Finding the right nozzle for your garden hose can be a difficult and irritating process. Hoses are used for a wide range of watering needs from keeping your garden hydrated and lush to washing your car. Different projects require varying spray patterns and pressure.
If you have ever attempted to run your garden hose without a specialized nozzle, you understand that it’s nearly impossible to accomplish anything productive.
With so many options available, finding the perfect model for your specific needs to turns into a nightmare. Luckily, we have collected and tested the best garden hose nozzles available. We have also crafted a buyer’s guide to help explain the important features and specifications so that you can make an informed purchasing decision.
Selecting the Best Garden Hose Nozzles 2018
| Product | Dimensions | Weight | Brand | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy Duty 10 Pattern Metal Watering Nozzle (Editor’s Choice) | 7.2 x 5 x 2.5 inches | 12 ounces | Gardenite | Check Price |
| Bon-Aire HN-10C Original Ultimate Hose Nozzle | 10.8 x 3 x 7.2 inches | 10.1 ounces | Bon-Aire | Check Price |
| ikris Garden Hose Nozzle (Editor’s Choice) | 6 x 6 x 2.4 inches | 11.5 ounces | ikris | Check Price |
| Nelson Fireman | 7 x 2 x 6 inches | 1.09 pounds | Nelson | Check Price |
| SprayTec 9 Pattern Hose Nozzle | 8.8 x 5.2 x 3 inches | 1.1 pounds | SprayTec | Check Price |
| Crenova HN-03 Spray Nozzle | 6.3 x 4.9 x 1.6 inches | 14.4 ounces | Crenova | Check Price |
| Gilmour Super Duty | 4.9 x 2.5 x 7 inches | 13.9 ounces | Gilmour | Check Price |
| Gilmour Medium Duty Metal | 1 x 1 x 1 inches | 1.6 ounces | Gilmour | Check Price |
| Lifecolor Garden Hose Nozzle | 6.4 x 3.9 x 1.4 inches | 2.88 ounces | lifecolor | Check Price |
| Rhino Tuff Products Garden Hose Nozzle | 9.9 x 8.6 x 2.7 inches | 12 ounces | Rhino Tuff Products | Check Price |
1. Gardenite Heavy Duty 10 Pattern Metal Watering Nozzle : Most Versatile Option
The Gardenite Heavy Duty 10 Pattern Metal Watering Nozzle packs a heavy-duty punch.
Featuring a robust solid metal with a baked enamel finish, this option was built to withstand heavy use.
Our testing team loved the ergonomic rubber handle which keeps hands from growing tired during use.
- Heavy duty solid metal
- Baked enamel finish prevents rusting
- Ergonomic rubber handle for added comfort
- Ten separate watering patterns
- Extremely versatile
- Easy to install and use
- May require extra maintenance in areas with hard water, but you can use vinegar to remove any hard water deposits
2. Bon-Aire HN-10C Original Ultimate Hose Nozzle : Best for Areas Prone To Drought
The Bon-Aire HN-10C Original Ultimate Hose Nozzle is crafted from stainless steel and fiberglass, making it rustproof, leak resistant.
It’s also one of the most comfortable nozzles to use, so your hands won’t grow tired during longer watering sessions.
This item is also easy to use and maintain.
- Versatile
- Rut and leak proof
- Great for dryer climates
- Won’t waste water
- Five different watering patterns
- Comfortable to use
- “Fireman hose” design takes a little time to get used to operating
3. ikris Garden Hose Nozzle : Best All Around Option
The iKris Garden Hose Nozzle features a solid metal construction with a baked enamel finish.
A soft rubber grip keeps hands comfy during use.
It’s rust resistant so that it will be a long-lasting addition to your gardening tool arsenal.
- Durable
- Resistant to rusting
- Ten different water patterns
- Easy to use
- Needs to be put away after use to prevent it from wearing out
4. Nelson Fireman : Heaviest Duty Option for Big Jobs
The Nelson Fireman blends watering precision with an easy and fun to use nozzle.
It features a handle that works similar to the models used by the fire department.
While this version may take a bit of time to acclimate to, our testing team enjoyed using it for a variety of applications.
- Heavy duty
- 250 psi
- Adjustable spray
- Great for big jobs like washing your vehicle
- The spray pressure is somewhat too strong for more delicate applications
5. SprayTec 9 Pattern Hose Nozzle : Most Durable Option
The SprayTec 9 Pattern Hose Nozzle is a durable option thanks to its all metal trigger and body.
