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The Best Garden Hose Nozzles Of 2022 For Lawn & Home Chores

This product guide was written by Mark Wilson
Last Updated July 26, 2022
Mark Wilson
Mark is a longtime journalist based in Austin, Texas with a background in breaking news reporting and media relations. Outside of the office he spends nearly every waking moment hunting down an adrenaline rush through mountain bike racing, gravel touring, rock climbing, triathlons and trail running. Mark also is a bassoonist who loves learning to play the latest hits for his friends, and will never back down from a karaoke stage. His rest days are spent lounging with his wife and dog, playing chess and cooking fancy meals, but always planning for the next adventure.
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It’s hard to find a home anywhere in the world that doesn’t have a garden hose in the yard, but a really good hose is only as good as the hose nozzle. From washing your car to hosing down the driveway and keeping your lawn and garden beds hydrated, you need a garden hose nozzle that gives you spray options for each task. Sometimes you need a jet spray, and other times, you need a light mist. The best garden hose nozzles give you exactly the spray patterns you need, when you need them.

There are a few different nozzle types to choose from, including fire hose, pistol grip, and watering wand. If you, like most people, use your hose for a variety of tasks (not only for watering plants, but also cleaning the driveway, washing the car, etc.), you may want to opt for a pistol grip nozzle or a fireman-style one that comes with several different spray options.

Take a look at our in-depth guide so you can pair your garden hose with a garden hose nozzle that is reliable and allows you to tackle everything from outdoor cleaning to flower watering and more.

Our Top Picks
  • Best Fireman-Style Nozzle: Bon-Aire Original Ultimate Garden Hose Nozzle
  • Best Pistol Grip Nozzle: SprayTec Garden Hose Nozzle Sprayer
  • Best Old-School Hose Nozzle: Gilmour Zinc Pistol Grip Garden Hose Nozzle
  • Best Multipurpose: Skytree Garden Hose Nozzle
  • Best Heavy Duty Nozzle: Melnor Metal Garden Hose Nozzle
  • Best Value Nozzle: VIKING Thumb Control Hose Nozzle
  • Best Thumb Control Nozzle: Gilmour Watering Duty Thumb Control Nozzle
  • Best Watering Wand: The Relaxed Gardener Watering Wand

The Best Garden Hose Nozzle

1
Bon-Aire Original Ultimate Garden Hose Nozzle

bon aire original ultimate garden hose nozzle

If you want to get your kids to clean the outdoor areas, get this fireman-style nozzle on your hose and watch them go to work. This is the ultimate hose nozzle for homeowners. With five different spray patterns, you can do everything from blasting gunk off the driveway to spraying a gentle shower over your flowerbeds. This is a strong and durable garden hose nozzle, and it fits well with 5/8 inch hoses or larger.

The Bon-Aire Original nozzle is incredibly well made and engineered with aircraft-grade aluminum, stainless steel, and fiberglass. It has a comfortable grip, a soft rubber handle with an easy dial nozzle, and a uniquely patented two-way shut-off system. All in all, this fire hose nozzle will find a way to be used, so be sure to combine it with a quality garden hose for the best results for both cleaning and watering.

Key Features:

Leak-free guarantee and a unique two-way shut-off system

Heavy-duty metal spray gun

5 adjustable spray patterns

Fire hose nozzle construction

Comfort grip soft rubber

Specification:
  • BrandBon-Aire
  • ModelHN-10AL
  • Weight6.1 Ounces
Pros

Rust and leakproof construction

Great for dryer climates

Water conserving design

Ideal for watering plants

Cons

Isn’t as pressurized as other options (which is a plus for some tasks)

Prone to leaking with heavy use

BUY ON AMAZON
BUY ON WALMART

2
SprayTec Garden Hose Nozzle Sprayer

spraytec garden hose nozzle sprayer

The first thing you’ll notice when you look at the SprayTec Garden Hose Nozzle Sprayer is its durable metal construction. This one features a 100% metal body and trigger, so you don’t have to be gentle with it. It’s also rust and corrosion resistant, so it will last several seasons or more. The soft rubber-coated handle makes it comfortable to hold on to, and the trigger lock buckle allows you to choose one spray pattern and spray away.

