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Benefits of a Garden Hose Reel
Organize Your Garden Water Hose with Ease
One of the primary benefits of using a garden water hose reel is that it helps keep the hose stored and organized. A reel makes it easy to store the hose after use without dealing with tangled and knotted hoses. With a reel, you can easily wind the watering hose neatly without any kinks and keep it ready for the next time you want a hose.
Prevent Damage to Your Garden Hose
A garden watering hose reel is an excellent tool for preventing damage to that expensive hose. A hose coiled on the ground can easily get damaged from being stepped on, run over by a lawnmower, or damaged by weather elements. However, with a reel, you can keep your hose off the ground and extend its lifespan.
Save Space in Your Garden
Garden hose reels are also ideal for saving space in a sometimes crowded garden. A coiled hose can take up a lot of space on the ground, making it difficult to move around in a small garden space. However, by installing a garden hose reel, you can keep the hose off the ground and reclaim the much-needed space while adding more versatility than a simple garden hose holder.
Different Types of Garden Hose Reels
There are several different types of reel designs to choose from, but the most popular include manual or retractable garden hose reels and either wall-mounted reels, garden carts, or hideaway hose reels. Manual reels require you to manually wind the hose around the reel, while retractable reels do most of the work for you. Wall-mounted reels save space and keep your hose and the reel neatly stored, but they usually require additional installation effort. Ultimately, the type of water hose reel you choose will depend on your needs and preferences.
Garden Hose Reel Cart
Cart garden hose reels are designed with wheels, making them highly portable hose reels and easy to move your hose around in the garden. Some hose carts with wheels (maybe even four wheels) also come with a storage basket or tray that can be used to keep garden accessories and tools. The downside of a reel cart is that it does not offer the same level of durability as other types of garden hose reels.
Wall-Mounted Heavy-Duty Reels
Wall-mounted garden hose reels are mounted on a wall, fence or post, and can be easily detached from the wall when not in use. These garden hose reels save space and offer great durability. They are perfect for homeowners who need to maintain a tidy and organized garden. The downside of a wall-mounted garden hose reel is that it may be less convenient to use compared to the other types of portable garden hose reels.
Retractable Hose Reels
Retractable garden hose reels offer the convenience of automatically rewinding the hose each time it is used and come with a reel housing that protects it from harsh weather elements. Retractable garden hose reels save space, reduce the risk of tripping, and ensure that your hose remains tangle-free. However, retractable garden hose reels are less durable than other types of garden hose reels, and they may also be more challenging to repair.
Our Top Picks – 7 Best Garden Hose Reels
If you’re looking for a sturdy and practical garden hose reel to keep your garden tidy and organized, we’ve got you covered. Our top picks for the 7 Best Garden Hose Reels are selected based on feedback and user reviews, durability, ease of use, and value for money. From retractable reels that automatically coil your hose into a neat bundle to wall-mounted units that hold up to 200 feet of hose, our picks are designed to fit every need and budget; whether a casual gardener or a real pro, these reels will make your watering routine hassle-free and enjoyable.
Giraffe Tools Stainless Steel Garden Hose Reel with 5/8″ x 100 ft Heavy Duty Hose
Liberty Garden 707 Decorative Wall Mount Garden Guide Hose Reel
Giraffe Tools Metal Hose Reel Box with 100ft Hose
Retractable Garden Hose Reel Super Heavy-Duty Wall Mounted Swivel
Liberty Garden Products 703-1 Steel Garden Wall/Floor Mount Hose Reel
Suncast Hideaway Garden Hose Reel
Giraffe Tools Heavy-Duty Reel Cart
Features to Consider in a Garden Hose Reel
Hose Capacity and Length
One of the most important features to consider when choosing a garden hose reel is its hose capacity and length of the hose. The garden hose reel should be able to hold the right amount of hose you need for your garden or yard. It should also be compatible with the type of hose you are using, be it a retractable hose, metal hose, or plain garden hose. You may want to consider will a heavy hose fit in the space of the reel.
Portability and Versatility
The garden hose reel’s portability and versatility are also critical factors to consider. If it doesn’t have wheels, hose length becomes more important since you’ll need to get the hose to the area watering is needed. A garden hose reel with wheels is more portable than one without wheels. A garden hose reel that is compact and easy to move around is perfect for those with smaller gardens or yards.
Heavy-Duty Construction for Durability
Lastly, the garden hose reel’s construction and durability are also critical factors to consider. A garden hose reel with a strong and sturdy construction is more durable and long-lasting. It should be able to withstand harsh weather elements and rough handling without getting damaged.
Maintaining Your Garden Hose Reel
Safe Storage During Winter
One way to maintain your garden hose reel is to store it safely during winter. If possible, detach the hose from the reel and store them separately in a cool, dry place. This offers a simple way to protect the reel and hose without them getting damaged by the cold winter weather.
Cleaning and Lubrication
Cleaning and lubrication are also essential for maintaining your garden hose reel. Clean the garden hose reel regularly to remove any dirt and debris. Apply lubricant to the moving parts of the reel to ensure smooth movement and make it much easier to prevent damage.
Regular Inspection and Repair
You should also regularly inspect the reel structure and mechanisms for any signs of damage and wear. Be sure your reel or cart is stable, and replace any faulty parts, such as the fittings, hose, or the entire reel itself. Regular inspection and repair will ensure your watering reel remains functional for many years.
Finding The Best Hose Reel For You
Choosing from the many hose reels on the market for your specific garden situation can be a daunting task. To start, consider the size of your yard or garden, as well as the length of hose you typically use. Look for a reel with the right hose capacity that matches your needs. Consider the material – metal reels tend to be more durable than plastic ones. Look for added features, such as wheels for portability, a locking mechanism to prevent accidental unspooling, and a built-in guide to ensure a smooth, kink-free rewind of the hose onto the reel. Ultimately, the best reel for your water hose is the one that meets your specific needs and makes watering your plants or washing your car a breeze.
In conclusion, a garden hose is an essential tool for any homeowner or gardener. With the help of a garden reel, you can organize, protect and store your garden hose while saving space in your garden. When choosing a garden reel, consider its capacity, portability, and durability. Proper maintenance of your reel will ensure that it functions optimally for many years.