Watering and hoses
Garden hose thread size: what fits what
In the US and Canada almost every garden hose, outdoor faucet, sprinkler and nozzle uses the same thread: 3/4 inch garden hose thread (GHT), also written 3/4"-11.5 NH. That shared standard is why a hose from one brand fits a nozzle from another.
Updated 26 Oct 2026 · Facts checked against the sources at the end.
The numbers
| Name | Garden hose thread (GHT), also called NH (National Hose) |
|---|---|
| Nominal size | 3/4 inch |
| Threads per inch | 11.5 |
| Thread shape | Straight (parallel), not tapered |
| Male thread outside diameter | About 1 1/16 inches |
| How it seals | A rubber washer inside the female coupling presses against the end of the male thread |
The '3/4 inch' is a name for the thread, not a measurement of the hose. A 1/2, 5/8 or 3/4 inch hose all usually end in the same 3/4 inch GHT fittings. See standard garden hose sizes.
Why the washer matters
Because the thread is straight, the threads themselves do not seal. The seal comes from the flat rubber washer in the female end. A missing, flattened or cracked washer is the most common reason a hose connection drips. Replacing it costs very little; see why a hose nozzle leaks.
Hand-tight is usually enough. Overtightening with pliers can crush the washer or strip plastic threads.
Threads that do not match
- Pipe thread (NPT): plumbing pipe uses a tapered 3/4 inch thread with 14 threads per inch. It looks similar but does not mate with GHT. See GHT vs NPT.
- Hoses and fittings from other countries often use different threads, such as British pipe threads. Use a purpose-made adapter.
- Indoor faucets usually have a smaller aerator thread; a faucet adapter converts them to garden hose thread.
Adapters you may need
- Male GHT x female NPT (or the reverse) joins a hose to pipe fittings, pumps or some pressure washer inlets.
- Double female or double male GHT joins two hose ends that are the same gender.
- Quick-connect sets screw onto GHT and let you click tools on and off.
Thread tape does not fix a mismatch between different thread types; it only helps tapered pipe threads seal.
Frequently asked questions
What size thread is a garden hose?
In the US it is 3/4 inch garden hose thread (GHT), with 11.5 threads per inch and a straight thread. The seal is made by a rubber washer.
Are all garden hose fittings the same size?
Almost all US garden hoses, faucets and accessories use 3/4 inch GHT, whatever the hose diameter. Imported fittings and pipe fittings can differ.
Is garden hose thread the same as pipe thread?
No. 3/4 inch pipe thread (NPT) has 14 threads per inch and is tapered. Use an adapter to connect the two.
Do I need thread tape on a garden hose?
Usually not. Garden hose connections seal with a rubber washer. Replace the washer if a connection drips.
Related
Sources
Written in our own words from the sources above. See our editorial policy. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.