It is finished with a high quality anodized coating to prevent rusting.
The handle is coated with a comfortable rubber to maximize the comfort of your hand during use.
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Nine different spray patterns
- Great for clumsy individuals
- Isn’t as pressurized as other options
6. Crenova HN-03 Spray Nozzle : Terrific High-Pressure Choice
The Crenova HN-03 Spray Nozzle is powerful and extremely durable thanks to its all brass design.
An included rubber washer helps prevent leaks and water waste.
Our testers were ecstatic with the consistent water flow in any position or direction while using this option.
- Durable
- Amazing water pressure
- Easy to use
- Very heavy due to brass composition
7. Gilmour Super Duty : Great Lightweight Choice
The Gilmore Super Duty nozzle is crafted from stainless steel.
It also features an impact resistant coupling to prevent rusting and avoid damage during accidental drops.
Our testers loved its lighter weight compared to other metal options.
- Lighter weight metal option
- Eight spray patterns
- Easy to use
- Rust resistant
- May tend to leak with heavy use
8. Gilmour Medium Duty Metal : Good Budget Option
The Beckett Pond PVC Liner is sized at 17 feet by 12 feet, making it a wonderful choice for larger projects.
It can accommodate up to 945 gallons of water.
Made of PVC, it is on the thinner end of the spectrum at 20 ml so that it would be a great option for odd shapes.
- Flow dial adjusts spray strength and pattern
- Durable
- Inexpensive
- Easy to work with
- Doesn’t have many of the fancy options of pricier versions
9. Lifecolor Garden Hose Nozzle : Best for Multitasking
The Lifecolor Garden Hose Nozzle is composed of ultra-light ABS plastic.
This makes it extremely easy to handle and hold for long periods of time.
The handle has a soft rubber coating, so it’s a lovely choice for anyone with carpal tunnel or a propensity for hand or wrist pain.
- Nine spray patterns
- Extremely lightweight
- Comfortable to use
- Great water pressure
- All plastic design may be more prone to wear and tear
10. Rhino Tuff Products Garden Hose Nozzle : Great for Families that Want to Multi-Task
The Rhino Tuff Garden Hose Nozzle is a highly versatile model.
With nine water spray patterns, its ready to go from watering plants to spray mud off your tires in a flash.
It’s easy enough for kids to use during summer water activities while being extremely durable.
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Perfect for gardens, cleaning, and playing
- Crafted from aluminum
- Trigger may be predisposed to wearing out with extremely heavy use
Best Garden Hose Nozzles – Buyer’s Guide
There are hundreds, if not thousands, of options currently available for garden hose nozzles. As a result, it can be difficult to ascertain which one is best for you and your home.
Some choices are better for gardening while others work best for pressurized cleaning. We’ve sorted through the options and constructed this guide to explain the ins and outs of nozzles to demystify this common outdoor tool.
Key Considerations in Selecting a Garden Hose Nozzle
There are several major components to consider when searching for a hose nozzle including material composition, nozzle style, spray patterns, connection, flow rate, size, and shut off. Let’s take a closer look at these important options.
Material Composition
Each garden hose nozzle is comprised of two main components: the handle and the sprayer. These items can be made from a vast array of materials. While some are completely made from metal, others could be plastic, and others are crafted from a combination of metal and plastic.
Metal hose nozzles are generally accepted as the best material thanks to their longevity. These versions are usually heavier, which means they may cause your hands and arms to grow tired after wielding them for long periods of time. You can find metal nozzles in stainless steel, brass, aluminum, or construction die-cast, among other options. Brass nozzles are by far the heaviest.
Many metal crafted models are covered in a powder coating or specialized finish. This feature aims to cut down on rusting and corrosion, while also providing a better grip. It can also lend to the aesthetic aspects of the nozzle.
Some nozzles are made of a blend of metal and plastic. These options are typically created by taking a metal nozzle and fashioning it with a plastic handle. This can be a great option since the inner workings are made from metal, so they have less chance of breaking. A plastic handle lends to allowing a lighter product that’s easier and more comfortable to hole, especially for long periods of time.
Purely plastic versions are also found at any local store. While these nozzles are considerably lighter and easier to wield for long days of watering, they are more likely to break. Another downside lies in the fact that they can wear down over time by being exposed to sunlight. They are also more apt to leak. For these reasons, we highly suggest avoiding all plastic versions.
