In my opinion hose reels are only useful if they are strong and large enough to handle the largest hoses typical homeowners ever buy. For me that means I like to only use hose reels with metal fittings, preferably heavy duty copper or stainless steel fittings as these are the strongest and least likely to crack, leak, or bend.
In this article I want to compare a handful of my favorite hose reels that use metal connections and heavy duty fittings. I’ll include some options that are appropriate for small or big yards as well as a few alternative hose management solutions such as hose hangers, baskets, and carts.
Before we get to the bulk of this article I’d like to first suggest you consider having a close look at this heavy duty Ames hose reel; it really is one of the best options out there for regular homeowners that use 75-100-foot 3/4″ hoses. It’s big and robust enough to manage this type of high water volume hose but it’s not so big to be better suited for extended acreage homes. Not only does this unit use metal connections but it also includes a heavy duty leader hose to connect from your spigot or hydrant to your main hose.
You can learn more about the Ames reel lower on this page. Just hit this link to jump to the section where I talk more about it.
Feel free to simply scroll through this page to see all sub-sections or just use the following links to jump to the section of this page that interests you most:
► Small Hose Reels
► Large Hose Reels
► Hose Reel Carts
► Hose Hangers & Stands
► Hose Baskets & Pots
If you haven’t ever used a hose reel before then make sure to see this post where I talk more about sets the best hose reels apart from the cheap units that break and leak all the time. There’s nothing wrong with the cheap plastic units but I’ve decided to never use them again; I’m tired of the leaks and cracks so let’s get to my recommendations, reviews and comparisons of some of the best options in this product category.
The Best Small Heavy Duty Hose Reels
Not all homeowners have a huge yard nor do they need the longest hoses made. In fact I’d guess that at least half of homeowners don’t really need a hose longer than about 50-feet. That doesn’t mean that they don’t need a high quality hose reel though; hose reels make managing your garden hose a lot easier no matter how often you use it or how long it is.
In my yard I use extra long hoses for the outer reaches of the property but the most common hose I use is my 50-foot hose which is closest to my patio. Although it sometimes just lays on the ground for days at a time it does get coiled up nicely more often because I use a strong and well made hose reel.
There are of course many to choose from in a wide variety of styles. Wall mounted reels are usually the strongest but there are also a lot of nice unmounted models out their too. Below you’ll see some of my favorites from the “small” category. If you want to use a hose over 75-feet then this section will probably offer you selections that are too small for your needs.
Let’s get to my picks for best 50-foot and 75-foot hose reels based on quality, usability, and price as well as upgraded features like the inclusion of leader hoses, pull-back mechanisms, and metal connectors.
ReelWorks L815153HA Steel Retractable Air Compressor/Water Hose Reel
The first product that I would like to bring to your notice is the Bestselling ReelWorks L815153HA Steel Retractable Water Hose Reel. This model is one of the bestsellers, as I just said, and it is rightfully so owing to the features that it provides you with.
The main features of this model can easily be summed up in the following points:
- This model has a steel construction with a powder coat finishing to give it a high level of durability. And this is one of the only models that have almost zero complains regarding its quality or durability, which is a good thing!
- Next, this model also boasts of a smooth and efficient functioning, which it does deliver. However, some people complain that they did not receive a 3/8 inch hose as they ordered. So, that is something you might want to pay a little attention to when you order it.
- You can also choose between polymer and rubber, the latter being a little more expensive. This is something you have to decide based on your geographical region and your intensity of use.
- Finally, this hose has been priced fairly and it is actually pretty affordable. Of course, it still costs a bit, but it is actually pretty affordable even if you’re on a comparatively conservative budget.
Reelcraft 5650 OLP 3/8-Inch by 50-Feet Spring Driven Hose Reel
Reelcraft is a brand that I trust when it comes to reels! They have quality products, and have a wide range of them! So, if you’re ever on the lookout for something, they should ideally be one of the first brands for you to check out!
Anyway, the main features of this model might be summed up in the following points:
- This model holds 200 ft of 3/8 inch hose. Keep in mind that this is different than the size we mentioned for the last models, so this model is a good choice for you if you’re looking for this specific size.
