Garden hoses pose a recycling challenge as they don’t align with the machinery used in recycling centers. Consequently, a damaged or leaking hose often ends up in the landfill. However, by finding creative ways to repurpose them, we can divert them from this fate.
This issue isn’t new, nor are the potential solutions. In a 1993 episode of the Canadian comedy “The Red Green Show,” Red humorously explores alternative uses for old hoses in a segment called Handyman Corner. While his suggestions are largely comical—a “high-volume, long-range drinking straw,” a bike lock deterring thieves without pliers, and soup-filled suspenders—he does propose a practical idea: using a piece of hose to make carrying a paint can by its wire handle more comfortable. (Although, predictably, he spills the paint immediately.)
Not all of Red’s ideas are impractical. While the hose with funnels for eavesdropping is indeed absurd, the bail handle grip concept has potential. Let’s explore other innovative methods to keep garden hoses out of landfills.
Get a Grip on Bail Handles
@southernprepper1, a YouTuber, appreciates the bail handle grip idea, as do many DIY enthusiasts, crafters, and eco-conscious individuals. While Red Green used it for a paint can, @southernprepper1 utilized a short hose segment to cover part of a chicken waterer bail. He suggests forcing the hose over the handle’s end or cutting it lengthwise to slip over the bail while still attached to the waterer.
Guard Your Staked Plants
YouTuber @plantabundance uses bailing wire or an extension cord threaded through a hose section to stake plants securely without damaging them. This method protects plants when fixing a leaning plant or using straps to support a new tree. Depending on the materials used, various garden tasks can be accomplished with this technique.
Keep Garbage Bags in Place
While keeping plants stable is crucial, preventing garbage bags from collapsing in the bin is arguably more pressing. Fix.com suggests using split hose segments to clip garbage bags onto the garbage can’s rolled lip or top edge, ensuring the bag remains secure when items are tossed in.
Make Doormats with the Beautiful People
Repurposing a hose to welcome guests is a creative idea. Many crafty individuals have explored this concept, from a questionable project involving a hose, $24 worth of glue, and a doormat to practical versions using cable ties. The Hallmark Channel’s color-coordinated entry humorously answers the question of how many Hallmark Channel actors are needed to roll up a garden hose—seven, apparently.
Carry Your Entire Grocery Haul with Ease
YouTuber @Thaitrick creatively uses old garden hose segments as handles for grocery bags. By gathering multiple bag handles with a single hose handle, carrying groceries becomes more manageable and comfortable. This simple hack is universally useful, as everyone faces the grocery bag struggle occasionally.
Cover Saw (and Other) Blades
@homemadesimple on YouTube, among others, suggests using split hose segments to cover straight-edged handsaw blades for safety and blade protection. While demonstrated on a dovetail saw, this technique works for tools like axes and bow saws, although applying it to a long bow saw blade may take significant time.
Accessorize Your Tools with Garden Hoses
@Thaitrick also proposes slipping a hose piece over plier jaws for a non-marring grip. Another creative idea involves screwing split hose segments onto a board to hold hand tools. This method effectively grips and releases tools like screwdrivers, chisels, pliers, and wrenches.
Make a DIY Pool Vacuum
For above-ground pools with non-standard connectors, YouTuber @burbbilly demonstrates how to clean the pool using a garden hose and a simple siphon. By utilizing the pool’s filter pump intake or output, sand and dirt can be efficiently removed from the pool’s bottom.
Drip Irrigation That Doesn’t Have to Drain Your Bank Account
Innovative YouTubers utilize old garden hoses in drip irrigation systems. @learninghydro uses discarded hoses as trunk lines to transport water from hydroponic systems to potted plants. By drilling ¼-inch holes in the hose, drip irrigation tubing branches can be added. @NortheastEdible employs a leaky hose as a drip tape alternative, placing leaks at plant bases needing water.
It’s Time for Clock Fun
YouTuber @artcrafthome1005 presents a quirky DIY clock project using a garden hose as a structural component. By forming a hose circle and wrapping it with jute twine, the hose serves as the clock’s outer edge. @artcrafthome1005’s unique style includes using googly eyes of varying sizes for hour markers.
Make an Elaborate… Something
Should you create something even if you don’t know what it is? @Sofiacraftsdiy1’s YouTube project might inspire creativity. The project involves forming two identical hose circles, covering them with manila rope, and adding various discarded items. While the project’s purpose remains unclear, it appears to be a potential potted plant stand.