Hose Nozzle Styles
Nozzles can be purchased in a variety of styles. You can find them in traditional, pistol grip, dial or turret, watering wand, fan, fireman, or soaker. Here’s a closer look at the differences between these styles.
Traditional
The traditionally styled nozzle features a straight barrel which is twisted by hand to govern the amount of water allowed to flow through. By twisting the end of this type of nozzle, you can switch quickly from a fine misting spray to a harder stream with just a few simple turns. You can also stop the water flow entirely by twisting all the way to one side. Brass versions can be extremely heavy and cumbersome to hold for longer periods.
Pistol Grip
A pistol grip nozzle is reminiscent of a handgun. You just point and press the trigger to allow water to flow out. You can stop the flow of water by releasing the trigger. This style is often made of aluminum, plastic, or a mix of the two. Since there are many moving parts involved, this style is easily worn out or broken, so purchasing a higher quality option is crucial.
Dial or Turret
A dial or turret styled nozzle employs a key feature of allowing the user to turn a dial that adjusts the water spraying pattern. These nozzles usually have between two and ten various water spray patterns. The patterns could include a fine mist, jet spray, cone, center spray, flood, soak, and shower among others.
Dial nozzles are a terrific option for gardeners that need to do a large amount of close watering. If your garden has many different types of plants that enjoy different styles of spray patterns, this is the easiest way to customize the spray leaving the hose fully. Seedlings, for example, enjoy a fine misting spray which supports their hydration needs while keeping them safe from the damage of a too harsh spray. When watering larger containers, a soak pattern may prove to be more helpful.
We appreciate the variety this style offers and that it removes the guesswork in trying to customize spray patterns. While many versions are created entirely from plastic, you can find art metal options as well. If you do choose a fully plastic model, be sure to place it indoors when not in use to keep it from becoming sun damaged or weathered.
Watering Wand
Watering wand style nozzles allow for an extended reach. This feature allows you to place the water exactly where you need it. Precision spraying is extremely useful for hanging plant baskets and deeper garden beds.
You can find watering wands that extend outwards, similar to a telescope or stationary models. Many also have a cut off valve or trigger near the base to allow you to stop the water flow without having to turn the faucet off. You can also buy versions with rubber or foam grip handles that are comfortable to hold and keep your hands warmer.
Fan
Fan nozzles push water out in a fan-shaped spray pattern. This makes this style ideal for small gardens and any outdoor plants or shrubs. Fan nozzles are wonderful for watering plants quickly and efficiently. This style is versatile since it is able to dispense large amounts of water in a gentle manner, protecting your fragile plants from damage.
Fireman
A fireman style nozzle is one of our favorite options for washing your vehicle thanks to the higher water pressure it is capable of dispensing. This versatile version allows you to easily switch from a fine misting of water to a more forceful jet stream by twisting the nozzle. Most fireman style nozzles are composed of metal and many feature a powder coating which is designed to protect the nozzle while enhancing the grip.
Soaker
Soaker, or bubbler, nozzles don’t actually spray water. Instead, this model allows the water to drip out slowly. We love soaker nozzles for extremely delicate flowers and plants. The special design keeps your garden safe from harmful, harsh sprays of water while keeping it perfectly hydrated. This is also a great option for newly planted trees and for minimizing water runoff and waste.
Spray Patterns
Finding an option with customizable spray patterns is key for most gardens. Depending on your needs, you may want to look for an option that allows you to spray a fine mist, a steady shower, a stronger jet stream, a focused stream, a slower soaking option, or one that does all of these and more. Choosing a nozzle with multiple types of spraying action guarantees you can customize your hydration efforts to suit any type of plant or project, giving you the most bang for your buck.
Connection
The majority of hoses are created with a metal or plastic fitting at the end. This is what you’ll be using to connect your nozzle to your garden hose. Make sure you keep the sizing of the thread handy while perusing your options. For the most part, United States garden hoses feature a standard thread size known as “garden hose thread size,” or GHT. However, other countries, like Great Britain for example, use British standard pipe, BSP, sizing. Keep this fact in mind to ensure your chosen nozzle is a perfect fit.
You always want to utilize a washer when attaching the nozzle to your hose. This will prevent leaks. We recommend a rubber composed washer for best results.