- Again, this model is well known for its durability and efficient functioning. This model works really smoothly and lasts for a long time, making it one of the best choices that you can make out there.
- There is one more thing that you might want to know about this model- it’s mechanism. Unlike some other models out there, this model is actually spring driven, and the quality of the spring gives it a pretty high level of durability.
- Naturally, this does not come for free. This model does cost a fair bit of money. However, if you are fine with spending a little bit more money for a little extra advantage, I would really recommend this model. The main reason behind this is that this model actually deserves the extra bit of money because of all the features that it comes with.
ikris Retractable Garden Water Hose Reel
The next model that I would really like to recommend is the Ikris Retractable Garden Hose. And I don’t recommend it because it sounds like “iris” and that’s a really cool name, but because it’s actually a good choice to go for!
To sum up the main features and people’s opinions about it in a few words, we can say:
- This model actually boasts of a pre-installed system, Automatic Rewinding, and Reinforced 5/8” diameter braided PVC hose (50 ft length) with high-quality, threaded brass end fittings.
- It also flattens the hose reel while rewinding it to prevent uneven overlapping. So, you can rest assured that your hose is going to last for a while!
- And the people who have already had the chance to use it are actually in love with this model! This is by far one of the clearest indications that this model is worth going for. Personally, I think it’s a great choice!
- Finally, even in terms of pricing, this model is also a pretty affordable choice. Once again, it isn’t the cheapest out there, but it’s reasonably price and it’s a good model, and so it’s worth going for.
ikris Retractable Garden Water Hose Reel + 50 Foot Hose, 1/2″ diameter
There really isn’t much difference between the last model and this one- honestly, they are almost the same in the sense that:
- They are from the same company.
- They boast of almost the same features.
- They boast of a similar level of functionality.
- They are both equally durable.
However, there’s one major thing that sets these two apart, and that’s the most important thing for you to consider: the hose size. This model is for a 1/2 inch diameter hose while the other one is a 5/8 inch diameter hose. So, that’s something you must keep in mind and you must only go for the model that suits your needs.
Keep in Mind: You don’t Want To Buy An Air Hose Reel For A Garden Hose
One of the most common mistakes I’ve seen people doing when selecting hoses or hose reels is choosing ones for air. Well, if your intention is to water your plants properly, you need to select your equipment accordingly, and choosing air hoses is not going to help.
Also keep in mind that the diameter of your hose may make a 60-foot hose feel like something much bigger. Sometimes buying a bigger reel is helpful and worthwhile so let’s now look into the best options for longer, heavy duty hoses.
The Best Large Heavy Duty Hose Reels
This Ames Wall Mounted Hose Reel Is My Favorite All Around Option
This Ames hose reel falls under the large category for me because it can accommodate hoses up to 125 feet in length however there are certainly larger reels out there which I’ve listed below. What I like about this though is that it’s a best selling unit and only slightly larger than most homeowners need meaning you can easily link two regular length hoses together on it and they will usually fit.
The price is affordable and the build quality is great considering you get highly durable hose fittings and an included leader hose that won’t make you want to replace it on day one. Here’s an Amazon affiliate direct to the Ames reel if you want to check pricing, specs, or availability.
And now lets get on to the even larger units which mostly hold hoses in the 150-200 foot range.
In my home I use my short 50-foot hose most often and I run my longer hundred foot hoses up my hill yard towards the chickens but I also have an extended area of my property that is even further away. This is where I keep my compost piles and my tubs of chicken manure before it’s ready for the garden. For these far areas I need some pretty long hoses. In fact I daisy chain two 100-foot hoses back to back to get out there and that’s a perfect illustration as to why larger hose reels can be useful.
You may only need to run the hoses that far occasionally so it becomes necessary to have an easy storage solution for the long hoses for those days that they aren’t being used.
Below I’ve listed a few of the best high quality options for large 150-200 foot hose reels. Each of these big hose reels feature premium fittings made from strong metals that won’t corrode like copper and their construction is generally very strong, enough so that you won’t have to worry about them breaking, leaking, or needing to be replaced every year.