This trigger-style hose nozzle offers nine different spraying patterns, so you can choose the jet setting for hosing down pathways or a fine mist for watering delicate plants. You can even choose a gentle shower and bathe your dog. You no longer need different nozzle types for different tasks, so choose your spray pattern and hose away. Adjust the spraying pattern of this beauty with ease and enjoy all the benefits of purchasing this awesome garden hose nozzle that is compatible with most standard American hoses. While you’re irrigating your yard, make sure you also check our guide to the best smart sprinkler systems.

Key Features:

Pistol grip trigger nozzle

100% metal construction

Threaded front with a classic rear control

Soft rubber coated handle with trigger lock buckle

9 spray patterns to choose from

Specification:
  • BrandSprayTec
  • Weight1.05 Pounds
Pros

Very well made, should last for years

Comfortable to hold and easy to use

Nine different spray patterns for all types of tasks

Great for clumsy-handed individuals

Cons

Can leak with heavy use

BUY ON AMAZON

3
Gilmour Zinc Pistol Grip Garden Hose Nozzle

gilmour zinc pistol grip garden hose nozzle

If you’re looking for a reliable, basic garden hose nozzle, they don’t get much simpler than this one. The Gilmour nozzle is made from metal and has a threaded front for attaching cleaning tools. This one is simple and offers an excellent rear control that fits comfortably in your hands during use. It can fit on a standard garden hose, so all you need to do is decide what you’re cleaning or watering and turn on the spigot.

The flow control dial allows you to customize water flow, so you can choose the jet stream for cleaning and dial it down to lower water pressure for watering plants. While this is just a simple, old-school garden hose nozzle, it is durable and well-designed, ideal for those who just want to point and spray. It even has a trigger lock if you want to maintain the spray of water without maintaining a tight grip. This would also make an ideal gift for gardeners as it’s solidly built and well priced.

Key Features:

Durable and sturdy metal construction

Self-adjusting “duck” packing

Rust-resistant springs

Threaded front for easier attachment of additional cleaning tools

Specification:
  • BrandGilmour
  • Model857302-1001
  • Weight7.2 Ounces
Pros

Trigger squeeze allows for customized water flow

Sturdy construction, rust-resistant

Simple design, easy to use

Affordable price

Cons

Adjusting the spray can be a little fiddly

Needs to be put away after use

BUY ON AMAZON
BUY ON HOME DEPOT

4
Skytree Garden Hose Nozzle

skytree garden hose nozzle

There’s not much you won’t like when you attach the Skytree Garden Hose Nozzle to your garden hose. This durable nozzle features a thumb control to adjust water pressure making it a comfortable nozzle to use for extended periods. However, you should consider draining this nozzle and storing it indoors over the winter to prevent leftover water from freezing and damaging the internal parts.

Like many other garden hose nozzles, this one offers multiple spray patterns, so you can choose a high-pressure jet spray when cleaning the car or a light mist for watering hanging plants or delicate flowers. The eight spray patterns allow you to choose the best type of spray for the task in front of you, and you can also adjust the water flow. The handle is made from a plastic material shaped into an ergonomic design. If you have some heavy-duty cleaning to do, check out our selection of top pressure washer hoses.

Key Features:

Made from metal and plastic 

Eight different spray settings 

Thumb control for water pressure

Ergonomic, slip-resistant handle 

Frost-resistant materials

Specification:
  • BrandSkytree
  • ModelSTHZBTC01-US
  • Weight9.1 Ounces
Pros

High-quality materials and construction 

One-handed operation 

Can be used in low temperatures 

Can withstand high pressure

Cons

The shower setting isn’t the best

BUY ON AMAZON

5
Melnor Metal Garden Hose Nozzle

melnor metal garden hose nozzle

Whether watering plants or hosing mud off your SUV, the Melnor Garden Hose Nozzle puts other hose nozzles to shame. The Melnor features robust, durable construction and an ergonomic design that will perform for countless hosings. Instead of a single soaker nozzle type, this one gives you seven spray patterns so you can tackle a large mess on the driveway or give your petunias a light misty spray. What you’re essentially getting is seven hose nozzles in one convenient trigger-style nozzle.

