Last Updated on March 4, 2024 by Asfa Rasheed
The first leaf blowers were invented in the 1970s, and ever since their buzzing, whirling sound has become synonymous with fall. These iconic gardening tools are faster and more efficient than traditional raking, but are they really worth all the noise and upkeep?
Choosing between the two tools can be difficult, and it all depends on your needs and preferences. Keep reading for a guide on leaf blowers vs. rakes.
Table of Contents
What Is A Leaf Blower?
A leaf blower is a power tool utilized by millions of Americans. The leaf blower uses a motor to create a powerful, direct stream of air, which pushes leaves off of your walkway or lawn and into a tarp or the woods.
They are an ideal gardening tool, as they are easy to use and can get your raking done at a fraction of the time.
There are many different styles of leaf blowers. Depending on your preferences, you can get hand-held leaf blowers, backpack-style leaf blowers, or large riding leaf blowers. Leaf blowers also come in electric and gas-powered options. You can check the best worx cordless leaf blowers.
Leaf Blower Vs. Rake
Leaf blowers have many advantages over rakes. Leaf blowers can get the job done faster and with much less effort. If you hire gardeners to keep up with your fall leaves, it may be more cost-effective to provide a leaf blower.
Leaf blowing is a much less strenuous activity, which is great for those who have lower mobility or less time. If you have a large yard, a leaf blower can get an entire day of raking done in just a few minutes.
Leaf blowers are also able to get the job done better, as the leaf blower will not tear up the leaves as traditional raking can. It also causes less damage to the lawn underneath the leaves.
Rakes also have some advantages. For a small yard, the maintenance and cost of a leaf blower may not outweigh the effort of raking. Additionally, leaf blowers do create some emissions which can be harmful to the environment in large amounts.
Raking is also great physical activity. If you love getting some exercise in the fresh autumn air, traditional raking may be more up your alley.
Tips And Tricks
There are a few simple tips for each tool that can make getting rid of your leaves easier. Next time you have to clear your yard, try these out!
Leaf Blower Tips
Work in manageable sections, don’t try to do the whole yard in one go. Your first time using a leaf blower, do a section just a few feet wide so you get the hang of it.
Make sure your leaf blower is facing in the direction you want to blow your leaves- don’t work against yourself!
Raking Tips
Work in smaller sections and take breaks in between. Try to make a game out of it- finish one section of raking before someone else or against your own best time.
Try to do the heavier areas first, when you have more energy, and leave the lightest areas for the end.
Time To Decide
Which of these garden tools is right for you?
When it comes to the age-old leaf blower vs. rake debate, lifestyle may be the determining factor. If you prefer to get the job done quickly or do not want to do the physical labor of raking, a leaf blower may be better for you. If you prefer the physical activity and the quiet of raking, stick with the traditional.
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