Is HoseLink ethical?

Overview

Hoselink is an Australian company specializing in garden hose products and watering systems. Founded in 2003, the brand has built a reputation for durable, user-friendly hose solutions. In recent years, Hoselink has introduced a more sustainable product line, including the Recycled Plastic Eco-Hose, which uses post-consumer recycled materials and carries certifications like the Global Recycled Standard and Climate Neutral. The company operates primarily through direct-to-consumer online sales and is based in New South Wales, Australia. Hoselink does not have any major controversies on record, and its ethical score of 82/100 reflects strong environmental efforts alongside some gaps in broader ethical disclosure.

Certifications

Hoselink’s Recycled Plastic Eco-Hose holds the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification, ensuring that the recycled content in the product is verified and that the supply chain meets social and environmental criteria. The product is also Climate Neutral Certified, meaning the brand has measured and offset its carbon footprint for that specific product. These certifications cover only the Eco-Hose line, not the entire Hoselink product range. No other major third-party certifications (e.g., B Corp, Fair Trade, or organic certifications) are currently listed for the broader brand.

Animal testing & vegan range

Hoselink has not published a formal animal testing policy. The brand’s products are garden hoses and accessories made from plastics and metal fittings, which do not typically involve animal testing. However, Hoselink does not explicitly state a cruelty-free or vegan claim. There is no designated vegan product range, but most products are inherently vegan as they contain no animal-derived materials, though synthetic rubber components may be used. The lack of a clear animal testing statement is a minor transparency gap.

Sustainability pledges

Hoselink has publicly committed to reducing plastic waste through its Eco-Hose line, which uses recycled materials and is designed for longevity. The brand also participates in a take-back program for old hoses in Australia, recycling them into new products. Hoselink’s climate neutrality pledge for the Eco-Hose includes offsetting carbon emissions via verified projects. However, the brand has not published a comprehensive sustainability report or set science-based targets for the broader company. Its sustainability efforts are focused primarily on one product line rather than across all operations.

Sourcing & labor

Hoselink sources its products from manufacturing partners in China and Australia. The brand states that it audits its factories for ethical labor practices, but it does not publicly disclose its supplier list or detailed audit reports. The Global Recycled Standard certification for the Eco-Hose includes social criteria, requiring that workers’ rights are respected in the recycling supply chain. However, for non-Eco-Hose products, there is no equivalent third-party oversight. Hoselink’s transparency on sourcing and labor remains limited compared to industry leaders.

Controversies context

There are no major controversies or negative reports associated with Hoselink. The brand has not been involved in lawsuits, boycotts, or public scandals. Customer complaints typically relate to product durability or shipping, not ethical issues. This clean record contributes positively to Hoselink’s ethical rating, though it does not offset areas where disclosure is lacking.

Bottom line

Hoselink is a solid choice for consumers seeking a more sustainable garden hose, especially the Recycled Plastic Eco-Hose with its strong certifications. The brand’s ethical weaknesses are primarily in transparency around labor practices, animal testing policy, and limited company-wide sustainability commitments. If these gaps are addressed, Hoselink could achieve a higher ethical score. For now, it remains a trustworthy option with a clear environmental focus.