What can the best retractable garden hose reels do for you? They help you do your gardening tasks easier because there is no more struggling with tangled hoses. Although all products below have retractability features, not all of them work best for you. Some suit small areas while other larger spaces require longer hose.
Here are the best retractable garden hose reels you can buy in 2024:
- Best For Large Gardens: Giraffe Tools Retractable Garden Hose Reel-1/2in-130ft
- Best For Small Gardens: Retractable Garden Hose Reel-5/8 in-65ft
- Easy To Move Around: Efurden Retractable Hose Reel
- Budget Option: Sophia & William 100ft Retractable Garden Hose Reel
- Durable: 1/2 in. dia. X 70 ft. Retractable Water Hose Reel
- Best For Cold Climate: VEVOR Retractable Hose Reel Water Hose Reel
| Best Retractable Garden Hose Reels | ||
|---|---|---|
Best For Large Gardens | Giraffe Tools Retractable Garden Hose Reel-1/2in-130ft | |
Best For Small Gardens | Retractable Garden Hose Reel-5/8 in-65ft | |
Easy To Move Around | Efurden Retractable Hose Reel | |
Budget Option | Sophia & William 100ft Retractable Garden Hose Reel | |
Durable | 1/2 in. dia. X 70 ft. Retractable Water Hose Reel | |
Best For Cold Climate | VEVOR Retractable Hose Reel Water Hose Reel | |
Best For Large Gardens: Giraffe Tools Retractable Garden Hose Reel-1/2in-130ft
- Sturdy
- Well-made
- Easy to install and use
- Effortless to maneuver
- Low water flow
The Giraffe Tools Retractable Garden Hose Reel is ideal for large gardens due to its ample hose length of 130ft, allowing it to reach all areas effectively.
The smooth auto-retract system enables the hose to retract quickly and effortlessly, ensuring it is neatly and evenly wound onto the reel to prevent kinks, tangles, and knots. This feature not only saves a considerable amount of time but also reduces the physical effort required when managing a lengthy hose.
Designed to address the challenges associated with lengthy hoses, this product features a toggle lock mode that empowers you to secure the hose at your preferred length, suiting diverse gardening tasks while preventing potential tangling and clutter issues.
With a diameter of 1/2 inch, this hose reel is optimized for watering plants or lawns, providing a steady and controlled water flow to prevent overwatering and minimize water wastage. Its design is well-suited for applications where a moderate water volume is sufficient.
For tasks requiring a higher water volume, such as washing cars, it may not be the ideal choice. Consider the specific water demands of your intended use before selecting this hose reel model.
| Giraffe Tools Retractable Garden Hose Reel-1/2in-130ft Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 30lbs(13.7kg) |
Hose Length | 1/2 in 130ft |
Nozzle Spray Modes | 9 |
Highlight Features | Pre-installed Toggle lock mode with light pulls G-self-layering system DS trigger mechanism |
The Giraffe Tools Retractable Garden Hose Reel-1/2in-130ft allows you to reach all areas in a large space.
Best For Small Gardens: Retractable Garden Hose Reel-5/8 in-65ft
- Easy to use and install
- Well-built
- Strong water flow
- A bit heavy for a plastic bracket
For a compact garden, there is no need to waste money on a retractable garden hose reel with a long hose. The 65 ft hose length offered by the Giraffe Tools model proves ample for small garden spaces. The shorter hose not only caters to the needs of a petite garden but also minimizes the disorder and untidiness often linked with a loosely scattered hose.
Unlike products with quick retractability systems, this hose reel doesn’t slam back into the reel too quickly, damaging things on the way. Instead, the hose can return the reel in a controlled and steady manner thanks to its patented slow rewind system. What you have to do is to gently tug it, this system will retract the hose at a slower speed safely.
This hose reel produces a strong water flow suitable for tasks that demand a high volume and pressure of water, such as washing cars, cleaning driveways, sidewalks, and outdoor equipment.
What I like most about this product is its quick release mounting system that is designed to facilitate easy installation, removal, and relocation of the hose reel. Thus, I can detach the hose reel from the regular mounting location to attach it to a wall, post or another stable surface easily and quickly.
| Retractable Garden Hose Reel-5/8 in-65ft Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 19 lbs |
Hose Length | 5/8 in-65ft |
Nozzle Spray Modes | 9 |
Highlight Features | Large-sized handle Toggle lock mode G-self-layering system DS trigger mechanism |
The Retractable Garden Hose Reel-5/8 in-65ft is good for small gardens thanks to its short hose.
Easy To Move Around: Efurden Retractable Hose Reel
- Simple to use and install
- Durable
- Sturdy
- Rigid tubing
The Efurden Retractable Hose Reel enables easy mobility, facilitated by a straightforward connection between the hose reel and the mounting bracket through a small, smooth metal rod. When needed, you can effortlessly lift the hose reel from the mounting bracket without the necessity of using any special tools.