You can also opt to go for a quick connect system. A quick connect system means you can avoid having to screw the nozzle on and off with each and every use, which would get tedious. With this system setup, you just quickly snap the pieces together, and you are ready to water. Try to find an option composed of a heavy-duty brass or a lighter weight aluminum for maximum durability.
Flow Rate
Generally speaking, most garden hoses have flow rates between 2.5 and 5.0 gallons of water per minute. This number can vary based on the style of hose and the water pressure. Most nozzles are perfectly capable of accommodating flows within this range.
Shutoff Valve
Many nozzles include a specialized shutoff valve. This means you can stop the flow of water with a twisting motion, releasing a trigger, rotating the barrel, or by moving a valve. This feature is advantageous in states where water use is limited due to weather or drought situations since you will be less likely to waste any.
Size
Garden hoses are available in different sizes. The most common sizes available are:
• 3/8 inch diameter
• ½ inch diameter
• ¾ inch diameter
• 5/8 inch diameter
• 1 inch diameter
A 5/8 inch diameter hose is usually your best option for most of your hydration needs and gardening tasks.
Keeping these key factors in mind will assist you in determining the best garden hose nozzle for your needs. If you will be using the hose for multiple tasks, selecting a nozzle with more than one spray pattern is essential for saving you time, effort, and money. We hope this article was beneficial in choosing the best garden hose nozzle for your garden. Leave us a comment below with your favorite brands and tips for watering.
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Harper says
We’ve been searching for a nozzle for a whole month! But now I’m so happy to use The Rhino Tuff Garden Hose Nozzle, it’s very easy to water the garden with it and I really like how it looks. My husband also finds it very convenient. Recommend to everybody, who wants a high-quality tool for a reasonable price.
Lucas M. says
What I really like about these hose nozzles is that today I’m watering the garden and grass, pretending like I’m a professional gardener, but the other day I play with my dog and wash the car. Now I’m searching for the best one and your guide is very helpful, thanks.
Auden says
If you don’t know what nozzle to choose, pay attention to the material it’s made from. I have a great experience in using some metal nozzles, they’re working effective much longer than plastic ones. Of course, it shouldn’t be very heavy, just try to find a gold middle. Good luck!
Alan says
I like The Lifecolor Garden Hose Nozzle so much! We bought it when our garden was absolutely done. It’s very handy and convenient to use and this nozzle can make your watering life much easier. It has a lot of different options, we use only three of them. Pay your attention to this one, when you’ll be buying a nozzle.
Benjamin says
I needed a nozzle not for my garden, but mostly for a car washing. It’s important to choose the right type and the best one is a fireman one. It copes with all the dirt on the car without any problems, it saves a lot of time and money, if you choose a nozzle of high quality.
Oliverr says
I haven’t held anything better than Lifecolor Garden Hose Nozzle in my hands! The quality is so good, there are 8 spray patterns which I like the most. It’s an appropriate variant for those who want to get a perfect nozzle without spending lots of money.
Andrew says
When I was buying my first garden hoze nozzle, I didn’t think of reading any guide or watching a review video, I just asked a consultant in the shop. Now I wish I could find this page earlier, all information is very useful, thank you!
Celena says
I’m not sure that there’s everything better than The Rhino Tuff Garden Hose Nozzle. We’ve bought this nozzle a year ago and it’s still working good and does everything it should. Recommend to everybody, who wants to see a result and to hold something good in their hands.
Christian says
I came across this page while searching for the nest garden hose nozzle and you know the information is very useful, in this comment I just want to say thank you, because now I’m very glad about my purchase. Doubtless, it’s a very good guide.
Iriny says
I will never spend my money on trash, that is why I was choosing a garden hose nozzle for some weeks. Luckily, I had it delivered yesterday and I’m very excited! The Crenova HN-03 Spray Nozzle looks as good as in the picture, it works so well, I don’t know what to say more. It just does everything that it was promised to buyers.
Daniela says
Choosing a good hose nozzle is very important. If you buy the right one, it will save you so much time and water. I need a water hose for many purposes like washing a car, filling a pool and also playing with my dog (which is the most important), that’s why I highly recommend watching all the videos like on this page, they’re really helpful.
Tyra says
When I finished a project of garden and pond I was searching for some good equipment. My friend helped me a lot with it and he was talking about garden hose nozzles. Finally, I got The Gilmore Super Duty nozzle delivered two days ago and now I’m trying to get used to it. The first impression is good, I see that it’s a product which can work for a long time, but we’ll see.
