Gardening is a rewarding and calming hobby for many. Among the various tools required, a garden hose reel stands out as essential. It is more than just a handy tool; it’s an investment in maintaining the garden’s overall neatness and the longevity of your hose.
You can avoid the backbreaking process of uncoiling and winding up your garden hose for as low as $20.
They’re well worth the money, and they can help a hose last longer if it’s placed on the garage floor, where it’s more likely to crimp and leak. If you’re hooked on the concept, keep reading for suggestions for a variety of needs and outdoor areas.
Understanding the different types of garden hose reels and their features will enable you to make a more informed decision. In this article, we will explore the best garden hose reels, and various aspects of garden hose reels, from types and materials to maintenance and frequently asked questions.
Table of Contents
Top garden hose reels
Yard Butler Garden Hose Reel
If you want something simple and economical that does the job, this garden hose reel is a good choice. This 12-gauge powder-coated steel reel, which costs $18 at the time of writing, has a sturdy double-screw mount and can carry up to 100 feet of normal 5/8-inch hose.
Customers love it, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 3,900 reviewers—plus, in addition to the basic green pictured, it comes in three pastel springtime colors.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Durable
- Design that is mounted
Cons
- Does not work well for longer hoses
Birdrock Home Garden Hose Reel
If you have a small yard or can’t place one on the side of your house, this rustic garden hose reel is ideal. With an embossed metal diamond design and a bronze finish, it fulfills the utilitarian aim of keeping your space tidy while also looking lovely.
The central post can be removed to make it easier to uncoil the hose, and there’s a hole on the side for snaking it through. It may appear little, but it can handle up to 100 feet of standard 5/8-inch hose.
Giraffe Retractable Garden Hose Reel
This is the most costly option on our list, but the convenience of a retractable hose to save the hose—and your back—from kinking is hard to match.
A 130-foot abrasion-resistant hybrid hose is coiled inside to prevent leaks, and the reel has nine spray settings and 180-degree rotation. The flexible hose can be adjusted in length and taken out of the bracket for storage.
Pros
- Mounting is simple
- It has a hose locking mechanism.
Cons
- A bit pricey
- For larger yards, a 130-foot hose may be insufficient.
Liberty Garden Guide Hose Reel
Look no further than this Liberty Garden choice for a stylish hose reel that truly stands out. It’s made of cast aluminum with a nickel powder-coated finish that protects it from rust and hard-water stains, and it has a lot of vintage appeals.
It can carry up to 125 feet of standard 5/8-inch hose, with a guide loop in front to keep it from twisting while unrolling, as well as a big shelf on top for gardening gloves and tools. Its only flaw is that it does not include mounting hardware.
Pros
- The fixtures are made of non-rusting ornamental cast aluminum and have a weather-resistant powder coat finish.
- A shelf for garden equipment, nozzles, or 5 feet of leader hose is included.
- Perfect for locations when you can’t hide your reel but still want it to appear nice.
Cons
- When compared to other models, it’s more difficult to crank.
- There is no mounting hardware provided.
- I’d like to see a more long-lasting finish.
TomCare Garden Hose Reel
This is an excellent choice for those who don’t want to drill holes in their house or take up patio space. The garden hose reel is made of rustproof metal and has a simple design.
It has three sharp pegs to keep it in place in the ground, and the top piece detaches from the base if you wish to store the coiled hose in the garage. You have the option of matte silver or the black one pictured.
Pros
- Cheap
- Heavy duty
- Resists rust
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Warranty period could’ve been longer
Suncast Hideaway Garden Hose Reel
If you want to hide your garden hose, this durable box is the way to go. It’s made of resin and is designed to protect and accept standard 5/8-inch vinyl hoses up to 225 feet in length.
The reel comes completely built and includes a guiding loop in the front for tangle-free, hassle-free unrolling, as well as an accessory tray inside for garden gloves and small tools. It has received an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 175 reviewers.
Pros
- Base that swivels
- Simple to use
- Weather-resistant
- It is delivered completely assembled.
Cons
- It’s a bit costly.
Suncast Garden Hose Reel
Up to 200 feet of standard vinyl 5/8-inch hose can be handled by this wall-mounted option. The garden hose reel is made of durable resin and features reinforced connections to prevent leaks and a tiny shelf on top for carrying gardening gloves or other items you don’t want to lose when working in the yard.
It comes in a neutral taupe color and may be installed on the house’s side or within the garage.
Liberty Garden Multi-Directional Garden Hose Reel
This is a good alternative if you want a stylish garden hose reel. The industrial reel is made of 18-gauge steel and is powder-coated in bronze to withstand the environment.
It has a pull-up lever for 360-degree rotation and a robust brass swivel. A little wire basket is connected to the side of the bag for storing pocket goods.
It can carry up to 125 feet of standard 5/8-inch hose and comes completely constructed, which is a plus, but it doesn’t come with any mounting hardware.
Buyer’s Guide
Types
The type of garden hose reel you choose will be largely determined by several factors, such as the location for the hose, your ability to handle it, and the available space.
Hose Storage Boxes
These are user-friendly, especially for longer, heavier hoses. They usually have large handles for easy cranking and guides to place the tubing evenly.
Wall Mounted Reels
These can be robust arching structures or include handles for easier storage.
Storage Containers
Ideal for smaller, more flexible hoses, these come in various colors and designs.
Cart
A wheeled cart offers the advantage of relocating your hose reel fast and conveniently. Carts are particularly useful for larger yards or commercial gardens.
Retractable Reels
These are suitable for light, quick tasks, and usually come with their own hose, nozzle, and swivel mount.
Leader Hoses
These allow you to position the reel away from the spigot and use the hose without kinking.
Capacity
Reels have maximum hose sizes they can accommodate. Be mindful of this, especially if you have any arm strength issues.
Wind-up Method
From manual winding to swivel-base reels and simple crank-style handles, the winding method can vary.
Portability
Many hose reels are designed to be installed permanently, while others are portable.
Design
Hose reels can be fashionable accent pieces or blend in with your surroundings.
Material
Most are made of plastic or metal. Rust-resistant components are essential.
Price
Consider your needs and budget to buy the best model.
Advantages of Reels
- Reduced hose wear and tear
- Prevention of damage, knotting, or kinking
- Increased watering efficiency
- Increased safety
- A neat and clutter-free yard appearance
Maintenance
Regular maintenance tips include avoiding cross-threading, checking O-rings, lubricating bushings, draining water, cleaning, and painting.
Affordable versus Expensive Models
Investing in high-quality models with strong materials can save frustration and provide better performance.
FAQs
How does a hydropower garden hose reel work?
It uses water pressure to retract the hose smoothly.
How high should I mount my hose reel on the wall?
Between three and five feet off the ground is optimal.
How big should a hose reel be?
Consider how portable you want it and the length needed for your yard.
How to prevent garden hose tangling when rewinding it on the reel?
Wind it slowly and use your free hand to guide it.
Conclusion
A garden hose reel is not just a tool; it’s a vital part of maintaining your garden’s aesthetic appeal and the efficiency of your watering system. From different types and designs to careful maintenance, a thoughtful selection will help you in the long run. With this comprehensive guide, you are now equipped to make an informed decision that aligns with your gardening needs and preferences.
Last update on 2024-04-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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