How To Prevent Garden Hose Spouts From Getting Rusty (It's Not WD-40)

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With all the moisture from morning dew, rain, snow, and humidity, garden hose spouts are vulnerable to rust. Any minor cracks or scratches, like those caused by freeze-thaw cycles, can also be a place for moisture to settle and corrosion to take over. While a can of WD-40 will keep your garden hose corrosion-free, it is not the only solution. A simple method that won't need constant reapplication is to use a faucet cover.

A rusty spigot is a faulty one (not to mention aesthetically unappealing). The corrosion damages the metal and can lead to leaks or cracks, shortening the spigot's 15-year lifespan. If the rust persists, you'll eventually have to replace the entire spout. To avoid any plumbing DIY projects or having to spend an hour scrubbing rust from the spigot, invest in a quality faucet cover. They last for several seasons and cost a few dollars for an individual one. These covers act as shields that protect your hose spouts from the elements, reducing the risk of corrosion.

There are many rust-prevention products on the market that will work for garden hose spouts. Waterproof fabric options, like the Artife Outdoor Faucet Covers, are cloth sacks that slip over the spigot and are secured in place with a velcro strap or tie string, making it easy to remove and put on. It's ideal if you need rust-protection while also keeping your spout easily accessible. If you're retiring your hose for the winter, there are also hard-shell covers. Protectors like Marinexplore Foam Spigot Covers shield the metal connection from the moisture needed to feed rust.

Even for spouts made from a rust-resistant metal like stainless steel or brass, a cover can still be handy. Apart from keeping the corrosion at bay, a faucet cover can prevent bacteria, mold, and insects from making themselves at home in your hose spout and contaminate your water. Plus, the weather-proof cover can also act as a warmer for the spigot, preventing freezing during the winter months. Slipping one on is a simple task you can do to get your yard winter-ready.