Rake Review – by Marie Morache

When it comes to buying a good rake (to help with our October Move of the Month), there are three types to choose from: steel rake, spring rake, plastic rake.

Steel rakes are the most sturdy of the three. This rake is handy in that it can be used to rake leaves as well as other yard debris. It can even be used to smooth and move soil. It is a good multi-purpose rake with versatile applications for your yard. The one down side I have noticed when using a steel rake for leaves is the steel tine can more easily get stuck in the ground. This can slow down your raking efforts. This is also not the best rake to have children use. The steel tines could be dangerous if stepped on incorrectly or mishandled.

The spring rake is a common rake for leaf pick up. It not only does a good job with leaves, but is great at picking up the dead grass on the surface of your yard in the process. This results in a very polished look. This rake also has a few down sides. If any of the spring tines bend or become out of line with the other tines the rake’s usefulness declines. Without the proper motion of this rake it can bounce and you will work twice as hard to get the leaves piled. This rake can also be dangerous for children, if they don’t handle it properly.

Plastic rakes are another common rake for leaf pick up and the best option for kids to use. In fact, there are even plastic rakes you can buy sized just for kids! This rake offers a very even stroke as there is less danger of the tines being bent or stuck in the ground. A few downsides are it doesn’t pick up the dead grass as easily and is not as heavy duty as the other two rakes. But, it does make a great option with kids!

In reviewing these different options, seek out a rake that works best for the needs of you and your family. And then go enjoy some raking and jumping in the leaves!