My guess is ‘lead’ was a mis-translation. I think that PVC(polyvinyl chloride) is the word they were looking for. I believe that PVC-free hoses are the ones that are food grade, or drinking water safe. My wife deals with Asians daily, and mis-translations occur from time to time, even with the best English speaking people there. I would use the hose. I bought a 15’ hose today from Lowes, I wonder if it is the same. Hav ta check that on the morrow.
Thank you for your response. I’m hoping it was a mistranslation. Seemed really strange...
Re-read about the Sears Craftsman garden hose and it’s made of 100% natural rubber and made in the United States. I think because it is natural rubber is why it has a lifetime guarantee and why it won’t kink. I read customer comments and cars can run over the hose with no effect to the hose.
I looked up natural rubber and no where did I find lead is added to that rubber to make anything.
The plastic connections on this hose I have are still spewing out water but I’m managing to get enough water out of the sprayer to water the plants. Believe the new hose will get here this week.
There was no squirrel in the trap this morning.