racks for their functionality, durability and overall ease of use. We start by selecting models from trusted brands known for quality construction and thoughtful design, with a focus on racks that suit a range of needs — from compact apartment living to heavy-duty laundry days.
Each rack is tested for how easy it is to set up and fold down, how much clothing it can hold comfortably, and whether it remains stable when fully loaded. We look at key features like adjustable arms, sweater-drying surfaces, over-the-door compatibility and how well each model fits into everyday spaces like laundry rooms, closets and outdoor patios.
We also work with at-home testers who provide feedback after using the racks for everything from drying delicates and kids’ clothes to managing full loads of laundry. Their insights, combined with our Lab analysis, help ensure we recommend only the most reliable and practical options for your home.
What to look for in the best clothes drying rack
Clothes drying racks may seem simple, but the right model can make laundry day easier and more efficient — especially if you regularly air-dry delicate garments, sweaters or activewear. Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing one:
✔️ Size and drying capacity: Think about how much laundry you typically air-dry at once. A full-size rack can hold a medium load of clothes, while a compact or over-the-door model is ideal for small spaces or lighter drying needs.
✔️ Versatility: Look for features like adjustable arms, fold-out shelves and mesh panels for flat-drying sweaters or delicates. Some racks even include garment bars or clips for hanging accessories like socks or lingerie.
✔️ Stability and durability: A sturdy frame, often made of coated steel or aluminum, will keep the rack from wobbling under the weight of wet laundry. Pay attention to the quality of joints and hinges, especially on folding models.
✔️ Ease of use and storage: The best racks set up quickly and collapse flat for easy storage in a closet or behind a door. Lightweight models are easier to move around, but make sure they still feel stable when in use.
✔️ Fit and finish: Racks with smooth bars or coated surfaces are gentler on clothes and help prevent snagging or creases. Rubber feet can help protect your floors and keep the rack from slipping on tile or hardwood.
Whether you're drying a full load of laundry or just a few hand-washed items, a thoughtfully designed drying rack can help you save energy, extend the life of your clothes and make the task a little less tedious.
Why Trust Good Housekeeping?
This roundup was written by Timothy Dahl, a contributing writer for Good Housekeeping who has spent the past two decades reviewing home improvement products, tools and household essentials. As someone who appreciates a well-organized laundry room just as much as a tidy yard, he brings a practical, real-world approach to testing everyday products.
Carolyn Forté is the executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care & Cleaning Lab. With over 40 years of experience testing household products, Carolyn is a trusted expert in laundry care — from detergents and stain removers to washing machines and drying racks. She’s reviewed hundreds of laundry tools and brings both lab-tested insights and everyday know-how to every recommendation.
Timothy Dahl is an experienced writer and editor covering home improvement, DIY, and lifestyle topics for nearly 20 years. With a deep background in hands-on testing and reporting, he has reviewed and worked with hundreds of tools, products, and home innovations. Timothy's work has appeared in The New York Times, Wired, and Popular Mechanics, and he's the founder of Charles & Hudson. He specializes in making complex projects accessible and is passionate about empowering homeowners with clear, actionable guidance.
Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor's degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.