Without the need for multiple hoses, this model features two easy-to-grip handles, enabling you to move the reel effortlessly. This functionality allows convenient access to water sources in different areas of your property, making it ideal for tasks such as gardening, car washing, and cleaning outdoor spaces.
Because of my wide garden, I appreciate the 180-degree rotation design, allowing me to extend the hose in various directions without tangling. This design significantly simplifies my gardening tasks, as I can water plants and clean different areas without the need to relocate the entire hose reel.
| Efurden Retractable Hose Reel Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 34 lbs |
Hose Length | 5/8 Inch x 100ft |
Nozzle Spray Modes | 8 |
Highlight Features | 2 handles Auto lock system |
The Efurden Retractable Hose Reel is versatile because it’s easy to move around with this whole model.
Budget Option: Sophia & William 100ft Retractable Garden Hose Reel
- Sturdy and durable
- Easy to use
- Simple to install
- Pretty color
- Flimsy shell
While the Sophia & William 100ft Retractable Garden Hose Reel is affordably priced, it is designed for heavy-duty tasks and durable enough if you avoid too much contact with the sun.
With a 100ft hose length, you gain the ability to cover a large garden space and reach distant areas without the need for additional hose attachments or frequent repositioning. Once installed in a fixed position, this hose reel facilitates efficient watering of expansive lawns, flower beds, vegetable gardens, as well as tasks like washing cars, cleaning patios, decks, and siding.
In addition to rust-free copper fittings, this reel features a 3-layer hose with an inner PVC wall, a 550D weaving layer, and an outer PVC layer. This layered structure provides durability, preventing damage and corrosion, ensuring a long-lasting and reliable performance.
Anyway, nothing is perfect. Due to its affordability, the shell is made from low-quality plastic which is not as long-lasting and sun-resistant as PP plastic. Be careful when handling it to avoid breakage.
Nevertheless, this model is durable and sufficiently long for handling a large space, ensuring you can conveniently complete all your basic tasks.
| Sophia & William 100ft Retractable Garden Hose Reel Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 25.6 lbs |
Hose Length | 100 ft |
Nozzle Spray Modes | 8 |
Highlight Features | A built-in handle 3-layer hose 180-degree rotation bracket |
Though the Sophia & William 100ft Retractable Garden Hose Reel is budget-friendly, it can serve all watering needs
Durable: 1/2 in. dia. X 70 ft. Retractable Water Hose Reel
- Super strong hose reel
- Well-designed
- Retraction is not so smooth
The 1/2-inch diameter by 70 feet Retractable Water Hose Reel is a valuable and enduring investment due to its exceptional durability, ensuring a prolonged lifetime.
One common problem of retractable garden hose reels is exposure to sunlight, making them to become brittle, discolored, or weakened over time. With this model, you don’t have to worry about that because the outer cover is made from UV stabilized polypropylene. This material is treated to resist the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, reducing plastics degradation and extending the reel lifespan. .
Beyond its durability, this product offers great convenience with two latching modes. In “latching zone” mode, the hose locks every 3 feet, ideal for users who want to extend the hose securely. In freerun mode, the hose allows you to rewind and retract it without latching, suiting those who prioritize quick and automated retraction.
Furthermore, the retractable garden hose reel offers versatility through various mounting options, including freestanding; wall mounting, and ceiling mounting (space-efficient solutions.) In cases wall and ceiling mounting ways are impractical or undesired, the flat base option allows placement on the ground.
| 1/2 in. dia. X 70 ft. Retractable Water Hose Reel Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 29.6 pounds |
Hose Length | 10 ft |
Nozzle Spray Modes | Nozzle is not included |
Highlight Features | Latching mode switch Seven position locking bracket Adjustable hose stopper Extra large swivel Freestanding, wall and ceiling mounting ways Durable UV stabilized polypropylene; built-in handle Abrasion, UV and mold-resistant Reinforced mid-layering Anodized aircraft aluminum ends |
Because of the durable materials, the 1/2 in. dia. X 70 ft. Retractable Water Hose Reel is considered as a worthy and long-term investment.
Best For Cold Climate: VEVOR Retractable Hose Reel Water Hose Reel
- Easy to use and install
- Good price
- Easy to retract
- Sturdy
- Attractive
- Low water pressure
- Not clear instructions
The VEVOR Retractable Hose Reel is well-suited for challenging conditions, including cold climates. It has a sun-proof shell and contains 3-layer PVC hose which is resistant to both sun and frost. This product exhibits resistance to freezing temperatures, ensuring the hose remains flexible and functional in cold weather without becoming brittle or prone to cracking.
