How to Coil Cords and Hoses

Step 2

I’ve seen lots of different ways to coil extension cords and air hoses over the years. Some barely work (stuffing a cord into a 5 gallon bucket for example) and some are so complicated they don’t seem necessary.

SOP for lots of cord coilers is to wrap the cord tightly between palm and elbow, but even that leaves a lot to be desired—at least for me. Reason is, after 50 feet of cord I start running out of hand to hold it in, among other things.

We take a simpler approach that has proven effective. It leaves the cord or hose loose (wrap a cord too tight and it deforms; this is why we don’t secure our cords by wrapping the ends around the coil but instead use a simple trick that requires a little bit of 1/8 inch line) and ready to uncoil when we need it.

Step 3

Step 1. Take the male end of the cord (the part that goes in the plug) in your left hand.

Step 2. Hold the cord loosely in your right hand, then slide your right hand out as far as you can reach comfortably.

Step 4

Step 3. Grasp the hose and bring back to your left hand. The cord or hose should form a loop as it hangs. Drop the cord from your right hand into your left hand.

Step 4. Repeat, trying to keep your reach equal every time so the loops are the same every time.

Step 5. Wrap the now organized bundle of cord or hose.

Mark

Mark is a licensed contractor, tool expert, wood and outdoor enthusiast, and elite Spartan Race competitor. He writes about home improvement and tools for national magazines and websites, and teaches hands-on clinics for other remodeling professionals. Check out his book, The Carpenter's Notebook.

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