How do I store my garden hose for the winter?

Why it’s important to store your garden hose for winter

Winter can be tough on a garden hose that’s left outside. Exposure to freezing temperatures can cause the water inside the hose to expand, leading to cracks and leaks. Additionally, a hose left outside can become brittle and more prone to snapping or bursting. Properly storing your garden hose for the winter can help extend its lifespan and save you from having to replace it next season.

Start by draining the water out of the hose

Before you even think about storing your garden hose, you need to drain all the water out of it. This can be done by laying the hose flat on the ground and walking along its length, carefully squeezing out any remaining water. Make sure to remove any attachments, such as spray nozzles, and drain them separately.

Coil the hose neatly and store it off the ground

Once the water has been drained, it’s time to coil the hose neatly. Start at one end and work your way to the other, making sure to lay the coils flat and tight. Avoid kinks or twists, which can damage the hose over time. When the hose is fully coiled, store it off the ground. This can be done by hanging it on a hook or placing it on a hose reel.

Consider a specialized hose storage solution

If you want to take your garden hose storage to the next level, consider investing in a specialized hose storage solution. This could be a hose reel that’s designed to keep the hose off the ground and out of harm’s way, or a storage box that can protect the hose from the elements. Whatever solution you choose, make sure it’s designed to be used in cold weather and can hold up to the unique demands of winter storage.

Store your stored hose in a sheltered location

Even if you’ve taken all the necessary steps to store your garden hose properly, it’s still important to choose a sheltered location for its winter storage. This could be a garage, shed, or any other covered area that’s protected from wind, rain, and snow. By keeping your stored hose in a sheltered location, you can help protect it from the worst of winter weather and ensure it’s in good condition when you’re ready to use it again next year.