Garden hose buying guide

The quality of a garden hose is determined by the number of layers – or plies – it is made of, as well as its resistance to kinking, bending and UV rays. These days, hoses are made up of multiple layers. A 3-ply hose is generally considered a low-end product while a 4- to 6-ply hose will stand up better to friction, folds, knots, bends and kinks.

A braided hose is even more resistant to kinking and bending. In terms of diameter, the main sizes on offer are 13, 15 and 19 mm. If you don't need a huge flow rate, 15 mm will suffice. Otherwise, it's a good idea to go for a 19 mm hose. Of course it's also important to think carefully about pressure.

When it comes to the hose reel, wall-mounted models are particularly effective at preventing hose kinks and bends. In turn, this should extend the service life of your hose. An automatic reel for a 15 to 20-metre hose will work perfectly for a small garden or patio.

A 19mm measuring 50 metres in length will be heavy and a hose cart is highly recommended for storage.

Drip line hoses

Drip line hoses are used to water bedding plants and shrubs at the roots via a customisable system. Often made of PVC, these hoses are economical when it comes to water usage as the water is released gradually by drip emitters.

Braided hoses

Braided hoses tend to have 4 to 6 layers (or plies). These hoses feature a mesh layer to prevent kinking which also makes them stronger.

Wire-reinforced hoses

These hoses are usually made up of 3 plies. They are stronger and more resistant to water pressure than the average hose thanks to the addition of a wire mesh layer. This layer also means these hoses won't twist.

Expandable hoses

Expandable hoses expand to up to three times their original size through water pressure. They are often sold with their own fittings and spray attachment.

Anti-kink hose

Anti-kink hoses offer pretty much the best technology hoses can offer. These models are resistant to temperature changes and UV light. They are flexible, anti-bend and very pleasant to the touch. In short, this is the golden standard of garden hoses!

Soaker hoses

Soaker hoses are generally used as part of a permanent watering system for crops. These hoses do not so much water but irrigate by slowly releasing water through their porous surface.

Sprinkler hoses

Sprinkler hoses are a bit like soaker hoses except that they are perforated. These hoses rely on water pressure to release a fine, rainfall-like mist, a bit like a sprinkler system.

The fear of ending up with a hose that is too short means that we tend to pick a longer hose in the hope it'll be easier and less time-consuming to use. However, a 50-metre-long 19 mm hose will be very heavy and fairly tricky to handle. In fact, if you go for a hose of this size you will almost certainly need to pick a model with a hose cart which can prove quite cumbersome.

13 to 15 mm garden hoses

Generally speaking, any hose measuring 25 metres or less will mean a hose diameter of 15 mm. The smaller the hose diameter, the higher the output pressure. This means that a 15 mm hose will have a higher pressure than a 19 mm hose with the same flow rate. This diameter is ideal for watering small areas and cleaning tasks such as washing the car, garden furniture or patio.

19 mm garden hoses

For any hose measuring over 25 metres, you will need a diameter of about 19 mm. The larger diameter means you'll get a higher flow rate but less pressure. Heavier than a 13 or 15 mm hose, a 19 mm hose may mean investing in a hose cart. It's best to go for a minimum of 4 or 5 plies for long hoses to prevent bending and kinking. For stationary installations – for example hoses used to feed sprinkler systems – you can opt for a lower quality hose. In this case, a 3-ply hose might suffice as the hose won't have to stand up to movement on a daily basis.

25 mm garden hoses

Hoses with a diameter of 25 mm are high-flow hoses and are rarely used in domestic gardens for day-to-day watering. They are able to withstand a higher input pressure of about 12 bars, feature at least 5 plies and offer superior quality with features such as anti-kink technology, wire or polyester reinforcement and UV protection.

The quality of a garden hose all comes down to its resistance to UV rays, kinking and bending. These factors are determined by the materials used to make the hose, the types of treatments the material has undergone and the number of layers featured (from three to six).

• 3-ply hoses: less expensive and more lightweight, these hoses are most likely to bend and kink. Measuring 15 or 19 mm in diameter, these hoses usually come with a one-year warranty.

• 4 to 6-ply hoses: stronger, more flexible but also heavier, these hoses tend to come with a much longer warranty of up to 10 years. A wire mesh layer will increase the strength of these hoses while the number of plies featured will affect the hose's resistance to kinks and bends.

You'll also have to weigh up operating pressure and the capacity of the hose to withstand temperature ranges.

Your choice of hose reel will also have an effect on how comfortable the hose is to use.

Wall-mounted reels

Wall-mounted reels are attached to the wall using the fixing plugs – be sure to choose the right fixing for your surface. These reels are generally installed near a water source and can be designed to move in just one direction or to swivel from left to right, too.

Hose carts

Hose carts are portable and are equipped with an adjustable handle to match the height of the user. They can be moved from one water point to another with ease.

Automatic reels

Automatic reels are perfect for anyone who doesn't like to waste time and is looking for greater user comfort. Different hose lengths are available and the quality of the hose and reel depends entirely on the model.

When it comes to choosing a hose reel, pay close attention to the materials used and, no matter what anyone says, a widely recognised brand will offer higher quality. Generally, a basic hose and reel set will be equipped with a 15- to 20-metre hose and will come with a set of connectors. You can also find reels without the hose included. Hose reels sold separately come in a range of different materials (usually steel or plastic), and are designed to accommodate different lengths and diameters. If you're looking to store a 6-ply, 50-metre hose, it is advisable to invest in a sturdy and stable hose reel.

1. No matter how much you paid for your garden hose, it is not equipped to handle the sun. It’s always best to avoid leaving the hose lying out, especially in the middle of summer.

2. Do not forget to drain the water out of the hose after each use in order to prevent water stagnating inside.

3. Remember to wind up your hose properly; it'll last longer if it isn't kept twisted and bent.

4. Your hose and connectors must be drained and stored in warm place such as the garage or garden shed over the winter.

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