Compare garden hoses and hose reels: length, diameter and reel

A good garden hose does not kink, is long enough and sits neatly on a reel after use. On this page you compare garden hoses, hose reels, hose carts and automatic wall-mounted reels from Gardena, Hozelock, Kärcher, Talen Tools and Fiskars, among others.

Length and diameter

Measure the distance from the tap to the furthest corner of the garden and add a few metres. The diameter determines how much water gets through: 1/2" (13 mm) is the standard, while 5/8" (15 mm) and 3/4" (19 mm) help with long hoses or sprinklers that need a lot of water. The Hose length and Hose diameter filters show straight away which hoses fit.

Reel, cart or wall box?

• Hose reel: on the wall or free-standing, for a fixed spot by the tap.
• Hose cart: on wheels, handy if you take the hose all round the garden.
• Automatic wall-mounted reel: the hose rewinds itself, often supplied with a hose.

Quality and connectors

A multi-layer hose with reinforced mesh kinks less easily and lasts longer. A spiral or expandable hose is light and handy on a patio or balcony, but less suited to long distances. Also look at the connectors: most brands use a click system that fits the tap, the hose and the sprinkler. Some hoses come as a set with connectors and a spray gun. Whether a hose is kink-free, frost-resistant or UV-resistant is stated in the product specifications.

After use

Let the hose drain after use and store it frost-free in winter. Sprinklers and spray guns for the hose can be found at sprinklers and irrigation, and all types at watering.