To ensure durability, this model has undergone rigorous testing. For instance, its built-in steel coil spring has successfully passed a tensile test over 300 times, ensuring smooth and non-aging performance throughout long-term stretching. Additionally, the hose has passed a 200PSI pressure test and a 600 PSI bursting pressure test, guaranteeing prolonged and reliable use.
While the retraction system of this retractable garden hose reel operates smoothly, it's worth noting that the retraction process occurs quickly. To control the speed, it's advisable to keep one hand on the hose while spooling up.
When winding the hose back up, it's important to remember to shut off the water and depressurize the hose. Failure to do so may result in the hose being too heavy for the retractor to pull in completely. Taking these precautions ensures optimal performance and longevity of the retractable hose reel.
| VEVOR Retractable Hose Reel Water Hose Reel Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 28.7 lbs |
Hose Length | 84 ft |
Nozzle Spray Modes | 9 |
Highlight Features | Slow-retractable Wall-mount and 180° Coverage The locking system |
In fact, the VEVOR Retractable Hose Reel Water Hose Reel is good to use in both cold and hot climates.
How To Choose The Best Retractable Garden Hose Reel?
How To Determine The Hose Length Of A Retractable Garden Hose Reel You Need?
If you buy a retractable garden hose reel that permits the use of additional hose for extension, this question becomes less critical. However, you have to determine the hose length of a retractable garden hose reel that doesn’t allow for additions or replacements. This makes sure that the hose is sufficiently long to reach all areas in your yard. The hose length of the retractable garden hose reel ranges from 50 to 150 feet. To determine the exact length within this range, simply measure the distance from an outdoor spigot to the farthest point in your yard.
What Will You Use A Retractable Garden Hose Reel For?
This helps you determine the hose sizes that range from ⅜ to ⅝ of an inch in diameter. A larger hose diameter can carry more water, resulting in a higher flow rate and vice versa. Thus, it is recommended to select a ⅜-inch or ½-inch hose for watering plants and a ⅝-inch hose for activities such as running a sprinkler or washing a car, for example.
What Is The Best Nozzle Type For Your Needs?
There are two types of nozzles: pistol grip and fire hose. The pistol grip enables you to control the output, with its throttle tip featuring 8-9 spray patterns (stream, board fan, mist, and so on). Meanwhile, the fire hose is long and straight, allowing you to twist the nozzle to adjust the spray from a high-pressure stream to a board fan. Although the fire hose type has fewer spray patterns than another, all of its metal parts contribute to increased durability.
Which Brand Makes The Best Retractable Garden Hose Reels?
Giraffe Tools
Giraffe Tools brand is famous for producing many tools and equipment for gardening, automotive, and industrial applications such as hose reels and air hoses. Their retractable hose reels often come with features such as automatic retraction, a variety of mounting options, and durable construction.
FAQs
Are retractable hoses any good?
Yes, retractable hoses offer several benefits including convenience and flexibility.
How do you attach a hose reel to a brick wall?
Here’s what you need to do:
- Measure the hose length to figure out where you can attach the hose reel.
- Now, hold the reel against the wall, and the screw holes must be centered over brick, not over the mortar joints. Mark through the holes and put the reel aside.
- Take a drill, center it a bit over a mark on the wall, and drill about 2.75 inches into the wall.
- Fill the pilot holes with silicone
- Now, use a power drill with a screwdriver bit to drive screws through the holes until they’re snug.
- Twist the connector on the short hose of the reel to the hose bib, then fasten the hose’s end to the connector of the reel.
How do you roll a garden hose on a reel?
Follow these 5 easy steps to roll the hose on a reel.
- Straighten the hose so that it’s untangled, disconnect the hose from yard equipment.
- Handle the crank to the left or right depending on your model. With your other hand, push the hose to the right or left side of the reel and start cranking.
- Turn the reel clockwise or counterclockwise on a full turn and guide the hose with your other hand to make the first layer to cover the whole surface of the reel.
- Repeat the process but in the reverse direction to create the next layer.
- Repeat the process over and over again until the entire hose is on the reel.
How do you attach a hose reel to the siding?
Attaching a hose reel to the siding is similar to attaching it to a wall. This means you have to find a spot to attach it. Then, you need to mark the screw holes, hold the reel against the siding and start driving the screw. Lastly, tighten the screw to hold the reel in place.
How does a retractable garden hose reel work?
It rewinds the air hose automatically with an internal recoil spring. The more you pull the hose from the reel, the larger the tension against the spring.
Conclusion
Say goodbye to the hassles of traditional hose management. The best retractable garden hose reel can automatically manage the hose no matter how long it is. Besides, they come with many benefits such as user-friendly designs, more functionality, and high durability.
