What is A Lawn Sweeper
Lawn sweeper is a gardening tool that is used for clearing away debris. It is used to remove fallen leaves, twigs, pine needles and trimmed grass from your lawn. It comprises of the following parts:
- Spinning brushes: A set of rotating brushes sweep up the debris from the ground. These brushes rotate as you move the lawn sweeper.
- Hopper: The hopper stores the collected debris. It is usually made of heavy-duty fabric or plastic. The size of this hopper determines how much debris you can collect in one go.
- Outer frame: The outer frame supports the whole structure. It has heavy-duty wheels to provide smooth movement.
- Adjustable Height Control: A lawn sweeper with adjustable height control includes a lever or a knob. You can use it to raise or lower the brushes as needed.
Types of Lawn Sweepers
Tow-behind and manual push are some of the best lawn sweepers available. Let’s understand them in detail.
1. Tow-Behind Lawn Sweeper
A tow-behind lawn sweeper is also referred to as a pull-behind lawn sweeper. They have sweeping brushes located above the wheels. They are larger in size than push lawn sweepers. You can attach a tow-behind lawn sweeper to an ATV or lawn tractor. Hence, they are an ideal option for cleaning large properties.
Pros of Tow-Behind Lawn Sweeper
Here are some advantages of a tow-behind lawn sweeper:
- They are usually larger in size and can cover large areas quickly. You can clean the space with minimal effort.
- Unlike their manual counterparts, tow-behind lawn sweepers can be attached to a tractor. This can significantly reduce the cleanup time.
- Tow-behind lawn sweepers generally have larger hoppers. You will have to make fewer stops to empty the collected debris. This is why many homeowners consider them the best lawn sweeper for big properties.
Cons of Tow-Behind Lawn Sweeper
Tow-behind lawn sweeper has the following disadvantages:
- Since they are bulkier, tow-behind lawn sweepers need a large storage space. They must be kept in a garage to protect them from natural elements.
- Tow-behind lawn sweepers work best in large areas. It can be a little challenging to clean a tight space.
- Tow-behind lawn sweepers need frequent maintenance to ensure their optimal performance.
2. Manual Push Lawn Sweeper
A manual push lawn sweeper is pushed across the lawn. It works in a similar manner as a tow-behind lawn sweeper. The rotating brushes sweep up the debris and collect it inside a hopper. This is one of the best lawn sweepers for leaves, twigs and similar scattered debris.
Pros of Manual Push Lawn Sweeper
A manual push lawn sweeper has the following pros:
- Push lawn sweepers are recommended for smaller yards. They are lightweight and easy to work with.
- They do not rely on any energy source and do not give out any toxic fumes or smoke.
- Push lawn sweepers are compact devices. They are easier to store and are a practical option for those who want the best lawn sweeper for limited spaces.
Cons of Manual Push Lawn Sweeper
Here are the cons of a manual push lawn sweeper:
- As the name suggests, you need to push it by yourself. This can be a tiring task for some.
- The hopper is usually smaller than that of a tow-behind lawn sweeper. You will have to stop frequently to empty the collected debris.
- A manual push lawn sweeper performs best on smooth terrain. It can be less efficient on uneven surfaces.
Key Points to Consider
A lawn sweeper can help you save a lot of time and effort. Keep the following factors in mind to select the best lawn sweeper as per your needs:
1. Brush-To-Wheel Ratio
The brush-to-wheel ratio shows how often the brush touches the ground with each turn of the wheels. A higher ratio means the sweeper works faster and picks up more debris. Tow-behind lawn sweepers usually have a higher ratio. This makes them better for larger yards because they clean more area at once.
2. Hopper Capacity
A larger hopper holds more debris, so you don't have to stop as often. Hoppers are usually 20 to 25 cubic feet. Opt for a bigger hopper if you want to clean longer without emptying it.
3. Wheel Diameter
The wheel diameter affects the stability of the lawn sweeper. Tow-behind lawn sweepers often have a larger diameter. They can range from 11 inches to 12 inches. Hence, they are better suited for hilly and uneven terrain. Manual push lawn sweepers have smaller dimensions.
4. Adjustable Brush Height
A lawn sweeper with a flexible brush height can make your work easier. Tow-behind sweepers usually offer this. Lesser height options are available in manual push lawn sweepers. But they can still clean most lawns.