Let’s look at the list of 200 foot garden hose reels I’ve curated just for you based on what I would buy for my own yard.
In case you’re 200 ft isn’t enough I have an entire page on this site dedicated to extra large reels that can accommodate hoses in excess of 250-feet. You can see the extra large reel page here.
Liberty Garden Products 703-1 Multi-Purpose Steel Wall and Floor Mount Garden Hose Reel
One of the top selling models is the Liberty Garden Productions Multi-Purpose Garden Hose Reel! This model is by far one of the top selling models out there and boasts of a huge number of reviews, of which most are really positive!
A look at the main features of this model can easily show why this model has been loved so much by the market:
- This model holds up to 200 ft of 5/8 inch garden hose.
- This model is a little versatile in the sense that you can put it up both on the wall and the floor. Not too many models provide you with this versatility, making this model a good choice if you’re looking for it.
- Made of 13 gauge steel and finished with powder coating, this model boasts of having an industrial-level construction, making it a really durable one. This means, the model essentially pays for itself in the long run.
- And of course, this model also boasts of 5 feet of leader hose along with it.
- Even from the economic aspect, this model is actually pretty affordable. This model provides you with all these features at a really affordable rate, explaining why people have went for this model so eagerly. All in all, this model is a really good product for its price- it is a really smart investment.
Suncast WM200 Wall Mounted Hosehandler Hose Reel
Next in line is the suncast WM200 Wall Mounted Hosehandler Hose Reel. This model is one of those models that have become famous owing to their economic aspect. Yes, you heard me right, this model is actually one of the more affordable choices out there.
Naturally, a lot of people have went for it. However, despite its low price, the people who went for it have actually loved it! Let’s take a look at the main features to find out why:
- The main reason is that you can easily mount this model to almost any wall. This level of portability has made this model a great choice for a lot of people.
- Again, this model also boasts of a heavy duty waterproof resin frame in taupe, as well as a large crank handle and a quality leader hose, making this model a great choice when it comes to the functional aspect as well.
- However, a few people have complained a little about the durability of this product. While most people have not faced any issues, some people have had their models break within a week! So, that’s something you might want to do a little research on if you plan to go with this model.
- As I remarked earlier, the price was a really big thing for a lot of people. This model is actually available for a really affordable price, and so people actually went for it- and they loved it!
Reelcraft H18000 Medium Duty Hand Crank Reel
Reelcraft is a brand that I trust when it comes to reels! They have quality products, and have a wide range of them! So, if you’re ever on the lookout for something, they should ideally be one of the first brands for you to check out!
Anyway, the main features of this model might be summed up in the following points:
- This model holds 200 ft of 3/8 inch hose. Keep in mind that this is different than the size we mentioned for the last models, so this model is a good choice for you if you’re looking for this specific size.
- Again, this model is well known for its durability and efficient functioning. This model works really smoothly and lasts for a long time, making it one of the best choices that you can make out there.
- Naturally, this does not come for free. This model does cost a fair bit of money. However, if you are fine with spending a little bit more money for a little extra advantage, I would really recommend this model. The main reason behind this is that this model actually deserves the extra bit of money because of all the features that it comes with.
BE Pressure Washer 200′ Hose Reel
Finally, let us conclude with a comparatively less used model out there. We here at Turf Mechanic don’t always only look at the top selling models, but also the ones that actually deserve to be bought.
So, this model looks like a really good model if you’re willing to give something new a shot. The main features behind this model might be summed up as follows:
- This model holds 200 ft of 3/8 inch hose. Keep in mind that this is different than the size we mentioned for the last models, so this model is a good choice for you if you’re looking for this specific size.
- Next, this model also seems to be a fairly generic choice, which is not a bad choice all the time, as this model proves with its fairly high level of functionality.
- Finally, this model, while not too cheap, is actually priced pretty reasonably. Being priced less than the Reelcraft model, this model actually seems like a better choice if you’re on comparatively conservative budget.
People looking for extra long hose reels usually are always on the lookout for good deals on extra long hoses and movable reel carts because hoses this long can get very heavy and hard to move around. Make sure to see the following pages for my thoughts and recommendations on these specialty lawn and garden products.
