We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Garden Hose Reel

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Garden Hose Reel

Selecting the right garden hose reel helps keep your outdoor spaces tidy, makes watering more convenient, and can even extend the life of your hose. It’s important to think about where and how you’ll use the hose most—such as watering a small garden, cleaning patios, or reaching distant parts of a big yard. The right reel will save you time and make taking care of your garden much easier.
Hose CapacityHose capacity tells you how much hose a reel can hold and is usually measured in feet. It’s important because if the reel is too small, you won’t be able to store your hose neatly; if it’s too large, the reel can become bulky and harder to handle. You’ll find reels that comfortably fit hoses as short as 25 feet up to over 150 feet. Consider the size of your yard or garden: A small reel is fine for a patio or tiny yard, while a large-capacity reel is best for bigger lawns or areas where you need to reach farther.
Mounting StyleThe mounting style describes whether the reel sits on the ground, attaches to a wall, or is portable with wheels. This is important because it affects how easy the hose is to move, store, and use. Wall-mounted reels save space and keep things off the ground, great for a neat look and easy access, while cart-style reels with wheels are best if you need to move the hose between different areas. Freestanding reels are good if you want flexibility without installation. Think about where you plan to use your hose most—mobility vs. fixed storage will help you decide.
MaterialGarden hose reels are commonly made of plastic, metal, or a mix of both. This matters for durability and weather resistance. Plastic reels are usually lighter and don’t rust, so they’re great for occasional use or for carrying around, but they may not last as long. Metal reels, often coated for protection, are much sturdier and ideal if you use your hose often or need it to stand up to tough conditions, but they can be heavier and might need more care to prevent rust. If you want something long-lasting and rugged, go for metal; if you prefer light and easy to handle, plastic is better.
Retracting MechanismSome hose reels have a manual crank you turn by hand, while others feature automatic retracting with a spring or water-powered system. This matters for convenience: manual reels give you more control but take a bit more work, while auto-retract reels are fast and simple but need careful handling to avoid tangles or damage. If you want low effort and quick clean-up, an auto-retract reel is best. If you’d rather have control or simplicity with fewer moving parts, manual cranking is just fine.
Hose Guide and Storage FeaturesA hose guide is a small part that helps the hose coil evenly onto the reel, while storage features could include extra compartments for nozzles or sprinklers. This is important because it keeps the hose from kinking or tangling (which helps it last longer) and keeps your garden tools tidy. If you find winding hoses awkward or have trouble with tangling, look for reels with these features. Extra storage is helpful if you like your gardening things organized in one spot.