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Key Takeaways
- Here are some important factors we think you should consider when buying a self-winding hose reel:
- Size: Consider the size of your garden and the length of hose you need. Choose a reel that can accommodate the length of hose required.
- Material: Look for a durable and weather-resistant material, such as plastic or metal, that can withstand exposure to the elements.
- Capacity: Choose a reel with a capacity that matches your watering needs. If you have a large garden, you may need a reel with a larger capacity to avoid having to refill it frequently.
- Ease of use: Look for a reel with a smooth and easy-to-use winding mechanism as well as a comfortable handle for carrying.
- Price: Last, but not least, compare the prices and features of different models to find the best value for your budget.
**Quick link here for what we think fits all the above criteria for the overall best retractable hose reel.
Table of Contents
- 1 Key Takeaways
- 2 Complete Product Review Of The 5 Best Automatic Hose Reels
- 2.1 1. Best Value and Durability: Giraffe Retractable Garden Hose Reel
- 2.2 2. Ayleid Retractable Garden Hose Reel – Our Next Best Choice
- 2.3 3. Self Crank Garden Hose Reel: Suncast Resin 225′ Swivel Hose Hideaway With Hose Guide
- 2.4 4. Compact And Lightweight: POWER Retractable Hose Reel 5/8” X 50 + 6 FT
- 2.5 5. Most Easy-To-Use Automatic Garden Hose Reel: Suncast Powerwind 12 Volt Rechargeable Automatic Hose Reel
- 3 Factors To Consider When Buying a Retractable Garden Hose Reel
- 4 FAQ
- 5 Other Yard and Lawn Equipment to Consider
- 6 References
Have you ever felt like you’re in a strangling match with a garden hose? Does it frustrate you when it bends or won’t roll in your desired way?
Well, I haven’t had that dilemma ever since I switched to an automatic hose reel. No tangles, knots, bending over, and no trouble. Sounds familiar?
If not, it’s time to get a self-winding retractable garden hose reel for your garden.
We all want to be free from the hassle of dragging and untangling hose reels. Fortunately, a self-winding garden hose reel does all the winding up and storage work for you.
If you want your hose’s lifespan to drastically extend, go for this tool that reels itself back, ensuring proper storage to prevent damage.
A hose left exposed to outdoor conditions, such as excessive sunlight, will become brittle, which may result in breakage.
But of course, we won’t let this happen to you.
To make your search easier, I thought a discussion on how to choose the best retractable water hose reel could help. And after a significant amount of research, I’ve found the 5 best automatic hose reels for all your gardening needs.
Complete Product Review Of The 5 Best Automatic Hose Reels
- Giraffe Retractable Garden Hose Reel
- Ayleid Retractable Garden Hose Reel
- Suncast Resin Swivel Hose Hideaway With Hose Guide
- Power Retractable Hose Reel
- Suncast Powerwind 12 Volt Rechargeable Automatic Hose Reel
Editor’s #1 Choice
1. Best Value and Durability: Giraffe Retractable Garden Hose Reel
- [DURABLE ANY LENGTH LOCK] Giraffe hose reel is pre-installed with a 130ft…
- [STABLE AUTO REWIND SYSTEM] Give the hose a gentle tug, the water hose reel…
- [HIGH-GRID GARDEN HOSE] All weather flexible and abrasion-resistant hybrid…
Specifications
- Dimensions: 20.47 x 11.81 x 18.11 inches
- Weight: 26.1 pounds
- Hose Diameter: 5/8 inches
- Hose Length: 135 feet
- Power Source: Spring
- Type: Mounted unit
- Warranty: 3-year warranty
- Package Inclusion: (1) Giraffe Retractable Garden Hose Reel 1/2″ x 130 ft, (1) 9-pattern hose nozzle, (2) hose connector, (4) wall mounting screws, (4) expansion tube, (1) PP bolt, user manual, warranty card
The Giraffe wall-mounted retractable hose reel didn’t disappoint with its creation to withdraw the hose automatically.
A simple tug unlatches the drum, and the equipment’s patented auto-rewind system takes over. This means you can simply stop at any distance and automatically rewind the hose.
In addition, various angle rotations give you the flexibility to reach several directions. The water flow rate is even powerful enough to wash out dirt and soil.
We discovered that the braking mechanism guarantees a controlled rewind while the layering system tidily loops the hose.
Also, it only takes 8 to 10 seconds to safely retract the 135-foot hose back.
This self-winding garden hose reel has the essential fittings to connect to your tap for a peak watering experience.