The Melnor nozzle is easy to use and also very easy to handle. Your hands won’t cramp up from holding this nozzle, and you can also lock the trigger into place if you need a consistent jet stream or spray. All you need to get this nozzle to work is a hose connection and good water pressure. Use this trigger as a soaker nozzle to give the ground a good drenching before pulling out the gardening gloves and getting your hands into the dirt.

Key Features:

Rear trigger nozzle with an integrated lock

7 distinct spray patterns

Slip-resistant grip

Heavy duty metal construction

Specification:
  • BrandMelnor
  • Model995037
  • Weight7.2 Ounces
Pros

Designed with heavy-duty hosing in mind

Locking feature for constant flow

Versatile, great for general outdoor use and watering the garden

Great value for money

Cons

Unlike metal, the plastic components are not as durable

The nozzle may leak under high water pressure

BUY ON AMAZON
BUY ON WALMARTBUY ON NEWEGG

6
VIKING Thumb Control Hose Nozzle

viking 968701 garden hose nozzle

Garden hose nozzles are a dime a dozen but you don’t necessarily have to break your budget for a good one. The VIKING Thumb-Control Hose Nozzle is nicely priced for the average suburban yard. This pistol grip nozzle has components made from ABS plastic, rubber as well as stainless steel and with just a minimal amount of care, it can last for many years. It has 8 different spray options for you to choose from so you can get busy watering your plants or switch the dial nozzle and blast dirt and grime from the hard surfaces around your home with a high-pressure blast.

For your comfort, this is possibly the best garden hose nozzle when it comes to user comfort. The rubberized handle makes it easy to hold and the nozzle fits most standard garden hoses. The adjustable spray patterns have the perfect spray and pressure for just about any hose-related task so grab a reliable garden hose and get to work. For more useful products like this, be sure to browse our list of the most popular lawn sprinklers.

Key Features:

Made from ABS, rubber, & stainless steel 

Heavy duty high pressure nozzle

Eight spray pattern settings 

Fits standard-sized garden hoses

Extra rubber gasket included

Specification:
  • BrandVIKING
  • Model968701
  • Weight7.5 Ounces
Pros

Made with high-quality materials 

Versatile settings for all hosing jobs

Controlled spraying under any pressure

Cons

Some leaks reported after heavy use 

BUY ON AMAZON
BUY ON WALMART

7
Gilmour Watering Duty Thumb Control Nozzle

gilmour watering duty thumb control nozzle

From a jet spray to a fine mist, this Gilmour nozzle puts you in control. There are eight refined spray patterns for you to select depending on what you’re pointing the hose at, and there is also a convenient thumb control nozzle so you can easily regulate the water flow range. This is the best hose attachment thanks to the swivel connection that prevents the hose and nozzle from kinking which gives you better maneuverability while you work.

To ensure this is a spray nozzle that you’ll be using for a while, the sturdy construction combined with a metal coupling and stem are extra rugged to prevent damage from being dropped or stepped on. When it comes to the dial nozzles, this one from Gilmour with its swivel hose end is perfect for any garden. 

