The Best Leaf Rake

Buying Guide

When the leaves start turning because of the cold weather in fall, you know it’s time to get to work. Whether you have just one tree on your property or many, it takes a lot of effort to tidy up all of the leaves that fall down. Having the right leaf rake can make your job easier and less stressful.

There are two main varieties of leaf rakes: plastic and metal. Plastic leaf rakes are lightweight and easy to use. They have curved or straight handles and come in different widths. Metal leaf rakes are heavier than their plastic counterparts, but can be sturdier as well. Opt for ones that are enamel coated, which prevents rust on the rake. Metal leaf rakes are more of a multi-purpose tool because of their durability. You can also use them to get debris out of shrubs as well as for fluffing up ground cover on patchy lawns.

If you have a lot of plants in your garden, a shrub rake is a good tool to have for raking up leaves. It is narrower than a leaf rake, so it can fit into tighter spaces and reach farther back behind shrubs as compared to a leaf rake. You can also use this type of rake to spread mulch or compost in your flowerbeds. For those that have a lot of buildup of debris on your grass, a thatch rake can do the job of getting it out, in addition to raking up leaves. It is best for areas that have a lot of grass.

• When deciding what kind of leaf rake you need, consider the type of lawn debris you have. For example, in addition to leaves, do you also get a lot of acorns, pine needles and small sticks in your yard? How big are the leaves you need to rake and how many of them are there? If you have a lot of large debris, you’ll need a heavy-duty leaf rake. Otherwise, a medium or light-duty leaf rake will do the job.
• You’ll also need to think about the terrain in your space. For example, do you have flat, grassy space or a lot of slopes and dips? Are there a lot of gardens with flower and shrubs or is there a large deck or patio? Keep in mind that metal rakes are more flexible than plastic ones, so they can fit into non-flat spaces a little easier than their counterparts.
• If you have young grass, then it’s best to use a plastic rake on it as it will be more gentle than a metal leaf rake, which can damage the grass and leave lines on the ground. Be sure to use the rake gently on young grass so that you don’t pull it up in the process.
• Most leaf rakes come with straight wooden handles, which aren’t always comfortable to use. If you have back issues or want something higher quality, look for a fiberglass or metal handle which is lighter and smoother than a wooden handle. Those materials are also more comfortable to hold for long periods of time.