Steve says
The most important thing in sustaining the garden is giving enough water for all flowers and trees. Nozzles are very helpful and it’ll be good if the nozzle you bought wouldn’t break after a month of using. I made my choice a couple of months ago and everything is still alright. Hope, my nozzle will be working as good as it does now because I want to buy some new trees which will need tonnes of water.
Olivia says
I had a great experience with a nozzle you recommend in this guide and feel that I need to share it! About 3 months ago I got my SprayTec 9 Pattern Hose Nozzle delivered. It was love at first sight! First of all, it’s very comfortable to hold this nozzle in a hand. The second thing you see when holding it – quality. It’s made so well, the materials are expensive, it can be seen. Also, I like all its features, it many settings which are suitable for every situation. So, not to write more, it’s the best product I could get for this price. Recommend it to everybody.
Anna says
After reading your guide I decided to buy a nozzle you recommended. Hope, it will be delivered next week, because I want to make the project of garden real. Like in the pictures: beautiful garden, colorful flowers and me watering them with a new nozzle.
Penny says
I’m absolutely in love with The Gilmore Super Duty nozzle! The materials and way of working are very good comparing this nozzle to the others that I’ve ever used (and I had about four of them). Just take a look at this one while searching. You must like it.
Jenna says
While choosing a garden nozzle don’t be afraid to ask for a piece of advice your neighbor or relative. I thought that only guides and forums could give me the answer what to buy, but all my hesitations were gone away when I just bought a nozzle which my neighbor uses. He said it’s quite cheap and works about 2 years without problems.
Melissa says
I didn’t have much money for buying a nozzle, that’s why I was looking only for budget options. It was so hard to find something with positive reviews and that will be durable. I saw The Beckett Pond PVC Liner and couldn’t think of other nozzles. Look at the design and pros and cons. I suppose it was a good choice as it has been working without any problems for about 3 months already.
Sophie says
All the nozzles I bought had problems, they broke all the time and I couldn’t do anything with it. Then I just said my husband I wouldn’t be responsible for our garden anymore, and he bought and cared for everything by himself. Now I see that garden looks fantastic. Such a funny situation!
Carter says
I don’t water my garden as often as I want, that’s why I thought maybe the problem is with the equipment I use. Spent much time reading, searching and comparing and finally bought The Rhino Tuff Garden Hose Nozzle. I can’t say that it works, I still often forget to turn this nozzle on and to water all trees and flowers that I have, but these rare moments are more comfortable to spend with this one.
Ethan L. says
It’s always a pleasant moment when a new season is about to open and you spend hours searching for new equipment remembering what else you need. And it’s great to find out that every year there is something new which makes gardening completely different and more and more comfortable.
Georg says
I replace all the nozzles twice a year so I bought a new one after reading the reviews. And my verdict is The ikris Garden Hose Nozzle is the best I’ve ever had! It looks very well, the price is reasonable and it doesn’t let out the water while working. Take this one and you’ll understand me.
Ivory says
If you think that all nozzles are built the same then you haven’t tried the one which I got delivered a few months ago. This nozzle works well and is easy to cope with. Pay more money but buy equipment of high quality. I’ve already recommended it all my relatives and friends who have a garden.
KK says
I’ve been using the same nozzle for more than six years and changed every other with the same one. The Nelson Fireman nozzles are heavily built and feel very solid, but how often they fail! I replaced it to the same just because I didn’t want to spend time choosing something, but now I’m angry and want to prevent you from buying it.
JACK says
I’m searching for a nozzle with different spray modes because I need not only to wash my car with it but play with my dog, water the flowers and trees. Hope, I’ll find something here in your guide.
Philip says
I like so much that there are really good options on the market which have a high quality. For me it’s very important to have a nozzle made from stainless steel, they’re the most reliable in my opinion. So my choice was quite obvious – The Gilmore Super Duty nozzle, it’s not only good for its materials but it’s very light and durable also. If you haven’t tried it so why?
Lori says
Don’t believe your friends in any question. My friend offered me his hose nozzle and said that it didn’t suit him, I paid some money and turned out that it works terribly but when I asked my friend said everything is ok. I’m so angry now not only because of the friend’s behavior but because I have to spend a lot of hours searching for a new nozzle.