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We also put a few of these to the test at our testing lab in Des Moines, Iowa.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Though its a strong hose, its only 1.76 pounds and we found that it was easy to maneuver.
While testing it against rocks and a rake, we noticed that the hose stayed in perfect condition.
For storage, this compact number only takes up 0.15 square feet of space.
Credit: Amazon
As with most flat-key in hoses, the hose did kink quite a bit during testing.
However, its bright color does make it easier to locate at any time of day.
Thanks to its black color, the hose can be hidden in a garden bed in between your foliage.
Credit: Walmart
It can properly irrigate your vegetation as water seeps slowly out of the small holes while remaining concealed.
Its also available in50-footand75-footversions as well for those who have larger gardens.
To remove, simply unscrew.
Credit: Amazon
It also might kink (like most flat hoses) if the end caps arent tightened properly after use.
Its lightweight at only 0.75 pounds, and the fabric is UV-resistant, which adds to its durability.
Keep in Mind:Its five pounds, which is heavier than some other styles.
Credit: Miracle-Gro
The hose itself is made of UV- stabilized polyurethane and the fittings are tarnish-proof and lead-free solid chrome-plated brass.
It bounced back, however, so it didnt present too much of an issue.
Keep in Mind:Its more expensive than some other similar options.
Credit: Amazon
In addition, you also get two feeders which are essentially T connectors with a female soaker-to-garden-hose connector.
Setup is fairly quick and simple, too.
Keep in Mind:Its not as flexible as some other options.
The manufacturer provides a seven-year warranty, with a replacement or money-back guarantee for any quality issues.
In addition, its reinforced with fiber to keep it safe in all types of weather.
The hose is designed not to clog even if you do decide to put it under the surface level.
This hose is strong, resilient, and durable, while still being lightweight.
Heavier-duty hoses made from, for example, rubber, will weigh more than hoses made from fabric.
Diameter
Most soaker hoses will list their diameter on the package.
Common dimensions for soaker hoses are 0.375 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.625 inches, and 0.75 inches.
Also check to see what fittings are included with the hose.
Burst Pressure
There is a wide range of water pressures for residential outdoor spigots.
Cimino says that the pressure rating of your hose should ideally match the water pressure of your home.
That shows that it’s working as intended.
She also warns against turning the faucet up too high.
It’s not necessary for a soaker hose, and can be damaging.
Alternatively, Duford recommends calling in a plumber who can measure this for you.
Your Questions, Answered
How long should you leave a soaker hose on?
Take note of how many minutes/hours was necessary given your conditions, says Duford.
This will be a good starting point when deciding how long to leave the hose on for.
How does a soaker hose work?
It’s a very low water waste option and gardeners like the efficiency, says Cimino.
Soaker hoses can be used above ground or buried underground.
In a vegetable garden, Duford recommends running parallel lines for straight garden rows.
Use T fittings at the end of each row to create a grid, she advises.
What is the difference between a soaker hose and a sprinkler hose?
You never have to worry about a broken sprinkler head turning into a geyser!
As opposed to sprinkler hoses, soakers are not really suitable for sloped or uneven plant beds.
Kat is also the editor-at-large at Thomas-Xometry, the leading U.S. online platform for supplier discovery and product sourcing.
