For consumers frustrated by their skyrocketing electricity bills or fed up pulling shrunken, worn-out clothes from their dryers, there is an old-fashioned solution: simple, efficient, and cost-effective, drying racks can help save energy, protect clothes, and don’t take up too much space.
Drying racks might not seem like the most exciting products on the shelf, but they’re a small product that makes a big difference for many people around the world. A well-chosen drying rack can save customers money, simplify their laundry routine, and reduce their carbon footprint.
But with so many options, picking the right variety of racks to stock can be overwhelming. This guide aims to help retailers build a lineup that’s practical, appealing, and bound to keep customers coming back.
Table of Contents
An overview of the drying rack market
5 types of drying rack to stock in 2025
What to consider when stocking drying racks
Final thoughts
An overview of the drying rack market
In recent years, more people have started looking for energy-saving and eco-friendly alternatives to their usual household appliances, and dryers are no exception. With rising utility costs and the increased push for greener living, many people are turning to air drying, especially those living in small spaces where dryers aren’t an option.
As well as saving money and space, drying racks can also better protect clothes from the harsh wear and tear of machine drying.
According to research, the drying rack market generated USD 2.820 billion in 2022, with experts predicting it to rise at a 5.3% CAGR to USD 4.911 billion by 2033.
5 types of drying rack to stock in 2025
Not all drying racks are created equal, and the differences are about more than just design. Each type of drying rack targets specific needs, living arrangements, and laundry habits. Here’s a look at the most popular types and what makes them unique.
1. Foldable clothes racks
These are the classics – lightweight, portable, and easy to store, foldable racks are especially popular among people living in apartments or shared spaces with limited space.
Their beauty is their versatility, as they can be set up anywhere. For example, they can be used indoors or out, and folded flat to be stored under a bed or in a closet. Most models have multiple tiers, making them perfect for drying a range of clothes without taking up much room.
Why stock them?
- Space-saving: These racks are collapsable, making them easy to store when not in use
- Affordable: They’re typically on the lower end of the price range, making them appealing to budget-conscious buyers
- Practical: Great for consumers who need a quick, no-fuss solution that they can use as needed
2. Wall-mounted drying racks
Wall-mounted racks are fixed to a wall, making them ideal for homes or apartments with scarce floor space. They’re the go-to choice for people with small apartments or laundry areas who still want a permanent drying solution.
Many of these racks fold against the wall when not in use so that they remain out of the way but ready whenever laundry needs hanging. Some even have adjustable rods, allowing customers to customize how different items are dried.
Why stock them?
- Perfect for small spaces: They take up zero floor space, a huge plus in tight quarters
- Easy access: Great for people who do regular laundry loads and need a designated drying area
- Eco-friendly: Environmentally-friendly, wall-mounted drying racks provide an alternative to energy-consuming dryers
3. Heavy-duty drying racks
These racks are often made from strong materials like stainless steel or hardwood, making them perfect for customers who need a serious drying solution: Think families with endless laundry, pet owners who often clean towels and blankets, or large households. They’re perfect for bulky items like jeans, winter coats, or even big comforters – things that flimsy racks usually can’t handle.
Why stock them?
- High capacity: These racks can easily handle heavy loads and items, making them a go-to for larger households
- Durable: Sturdy construction means that they’re made to last
- Versatile: Some varieties are weather-resistant, making them great for both indoor and outdoor use
4. Rolling drying carts
Drying racks on wheels are great for customers who need some flexibility. With rolling drying carts, customers can move things around easily, which is a big help in homes with multiple rooms or small laundry spaces.
These racks are especially handy for people who don’t have a dedicated laundry area. When laundry time’s over, they can be rolled away and used as a cart for storage until needed again.
Why stock them?
- Mobility: Ideal for people who need to move their drying rack around the home
- Multifunctional: They can dry clothes or store laundry until it’s put away
- Practical storage: Rolling carts with adjustable shelves have space for everything, from delicates or bulky towels
5. Accordion or pull-out racks
Accordion racks can be expanded when needed and folded back up in a flash. Their collapsible design means they’re best suited for people with small spaces or limited storage, and especially great for bathrooms or cabinet laundry setups where a full-sized rack wouldn’t fit. Some models even have extra hooks or little add-ons, like space for socks or delicate items, that make them extra versatile.
Why stock them?
- Perfect for small areas: These racks are designed to save space, fitting where other racks won’t
- Affordable: Generally budget-friendly, they appeal to anyone looking for an inexpensive drying solution
- Quick setup: Their hassle-free design makes them great for quick drying needs
What to consider when stocking drying racks
1. Flexibility and functionality
The best drying racks are those that fit seamlessly into different lifestyles. Foldable racks are a hit with people in small spaces who need something they can store out of sight, while heavy-duty racks are better for bigger households and heavier laundry loads. Stocking racks with unique features, like adjustable shelving or a collapsible frame, gives customers options that meet their specific needs.
2. Quality
Quality is what keeps customers coming back. When people buy a drying rack, they want something stable, sturdy, and reliable. Heavy-duty models – especially those made from hardwoods or steel – scream quality and are much more likely to impress shoppers than cheaper, flimsy alternatives.
Stocking durable, high-quality options conveys that a store stands by its products and cares about what it offers. And when customers trust retailers on one purchase, they’re more likely to return for others.
3. Compact designs
For many shoppers, space is the biggest issue. Compact options like foldable clothes racks or wall-mounted racks are smart for customers living in apartments or smaller homes. Highlight racks that can be easily stored, folded, or tucked away. Even larger models with multiple levels for drying levels can be compact if their designs take space into account.
Final thoughts
From foldable, compact racks that solve storage challenges to heavy-duty options that withstand years of use, each product should meet a real consumer need. With the right selection, businesses can empower customers to choose products that simplify their lives, save money, and even reduce their environmental footprint, turning a simple product into a key part of their business strategy.
