You ever have this happen? The bucket is still useful but the handle cracked and slips out of place and the wire digs into your hand.

 

The hose was the cheap 1/2" style and it wrapped inside itself. This would be uncomfortable for the hands.

 

So do it again.

 

Now you have a handle with the split at the top and a smooth section against your fingers.

I make reinforced handles out of 1/2" or 3/4" PVC pipe. Cut 4" long, split lengthways with a hacksaw, then glue the two halves back together around the handle with PVC cement. Be sure to make some reference marks before you split the pipe so you can rejoin the halves properly. You have to hold the cemented handle for a minute or two to give the cement time time to set. I must have a dozen or so done that way. If you are lucky enough to have a band saw, the splitting would be much easier.

I do the same only I straighten out one side of the handle to slip the PVC pipe over it then re-bend it and attach it to the bucket.