The Best Hose Reel Carts (With Wheels)
In my opinion these are the three best hose reel carts for average homeowners. Each holds between 100 and 300 feet of heavy duty hose and each cart includes the best quality fittings, connections, and leader hoses possible. Not only that but these carts are all made with strong metal construction and feature high quality pneumatic wheels which makes rolling them around a lot easier.
One thing to keep in mind is that on the smaller side there are fewer options. 100-foot wheeled hose carts aren’t as easy to find as 250-foot carts. Usually these carts are best used in fields or on properties with a lot of space and that’s why they tend to be bigger.
Now with that said let’s look at my selections:
Ironton Garden Hose Reel Cart
The first model that I would recommend is the Ironton Garden Hose Reel Cart. This model is by far the best model available for this size on amazon. The reason as to why most people have chosen this model and why they have mostly loved it are what we are going to take a look at. Of course, we are also going to look at the things people didn’t like about it.
So, the main features of this model might be summed up in the following points:
- As the article demands, this model boasts of a 100 feet capacity when it comes to holding the garden hose. This capacity, as you might have guessed by now, is fairly rare. So, if you’re looking for this particular one, this model is a great choice for you!
- This model has been specially designed to be durable. Proper heavy duty steel has been used in the construction and a corrosion resistant powder coat finishing has been given to ensure that it remains durable. Also, the heavy duty brass fittings that it has been provided with are sure to serve you for long!
- This model has been equipped with 8-inch poly wheels and a large handle. This basically ensures that you can easily move this model from one place to another, so you also get a great deal of mobility!
- Finally, a 5 feet long header hose makes it really easy for you to properly connect it!
- Keep in mind that a few customers on amazon have actually complained that it does not really hold 100 feet of hose. They claim that it is actually designed for 50 feet worth of hose, so that’s something you might want to do a little research on if you plan to go for this model.
Yard Butler HTC-1 Compact Hose Reel Truck
A model that you might want to go with if you follow the recommendations on Amazon is the Yard Butler. This model is one of the models that a lot of people have tried, and a majority of them have actually liked it! Now, you might be wondering if this model actually deserves all the love that it gets. Well, that’s something you can easily find out if you take a look at the main features of this model and the main reviews of the customers.
We can easily sum up the main features as well as the general notion of people towards it in the following points:
- As the article demands, this model boasts of a 100 feet capacity when it comes to holding the garden hose. This capacity, as you might have guessed by now, is fairly rare. So, if you’re looking for this particular one, this model is a great choice for you!
- The Max-Flo outlet pipe and kink-free center spool are some of the things that actually make this model famous. If you are looking for this in a model of this size, then this is the model that you might want to go with. Honestly, this is among the only models that provide these at this specific size/capacity.
- A few customers, however, are not really happy with their purchase. There are several reasons behind this. The first one is that they claim that this product is a really low quality one. A lot of them complain that this product isn’t really worth the price because of it’s poor quality. So, that’s something you might want to do a little research on.
- Another thing that they say is that this product actually ships in a different color than the one shown in the pictures on Amazon. So, for the clarification, the seller says that it ships in a gray color. So, if you are looking for it to serve a little bit of the aesthetic aspect too, that’s something you might want to keep in mind.
- Finally, this model is actually moderately expensive. While it isn’t too expensive, it really isn’t cheap either. I would say that it’s moderately expensive, and you must make sure you’re fine with paying that much money for it before you actually go for it.
AIM Metal Hose Reel Cart
Finally, as usual, there’s a model that we would like to recommend. This model does not really have any reviews on amazon yet, and as such it’s not possible to say exactly, but the features make this model look like a pretty good one to go for! We here at Turf Mechanic don’t always look at the most famous models, but also at the ones that actually deserve going for, which actually might serve you the best!
So, are you exited to know more about this model? The main features of this model, frankly, are enough to convince almost anyone to go for this model without a second thought. However, you should still remember to judge the model based on your needs. Anyway, the main features of this model might be summed up into the following words:
- As the article demands, this model boasts of a 100 feet capacity when it comes to holding the garden hose. This capacity, as you might have guessed by now, is fairly rare. So, if you’re looking for this particular one, this model is a great choice for you!
