Total working surface
Under the total working surface is meant the total length of all drying rods in the expanded state. The
longer this length, the more laundry can be placed on the dryer and, usually, its maximum load is higher (see below). At the same time, this parameter also affects the dimensions and price of the device.
Max. load
The highest weight of laundry that can be dried (of course, we are talking about wet laundry). In addition to the general weight limit, the detailed specifications can also specify the allowable load on each individual rod.
At home, it is impossible to accurately control compliance with this limitation, but it is still worth taking measures to prevent overload. After all, although many drying racks have a certain margin of safety and can carry a lot of weight without visible consequences, off-design loads on the structure reduce its durability and increase the risk of unexpected breakdown.
Number of rods
The number of individual rods provided for in the design of the drying rack. The more such rods are provided for with the same total working surface, the shorter the length of each of them and the more compact the dimensions of the device in the unfolded state can be. On the other hand, short rods are poorly suited for sheets, blankets and other large items.
Material
The main material from which the dryer is made.
— Aluminium. These models, crafted from lightweight and usually affordable aluminium alloys, come with both low weight and cost. However, compared to steel, inexpensive aluminium alloys typically lag behind in terms of strength and durability. Additionally, continuous exposure to water may cause oxidation, resulting in potential stains. While high-quality alternatives address these issues, they come with a corresponding increase in cost.
— Steel. Modern dryers typically utilize two main types of steel: regular and stainless. Ordinary steel boasts good strength at a low cost, although it is heavier than aluminium, which is not a critical factor. However, ordinary steel is prone to rust when exposed to moisture, necessitating protective coatings that can compromise the product's reliability and durability. On the other hand, stainless steel shares the same advantages but is corrosion-resistant and offers long-term use. Its main drawback is the higher price.
— Aluminium/steel. Two design types fit into this category. The first involves combined products, where the stand and main frame are typically crafted from steel, while the bars are made of aluminium. As detailed above, both materials have their characteristics, and combining them slightly boosts the strength and reliability of the dryer while keeping costs low. Additionally, models are available in various materials, including "aluminium.../steel."
— Plastic. The main advantage of plastic as a material for dryers is complete chemical inertness — in other words, it does not oxidize from constant contact with moisture. At the same time, in terms of strength, plastic significantly loses to metals. Therefore, this option is used mainly in small-sized designs that are not designed for a large amount of laundry.
Dimensions (unfolded)
General dimensions of the drying rack in working position, taking into account all additional elements — side wings (see above), retractable parts (see "Design"), etc. This parameter will allow you to estimate how much space is required to use a particular model.
Dimensions (folded)
General dimensions of drying rack in the folded position. The smaller they are, the more convenient this model is in storage and transportation.
