:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-Home-best-watering-wands-6744126-v1-7ff0a0f6031f4c92959fb1ef2e599a3b.jpg)
The Spruce / Sabrina Jiang
Watering hanging baskets, clearing out gutters, and even washing the roof of a car are all difficult household chores that can be made easier with a watering wand. While the general purpose of a watering wand is to extend your reach, there are several factors you should consider before pulling the trigger—literally and figuratively—on a wand. "You might want a wand with an adjustable head with settings similar to those on a spray nozzle," says Barbara Gillette, a master gardener and member of The Spruce Gardening and Plant Care Review Board. "Try before you buy or look at dimensions for online purchases."
Gillette also suggests asking yourself the following questions when looking at different water wands: How heavy and how long is the wand? Does the curved end look easy to maneuver? What are the materials used to manufacture the wand? What kind of grip does it offer?
With Gillette's prompts in mind, we researched (and tested a few) watering wands based on their control type, spray patterns, pressure control, and shaft length to round up the best wands on the market. Our favorite, The Relaxed Gardener Watering Wand, was tested in our Lab in Des Moines, Iowa, and received high marks for pressure control, comfort during use, and overall design.
Ahead, the best watering wands on the market.
Best Overall
The Relaxed Gardener Watering Wand
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-The-Relaxed-Gardener-Watering-Wand-Badge-a09b4b8dcc4d40e1bd716cfad939269d.jpg)
Amazon
8 spray patterns
Comfortable thumb throttle
Backed by a lifetime warranty
Scuffs when dropped
No free-rotation adapter
The Relaxed Gardener Watering Wand is our best overall pick because it is a well-designed wand with 8 spray patterns and a comfortable thumb throttle to adjust water pressure as needed. This wand is “made by gardeners for gardeners” according to the manufacturer, and according to our testers, it does live up to its design claims. The padded grip wraps around the entire handle, which makes it easy to screw onto a hose, but we wish there was a free-rotation adapter included. Although we didn’t find twisting and moving with the hose to be extremely difficult, a free-rotation adapter would make this wand even more accessible to users with limited mobility.
The thumb throttle also makes it more comfortable to water for a longer period of time without having to clench a hand trigger. While this wand isn’t the longest option on our list, we think it’s sufficient to reach lower hanging baskets and elevated flower beds. The nozzle also has a surprising pressure packed into it, which is especially helpful for washing cars or rinsing outdoor furniture. During testing, the spray shot to 27 feet on the strongest setting—talk about packing a punch.
You can feel secure purchasing this wand because it's backed by a lifetime warranty for any design defects. Although it’s very well-made and designed, it does scuff when dropped on pavement, like other plastic models. Overall, our testers felt that the price point was justified by the materials and performance, especially considering their main concerns were not related to design malfunctions.
Price at time of publish: $22
Length: 15.59 inches | Weight: 10.8 ounces | Spray Settings: 8 | Fitting Size: Not listed | Water Flow Control: Thumb
-
Dera Burreson
-
Dera Burreson
-
Dera Burreson
-
Dera Burreson
Best Budget
Orbit 10-Pattern Pattern Nozzle Set
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-Orbit-10-Pattern-Pattern-Nozzle-Set-Badge-5c1875c18ab64e748d0918991910f30e.jpg)
Lowe's
Easy control mechanisms
Durable rubber and aluminum materials
Contoured rubber grips
Strong pressure on each setting
Misting nozzle feels unnecessary
Plastic handle and stop valve may degrade over time
If you’re hoping to upgrade your entire hose nozzle collection, we recommend the Orbit 10-Pattern Nozzle Set. With three nozzles to choose from, you’re sure to find a setting, grip, and length that works best for your gardening or home improvement needs. The watering wand in this set measures 14 inches long, so you can easily reach lower hanging baskets and raised flower beds.
The wand and one of the nozzles both offer 10 spray patterns, but the third nozzle is just a mister. However, our tester appreciated the versatility of the first two. “Each setting on both is clearly labeled and easy to click to,” she said, “save for the misting nozzle, which seems to have one setting.” Each setting on the adjustable nozzles offers plenty of pressure to accurately water plants or clean outdoor furniture and cars. Our only other concern with this set is the long-term durability of the squeeze lever on the nozzles. While the plastic feels initially durable, we question its strength against constant exposure to temperature change and harsh elements. Nonetheless, this set is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable watering wand, with two bonus hose nozzles.
