Best Plumbing Hoses & Supply Lines in the UK: A Shopper’s Guide to Durable, Reliable Connections

Why the right plumbing hose matters

Have you ever had a drip under the sink turn into a small flood? It happens more often than you’d think, and many times it’s down to a dodgy hose or a cheap supply line. Choosing the right plumbing hose isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of the smartest upgrades you can make for your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry. The right hose keeps water where it belongs, saves you repair bills, and gives you peace of mind — and who doesn’t want that?

Common types of plumbing hoses and supply lines

Not all hoses are created equal. From braided stainless steel flexibles to rubber dishwasher hoses, each type serves a purpose. Knowing the difference helps you pick the hose that suits your appliance, stopcock, or tap. Let’s break down the main categories so you can shop smarter.

Stainless steel braided hoses

Stainless steel braided hoses are a top choice for durability. They typically come with inner tubing made of rubber or PTFE and a braided stainless steel outer layer that resists kinks and abrasion. Common sizes for domestic use are 1/2 inch and 3/8 inch connectors, and lengths range from about 12 inches to 72 inches. If you want a mix of flexibility and toughness, these are hard to beat.

Flexible rubber hoses

Rubber hoses are softer and often cheaper. They’re used for washing machines and some appliances, with typical lengths around 4 to 6 feet. While versatile, rubber hoses can age faster than braided options, especially if they’re exposed to heat or chemicals. They’re a budget-friendly pick, but plan to inspect them every year or two.

PTFE and Teflon-lined hoses

PTFE-lined hoses (often called Teflon) are favored where chemical resistance and long lifespan matter. They’re smoother on the inside, which helps water flow and reduces the chance of deposits. PTFE hoses usually come with threaded connectors in standard sizes like 1/2 inch, making them compatible with most UK fittings.

Push-fit and quick-connect supply lines

Push-fit or quick-connect lines are a dream when you want to avoid fiddly tools. These supply lines click into place and are great for tight spaces under sinks. They often use 1/2 inch fittings and short lengths of 12 to 24 inches to connect taps and valves with minimal fuss. If you prefer a tool-free installation, these are worth a look.

Where to buy plumbing hoses in the UK

If you’re shopping in the UK, you’ve got a range of retailers that stock quality hoses and supply lines. Some focus on trade supplies while others cater to DIYers. Below are reliable names that carry a broad selection — from budget rubber hoses to premium stainless steel braided lines. Think of this as your shortlist of go-to places.

Screwfix

Screwfix is a favourite for tradespeople and keen DIYers. They stock a wide range of braided hoses, washing machine hoses, and valve-to-tap supply lines. You’ll find options in common sizes like 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch, and lengths from 12 inches up to about 6 feet. Screwfix often lists clear specs and pressure ratings, which helps when you’re comparing brands.

B&Q

B&Q is a household name for home improvement and carries a good selection of plumbing essentials. Look here for competitively priced flexible hoses, replacement washing machine hoses, and push-fit supply lines. Their product descriptions usually call out connector sizes in inches, which makes it easier to match to existing fittings.

Wickes

Wickes stocks both trade-grade and DIY-friendly plumbing hoses. They’re handy if you want a middle ground between robust replacement parts and budget items. You’ll find braided stainless options alongside rubber lines, and Wickes often provides installation advice to help first-timers get it right.

Toolstation

Toolstation is another trade-focused supplier with a wide range of plumbing hoses, from short tap tails to long appliance hoses. Their catalogue tends to include technical specs like internal diameter and recommended pressure, which is useful for plumbers or anyone retrofitting older fittings.

Travis Perkins & Plumbase

Travis Perkins and Plumbase are trade suppliers geared toward professional builders and plumbers. If you’re looking for high-end or bulk options — multi-packs of braided supply lines or specific connector types — these retailers are worth checking. They stock specialist fittings and less common sizes, too.

Homebase and Jewson

Homebase and Jewson serve both DIYers and smaller trade jobs. You’ll find standard lengths, washer replacements, and typical connector sizes like 1/2 inch or 3/8 inch. These stores are convenient if you’re carrying out a small bathroom swap or fixing a leak quickly.

Key features to look for when buying

When faced with dozens of options, narrow your choice by checking a few critical features. Pay attention to connector size, inner lining material, outer protection, pressure rating, and whether the hose includes anti-burst or anti-kink technology. These small details make a big difference in longevity and safety.

Connector size and thread type

Most UK domestic connections use 1/2 inch or 3/8 inch threads, but always check your tap or appliance. Using the wrong thread can lead to leaks or the need for an adapter. For washing machines and dishwashers, look for fitting compatibility and whether the hose has a 3/4 inch connector common to appliance inlets.

