What to Do with Old Garden Hoses?

Are you wondering what to do with old garden hoses that are no longer in use? Do not throw them away just yet, as there are plenty of ways to give them a new life.

In this article, we will explore some creative and practical ideas for repurposing old garden hoses, from DIY projects to simple household solutions.

Garden hoses often leak, tear, or get destroyed to the point that they cannot serve their original function. You might think that it is worthless since you have left it lying around or you want to throw it away.

These old hoses are very useful so do not let them waste away. A creative mind can bring out the best in everything and in this case, the gold out of the old.

The making of beautiful portable baskets, colorful benches, and protecting your hand from injuries among other reuses are important uses for old garden hoses.

What to Do with Old Garden Hoses?

Tearing or leaking of garden hoses should not render these old garden hoses to waste. You should instead use this reality to your advantage.

1. Make a DIY sprinkler

One of the easiest and most practical ways to reuse an old garden hose is by turning it into a DIY sprinkler. Cut the hose into different lengths, then punch some holes in it using a needle or a nail.

Attach a hose connector to one end and a cap to the other, and you’ve got yourself a homemade sprinkler that can be used to water plants, lawns, or even kids playing in the yard.

2. Create a garden border

Another great way to repurpose an old garden hose is by using it to create a garden border. Simply lay the hose down in the desired shape, then bury it slightly into the ground. This not only adds a decorative touch to your garden, but it also helps to keep weeds at bay.

3. Protect tree trunks

Garden hoses can also be used to protect the trunks of young trees from damage caused by lawnmowers or trimmers.

Cut a section of the hose to fit around the tree trunk, then wrap it around and secure it with zip ties. This will act as a buffer between the tree and any equipment that might accidentally bump into it.

4. Make a doorstop

Old garden hoses serve the function of doorstops. In your home, it is expected that maintaining a door open can be quite problematic to the extent that you may need to use stone, paper, or other materials to stop the door.

This problem is solved by the use of old garden hoses.

Cut a part of the rubber and flatten it with the palm of your hands. Slide the flattened hose underneath the door and let go of the garden hose.

Immediately the hose will expand in order to go back to its initial shape to which it will fill the gap in the door. The door will be at a halt.

5. Create a cushion for outdoor furniture

If you have outdoor furniture that is missing some cushions, an old garden hose can come to the rescue.

Cut the hose into the desired length, then wrap it with outdoor fabric and secure the ends with glue or stitching.

This creates a soft, durable cushion that can be used on chairs, benches, or any other outdoor seating.

6. Build a hose hanger

Tired of your garden hose always getting tangled up and cluttering your yard? Build a hose hanger using an old wooden pallet and some sturdy nails. Simply nail the pallet to the side of your house or garage, then loop the hose around it for easy storage.

7. Create a birdhouse

For a unique and creative project, turn an old garden hose into a birdhouse. Cut the hose into sections of varying lengths, then bend and twist them into the shape of a birdhouse.

Use wire or glue to secure the sections together, then add a perch and a small entrance hole. Hang the birdhouse in your garden and watch as your feathered friends make it their home.

8. Use as a rope alternative

In a pinch, an old garden hose can be used as a rope alternative for a variety of tasks. Cut the hose into sections of the desired length, then tie knots at each end to create a makeshift rope. This can be used to tie up plants, secure outdoor items, or even for small DIY projects.

9. Make a DIY drain snake

Clogged drains are never fun, but they can be especially frustrating when you don’t have a drain snake on hand. Fortunately, an old garden hose can be turned into a DIY drain snake in just a few simple steps.

Cut the hose to the length of the drain, then attach a plumbing snake attachment to one end. Insert the hose into the drain and twist it around to break up any obstructions. Pull out the hose and any debris that was causing the clog.

10. Create a rope rug

For a fun and unique addition to your home décor, turn an old garden hose into a rope rug. Cut the hose into long sections, then braid them together tightly.

Coil the braided rope into a circle and sew the ends together. This creates a durable and washable rug that can be used in a variety of spaces, both indoors and outdoors.

11. Use as padding

Old garden hoses can also be used as padding for a variety of applications. Cut the hose into sections, then wrap it around anything that needs extra cushioning, such as bike handlebars or outdoor equipment.

12. Create a DIY car wash kit

Save money on car washes by creating your own DIY car wash kit using an old garden hose. Cut the hose into sections of varying lengths, then attach a spray nozzle to one end of each section.

Fill a bucket with soapy water, then use the different hose sections to rinse, wash, and rinse again.