Key Features:

Thumb control nozzle to regulate flow range

Swivel connection for easy mobility

8 refined spraying patterns

Metal coupling and stem

Specification:
  • BrandGilmour
  • Model10.1 Ounces
  • Weight838122-1001
Pros

Swivel connection prevents kinking

All in one thumb control

Lifetime warranty

Cons

Prone to leaking

The pivot rings are a little flimsy

BUY ON AMAZON
BUY ON WALMART

8
The Relaxed Gardener Watering Wand

the relaxed gardener watering wand

If regular hose nozzle models cause you hand and wrist pain, definitely give watering wands a try. This 15-inch one from Relaxed Gardener is particularly comfortable to use with its one-touch thumb operation and lightweight, slip-resistant handle. With a multi-pattern head (mist, shower, jet, soaker, and more), it’s perfect for a wide variety of tasks, including watering hanging baskets and hard-to-reach plants, washing your car, cleaning your patio, etc.

The Relaxed Gardener Watering Wand is gentle enough to mist new seedlings, but strong enough to power through a tough cleaning job. But most of all, we’re big fans of its ergonomic design. Made of aluminum, it is lightweight and feels comfortable to hold for extended periods. You can also easily and smoothly adjust water flow with the simple thumb control shut-off switch. Whether you have arthritis in your hands, or lots of tall handing plants to water, this awesome watering wand is a perfect choice.

Key Features:

15″ garden hose sprayer

8 spray options for a variety of tasks

Anti-slip comfort grip

Thumb control shut-off valve

Anti-leak hose connection

Specification:
  • BrandRelaxed Gardener
  • Model‎PD-31560
  • Weight‎10.8 Ounces
Pros

Lightweight, fits well in hand, comfortable to use

Ideal for watering hard-to-reach plants

Excellent construction, should last many seasons

Cons

If you’re looking for a highly forceful model, there are more powerful options out there

BUY ON AMAZON
Garden Hose Nozzle Buying Guide
  • Why Trust Us
  • Who This Is For
  • How We Picked
  • Features To Look For In Garden Hose Nozzles
  • Types Of Hose Nozzles
  • Garden Hose Nozzle FAQ

Why Trust Us

Few things are more frustrating than a garden hose nozzle that leaks or just doesn't work as it should. To bring you the best garden hose nozzles, we conducted hours of research, evaluating each nozzle on design, spray options, and overall value. We also relied on recommendations from our team members who've been through their fair share of hose nozzles. Overall, the best hose nozzle is one that is durable, easy to use, and easily connects to any old garden hose and is ready to go.

Who This Is For

Our guide to the best garden hose nozzles has been put together for people tired of constantly replacing inferior garden hose nozzles. If you're done with constantly replacing your hose nozzles, then this guide is definitely for you.

How We Picked

While checking out a variety of hose nozzles, we looked at the ones that were sturdy, easy to use, and offered versatility. We decided the best hose nozzles have a robust construction and would last several seasons of being left out in the elements.

garden hose nozzle

Features To Look For In Garden Hose Nozzles

Material - Garden hose nozzles can be made from various materials, and while plastic is totally fine, it needs to be quite thick on a nozzle and durable, or not prone to breaking. Metal is usually a better consideration as it is almost indestructible, but it can lose shape if heavy objects are dropped or rolled over it. To prevent rusting, look for non-corrosive metals or metal components with a protective, rubberized coating. Some garden nozzles are available with a solid brass construction, but you should be prepared to spend a lot more for these.

Ergonomics and comfort - Holding a garden hose with an ordinary nozzle is generally fine, and you wouldn't expect to experience any discomfort. However, when it comes to trigger-style hose nozzles, holding down the trigger can cause some strain, especially if you have hand arthritis or lack hand strength. How a garden hose nozzle fits in your hand is important when you find yourself hosing large areas of concrete, fencing, or the exterior of your home. Look for a nozzle with an ergonomic handle, and to prevent fatigue in your hands from holding the trigger down, a locking mechanism can be a marvel.

Spray pattern - The best spray nozzle gives you a variety of options, and the really impressive ones have seven, eight, or even nine spray patterns. This allows you to choose the best spray pattern for the task ahead of you. You should be able to dial up a jet spray for intense cleaning and dial it down to a delicate mist for seedlings, flowers, and other delicate plants. There are other patterns for watering grass, hanging plants, or rinsing detergent off windows while cleaning. You may need to experiment a little to find your favorites for each different chore.