Price at time of publish: $16
Length: 14 inches | Weight: Not listed | Spray Settings: 10 | Fitting Size: 0.75 inches | Water Flow Control: On-off stop cock
Best Splurge
Orbit X-Stream 4-Pattern Telescoping Watering Tool
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Orbit4-patternWateringWand-bf25258e1eb54304a083db7b3f64b40c.jpg)
Ace Hardware
Extends from 3.5 feet to 6 feet
Can be used to clear gutters
Angled nozzle
Only four patterns
For a watering wand that’s truly equipped to handle delicate and heavy-duty tasks with precision, consider the Orbit X-Stream 4-Pattern Telescoping Watering Tool. With a telescoping handle that extends from 3.5 feet to 6 feet and a ratcheted nozzle head, you’ll be able to complete any task around the house from clearing gutters to watering your delicate hanging baskets. The nozzle has four patterns—vertical, horizontal, jet, or shower—plus, it has a thumb control valve to maintain the exact pressure you need.
Although we appreciate the four different patterns offered, we wish this nozzle had a few more patterns like a misting option. However, we still think it’s worthy of a splurge especially given the extendable length and versatility that this wand offers.
Price at time of publish: $28
Length: 42-72 inches | Weight: 24 ounces | Spray Settings: 4 | Fitting Size: Not listed | Water Flow Control: Thumb
Best for Small Gardens
GREEN MOUNT 16-Inch Watering Wand
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GREENMOUNT16-inchwand-d5ea4a1237f54758bf948ce66fbb8e0e.jpg)
Green Mount
Easy to control
Continuous spray clip
Lightweight
May not be best for hanging baskets
May have Plastic threading
This durable watering wand from GREEN MOUNT may not be the longest option on the market, but it’s ideal for small gardens that don’t require a ton of time and attention. Measuring 16 inches long with 8 spray settings, it can easily water a small urban vegetable garden or front stoop flower pots. Although it could possibly reach lower hanging baskets, it may not be best for short users who need additional height on a watering wand.
With a squeeze trigger that can be clipped back for a continuous spray, this wand makes it easier to water everything in your garden without clenching your hand on the trigger. Our one concern is that the threading to connect to a hose may wear down over time. It’s not clear in the product description whether the threading is plastic or metal, which would be helpful in making a fully informed decision before purchasing. Despite this one detail, we still think this watering wand is worthy of mention for its thoughtful design and comfortable hand grip.
Price at time of publish: $24
Length: 16 inches | Weight: 22.4 ounces | Spray Settings: 8 | Fitting Size: Not listed | Water Flow Control: Squeeze trigger
Best Extension
Melnor RelaxGrip 8-Pattern 15" Watering Wand
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/61XKVxKc19L._AC_SL1500_-a8df6418193446c8bdf35ff347f42673.jpg)
Amazon
End adapter included
Pivoting head
2-year warranty
May leak when adjusting length
A telescoping watering wand can make the world of a difference if your garden is large, or if you have tall hanging baskets. The Melnor RelaxGrip 8-Pattern Watering Extension Wand features a thumb flow control switch and a pivoting nozzle head, so you can choose the ideal angle for watering higher plants or cleaning your car. We’d be remiss to not mention one of our favorite features early on: a pivoting adaptor to prevent kinks while you snake through your garden.
Although this telescoping wand is not as long as our best splurge pick, it does extend to four feet, which is still plenty of height for an average height user. It is also backed by a two-year warranty in case there are any manufacturing defects. We recommend adjusting the height before attaching it to your garden hose because it may leak water if you try to adjust it with the hose running and attached.
Price at time of publish: $11
Length: 33-48 inches | Weight: 15.2 ounces | Spray Settings: 8 | Fitting Size: Not listed | Water Flow Control: Thumb
Best Reach
Orbit 10-Pattern Fireman Lever Turret Wand
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/OrbitFiremanLeverwand-c5827905e2624689808428e20bbaa18c.jpg)
Amazon
Pivoting head
Easy to control
Lightweight
Some notice leaking under the foam grip
This telescoping option from Orbit is our choice for best reach because of its fireman water flow control. Rather than having to choke your grip on the handle of the wand, you can easily rest your hand on the water control valve, which should also make the experience of watering tall hanging plants slightly more comfortable. This wand is also one of the lightest options in this roundup, which we think is important for a wand specifically selected for its reach.
The pivoting head allows you to adjust the angle at which the wand sprays, so you can reach your gutters, the roof of your car, or a window flower box with ease. Although we recognize that the detail and durability of this wand justify its price point, we do wish it was slightly less expensive. However, the 10-pattern, pivoting head and durable metal shaft make this watering wand a great choice for someone who’s looking for length without a telescopic wand.