The wall bracket even has an auto reel that pivots 180 degrees, enabling you to cover every part of your lawn.
Furthermore, the Giraffe wall-mounted retractable garden hose reel boasts 8-pattern hose nozzles and a replaceable hose.
This gives you more freedom to choose the pattern you want.
It’s worth mentioning that the provided wall plugs and screws are suitable for stone, concrete, and brick.
What we also like about this model is its auto reel that can be detached from the wall bracket, which allows you to store away the unit during cold days.
If you’re a fan of versatility, this automatic garden hose reel can also support your car washing needs.
PROS
CONS
2. Ayleid Retractable Garden Hose Reel – Our Next Best Choice
- 🌼【Free Lock】When you pull the hose to the length you need, it will…
- 🌼【Auto Rewind】After use, only need to gently pull the hose outward…
- 🌼【Swivel Bracket】Equipped with a swivel bracket, which can be fixed…
Specifications
- Dimensions: 17.7 x 9 x 15 inches
- Weight: 25 lbs
- Hose Diameter: ½ inch
- Hose Length: 100 feet
- Power Source: Integrated steel spring
- Type: Wall-mounted unit
- Warranty: 2-year limited warranty
- Package Inclusion: 100-feet retractable hose, hose reel, hose guide, wall bracket, wall plugs, screws, instruction manual
The Ayleid Retractable Hose Reel is definitely a solid choice when it comes to a self-winding garden hose. It’s a complete package – construction, quality, design, durability, and functionality.
This auto garden hose reel guarantees a hassle-free hose rewinding process. It has a solid steel spring retracting mechanism, which means there’s no need for electricity or batteries.
The package includes a spray nozzle and a garden hose, which won’t let you see bunch-ups or kinks.
By short pulling on the hose, the lock releases, and the hose is automatically pulled back into the box.
This is because of a powerful retraction triggered by an integrated steel spring. Additionally, the hose guide prevents the hose from tangling and twisting.
This auto garden hose reel retracts in more or less 30 seconds plus it swivels 180 degrees.
There’s also a hose guide bracket that allows you to mount it on the wall or corner.
This retractable garden hose provides nozzles, sprayers, and wash brushes that can all be stored on the wall bracket.
However, the spray nozzle doesn’t have an on/off button. If necessary, buy a different nozzle.
The swivel wall-mounted automatic hose box has an ergonomically shaped handle, which can be effortlessly detached from the wall bracket for frost-protected storage.
No kinks, no leaking at the connection, and no need for electricity – it’s a gift to every lawn owner!
PROS
CONS
3. Self Crank Garden Hose Reel: Suncast Resin 225′ Swivel Hose Hideaway With Hose Guide
- Attractive, Contemporary design keeps your hose neat and tidy
- Holds 225 feet of 0.63-inch standard vinyl hose
- Slide Trak hose guide makes winding and unwinding hose easier
Specifications
- Dimensions: 26 x 21 x 23.75 inches
- Weight: 24.3 pounds
- Hose Diameter: 5/8 inches
- Hose Length: 225 feet
- Type: Hose box
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty
- Package Inclusion: leader hose, hose storage reel, hose guide, (2) stakes, user manual
With a swivel base, crank handle, lid, and hose guide, the Suncast resin swivel hose hideaway is certainly designed to be one of the best auto rewind hose reels.
A large capacity hose storage of 225 feet – need I say more?
As seen by our very eyes, the swivel base effectively wrangles up the unsightly loose hose. Meanwhile, the unique base gives a convenient way to untangle hose in your garden or lawn.
Moreover, the model features a 360-degree swiveling base for multi-directional reeling and stakes that clamp the hideaway firmly to the ground. As a result, you get a smooth unrolling motion.
This hideaway retractable hose reel features a Slide-Trak Hose Guide, which makes coiling and undoing a garden hose easy and kink-free.
This list is composed of mounted units and hose boxes. However, you should consider the features that you think are necessary for your lawn watering needs.
Afterward, study the pros and cons to make the right decision in buying the best self-winding hose reel.
The manufacturer built the Suncast resin swivel hose hideaway with a durable resin design. This means the self-winding hose reel will last throughout different seasons, as well as UV rays.
What’s more, this auto-rewind garden hose reel is equipped with a patented Easy-link System, which ensures a water-tight connection between the hose and the reel.
As a result, the hideaway loops the hose in a uniform fashion, keeping the hose from twisting while turning the handle.
