Your Guide to Stainless Steel Pegs
(Clothespins)
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I've tried a lot of pegs over the years, but have now been delighted to discover Stainless Steel pegs, which after several years of use, have proven themselves to be as good as they claimed.
My plastic pegs deteriorated, shedding a fine white powder, eventually snapping and heading straight to landfill & contributing to plastic pollution, while my wooden pegs deteriorated and went a dark brown colour, leaving stains on my washing. Carefully chosen Stainless Steel pegs will endure (they are made to last - some come with lifetime warranties), they are recyclable, plastic free and zero waste. But with such a large variety to choose from, what should you consider when choosing Stainless Steel Pegs? |
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Benefits of STainless STeel Pegs
- Reusable
- Recyclable
- Plastic Free - no micro-plastics, plastic pollution or land fill problems here!
- Zero Waste
- They are made to last - quality Stainless Steel Pegs will not break and will easily outlive bamboo, plastic or wooden pegs.
- They are resistant to rusting - Marine Grade Stainless Steel pegs won't rust in coastal conditions or if left out in the weather
- Versatile - there are heaps of sizes, strengths and types to choose from
Quality Stainless Steel pegs might seem expensive when you first purchase them, but they will last you a lifetime. They are a one-off purchase, unlike plastic or wooden pegs which will need replacing regularly.
Disadvantages of STainless Steel Pegs
- Cost - while the initial outlay required to purchase quality stainless steel pegs can seem prohibitive, remember that it is a once-off purchase for an item that will last a lifetime
- It can take a little while to get used to using stainless steel pegs which grip the clothes a little differently to conventional pegs. They tend to grip only on the end where the wires meet. You soon get used to placing the pegs so that the grip is where you need it. Choosing a peg the right size and strength will also help.
- The wire variety do tend to tangle together if kept in a peg basket.
Choosing Stainless STeel Pegs
To get the best pegs for your needs, there are a few things to consider:
- The Grade of the Stainless Steel used in the peg - The quality of the Stainless steel used in the pegs is very important. Cheaper 201 pegs might be right for you if you don't live in a coastal area and store them dry inside when not in use. Otherwise, choose Marine grade Stainless Steel for durability.
- The Size and Grip of the pegs needs to be suitable for the size and weight of the items you will be hanging with them, and the conditions (especially wind) that they need to withstand.
- Warranty - Check if the pegs have a warranty to back them. This helps to ensure that you are actually getting the marine grade quality that is being claimed.
- Type - There are a few different types of Stainless Steel pegs available
Grades (Types) of STainless Steel
Not all Stainless Steel is created equal. It is usually described by it's grade.
Stainless Steel is an alloy (mixture) of steel combined with other elements, including at least 11% Chromium, which provides some resistance to corrosion. The higher the chromium content, the higher the corrosion resistance. Other elements (like Nickel, Manganese and Carbon) can also be added to obtain certain desired properties. Nickel makes stainless steel stronger and further improves its resistance to oxidisation and corrosion.
Summary
Stainless Steel is an alloy (mixture) of steel combined with other elements, including at least 11% Chromium, which provides some resistance to corrosion. The higher the chromium content, the higher the corrosion resistance. Other elements (like Nickel, Manganese and Carbon) can also be added to obtain certain desired properties. Nickel makes stainless steel stronger and further improves its resistance to oxidisation and corrosion.
- Grade 201 Stainless Steel has a lower Nickel content, resulting in a lower corrosion resistance. They are therefore not suitable to be left outside in the weather or for coastal conditions where the salt air will cause them to rust. They are the most affordable option and are more durable than wooden or plastic pegs.
- Grade 304 - This grade includes 18/8 (18% chromium and 8% nickel) and 18/10 (18% chromium and 10% nickel) Stainless Steels. They have a higher nickel content than grade 201 and are therefore usually more expensive, however, the higher nickel content gives them better corrosion resistance. These pegs can be left outside in the weather for short periods only, and are not suitable for use in coastal (salty) conditions as they will degrade (rust).
- Grade 316 is also called Marine Grade Stainless Steel. It contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum. The additional element, molybdenum, is the key to increasing resistance to corrosion, giving it increased resistance to chloride (salt water) corrosion. These are the most durable, they will last for years and not rust if you leave them out in the weather or live in a coastal environment.
Summary
- Grade 201 pegs will rust if left outside and need to be stored in dry conditions.
- Grade 304 pegs, while hardier that Grade 201, still cannot be left out in the weather and are not suitable for coastal conditions
- Grade 316 (Marine) pegs can be left out in the weather, and are fine for coastal (salty) conditions - even for use on boats.
Weather Conditions
Wind
For windy conditions you will need extra-strong Stainless Steel Pegs - these are made from thicker wire.