Price at time of publish: $24
Length: 36 inches | Weight: 13.6 ounces | Spray Settings: 9 | Fitting Size: Not listed | Water Flow Control: Fireman grip
Best Ajustable
AQUA JOE Telescoping Watering Wand 36-53” 10 Patterns
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/AQUAJOEWand-037b73d7c1f44e71abf2457cc9973130.jpg)
Tractor Supply Co.
180-degree ratcheting nozzle
Durable aluminum
Long rubber grip
May become hard to control at 53 inches
If you hate twisting and turning every which way to make sure your garden hose doesn’t become kinked, the AQUA JOE Telescoping Watering Wand is the answer to your watering worries. This wand has a 180-degree ratcheting nozzle, so you can simply flip the nozzle in the opposite direction rather than having to adjust the entire length of the hose to avoid a kink. Aside from this convenient adjustable feature, this telescoping wand can extend out to 53 inches and has 10 spray settings.
The shaft is constructed of aluminum, so you can feel confident about it lasting multiple seasons. The long rubber handle also gives you plenty of room to hold the wand, so it doesn’t slip during use. Our only concern is its potential to become heavy and difficult to control when it's fully extended to 53 inches.
Price at time of publish: $20
Length: 36-53 inches | Weight: 16 ounces | Spray Settings: 10 | Fitting Size: 0.75 inches | Water Flow Control: Shut-off valve
Best Design
Gilmour Swivel Connect 5-Pattern Adjustable Watering Wand
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GilmourSwivelGripwand-6d6dbe2ef0914be992b1601cd93043ab.jpg)
Ace Hardware
Pivoting connector
Torque reduction for easy use
Rubber grip
May not be best for hanging baskets
What this watering wand lacks in length, it makes up for with a pivoting connector that reduces kinks while watering. The pivoting connector also reduces the torque of the hose, which makes it easier to control and more comfortable to use. The rubber grip is also contoured, making it especially comfortable to hold for a longer period of time without fatiguing.
The water flow is controlled by a thumb switch at the base of the grip, and you can twist the nozzle to change between the five different spray options. While this watering wand is marketed as capable of reaching hanging baskets, we think this may not be realistic for shorter users or users with limited mobility. However, the comfortable grip, five spray settings, and thumb flow control lever make it a great choice for urban gardeners and other light watering tasks.
Price at time of publish: $17
Length: 14 inches | Weight: Not listed | Spray Settings: 5 | Fitting Size: Not listed | Water Flow Control: Thumb
Best for Hanging Baskets
Dramm Classic Hanging Basket Watering Wand 36”
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/DrammClassicwand-74947e4522d24af6876754e2c7018048.jpg)
Amazon
Bent nozzle
Long, foam grip
Lifetime guarantee
Gentle flow for delicate plants
1 spray setting
Foam may deteriorate over time
Hanging baskets are notoriously difficult to water, especially without the correct hose attachment. This 36-inch watering wand from Dramm is a great option for hanging baskets because of its 90-degree bent nozzle and sturdy metal shaft. You don’t have to worry about any telescopic mechanisms or adjustable nozzles shifting while you have it raised over your head.
This watering wand is backed by a lifetime guarantee in case any manufacturing issues come up, so you can feel confident investing in it. Our only concern with this wand’s design is that the foam may deteriorate and crumble over time, which is a common issue with foam handled outdoor equipment. To prevent this from happening, we recommend storing it in a shed out of reach from the elements.
Price at time of publish: $32
Length: 36 inches | Weight: 7.2 ounces | Spray Settings: 1 | Fitting Size: Not listed | Water Flow Control: Shut-off valve
Our favorite watering wand is The Relaxed Gardener Watering Wand, which is 15-inches and has 8 different spray settings. Our testers were not only impressed with its durable design but also its powerful pressure, which sprays water out to 27 feet. If you’re looking for an adjustable watering wand, we recommend our best telescoping pick, the Melnor RelaxGrip 8-Pattern Watering Extension Wand. This wand can extend out to 48 inches and has a pivoting head, so you can adjust the spray angle to your desired reach.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Web_1500-hose-nozzles-TheRelaxedGardenerWateringWand_DB_04-a53a21bfc3ba4f24b6b5b48cce8dff15.jpg)
The Spruce / Dera Burreson
What to Look for in a Watering Wand
Shaft Length
The shaft length of a watering wand determines its best primary purpose. If you have high-hanging baskets, you may want to consider a watering wand with a shaft that’s at least 36 inches long to ensure you can properly reach all of your baskets. Telescoping shafts allow you to adjust the length of your wand from anywhere between 32-55 inches. If you’re only watering pots on the ground and raised beds, a watering wand with a shaft between 14-18 inches is plenty long.
