Daily gardening tip · Northern hemisphere · Monday 19 October 2026 · mid autumn
Inspect and Clean Your Hose Before Storing
Checking your garden hose for damage now prevents leaks and ice damage during the cold winter months.
15 minuteseasytools
Uncoil your garden hose and lay it out flat on the lawn or patio.
Inspect the full length of the hose for cracks, splits, or worn fittings.
Wipe down the outside with a damp cloth to remove mud and garden debris.
Elevate one end of the hose and walk down its length to drain all remaining water.
Coil the clean, dry hose loosely and store it in a shed or garage for winter.
Why it works
Water left inside a hose expands when it freezes, which stretches the inner lining and splits the outer wall. Draining it completely and keeping it indoors protects the material from freezing temperatures and extends its life.
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