Are there different types of outdoor retractable clotheslines?

Most retractable clotheslines come in single-line and multi-line styles. Single-line models feature circular reels mounted inside a case; the clothesline pulls out of an opening in the case. Multi-line models consist of several reels mounted inside a bar; the clotheslines pull out of evenly spaced openings on the bar.

Both types of retractable clotheslines feature a mounting mechanism on the reel or bar. On single-line models, the end of the clothesline is outfitted with a hook or mounting plate that prevents the line from retracting into the case. On multi-line models, the ends of the clotheslines are usually fixed to a second bar to maintain line spacing.