If you are the type who likes to have a clean and organized lawn, then a rake will suit you best. Buying rakes might sound simple but there’s a lot that goes into them. If you are unaware of the factors then the seller might fool you into buying a low-quality rake at a higher price. We’re sure you don’t want to fall into such a situation, and that’s why this buying guide exists.
Factors To Know
In old times people had simple lives and they didn’t mind scraping through debris all day with their dandy rake. But now, times are tougher and what we need is a high-quality rake that does its job perfectly in the least amount of time. Keep a few things in mind if you’re setting out to buy the best rake.
Types of Rakes
Are you unsure about the type of rake that will suit you best? You can choose from the following options:
First comes the shrub rake. This rake is light since it has a plastic head and usually an aluminum handle. It’s quite easy to move it around and that’s why people call shrub rakes handy. Since the head of the rake is quite narrow, you can conveniently reach into difficult spaces that were previously unexplorable. You can get rid of unwanted leaves, dirt, and debris quite easily with this one.
Next up, we have the thatch rake. These rakes are either one-sided or two-sided. What you will commonly find in a thatch rake are crescent-shaped blades that are recommended for tough spaces. With this by your side, you can easily loosen your soil and make way for seeds.
Then comes the plastic leaf rake. People who rely on plastic leaf rakes are doing so because they’re short of time. Truly, plastic leaf rakes can save a lot of time. Because of their size, they’re quite useful in covering a large ground.
After this, we have the metal leaf rake. You can find a variety of sizes with metal leaf rakes. Moreover, if you’re looking for an adjustable rake then some metal leaf rakes are designed with that feature. Just make sure your metal rake has an enamel-coated head. This will avoid rust from ruining the quality of your rake.
Last is the garden rake. These rakes are perfect for shifting soil from one place to another. Or if you’re looking to break up large chunks of soil you will find this rake to be the best. Garden rakes are known to be stable because of their unique design.
Durability
When looking for a rake out there, you don’t want to compromise on one thing, and that’s durability. You can go for a pricey rake but we don’t recommend buying a low-quality rake that has poor durability to offer.
Cheap plastic rakes are quite common. But, their use is mostly short-term. You won’t get to use it the second or the third time. Then we have a rake that costs a little more, preferably made of metal or a different material. These types of rakes can live for several years in your house, provided they’re kept properly. Rakes with hardwood handles are quite popular these days because they offer high durability. Once you buy one, you don’t need to buy another for a couple of years.
Handle Quality
Speaking of quality, the handle is equally, if not more important than the head of the rake. As mentioned above rakes with hardwood handles are quite helpful. They do not lose their durability over time and are known to be efficient.
If you are concerned about the environment, then never go for plastic rakes. Not only do they break apart quite easily, but they’re also bad for the environment as well.
Effort
Raking your lawn or garden can take a toll on your body. Let’s be real, it’s all about comfort versus price here. What comes as a surprise to most people is that if the rake is bigger that doesn’t mean it's better. Sometimes, bigger rakes take more energy and effort because of their humongous size and weight.
What should you look out for, then? Consider buying a rake that is lightweight. So that when you’re raking your garden or lawn you don’t have to take panadol at night. Going for a rake with adjustable tines is a good option as well.
Tines
Speaking of tines, let’s talk about them for a bit. Metal tines are the best when it comes to convenience and durability. Their strong design will prevent the rake from breaking into your hands. Plus, metal helps in moving any debris that you want.
Plastic is fine if you’re doing it for one time, but make sure you don’t apply a lot of pressure otherwise it’ll snap faster than you can say rake.
How To Use Rakes?
Raking is important if you want your place to remain clean. There’s no rocket science when using a rake, but if you have a few helpful tips up your sleeve then you’ll end up saving time and effort.
First, use a rake that’s new, or at least somewhat new. Second, make sure you stand and position yourself appropriately before you begin raking your lawn. Bend a little towards the rake and position your legs and knees in the most comfortable way possible. Then try moving the rake forwards and backward. Don’t apply too much pressure or you’ll wear out quickly.
Best Rakes FAQs
Q. Is it good to rake soil?
Ans. Yes, it is. When you rake your lawn or garden you ensure that the soil does not become too hard. This promotes air circulation and enriches the soil further.
Q. What happens if I don’t rake soil?
Ans. If you leave your soil as it is, your seeds may not germinate that well. Plant roots need oxygen just like us, so if the soil is too compact for them they will show poor growth. At worst, your plants may die.
Q. How often should I use a rake on my lawn?
Ans. Studies suggest that raking a lawn at least once a year shows promising results. If you’re short on time and energy then consider raking your lawn once every two years. This will promote new and better growth in your soil.