- This model has also been designed to provide you with durability. This model uses a metal frame to ensure that it lasts for a long time. Keep in mind that any model that lasts for a pretty long time actually pays for itself in a way. So, if that’s what you’re looking for, this model is actually a great one to go for!
- Reel Drum and Handle have been provided with this model in such a way that you can use both left and right hand to use it effectively. Honestly, for ambidextrous people such as myself, this is a blessing, because we often use our phone with the other hand at the same time!
- This model is also equipped with a specially designed angled hose connection. This Angled hose connection prevents hose from kinking or twisting when rewinding the reel. This, in turn, makes the hose much more durable!
- And did I mention that this model actually comes with a 100 inch hose for you from the very beginning? If you’re looking to buy both a hose and a model, this purchase serves as a combined one! Naturally, you also get a 4-feet leading hose to connect it properly. So, if it’s your first time or if you’re trying out a new setup, this model might be a great choice for you to go with!
- Honestly, while the price of this model is really high, we cannot really judge it properly. The main reason behind this is the fact that this model also comes with a hose, and the price would depend on the quality of the hose as well. And since no one has bought it yet, we cannot really know much about the quality. So, you might want to do a little research on that if you plan to go for this model.
For the most part each of the units featured above are pretty similar as are the others that I didn’t feature on this page. For most people shopping for a heavy duty hose cart using thick metal fittings you’ll find the biggest difference in units are their price tags, their physical appearance, and their size. Know what size you want or need and you’ll make choosing a high quality hose reel cart a lot easier.
Now let’s look into hangers and stands for basic hose storage.
My Favorite Free-Standing Hose Hangers & Stands
In my opinion these are the best free-standing hose hangers and hose stands. They are very strong, hold big hoses, and they consistently get great ratings from customers. I recommend any of them to my readers however you can see each selection below along with my thoughts to help narrow it down for you.
Before I get to the individual units however I’d like to point out that these are some of the best because of their durability, ability to hold both large and small hoses, their deep spikes that hold the hangers in place, and in some cases their attached leader hoses complete with strong metal connectors.
Now, let’s get to the list.
Liberty Garden Products 640 Carrington Decorative Metal Garden Hose Stand
One of the best brands you can go for when choosing a free standing hose stand is Liberty Gardens. They bring to you products that have a great quality and have a great deal of aesthetic value!
After all, hose stands need to look beautiful for you to actually use them everyday! And trust me when I say this, the ones that Liberty Garden brings to you makes you love them simply because of how beautiful they look!
Again, the people who have had the chance to use it also praise these models the most, making these models seemingly the best- no wonder they are the bestsellers!
However, we still request you to take a look at the main features of each of these models, the main ones for which this one might be summed up as:
- As I just remarked, this model boasts of a really beautiful look. For those of you who are like me and like having the aesthetic aspect fulfilled, this model is a good choice.
- Again, this model holds 125 ft of 5/8 inch garden hose. And it also comes with a faucet, making this model a really functional model for that size.
- This model also boasts of a great deal of mobility owing to its light weight and simple design. So, if that’s what you are looking for, if you’re looking to move your model once in a while, this model might be a great choice for you!
- While this model is not the cheapest option out there, it is still a really reasonable choice as far as the pricing is concerned as well. This makes this model one of those models almost everyone can go for regardless of their budget. This makes this model a good choice in its own right!
Liberty Garden Products 647 Manger Style Metal Garden Hose Stand
The next model in line is also a model from the same company: Liberty Gardens! In case you forgot already, their products are well known for being really awesome- they boast of quality, durability, aestheticism and affordability at the same time!
This model is also a great choice, and that’s what the reviews say. But that does not mean you should not take a look at the features of the model to confirm that yourself!
The main features of the Liberty Garden Products 657 Manager Style Metal Garden Hose Stand might easily be summed up in the following words:
- This model also boasts of aestheticism, just looking at this model makes you want to actually use it! This is a great thing, because you need to keep watering your lawn at proper intervals and looking at this model is going to make you happy whenever you do so!