Spray Patterns
You can find watering wands with adjustable spray patterns that offer anywhere between four and 10 different options. We suggest considering the landscape of your garden and outdoor maintenance needs to determine which spray patterns are non-negotiable. Some watering wands only have one spray pattern setting, which is perfectly suitable if you only need a general shower flow.
Control Type
The control feature on watering wands will vary depending on their length and style, but the three most common control types are thumb levers, squeeze triggers, and shut-off valves. Some higher-end watering wands may feature a fireman control lever. If you plan to use your watering wand for an extended amount of time, a shut-off valve or thumb lever are more comfortable to use and control than a squeeze trigger. However, some squeeze triggers feature a clip to lock the trigger in place for a continuous flow.
Weight
Watering wands can weigh anywhere from less than a pound to around two pounds. Shorter watering wands typically weigh around 15 ounces or less and have equally distributed weight thanks to a shorter shaft. Longer watering wands can weigh over one pound and are typically top-heavy, meaning the nozzle will weigh down the far end of the wand. If you’re looking for a wand that’s comfortable to grip for a long time and isn’t top-heavy, consider a shorter 16-inch wand, or a telescoping wand that can be shortened as you fatigue.
Pressure (PSI)
Some watering wands are equipped with a pressure gauge, which allows you to adjust the pressure, measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) of water coming out of the wand. Pressure is also often adjusted through the different spray patterns included on a watering wand. If you’re looking for a watering wand with plenty of pressure behind it, a wand with a jet spray pattern or adjustable pressure setting is a great option.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Web_1500-hose-nozzles-TheRelaxedGardenerWateringWand_DB_02-575a719eeb1c49ce93bbf1c7d244de08.jpg)
The Spruce / Dera Burreson
-
How do you install a water wand?
Watering wands are relatively easy to install as they simply twist onto the end of your garden hose. Wand fittings range in size just like hose diameters. You can purchase swivel adapters and end adapters separately to ensure a watering wand and hose are compatible.
-
How does a water wand work?
A water wand works as an extension of your hose, similar to a hose nozzle, and can divert water into several spray patterns to optimize your garden and yard watering experience. "Made with inflexible materials usually with an angled head, a wand allows you to aim and direct the flow [of water] for longer distances more accurately than a spray nozzle," says Barbara Gillette, master gardener and member of The Spruce Gardening and Plant Care Review Board.
-
Where can you use a water wand?
How and where you use your water wand is entirely up to your garden’s landscape and design. Watering wands are a great alternative to hose nozzles as they often require less exertion, and are more comfortable to hold. They can be used to water hanging baskets, raised garden beds, and potted trees or plants.
-
How do you fix a leaking water wand?
"Like all tools, a watering wand will age and eventually may not work perfectly," says Gillette. "However, you should keep a hose washer in place and avoid stretching the connection. (Do not pull the hose with the wand.) Rinse the head after each use by running clean water through it and store it, preferably hanging, so it will last a long time."
If you do discover a leak, one of the easiest fixes for a water wand is replacing the washer between the hose and the wand as needed. If the shaft of your wand has a hole in it, or begins to leak where it telescopes, consider replacing it or using waterproof tape to seal the junction.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Emma Phelps is an updates writer for The Spruce who has over two years of experience writing about all things home improvement, and home decor and organization. For this roundup, Phelps reviewed testing insights for two of the wands featured at the beginning of this article and evaluated feedback from testers. She also researched the most popular brands for watering wands and chose the final picks in this roundup based on each wand’s weight, length, pressure, and control type. Consumer reviews and online ratings were also considered before drafting the final list of products you see in this roundup. Phelps’ grandparents are avid gardeners who enjoy using watering wands for their long reach and comfortable grips. As a little girl, Phelps was much more interested in using watering wands as play sprinklers—needless to say, they can be a helpful gardening tool enjoyed by any age group. Barbara Gillette, a master gardener and member of The Spruce Gardening and Plant Care Review Board, also provided expert insight for this article.
What Is Spruce Approved?
Here at The Spruce, we want to ensure we fully stand behind every product we recommend and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all these products ourselves, though occasionally, we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut. We also pride ourselves on transparency and will always let you know if we received a product for free.