I have had a Pope retractable hose and reel now for nine months and it is working well. I am very careful though, not to let the hose retract when it is dirty and sandy. I suggest letting it run through your gloved hand, or a piece of old towel as you go to keep the hose clean. I haven't had need to do it, but you could squirt the hose in through the hole at the front. I hope this helps.

 Thanks Betty for your response and your suggestion is worth noting. Haven't bought mine yet - still looking.