Coastal Areas
Marine Grade (Grade 316) pegs are best as they wont corrode (rust) in salty environments.
For windy conditions you will need extra-strong Stainless Steel Pegs - these are made from thicker wire.
Coastal Areas
Marine Grade (Grade 316) pegs are best as they wont corrode (rust) in salty environments.
Heavy and Bulky Items
If you need to hang bulky items like thick towels, rugs, doonas or pillows from the line, you will need extra large and extra strong pegs to handle the bulk.
Which size & Type of pegs do I need?
Small / Medium Pegs
Are great for smaller and lighter items. Great for items like T shirts, underwear, socks, gym/ active and sports wear.
Large Pegs
Are suitable for heavier and thicker items such as jeans and jumpers.
Extra-Large / Extra Strong Pegs
You'll need these for thicker and heavier items that require a tight hold. Thick towels, heavy denim, blankets, cushions, pillows and throws
Jumbo Pegs
Are great for large / thick rugs, doonas, larger pillows and cushions and thick blankets and larger towels.
Hook Pegs
These are great for non-conventional clothes lines or storage - such as in a wardrobe
I recommend choosing a variety of pegs - I have chosen a mixture or small, large and extra-strong pegs, meaning that I will always have suitable pegs on hand.
Are great for smaller and lighter items. Great for items like T shirts, underwear, socks, gym/ active and sports wear.
Large Pegs
Are suitable for heavier and thicker items such as jeans and jumpers.
Extra-Large / Extra Strong Pegs
You'll need these for thicker and heavier items that require a tight hold. Thick towels, heavy denim, blankets, cushions, pillows and throws
Jumbo Pegs
Are great for large / thick rugs, doonas, larger pillows and cushions and thick blankets and larger towels.
Hook Pegs
These are great for non-conventional clothes lines or storage - such as in a wardrobe
I recommend choosing a variety of pegs - I have chosen a mixture or small, large and extra-strong pegs, meaning that I will always have suitable pegs on hand.
Pegs that I have purchased and would recommend
Pincinox Stainless Steel Pegs
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While most Stainless Steel pegs are made from wire, these pegs are constructed to work more like your traditional plastic or wooden peg.
Known for their dedication to quality, Pincinox pegs won't rust, heat up, break, snap or go mouldy... ever. They are designed to last a lifetime. Made in France from high grade stainless steel, these pegs have a strong grip and will withstand tough conditions. They are guaranteed against rust and defects under normal domestic use. When comparing to to wooden and plastic pegs they do not rot, split, break or go mouldy, and have a Life Time warranty. I have found that while these pegs are great for hanging out most everyday items of washing, they don't stretch open wide enough for hanging particularly bulky or thick items. To locate a store near you or to find an online retailer, check out the distributor page on the Pincinox Website https://pincinox.fr/en/our-distributors/ In Australia, I purchased my from Biome who also ship internationally. |
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Biome Marine Grade 316 Stainless Steel Pegs
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Biome are a lovely company based in Australia who sell low-tox and eco products. They offer planet friendly solutions and are a trustworthy brand. They ship internationally.
I love their Marine Grade 316 Stainless Steel Pegs and mine have been out in the weather since I purchased them in 2020 and are still in tip top condition (see photo of my pegs to the right). These are my "small" size pegs. Great for hanging lighter and less bulky clothes. They have a good grip on the clothes, and are light weight. I don't receive any benefits from Biome for recommending these, I just think they are a great product. They have a wide range of grades and types - including jumbo pegs and hook pegs. 
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Aldi Stainless Steel Pegs
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Every year, for the last few years, Aldi has had a "special buy" Stainless Steel Peg. These are Marine Grade 316 Stainless Steel, and very affordable, so if you are on a budget, it might be worth waiting for these. These pegs are made from a thicker wire, and are therefore stronger, but a little heavier. I find them great for holding heavier and slightly bulkier items on the line, and for windier days. However, with lighter weight items the weight of this peg can cause it to fall over and pull a little on the item. Not a huge problem though. They have also passed the "several years left out in the weather and still look like new" test.
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Other PEGS worth considering
Activated Eco Infinity Pegs
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These pegs have fantastic reviews and are made from Marine Grade 326 Stainless Steel. They also ship internationally. I particularly like the look of their twin pack (which comes in either silver or rainbow colours) featuring two different sizes of pegs for greater versatility.
I have no relationship with this company and receive no benefit from recommending them. If I were buying more pegs, I would certainly consider these. Activated Eco Twin Pack Pegs |
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Eco-Edit Eco Clips
Eco Edit is a brand committed to making a positive change. These pegs are 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel, a practical 5.8cm long and are strong enough for wet towels.