Tips and Tricks for Proper Garden Hose Storage

A standard garden hose is an invaluable tool in any outdoor space. Whether you’re caring for a small backyard lawn or a large farm, keeping your hose well-maintained and easy to access is absolutely essential. Improper storage practices can lead to unwanted kinks, rips, and leaks – not to mention all the frustrating tangles. Nobody wants to deal with an unreliable water supply from having to constantly replace their equipment. With the right care and storage, however, it’s easy to keep your garden hose in top-notch condition. Here we’ve gathered the best tips and tricks for how to store a garden hose.

Prepping a Hose for Storage

Before you store your garden hose, you must make sure it is properly prepared. First, drain out all of the excess water and clean the interior so that no dirt or debris is left behind. To do this, you need to unscrew the connectors at both ends of the tube and allow it to drain completely before replacing them. After you have finished this step, clean off any residue on the exterior with a cloth or paper towel.

How to Store a Garden Hose

Once your garden hose has been cleaned, you need to store it in the proper conditions to ensure its longevity. Select a spot in a dry, cool location that is free from direct sunlight or moisture. For the best results, hang your hose on a wall-mounted rack or bracket that has been designed specifically for this use. Keeping the tube off of the ground will prevent any kinks or bends from forming that could cause long-term damage over time.

Tips for Proper Garden Hose Storage

Connectors

Check the connectors on both ends of your hose before storing it. Make sure they are tight and free from corrosion. If you notice any problems, it’s best to replace them before you use the tool again. Further, never leave the end of your garden hose connected to the water supply when not in use, as this can put extra strain on the material and lead to wear and tear over time.

Temperature

Water hoses should be stored in cool, dry environments. Avoid leaving them in areas that receive direct sunlight or experience high temperatures. Too much heat can cause the material to crack and create lasting damage.

Transportation

When transporting your hose, it’s best to use a storage container. This will make it much easier to carry and keep the item safe from dirt and debris. Buckets and plastic bins work well for this task, or you can opt to get a specialty hose container. Cases made for the purpose of storing garden hoses are usually designed specifically to prevent tangling and kinks.

Uncoiling

It’s important to avoid twisting or kinking garden hoses when uncoiling them. To properly uncoil a hose, slowly pull it free and inspect the tube as you go, keeping an eye out for bends and cracks. Make sure not to fold the hose while you are using it as this will disrupt the water supply. When it is time to put the tool away, do not wrap it around any sharp objects.

Leaks

Inspect your water hoses regularly for any damages and look for signs of weak spots or leaks. If you find any faults, it’s best to replace the hose immediately for safety reasons.

Conclusion

Garden hoses are valuable tools and should be treated as such. Avoid being left with a faulty hose by employing these tips and tricks. After all, proper storage and maintenance are the best methods for ensuring that all of your essential pieces of equipment stay in top-notch shape and will last for years to come.