How to roll a hose properly—easy method to end kinks and knots

By Cheri Sicard
Are you tired of struggling with your RV’s hoses? Do they kink or knot? Is there anything more frustrating than wrestling with a tangled, kinked hose? No more. In the video below, Jason Samkowiak of Samko Trad Bow shows us how to roll a hose the proper way.

The problem with the “wrong” way

Most people roll hoses without a second thought, often twisting and forcing them into tight coils. This may seem efficient at the moment, but it leads to problems down the road. Kinks and tangles become more frequent, and the hose itself can suffer internal damage.

If you look closely at your hoses, you might notice a line running along their length. If you see that line starting to twist, it’s a sign that the hose is under stress and being damaged. Hoses aren’t cheap, so it’s important to protect your investment by handling them properly.

The secret of how to roll a hose

The secret to rolling hoses the right way is simple: Let the hose tell you what it wants to do. Instead of forcing it into a particular shape, pay attention to its natural tendency to bend and coil. This approach avoids unnecessary stress and twisting, resulting in a hose that’s easier to use and lasts longer.

This method works no matter how twisted the hose is to begin with. The key is to start fresh and follow the hose’s lead.

Watch the video to see this in action:

1. Start with the hose lying on the ground. It doesn’t matter how tangled it is.
2. Make the first loop, letting the hose naturally bend into shape. Don’t force it.
3. Now, resist the urge to twist the hose as you form the next loop. Instead, let the hose dictate whether the loop goes “over” or “under.”
4. Alternate between “over” and “under” for each subsequent loop, following the hose’s natural direction.

Once the hose is rolled, the moment of truth arrives. The proof is in the pulling! A properly rolled hose should unravel smoothly, without kinks or tangles. The loops should straighten out as you pull, revealing a perfectly straight hose ready for use.

The same principle applies to larger/longer hoses, although the technique is slightly different due to the size and weight of the hose.

Even with a standard garden hose, the “let the hose lead” principle remains the same. The over-under technique is still the key to preventing kinks and tangles.

Guide: large hose (demonstration on the ground)

1. Start by letting the hose make the first loop naturally on the ground.
2. Alternate between “over” and “under” loops, as demonstrated with the smaller hose.
3. To maintain a consistent loop size, you can step on the hose lightly as you form each loop.
4. Sometimes, the hose might “fight” you a little. If this happens, don’t force it. Work with the hose to find the natural bend and continue the over-under pattern.

Rolling a hose correctly might seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference in your daily RV life. By following Jason’s simple technique of letting the hose lead, you can avoid the frustration of tangled hoses and extend their lifespan. Give it a try and see for yourself!

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