What Is Garden Hose Thread Called: GHT Size Guide 2026

In the U.S., garden hose thread is called 3/4-11.5 NH, also known as GHT.

If you have asked what is garden hose thread called, you are not alone. I work with hoses, faucets, and adapters every week. In this guide, I explain what is garden hose thread called, how it works, and how to match it right the first time. You will learn the standards, the sizes, and the simple steps to avoid leaks and returns. Read on with confidence.

What does garden hose thread mean?

Garden hose thread is a special, straight thread used on hose ends and spigots. In the United States, the standard is 3/4-11.5 NH and is also called GHT. NH stands for national hose. GHT means garden hose thread. Both terms point to the same thing.

These threads are straight, not tapered. They do not seal on the threads. They seal at a flat gasket inside the female end. That is why a rubber washer is key. If you are searching what is garden hose thread called to buy the right part, look for 3/4-11.5 NH or GHT on the label.

You may see FHT and MHT on fittings. FHT means female hose thread. MHT means male hose thread. Washing machine hoses in the U.S. also use this same thread.

Standards to know:

ANSI/ASME B1.20.7 defines garden hose coupling threads at 3/4-11.5 NH.
ASME B1.20.1 defines NPT (tapered pipe thread), which is different.
ISO 228-1 defines BSPP (parallel pipe thread) used in many countries outside North America.

If you came here to learn what is garden hose thread called, the short, correct answer is still 3/4-11.5 NH, GHT. Keep that in mind when you shop.

Standard sizes and global compatibility

Most U.S. outdoor faucets and hoses use 3/4-11.5 NH (GHT). That is the default size at hardware stores. The outside diameter of the male thread is about 1.06 inches. It mates with a female swivel with a washer.

Outside the U.S. and Canada, many taps use BSP threads. A common one is 3/4 BSPP. It has 14 threads per inch, not 11.5. It will not fit GHT. If you need to connect a U.K. or EU faucet to a U.S. hose, use a BSP-to-GHT adapter.

Quick guide:

U.S. and Canada: 3/4-11.5 NH (GHT).
U.K. and EU: typically 3/4 BSPP or 1/2 BSPP.
Australia and New Zealand: BSP threads are common.
Fire hose thread is different from garden hose thread. Do not mix them.

If you typed what is garden hose thread called because you have parts from two regions, expect to need an adapter.

How to measure and identify your hose threads

You can confirm your thread in minutes with simple tools. Use a ruler, a caliper, or a thread gauge. You need to know two things: size and pitch.

Steps I use on the job:

Check the type. If the part has a flat sealing face and a washer, it is likely GHT.
Count threads per inch. GHT has 11.5 TPI. BSPP 3/4 has 14 TPI. NPT 1/2 has 14 TPI but tapers and looks different.
Measure the outside diameter of a male fitting. GHT male is near 1.06 inches.
Read the stamp. Many couplings mark MHT, FHT, GHT, or 3/4-11.5 NH.

If you still wonder what is garden hose thread called on your hose, check the packaging or the swivel nut. It often says 3/4 GHT.

Pro tip: Do not force a fit. If it binds or wobbles, you likely have the wrong thread.

Common adapters and when to use them

Adapters save time and money. They bridge different thread types or add features like quick-connects.

Useful adapters I keep in my kit:

GHT to NPT. For joining a garden hose to pipe fittings or filters. Example: 3/4 GHT female to 1/2 NPT male.
GHT to BSP. For overseas taps or imported gear. Example: 3/4 BSPP male to 3/4 GHT female.
MHT to FHT swivels and Y-splitters. To run two hoses off one spigot.
Quick-connect sets. Snap on and off without wear on the threads.

If you ask what is garden hose thread called at the store, say 3/4 GHT. Then add the other side you need, like 1/2 NPT or 3/4 BSPP. That way you will get the right adapter.

Installation tips, sealing, and leak fixes

GHT joints seal at the washer. That is the key rule. Tape on the threads will not seal a GHT joint.

Follow these tips I use with clients:

Always use a good washer. A flat rubber washer or an O-ring made for hose threads works best.
Hand-tighten first. Then snug a quarter turn with pliers if needed. Do not over-tighten.
Do not use PTFE tape on GHT-to-GHT joints. It does not help. Replace the washer instead.
Use PTFE tape on NPT joints only. NPT seals on the threads, not a washer.
Keep threads clean. Sand, grit, or a nick can cause a leak.

If you are still searching what is garden hose thread called to fix a leak, remember the cure is usually a new washer, not tape.

Real-world lessons from the field

Here is a quick story. A homeowner called me about a stubborn leak. He had wrapped layers of tape on a hose spigot. The joint still dripped. I checked the female hose end. The washer was cracked. I replaced it and the leak stopped at once. The threads were fine. The seal face and washer do the work on GHT.

Another time, a client bought a shiny imported tap. He asked me what is garden hose thread called in the U.S. I said 3/4-11.5 NH, GHT. His tap was 3/4 BSPP. We added a BSPP-to-GHT adapter, and the hose fit like a glove.

Mistakes to avoid:

Forcing a GHT fitting onto NPT or BSP threads.
Skipping the washer or reusing a warped one.
Over-tightening and stripping the swivel nut.
Guessing at sizes. Measure or read the stamp.

These small checks save returns, leaks, and time.

Frequently Asked Questions of what is garden hose thread called

What is garden hose thread called in the U.S.?

It is called 3/4-11.5 NH or GHT. You will also see MHT for male and FHT for female.

Is garden hose thread the same as NPT?

No. GHT is a straight thread that seals with a washer. NPT is tapered and seals on the threads.

What size washer fits garden hose thread?

A standard 3/4 hose washer fits GHT. Use a flat rubber washer or a hose-grade O-ring.

Will a 3/4 BSP fitting work with GHT?

No. 3/4 BSPP has 14 TPI and a different form. Use a BSP-to-GHT adapter.

What is garden hose thread called on washing machine hoses?

It is the same 3/4-11.5 NH, often labeled GHT. That is why garden hoses and washer hoses can share fittings.

Do I need Teflon tape on garden hose threads?

No. Tape does not seal GHT joints. Replace the washer and hand-tighten instead.

How can I tell if my spigot is GHT?

Most U.S. outdoor spigots are 3/4-11.5 NH. Check for a flat sealing face and try a hose with a good washer.

Conclusion

Now you know what is garden hose thread called, how it works, and how to spot it fast. In the U.S., it is 3/4-11.5 NH, also known as GHT. It is a straight thread that seals with a washer, not tape. Match it with the right adapter when you meet NPT or BSP.

Take action today. Check your hose washers, label your adapters, and note what is garden hose thread called for your region. If you found this helpful, subscribe for more simple guides, ask a question, or share your own tip in the comments.