- This model also boasts of the same 125 ft for 5/8 inch hose capacity. Naturally, it does not come with the hose.
- This model has also been finished with powder coating to ensure that it is durable. This durability pays for the model in the long run because you don’t have to replace it while you would have to do that with other models that aren’t as durable.
- Again, the people who have actually used this model love it. This is a strong indicator that this model is actually a good model and is worth buying.
- Finally, this model is also affordable. While not the cheapest model out there, it still is affordable for almost everyone, so it’s a good choice for everyone to go for, regardless of their budget!
Yard Butler HCF-3 Free-Standing Garden Hose Hanger with Faucet
Now, here’s another brand you might have heard of you have done your research: Yard Butler.
Yard Butler is also a good brand when it comes to lawn products. There are a lot of things that they make in this category, and almost all of their products are loved!
However, this is one of their models that hasn’t been received as well as the others. This model still boasts of a 3.5 star rating review on amazon (out of 5 stars).
The main reason behind this can easily be seen if we take a look at the main features of this model, which might be summed up in the following points:
- This model claims to be a heavy duty model, made of quality materials and it claims to be durable if you can preserve it properly. It also boasts of a lifetime warranty if everything goes well, that’s how confident it is about its quality.
- It also comes with a faucet, and that gives it a pretty high level of functionality to boast of at the same time.
- However, people aren’t really satisfied with this model. They complain that regardless of the quality of leading hose that you choose to why, you really cannot connect it with this model without leaking. This makes it a real problem and so you might want to do your research before you go for this model.
- Another problem that people complain about is that the company is totally oblivious towards the problem. People have had bibs breaking and they have not even replied to their emails. So, that gives you a good reason to do your homework before you choose to go for this model.
- This model is a little cheaper than the other models that we have already discussed. So, it can be similarly said that this model is one of those that everyone can go for regardless of their budget.
Panacea Scroll Hose Hanger
And last but not the least on our list is the Panacea Scroll Hose Hanger.
Now, this model has not been bought on Amazon as much as the other models on this list. But the few people who have bought this model have actually loved it- and that’s what truly matters.
We here at Turf Mechanics don’t always only look at the bestselling models, but the ones that deserve to be bought, and this is one of those. So, we really recommend that you at least consider taking a look at the main features of this model!
So, the features that this model boasts of can easily be summed up in a few points:
- Next in line is the Panacea Scroll Hose Hanger. This model actually boasts of a really simple and yet eye-catching design. So, it does get a few points when it comes to aesthetic consideration.
- This model also boasts of having a light weight, which is a good thing. In case you are planning to move it around once in a while, this model is a great choice to go with.
- Once again, this model has been loved by all the people who have bought it so far. This means that the people who have had the chance to use it have actually loved the model- this is one of the strongest indicators that this model is a really good model and is wroth going for.
- Finally, this model also boasts of a high level of affordability. So, even if you are on a comparatively conservative budget, that does not really matter! This model is one of the models you can always easily go for- making this model a good choice for everyone!
How to Choose the Free-Standing Hose Hanger That’s Best for You
One thing you must keep in your mind is that all hose hangers and stands are not the best choice for you. In fact the bestselling and/or the most or least expensive units may might not be the best for you. The best model for you is the model that serves all your needs at the price that seems the most reasonable to you! That’s why I hand pick a few options per category for you to compare.
Always keep this simple rule in mind: know what you are looking for!
If you found this helpful then you may want to check out one of the following related pieces on this site:
The Nicest Coiled Hose Baskets & Pots
Section in editing.
Additional Hose Management Resources
In lawn and garden care hose management is important. In many lawns above ground sprinklers relay on proper hose management. Leaks, kinks, and damage to garden hoses need to be avoided at all times. Make sure to see some of the additional articles on this site that will help you with hose management on your property.
► How To Prevent Kinks In Hoses
► 5/8″ vs 3/4″ Garden Hoses
► Is Hose Length Important?
► The Difference Between Rubber and Vinyl Garden Hoses
► Can You Bury A Hose Under Ground?