We got delighted when the package arrived fully assembled, which means there are no tools needed to set it up. We recommend using a 5/8-inch vinyl hose.
PROS
CONS
4. Compact And Lightweight: POWER Retractable Hose Reel 5/8” X 50 + 6 FT
Specifications
- Dimensions: 19.5 x 10 x 17 inches
- Weight: 23 pounds
- Hose Diameter: 5/8 inches
- Hose Length: 50 feet
- Power Source: Spring
- Type: Wall-mounted unit
- Warranty: 5-year warranty
- Package Inclusion: 3-layer hybrid hose, retractable hose reel, patented nozzle protection, mounting hardware
The POWER Retractable Hose Reel has a sweet deal—a fully retractable, slow return system of a 50 ft, 5/8-inch hose.
This supports up to a maximum of 500 PSI.
This automatic hose reel has a unique patent nozzle protector, which prevents the hose from harming someone or damaging something when retracting.
The retractable garden hose reel keeps the excess hose out of your working area by locking it in place at various intervals.
It also stops at any length, giving you the freedom to work in any direction you want.
Moreover, the mounting bracket creates a 180-degree swivel. Hence, you can place it on the ceiling or a wall.
The POWER Retractable Hose Reel is spring powered, which means the unit remains durable despite countless rewinding.
This model is built with a heavy-duty twist collar and brass fittings. It is designed to be durable using a 3 layer-hybrid material.
Yet, this is recommendable even for older users because the hose is lighter compared to other models.
PROS
CONS
5. Most Easy-To-Use Automatic Garden Hose Reel: Suncast Powerwind 12 Volt Rechargeable Automatic Hose Reel
- HASSLE-FREE: Motor-driven Hose Reel provides the ultimate in-reeling…
- HOSE GUIDE: Smart-Trak Hose Guide makes winding and unwinding of the garden…
- RECHARGEABLE: 12 Volt battery is rechargeable and lasts up to 20 uses…
Specifications
- Dimensions: 18 x 20 x 22 inches
- Weight: 27.8 pounds
- Hose Diameter: 5/8 inches
- Hose Length: 100 feet
- Power Source: 12V SLA rechargeable battery
- Type: Hose Box
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty
- Package Inclusion:(1) Powerwind 100-feet hose reel, tilt-out storage bin, handle, foot pedal, (1) 12V SLA rechargeable battery, (1), charger, user manual
We all love hassle-free lawn equipment. The Suncast Powerwind automatic and rechargeable garden hose reel is a suitable example.
By using a 12V rechargeable battery to pull back the hose, the unit works well while ensuring no water goes to waste.
The model is equipped with a motor-driven hose reel, which permits convenient reeling by using a foot pedal.
The Suncast Powerwind automatic and rechargeable garden hose reel has a smart-track hose guide that makes the coiling and unraveling of the hose kink-free.
With a 100-feet hose capacity and a rechargeable battery that can last up to 20 uses, this truly competes as one of the best retractable hoses.
In addition, the retractable garden hose reel includes a weather-resistant tilt-out storage bin for keeping small gardening supplies.
This self-winding hose reel has a 5/8-inch standard vinyl hose capacity that can be easily concealed inside the cabinet.
Our trial showed us that the hose must be properly drained when winding to avoid any difficulties.
Lastly, since this model is freestanding, it can be moved across your lawn.
It could also be relocated into a storage shed or garage during the winter months.
As for the opposite, this hose is perfect for those hot summer days when you need to water the lawn.
PROS
CONS
Factors To Consider When Buying a Retractable Garden Hose Reel
Regardless of whether you have a small, medium, or large-sized lawn, it is important your auto-rewind garden hose reel has the ability to easily retract to save you energy and time.
Hence, we’ve considered how a hose length impacts the rewinding ability of the equipment. The type and power source of the tool are also contributing factors.
We placed mounted-type models on walls to test their strength.
On the other hand, hose box units were assessed whether they had the stability to remain standing on the ground.
Hose Length And Reel Size
Unless you have a small yard, we recommend that you get a 100-foot reel hose to accommodate various situations you might be in when watering your yard.
So, consider the distance between your water source and the farthest point of your garden. This will assist you in determining the length of hose required.
After determining the length of hose required, select a reel that can accommodate the length of hose required.
Material of the Reel Hose
The material of the retractable reel hose is an important consideration because it affects the reel’s durability and longevity. Look for a reel made of tough, weather-resistant material, such as plastic or metal, that can withstand outdoor use. Metal reels are generally more durable than plastic reels, but they are heavier.