Valve - Along with spray patterns, the best garden hose nozzle should also have a valve that allows you to regulate the flow of water or shut the water off completely if you need to move around to watering or hosing different areas of the yard without wasting water.

Flow rate - The trouble with many garden hose nozzles is that they tend to have one flow for everything, and you can only adjust the flow rate by walking to the spigot and increasing or decreasing flow there. A valve or knob for flow rate allows you to quickly and easily increase the flow rate for a jet spray for cleaning or decrease the flow when watering delicate flowers or plants.

Durability - The lower-priced models are usually (but not always) poorly made using cheap materials, and they tend not to last very long. If you find yourself frequently replacing the nozzle, what you initially saved is being wasted in replacements. While a sturdy nozzle made from metal may cost a little extra, it will most likely last you a lot longer.

Types Of Hose Nozzles

Twist nozzles - At some point, every household has had some form of a twist nozzle for the garden hose. These traditional nozzles are easy to use, and, as the name suggests, you simply twist the tip of the nozzle, which changes the spray pattern gradually as you twist. Twist nozzles are usually quite robust, and you don't need to look for the spray pattern but simply keep twisting until the water is flowing in the desired spray pattern.

Pistol nozzles - Everyone loves a good pistol nozzle. You simply point the nozzle and squeeze the trigger. You can choose a straight jet spray pistol nozzle, or you can choose one with a dial that allows you to choose one of several spraying patterns.

Dial nozzles - Many dial nozzle hoses can be found on pistol nozzles, and there is no doubting their convenience. However, some people prefer a dial nozzle similar to the ones you may find on a fire hose. It's a matter of personal preference and how you like to water your garden or complete those outdoor cleaning jobs.

Wand nozzles - Wand nozzles function pretty much the same way dial nozzles do, but they come with extra length (wand) to allow for easy and comfortable watering of hard-to-reach plants, high-hanging plants, etc. Because of this, they're ideal for people who have a hard time bending down or reaching up, as well as for those who suffer from arthritis in their hands.

garden hose nozzle

Garden Hose Nozzle FAQ

Q: What do you need a garden hose nozzle for?

A: There are many reasons most people need a good garden hose nozzle. For one, garden hose nozzles can make many tasks you do around the yard a lot easier as you can choose the ideal spray pattern and water flow rate. This means you can create a light mist to spray over your flowers or a powerful jet spray for cleaning cars, bikes, and other hard surfaces. They're also efficient and can help you save precious pennies on your water bill.

Q: How do you clean a hose nozzle?

A: Depending on whether or not you have hard water in your area, your hose nozzle may accumulate calcium deposits on top of dirt and grime. The best way to clean a hose nozzle is to place it and all its parts in a bucket of warm water and let it soak for about 15 to 20 minutes, then use a brush to remove dust, dirt, and grime. To remove calcium or limescale, submerge the nozzle in a bucket with an equal solution of plain old vinegar and hot water (you can also add a bit of baking soda) for a few hours, and then wipe down the surfaces when you're done. Of course, you should always check the care instructions to ensure the vinegar won't compromise the integrity of the nozzle or any of the parts!

Q: How to prevent a hose nozzle from getting stuck?

A: The best way to prevent a hose nozzle from getting stuck is to rotate it before and after each use. Even so, it may still get stuck occasionally, so give it a spray with a waterproof silicone or any mineral-based oil for a touch of lubrication.

Q: How do I keep my hose nozzle from leaking?

A: It's almost impossible to keep a hose nozzle from leaking indefinitely but you can extend the periods between leaking and make quick repairs when the nozzle does leak. In most cases, your nozzle may simply need a new washer between the nozzle and the spigot but it also helps to check the connectors and tighten any loose components.

Sources:

  1. How Do You Remove Corrosion From A Garden Hose? - GardenAxis
  2. How To Clean Nozzles - HomeSteady
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