Length and accessibility

Measure the run you need in feet before you buy. Too short and you’ll strain fittings; too long and you’ll get awkward loops that can snag. Common lengths for kitchen taps are 12 to 24 inches, while appliance hoses often come in 4 to 6 feet. If the space is tight behind a unit, consider a shorter braided line or a push-fit connection.

Pressure rating and temperature tolerance

Check the pressure rating on the hose; many domestic lines are rated to handle common household pressures, but older systems or properties with high mains pressure might need a higher-rated hose. Temperature tolerance matters for hot water supply lines — pick a hose that can safely handle hot water without degrading.

Anti-kink and anti-burst features

Modern hoses often include anti-kink coils or reinforced braiding to prevent pinch points and bursting. These features extend lifespan and lower the risk of sudden failure, especially behind appliances where movement or vibration occurs. It’s worth splashing a little extra for this peace of mind.

Installing supply lines: quick tips

Installation doesn’t have to be a headache. With a few simple steps you can fit most supply lines yourself. But if you’re unsure about working with mains water, it’s always wise to call a plumber. Here are tips that make installation smoother and safer.

Turn off the water and drain the line

Before you start, shut off the mains or local stopcock and open a tap to drain pressure. Even a small trickle can cause a mess if a fitting is removed without depressurizing the line. Keep a towel and a bucket handy to catch residual water.

Don’t overtighten fittings

Tighten fittings firmly but avoid the “wrench till it hurts” approach. Over-tightening can strip threads or crush washers, leading to leaks. Many modern connectors seal well with hand-tight plus a quarter-turn of a wrench.

Replace washers and rubber seals

When swapping hoses, always fit new washers if included. Rubber washers compress over time and reusing them can compromise the seal. New washers are inexpensive and prevent a lot of future headaches.

Maintenance and when to replace

A little maintenance goes a long way. Regular checks for wear and tear help you catch problems before they become disasters. Here’s how to keep hoses in top condition and when to swap them out for a fresh one.

Visual checks and feel tests

Inspect hoses every 6 to 12 months. Look for bulges, fraying, corrosion at connectors, or stiffness in rubber hoses. Press along the length of a rubber hose to feel for soft spots — signs of internal breakdown. Replace immediately if you spot any worrying signs.

Replace old rubber every few years

Rubber hoses should be replaced more often than braided stainless options. For peace of mind, many experts recommend swapping rubber washing machine hoses every 3 to 5 years. If your hose is older than that or has visible wear, don’t risk it — change it out.

Common mistakes DIYers make

We all learn as we go, but some mistakes lead to expensive repairs. Knowing what to avoid keeps your plumbing problem-free. Here are the top missteps and how to sidestep them.

Using the wrong size or type

Buying a hose without confirming thread size or inner diameter leads to compatibility issues. Always measure the existing connector in inches and match thread type. If in doubt, take the old fitting to the store — it’s the easiest way to avoid a mismatch.

Ignoring pressure and temperature ratings

Assuming all hoses are equal is risky. Low-rated hoses can burst under high pressure or when used on hot water lines. Check the rating on the packaging and choose a hose suited for your mains pressure and temperature needs.

How to compare products and get the best value

Price is important, but value comes from longevity and fit. Compare technical specs like connector size, pressure rating, and materials rather than buying based on brand alone. Reading user reviews and checking for warranties can also guide you toward a reliable product that lasts years.

Look for warranties and certifications

Hoses that come with a warranty or industry certification give added confidence. Certifications or compliance with UK plumbing standards indicate a product has passed basic performance tests. Warranties range from a year to several years on premium braided hoses.

Buy from reputable retailers

Choose retailers that provide clear specifications and return options. Trade suppliers often list technical sheets useful for professional installations, while general DIY stores can be friendlier for household projects. If you’re unsure, a specialist plumbing merchant is a safe bet.

Final checks before you finish the job

After installation, perform a final test: turn the water on slowly, check all joints for leaks, and observe under load for a few minutes. Tighten as needed — but remember, don’t overdo it. A successful test now saves you the hassle of repairing hidden leaks later.

Monitor for the first 24 hours

New fittings settle in the first day. Check again after a few hours and once more after 24 hours. Small weeps can show up once the system reaches normal pressure and temperature, so being vigilant early prevents surprises.

That covers the essentials: what to buy, where to buy it, and how to install and maintain plumbing hoses and supply lines. Whether you’re replacing a washing machine hose, fitting a new tap, or upgrading to stainless steel braided lines, taking time to choose the right product pays off. Ready to make the swap and sleep a little easier tonight?

Conclusion: Investing a little effort in selecting the right plumbing hose saves time, money, and stress. Choose the correct type and size, buy from a reputable retailer, follow safe installation steps, and keep an eye on wear — your home will thank you for it.