Keeping your Flexzilla garden hose in top condition is simple with the right approach. This easy step-by-step guide on how to clean Flexzilla garden hose will help you maintain its flexibility and extend its life for many seasons. Regular cleaning prevents mold, removes dirt, and stops contaminants from getting into your water. Let’s get started.
A clean hose isn’t just about looks. For a Flexzilla hose, which is known for its durable yet flexible hybrid polymer construction, proper cleaning prevents damage to the inner liner. It also ensures the water flowing to your plants, or even into your house if you use a filter, stays clean. You’ll need just a few common household items.
How to Clean Flexzilla Garden Hose
This main process is for a thorough seasonal cleaning. It’s perfect for when you’re putting your hose away for winter or getting it ready for a new spring.
What You’ll Need
Gather these supplies before you begin:
* A bucket or large container
* Mild dish soap or a dedicated hose cleaner
* A soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth
* A hose hanger or a place to let it drip dry
* White vinegar (for mildew or stubborn stains)
* A spray nozzle or a thumb-operated shut-off valve
Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions
Follow these numbered steps for the best results.
Step 1: Disconnect and Drain Completely
First, disconnect your Flexzilla hose from the spigot and any sprayer attachment. Hold one end up high and walk the length of the hose to drain all standing water. Any leftover water will dilute your cleaning solution and make the hose very heavy to move.
Step 2: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
Fill your bucket with about 3 gallons of warm water. Add a few squirts of mild dish soap—avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or abrasive cleaners as they can degrade the hose material over time. If you notice mildew spots, you can substitue a cup of white vinegar for the soap.
Step 3: Submerge and Scrub the Exterior
Coil the hose loosely into the bucket of soapy water. Let it soak for 5-10 minutes to loosen grime. Then, take your soft brush or cloth and scrub the entire exterior surface. Pay extra attention to areas with visible dirt, grass stains, or mildew. The bright green color of a Flexzilla hose shows dirt easily, so this step makes a big visual difference.
Step 4: Flush the Interior
This is a crucial step. Connect one end of the hose back to your outdoor faucet. Place the other end into your bucket of soapy water or a drain area. Turn on the water at medium pressure for 1-2 minutes to flush any debris or buildup from inside the hose liner. This removes sediment that can affect water taste and flow.
Step 5: Final Rinse (Inside and Out)
Disconnect the hose from the faucet again. Empty the soapy bucket and refill it with clean water. Use your cloth to wipe off any remaining soap suds from the hose exterior. To rinse the interior, simply reconnect it to the faucet and run clean water through it for another minute into a drain or onto your lawn.
Step 6: Dry Thoroughly Before Storage
Proper drying is key to preventing mildew. Wipe the outside with a dry towel. Then, stretch the hose out in a sunny spot or drape it in loose coils over a fence or railing. Let all water drain out and allow the exterior to air dry completely. Never store a Flexzilla or any hose while it’s still wet inside.
How to Clean a Stinky or Moldy Flexzilla Hose
Sometimes a hose can develop a foul odor or black mildew spots. Don’t worry, it’s often fixable. For a smelly hose, a baking soda solution works wonders. Flush it with a mix of 1/4 cup baking soda per gallon of water. For visible mold or mildew, use a white vinegar and water solution (1 part vinegar to 1 part water). Scrub the spots gently and let the solution sit for 15 minutes before a thorough rinse.
Quick Cleaning Tips for Regular Maintenance
You don’t always need a deep clean. Here’s how to keep your hose clean between major washes:
* After Each Use: Get in the habbit of running the water for a few seconds after you shut off the nozzle to clear hot water.
* Wipe Down: Keep a rag in your garden caddy to quickly wipe the hose before coiling.
* Prevent Kinks: Avoid dragging the hose over sharp edges or dirty areas to minimize ground-in dirt.
* Use a Reel: Storing your hose on a reel keeps it off the ground and significantly reduces the amount of cleaning it needs.
What NOT to Do When Cleaning Your Hose
To protect your Flexzilla’s special ZeroFlex polymer, avoid these common mistakes:
* Do not use petroleum-based cleaners, strong solvents, or bleach.
* Do not use a pressure washer on the hose; the high pressure can damage the outer jacket.
* Do not use abrasive scrub pads or steel wool.
* Do not store the hose under direct, hot sunlight for extended periods as UV rays can eventually weaken any polymer.
* Do not leave the hose connected under pressure when not in use.
Proper Storage is Part of Cleaning
Think of storage as the final step in the cleaning process. A clean, dry hose stored properly will stay clean longer. Always coil your Flexzilla hose in large, loose loops. Avoid tight kinks. A wall-mounted hose hanger or a free-standing reel is the ideal storage solution. Store it in a cool, shaded place like a garage or shed.
FAQ: Your Flexzilla Hose Cleaning Questions
Q: Can I use vinegar to clean my Flexzilla garden hose?
A: Yes, white vinegar is a safe and effective natural cleaner for removing mildew and mineral deposits. Always dilute it with water and rinse thoroughly afterward.
Q: How often should I clean my garden hose?
A: A deep clean like the one described is recommended at least twice a year: before winter storage and at the start of the spring gardening season. Regular quick wipes should happen more frequently.
Q: My hose has green algae inside. Is it ruined?
A: Not necessarily. Algae growth is common. Flush the hose with a mild vinegar solution, scrub if you can reach, and rinse very well. Ensure it dries completely to prevent it from coming back.
Q: Can I clean my Flexzilla hose with bleach?
A: It is not recommended. Harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach can break down the materials in the hose over time, leading to cracks and leaks. Stick to mild soaps or vinegar.
Q: Is it okay to leave the hose out in the sun to dry?
A: Short-term sun exposure for drying is fine. However, for long-term storage, keep it out of direct, constant sunlight to preserve the material’s flexibility and color.
Q: The hose is very heavy when full. Any tips for moving it during cleaning?
A: Absolutely. Drain it completely first by elevating one end and walking its length. This makes it much lighter and easier to handle during the soaking and scrubbing phases.
Following this easy step-by-step guide on how to clean Flexzilla garden hose will ensure your reliable watering tool stays in excellent shape. A little routine maintenance prevents big problems later. Your hose will thank you with years of smooth, kink-free service, making every gardening task just a bit easier.