Garden hoses are a common sight in gardens, especially in Western countries. They’re essential for watering plants and keeping the garden green. However, many people seem to be clueless about the right way to store them. Some just casually hang the hose up. While others even leave it lying on the ground in the garden. This can lead to all sorts of problems, like kinks and twists. Over time, the hose might even get damaged. Fortunately, there are some easy steps you can take to store your garden hose.
First off, before you put the hose away, make sure to drain any water left inside. This simple step can prevent mold and mildew from sprouting up. It can also lower the risk of the water freezing during colder spells. Nobody wants a musty-smelling or burst hose come springtime.
Next, when coiling the hose, do it loosely. Create large loops instead of tight coils. This way, you’ll keep kinks at bay. Tight coils can put unnecessary stress on the hose, making it more likely to kink and eventually break.
Also, be careful not to twist or bend the hose at sharp angles. Repeatedly doing this over time can cause kinks and serious damage. Remember, a little care now can save you a lot of headaches later.
Then, find a cool, dry place to store the hose. And keep the hose away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. The sun’s harsh rays and extreme heat or cold can weaken the hose material. Then it can lead to to cracking or splitting. A garage or a shed is usually a great option.
Finally, consider using a hose reel or hanger. These handy tools will keep the hose off the ground, preventing tangling.