Now that the weather will soon cool, it’s time to get things ready for the colder months. For those of us who live places that have cold winters, an outdoor item that should not be neglected is the garden hose. If left to the elements, it will most likely split or develop holes. When it become unlikely that you will use the hose again before spring, detach the hose from the spigot and drag it to a relatively dirt and muck free area, like a driveway or a patio. Make sure the hose is empty of water and then wipe it down with mild soap and water. Rinse it off and then mist it with white vinegar. The vinegar will deter both insects and mold. Let it dry and then store it someplace dry and protected from the elements. Come spring it should be both free of mold, not too buggy and ready to go.