Garden hoses are not acceptable for recycling, as they contain both plastic and metal parts and cannot be repurposed in one process. When hoses are cracked or leaky, they may also waste water and be inefficient. However, hoses are durable, waterproof and flexible, giving them tremendous potential for reuse. By considering your activities inside and outside the home, you can easily recycle and reuse this item.
Blade Guard
Cut a hose into sections which can be slipped over the blades of a lawnmower, axe, ice skate or other sharp tool, suggests Purdue University's Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering. The rubber sections can also be used on bucket or paint can handles, to make them easier to carry and handle, notes Earth911.com. Or place them over the chains on children's playsets, to protect the children's fingers from being hurt, adds the website The Good Human.
Sprinkler
Use a flat nail to poke a series of holes along an old garden hose, turning it into a sprinkler, recommends Purdue University. The hose can be left near a lawn or garden, for short-term soaking. Connect the other end of the hose to a rain barrel or cistern, to avoid concerns over watering restrictions, usage or utility costs, notes The Good Human.
Tree Ties
Use sections of hose to bolster or tie up leaning or growing trees, suggests Earth911.com. Rather than wrap bare wire around a tree, which can cut into the bark, thread the wire through the hose, then wind the hose around the base or limbs of the tree, twisting the wires together to secure the loop.
Wreath
Coil a hose and wrap it around herbs and flowers to create a wreath, points out the website Two Hearts Together. The bulk of the hose creates a series of appealing loops which can also help bind an array of unruly objects, such as gardening gloves or gardening tools.
Furniture
Repurpose garden hose as a material for building furniture, notes the website Green Upgrader. For inspiration, view the work of artist Chase DeForest, who has woven chairs using hoses instead of rattan and built cabinets using slotted garden hose panels. DeForest won the American Craft Council's Emerging Artist Grant in 2008.
Member Comments