If you have a garden, then you know how important storage can be. When it comes to garden hose storage, there are three main options: hose pots hose reels, and hangers. Since there are many different options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular hose storage options, and help you decide which one is best for your needs.
But which one should you choose? Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of each option:
What are Garden Hose Pots?
Hose pots are decorative circular containers that are designed to store and protect your garden hose and come in a variety of styles, colors, and materials, which makes them a great way to add a touch of style to your outdoor space. They are typically made of ceramic, metal, or plastic, and they usually have a lid that can be opened to access the hose.
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Many models have a small circular opening on the bottom of the pot to connect directly to a spigot which means your hose pot needs to be directly in front of your water source. This means after watering, you simply roll up your garden hose in the pot. While simple enough hose pots protect from the sun and weather, while quickly and neatly storing away your hose.
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Benefits of a Hose Pot:
Hose pots are a great way to keep your hose hidden away when it’s not in use. They also protect your hose from the elements, which can help it last longer and are relatively inexpensive depending on the material and style you choose.
Other advantages are:
- A great way to store your garden hose and keep it from getting tangled.
- Provides protection from the sun and weather damage.
- A great way to hide an unsightly garden hose.
- They come in different styles and colors, so you can find one that matches your home’s exterior design.
What are the Cons of Using Hose Pots?
As with all tools, they do have disadvantages. One of the main reasons is because of the bulkiness of their design. Since they are circular, they need to be big enough to house a hose and are not intended to be moved around often. This is especially true if your hose pot is made out of ceramic or clay material.
Other Disadvantages are:
- They can be difficult to clean.
- You may not have enough space to store them.
- They can be expensive.
- They can rust and become weather-beaten over time.
- Can be a breeding ground for spiders and other insects.
While hose pots provide an excellent solution, they may not be exactly what you’re looking for. The other option is hose reels. These models like hose pots store away hoses but have a different design where some models are mobile and can be stored away entirely.
What is a Garden Hose Reel?
Hose reels are devices that store your garden hose while not in use and can be mounted on the wall, floor, side of your house, and some models are attached to a cart and wheeled away. This is one of the reasons they are popular. Once done, out of sight, out of mind.
There are two different types of hose reels: automatic and manual. Automatic hose reels wind up your hose automatically, while manual hose reels require you to do it yourself. There are also different sizes of hose reels depending on how long your garden hose is and come in many different styles, shapes, and sizes.
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What are the Benefits of Hose Reels?
Since hose reels can roll up hoses with relative ease, many people choose to go with option since it also adds a bit of uniqueness. They come in a variety of designs that can fit and suit any personality and designs of houses. One of the biggest advantages is they can be stored away in garden sheds or garages after use. Some other advantages are listed below.
82ft Retractable Hose Reel – Charcoal – $229
from: Hoselink USA
Benefits of a Hose Reel:
- Easy to use
- You can choose between an automatic or manual model
- Some models come with a storage basket for other gardening tools
- Many different styles, shapes, and sizes to choose from
- Mobile models are available.
For more information on what a beginner garden needs, check out our article here. What Tools Should a Beginner Gardener Have?
What Are the Cons of Using a Hose Reel?
While hose reels provide an excellent means of neatly storing away hoses, they also have some disadvantages. One of the biggest is that they can be costly, especially automatic models.
Other disadvantages include:
- You need to have a place to store it.
- Can be bulky depending on the shape and style.
- Can be difficult to wind up the hose by yourself.
- Some models can be expensive.
- Most models are stationary and many need additional hardware to be moved.
As you can see up to now, hose pots and reels both provide different uses, but accomplish the same thing. As with both types, you don’t need to have a stationary place to place them, you just need the space. The third option similar to hose reel models is hose hangers. Unlike some reel models, most but not all are stationary and are bolted to a structure semi-permanently, and they don’t have a roll-up mechanism.
What are Garden Hose Hangers?
Hose hangers like hose reels both can be mounted on the wall, floor, side of your house, and like some reel models are attached to a cart and wheeled away. Some models are attached to metal stakes and can be placed just about anywhere.
The only main difference is that don’t have a wind-up mechanism where you roll up the hose by hand and are the most inexpensive of each type depending on how simplistic you go. Some types just provide a plate for your hose and one or two bolting brackets and also come in a variety of shapes, materials, sizes, and designs.
Benefits of a hose Hangers:
While hose hangers are the least expensive of the three, they still provide an excellent way to store away your hose. They are essentially maintenance-free and can be hung just about anywhere and are virtually indestructible under normal use.
Other advantages are:
- They are the most inexpensive of each type.
- Mobile models are available.
- Come in an assortment of colors and designs.
- Some models come with a storage basket for other gardening tools.
- Easy to use
- Zero maintenance, other than bolts may become loose over time.
What Are the Cons of Using a Hose Hangers?
The biggest disadvantage to using a hose hanger is that they are not as aesthetically pleasing as the other two options. Many are made of plastic and some come in bright colors which can be an eyesore depending on your taste.
Other disadvantages include:
- Most models are stationary and many need additional hardware to be moved.
- Some models can be obtrusive and can be an eyesore.
- Many are made of plastic which can break easily over time.
- Some hoses can become permanently kinked if not rolled up correctly.
Which Garden Hose Storage is Right for me?
While all three types provide an excellent way to store away your hose, each has its advantages and disadvantages.
The best option for you will ultimately depend on your needs, budget, and personal preference. If you want a simple look, a hose hanger or hose pot will do just fine, but if you’re looking for something more professional, then a hose reel is where it’s at.
Final Thoughts on Garden Hose Storage
Although each type will work just fine, and provide the same function, it’s ultimately what design and functionality you are looking for. If you are looking for something more professional or have a higher budget, then a hose reel is the better option. If you’re looking for something more simplistic or on a lower budget, then a hose hanger or pot will work just as well.
No matter which type you choose in the end, all three provide an excellent way to store away your hose and will help keep your yard looking neat and tidy.