Capacity
The capacity of the reel refers to the amount of hose it can hold. Choose a reel with a capacity that matches your watering needs. If you have a large garden, you may need a reel with a larger capacity to avoid having to refill it frequently.
Ease of use
Look for a reel with a smooth and easy-to-use winding mechanism, as well as a comfortable handle for carrying. Some reels may also have features such as a foot pedal for hands-free rewinding or a guide to help the hose rewind smoothly.
Type of Retractable Reel Hose
Portability and durability will rely on the type of auto-rewind garden hose reel you choose.
You could select between a hose box or a mounted unit.
If your hose is a bit short in length, it’s a wise option to use a hideaway unit or a hose box.
However, if your hose is long enough, a fixed or mounted self-winding hose reel would be a better choice.
Power Source And Winding Mechanism
Retractable hose reels have the power to withdraw the hose without having to crank a handle.
This is made possible if the winding mechanism is simple to operate. Thus, a model should be powered by one of these three sources:
| Spring | Automatic hose reels powered by spring mechanisms are typically more durable than battery or electricity-powered units. |
| Battery | A battery or electrical current is required to power the equipment. Battery-powered models are normally the most accurate and quickest ones, but they require more maintenance and are more prone to breaking. |
| Water | This type simply uses power and water pressure for the winding process. |
FAQ
Can I leave my garden hoses outside During the winter?
Hoses can be stored outside as long as the water is completely drained from the hose. Hoses can be easily drained by running them over a tall object, causing gravity to force water out of the hose. This prevents the hose from splitting if any residual water freezes. While hoses can be stored outside if necessary, keep in mind that temperature swings, even if completely drained, can and will cause the hose material to age at a faster rate, and the hose will only last a few seasons.
What Are The Advantages Of Using A Retractable Garden Hose?
There are two things to keep in mind when you have an uncoiled hose: increased risk for damage to the tool, and possible injury to humans and animals. But you can prevent these situations when you have a self-winding garden hose reel. This automatic equipment protects the hose from excessive sun exposure. Even soil can eat away at your hose until it deteriorates. Therefore, using a reel not only stores your hose but also saves your tool from becoming brittle. When you use a retractable hose with a reel, you lengthen the life of your equipment by preventing premature leakage. And it gets better – you don’t have to waste time untangling and finding the end of the hose.
What About The Drawbacks of a Retractable Garden Hose Reel?
One such issue owning a retractable garden hose reel includes: (a) failing to retract fully into the casing, which can be frustrating and time-consuming to fix, (b) when the reel fails to rewind the hose smoothly, it will cause tangles or kinks in the hose, (c) lastly, if you don’t secure the hose reel, it might be blown away by strong winds, which can cause damage to the reel, spigot, and other nearby objects.
How to clean and maintain a retractable garden hose reel?
Follow these steps to clean and maintain your retractable garden hose reel to prolong its life and function. Turn off the water supply and release the hose pressure. Remove any nozzles and disconnect the hose from the reel’s inlet valve. Next, use a hose nozzle or pressure washer to clean the hose of dirt, debris, and algae. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives when cleaning the reel’s exterior. The reel’s moving parts should be lightly lubricated. Replace cracked or leaking hose reels and hoses.
After cleaning and drying the hose, store it on the reel to avoid kinks. These steps will help you maintain your retractable garden hose reel for years.
Other Yard and Lawn Equipment to Consider
A retractable hose reel is just one item you’ll need to keep a tidy and organized yard. Check out our other related yard and lawn care posts:
- Seasonal Lawn Care Resource
- Best Time To Water Your Lawn In Hot Weather
- Battery Powered Cordless Weed Eaters
- Best Oscillating Sprinklers for Small to Medium Yards
- [DURABLE ANY LENGTH LOCK] Giraffe hose reel is pre-installed with a 130ft…
- [STABLE AUTO REWIND SYSTEM] Give the hose a gentle tug, the water hose reel…
- [HIGH-GRID GARDEN HOSE] All weather flexible and abrasion-resistant hybrid…
References
Lindsey Hyland grew up in Arizona where she studied at the University of Arizona’s Controlled Environment Agriculture Center. She continued her gardening education by working on organic farms in both rural and urban settings. She started UrbanOrganicYield.com to share gardening tips and tactics. She’s happy to talk about succulents and houseplants or vegetables and herbs – or just about anything in a backyard garden or hydroponics garden.