How to Drain and Store Your Garden Hose for Winter

The short answer: To drain your garden hose for winter, disconnect it from the spigot, lower one end to let water flow out, then coil it loosely and store it indoors in a garage or shed. This prevents ice from expanding and cracking the hose.

Why You Should Never Leave a Hose Outside in Winter

If water is left inside a hose, it freezes and expands. That can crack the inner lining, split the rubber, or damage the brass fittings. Even a small crack can cause leaks or bursts next spring. Freezing can also weaken the hose’s structural integrity, making it more prone to kinks and punctures.

Additionally, a hose left connected to an outdoor spigot can cause water to back up into the pipe inside your house. If that pipe freezes, you could face a costly burst. Most manufacturers recommend storing hoses indoors for the off-season.

Step-by-Step: How to Drain Your Hose Properly

Follow these steps to ensure every drop is out:

1. Turn off the water supply: Shut off the valve at the wall or the main outdoor spigot.
2. Disconnect the hose: Unscrew the hose from the spigot. If it’s stuck, use a wrench but be careful not to damage the connector.
3. Lift one end high: Hold one end of the hose above your head while the other end is on the ground. Walk toward the ground end, letting gravity pull the water out. You’ll see water pour out.
4. Use a compressor (optional): If you have an air compressor, set it to 30 PSI or lower, insert a nozzle into the hose, and blow air through to force out remaining water. This is especially useful for long hoses.
5. Drain the nozzle: If you have a spray nozzle, remove it and drain any water from it. Store it separately.
6. Hang to dry: Drape the hose over a railing or ladder for an hour or two to let any residual moisture evaporate.

Store the hose once it’s completely dry to prevent mold and mildew.

How to Coil Your Hose to Prevent Kinks and Tangles

Proper coiling prevents kinks that can weaken the hose over time. Here’s a simple method:

• Lay the hose flat on the ground, making sure there are no twists.
• Start at one end and make large loops, about 2 to 3 feet in diameter. Keep loops loose, not tight.
• Use a figure-8 pattern if you’re storing on a wall hook: wrap the hose in a figure-eight around two hooks. This reduces stress on the hose.
• Secure the coil with a tie or a Velcro strap. Do not use wire or anything that could cut into the rubber.

If you have a hose reel, wind it slowly and evenly. Avoid overlapping layers, as that can cause pinching.

Where to Store Your Hose: Indoor vs Outdoor Tips

The ideal location is a garage, basement, or shed where temperatures stay above freezing. If you must store it outdoors, use a hose reel that is covered or a storage box to protect it from snow and ice.

Avoid storing directly on concrete or gravel, as those surfaces can transfer cold and moisture. Hang the coil on a wall hook or place it on a shelf. If you have limited space, consider a collapsible storage container designed for hoses.

For those who live in milder climates, you might get away with leaving the hose out, but even then, draining it is smart to prevent algae growth and prolong its life.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving the hose connected: This is a top cause of indoor pipe bursts.
• Force-draining with high pressure: If you use an air compressor, keep PSI low. High pressure can blow out the hose end.
• Storing in direct sunlight: UV rays degrade rubber and plastic, making it brittle.
• Using a tight coil: Tight coils create stress fractures at the bend points.
• Forgetting the spray nozzle: Nozzles can hold water and freeze, cracking the plastic or metal.

How to Revive a Hose That Was Stored Improperly

If you find a crack or leak in spring, you have options. Small leaks can be repaired with a hose repair kit or waterproof tape. For a burst section, you can cut out the damaged area and insert a connector. However, if the hose is severely cracked or brittle, it’s time for a new one.

When buying a replacement, consider quality and durability. Check out our guide on Which Garden Hose Should You Buy in 2026? Flexzilla vs Expandable to make an informed choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I leave my hose out if I drain it completely? A: Even if drained, freezing temperatures can damage the hose material over time. UV rays also degrade it. It’s best to store it indoors.

Q: How long does it take to drain a 100-foot hose? A: It depends on the hose diameter and slope. Typically, it takes a few minutes of gravity draining, plus time to air dry. Using an air compressor speeds it up.

Q: Is it okay to store a hose coiled on the ground in a shed? A: Yes, if the shed is insulated and stays above freezing. But hanging it prevents moisture buildup and keeps it tangle-free.

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