13. Use as a base for a garden trellis

Create a sturdy and affordable garden trellis using an old garden hose. Cut the hose into sections of the desired length, then bend and twist them into the shape of a trellis.

Use wire or glue to secure the sections together, then attach the trellis to a wall or fence for climbing plants to grow on.

14. Make a DIY vacuum cleaner attachment

Use an old garden hose to create a DIY attachment for your vacuum cleaner. Cut the hose to the desired length, then attach a brush or suction head to one end.

Use the attachment to clean hard-to-reach areas, such as corners or under furniture.

15. Create a plant support system

Old garden hoses can also be used as a support system for plants that need extra stability. Cut the hose into sections, then cut each section lengthwise to create a long slit.

Wrap the hose around the stem of the plant and use twist ties or zip ties to secure it to a stake or trellis.

16. Use it to make garden baskets and mats

Garden baskets can be made out of old garden hoses. These baskets are very functional as they can be used to carry seedlings and vegetables.

The secret, therefore, is using your creativity and wiring up the old hose to make a nice basket. The size of the basket will depend on the purpose to which you want the basket to serve.

Don’t throw away your torn hoses; it can bring out the best garden baskets and mats.

Instead of purchasing baskets in shops and budgeting mats, you can cut all those expenses by reusing the available materials back in your home.

Doormats shed mats, and gardens are necessities that many people cannot live without.

Repurpose the old hoses by twisting them skillfully or even better call for help from an expert to design you a better piece.

17. Flower vases and wreaths

Uses for Old Garden Hoses make very beautiful flower vases and wreaths. You can coil the hoses into a wreath and shape out the ugly edges if the hoses are too old.

Depending on the desired size of the wreath, decorate it with a theme. Make use of tools, old gloves, and other readily available materials to bring out a unique wreath.

The wreaths are a cheap way to decorate your compounds, fences, walls, and gardens. Flower vases created out of old hoses are very attractive.

The technique used in this case will contribute to the best outcome. If your hoses are discolored you can always paint them to bring out a new look.

Wiring these hoses result in admirable art that can even earn you money if perfectly and creatively done to attract buyers.

The vases can be placed in the kitchens, dining rooms, and gardens among other places.

18. Using Plant supports

Hoses are the perfect material to be used as supporters of plants with weak stems. 

Plants such as climbing trees or those that have undergone partial breakage need support in order for them to grow.

Hoses, therefore, provide this security without harming these plants as the hoses do not cause friction marks against the plants.

19. Hand tools protectors

Old garden hoses as hand protectors are a magnificent idea. Carrying heavy tools, swinging with the bare hand, and handling metal objects among other common activities cause injuries to the hands.

The injuries which are uncomfortable may even bar you from performing your normal duties.

The hoses can be cut into short lengths then used as bucket handles and also be attached to swing chains.

While carrying heavy tools you can use the hoses to protect your hands by fitting the rubber on the handling point of the tool.

20. Use it to make a bench or seats

Old hoses can make really beautiful and appealing hose benches and seats. The length of the hoses will be valuable in this matter because the longer the hoses then the more benches can be created.

If you have a shorter hose then collecting from your neighbors can be a good idea. Interestingly garden hoses come in various colors to which you can use to your advantage.

An explicit design depending on one’s preference can bring out beautiful artwork.

Framing would require an old bench, wood, logs, or other materials as advised by your carpenter. Nails would be used to tighten the hoses.

The rubber would serve as a cushion to the hose benches and unique patterns can be made out of it. These seats can be used for in-house receptions, garden benches, and pool benches among other preferable setups.

FAQs

Can I recycle my old garden hose?

Yes, some recycling centers accept garden hoses, but it’s best to check with your local center first.

Can I use an old garden hose for drinking water?

No, it’s not recommended to use an old garden hose for drinking water as it may contain harmful chemicals or bacteria.

How do I clean an old garden hose?

To clean an old garden hose, rinse it with water and mild soap, then hang it to dry completely before storing it.

Can I use an old garden hose for plumbing?

No, it’s not recommended to use an old garden hose for plumbing as it may not be strong enough to withstand the pressure.

How long do garden hoses typically last?

Garden hoses can last anywhere from a few years to over a decade, depending on the quality and frequency of use.

Conclusion

Don’t let your old garden hoses go to waste! With these creative and practical ideas, you can repurpose them into a variety of useful items for your home and garden.

From DIY projects to simple household solutions, there are plenty of ways to give your old garden hoses a new life.