6 Unexpectedly Brilliant Ways to Reuse Old Garden Hoses

If you’ve ever stared at a cracked, kinked, or leaky garden hose and thought, “Well, that’s trash,” think again. There are many cool ways to reuse old garden hoses. Whether you’re looking for a weekend project with the kids or want to keep useful materials out of the landfill, these ideas are fun, practical, and full of personality.

I’ve personally repurposed old hoses a time or two—covering the wire handles of feed buckets to keep my hands from getting pinched or covering the edge of the gate so it doesn’t burn you when opening it in the summer. There’s something satisfying about turning a worn-out tool into something new and clever. So, if you’re ready to reuse old garden hoses in ways that go beyond the obvious, here are six ideas to get you started.

1. Build a Backyard Water Wall

This one’s a hit with kids and adults alike. Cut your old hose into segments and mount them on a pallet, fence, or even a sheet of plywood. Add funnels, recycled bottles, and spouts to create a cascading water maze. It’s part science experiment, part splash zone—and a great way to reuse old garden hoses in a way that’s both educational and entertaining.

2. Make a Garden Hose Wreath

Coil the hose into a circle, secure it with zip ties or wire, and decorate with faux flowers, ribbon, or seasonal accents. Hang it on your shed, gate, or front door for a quirky, garden-themed welcome. It’s a simple project that adds charm and personality to any outdoor space.

3. Create Tool Grip Covers

Slice short sections to reuse your old garden hose and slide them over the handles of shovels, rakes, or shears. Not only does it improve grip and comfort, but it also adds a splash of color to your garden gear. I’ve used this trick on feed bucket handles too—it’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference.

4. Weave a Rug or Basket

Use zip ties to coil the hose into a sturdy outdoor mat or basket. It’s durable, weatherproof, and perfect for storing garden gloves, twine, or muddy boots. If you’re feeling ambitious, try weaving different reused old garden hoses together for a patterned effect.

5. Install Garage Bumper Guards

Mount hose segments on garage walls where car doors swing open. They act as soft bumpers, protecting both your vehicle and your drywall from dings. It’s a clever reuse that’s especially handy in tight parking spaces.

6. Trap Earwigs in the Garden

Cut 12-inch pieces of some old garden hoses and place them in garden beds. Earwigs love hiding inside dark, cramped spaces—so they’ll crawl in, making them easy to relocate or remove. It’s a low-effort pest control method that’s surprisingly effective.

Final Thoughts

Upcycling doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few cuts and a little creativity, you can reuse old garden hoses in ways that are fun, functional, and family-friendly. Whether you’re building a backyard water wall or just adding comfort to your garden tools, these ideas prove that even the most worn-out hose still has something to offer.

So, before you toss it—try one of these projects. You might just find yourself looking for a way to reuse old garden hoses with fresh eyes and a whole lot of inspiration.