How to Drain and Store Garden Hoses for Winter

Drain all water from your garden hoses by disconnecting them from spigots, running water out, and coiling them loosely before storing in a frost-free location to prevent freeze damage.

1. Disconnect Everything First. Turn off water at the spigot and unscrew hoses from all outdoor faucets, sprinklers, and attachments. Remove any spray nozzles, splitters, or other accessories from the hose ends. Water trapped in connections will freeze and crack fittings.
2. Let Gravity Do The Work. Hold one end of the hose high above your head and walk the length of the hose downhill, allowing gravity to pull all water out the lower end. For stubborn water pockets, gently shake or whip sections of the hose. Even small amounts of trapped water can burst the hose when frozen.
3. Blast Out Hidden Water. Connect a leaf blower or air compressor to one end of the hose and blow compressed air through the entire length. This removes water droplets that gravity alone cannot eliminate. Work from both ends to ensure complete moisture removal.
4. Spot Weak Points Now. Examine the entire hose length for cracks, splits, or worn areas as you loosely coil it. Make large loops rather than tight coils to prevent kinking. Mark damaged sections with tape so you can repair or replace them before next season.
5. Keep Cold Out Completely. Hang coiled hoses on wall hooks in a garage, basement, or shed where temperatures stay above freezing. Avoid storing on concrete floors where moisture can accumulate. Keep hoses away from chemicals, sharp tools, and rodents that might damage the material.