Buying guide for best lawn sweepers
To keep your home clean, you need to occasionally run the vacuum. The whirling brushes loosen debris, and the vacuum sucks it up into a canister or bag so your home stays tidy. You can perform the same task on your yard, but instead of using a vacuum cleaner, you need a lawn sweeper.
The best lawn sweepers pick up the maximum amount of debris on the first pass and have a container (hopper) large enough that you don’t have to stop and empty it often. Ideally, the height of the brushes will be adjustable so you can get as close to the lawn as needed.
Considerations
Push vs. tow
When purchasing a lawn sweeper, you have two options: you can get a model that you push or that you tow.
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Push: If you have a smaller yard that contains few trees, you'll likely want a push lawn sweeper. To operate, you walk behind the lawn sweeper, pushing it. The more vigorously you push, the harder it works, but it can be tiring to go full tilt for any length of time. These models are lightweight and smaller than tow-behind options, and they are quiet and eco-friendly. There are no additional costs associated with a push model.
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Tow: If you have a larger yard or a number of trees, you may want to consider a tow-behind lawn sweeper. These models attach to your tractor so you can tow them around your yard instead of manually pushing them. They are heavier and pricier, but they are also larger and get the job done sooner. Some can pick up a wider range of debris, too.
The biggest drawback to these types of lawn sweepers is that you first need to have a tractor. Also, these models are not eco-friendly because your tractor is powered by gasoline. Furthermore, if you have a number of obstacles in your yard and the ground is uneven, a tow-behind lawn sweeper might not be the best option for you.
Sweeping abilities
Most lawn sweepers can't handle much more than grass clippings and dry leaves. If you have acorns, small rocks, or other debris in your yard, make sure any model you’re considering can actually scoop up what is normally in your yard.
Width
The wider your lawn sweeper is, the fewer passes you will need to make to complete your task. This might not sound like a big deal, but if you have a choice between a 21-inch model and a 45-inch model, you should know that the 45-inch model would cut your work time in half. It is important to note, however, that wider models are designed for tow-behind lawn sweepers.
Hopper size
The hopper catches and holds yard debris. The larger it is, the less often you will need to stop and empty it. A big hopper is a big time-saving device. However, a big hopper is also more difficult to dump. No matter what size your hopper is, however, purchase a model that is easy to empty because you will be performing that task often.
Tear-resistant hopper
You have to be careful with your hopper, as it is like the bag on a walk-behind lawn mower and can easily tear if mistreated. Because of this, aim for the most durable, tear-resistant hopper available so you won't need to replace it every time you accidentally sweep up a branch or other sharp object.
Brush-to-wheel ratio
The sweepers spin when the wheels roll. If you get a model with brushes that revolve once every time the wheels go around, it will not be very powerful. A model that spins the brushes five times every time the wheels go around will give you a lot of power. If you are towing the unit, 5:1 is a great ratio. If you are pushing it, however, you might struggle a bit trying to get your lawn sweeper to roll, as it's like trying to start your bike when you are in high gear.
Height adjustability
Everyone's lawn is different. Even your own yard will vary from section to section. Look for a lawn sweeper that can quickly and easily be adjusted so it is at the optimum height for your needs.
Adjustable hitch
If you’re looking at a tow-behind lawn sweeper, make sure it would fit your tractor. The best way to do that is to get a lawn sweeper with an adjustable hitch.
Collapsable
When you are not using your lawn sweeper, you will want to place it in an out-of-the-way location for storage, like the wall of your shed. A lawn sweeper that collapses is convenient because it takes up less space.
Lawn sweeper prices
Lawn sweepers fall into two broad price categories, which are determined by the type of unit you purchase. If you need a push lawn sweeper, those models start at $100 and go up to $200. Tow-behind lawn sweepers, on the other hand, start closer to $200. Pricier tow-behinds cost around $400.
Tips
You could purchase the best lawn sweeper ever manufactured, but if you don't know how to use it, you will end up frustrated. Following are a few tips to help you get the most out of your lawn sweeper.
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Clear the area of all sticks, stones, pine cones, and larger debris before using your lawn sweeper.
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Before sweeping, mow the lawn so the grass is at a uniform height.
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Only use your lawn sweeper when the grass is dry.
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Adjust the height of your lawn sweeper so it works well with your particular terrain.
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A lawn sweeper may be more or less efficient depending on how fast it is moving. Find the speed that works best for your lawn sweeper and your lawn.
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Empty your hopper before it becomes so heavy that it drags across the lawn and tears.
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Sweeping your lawn regularly makes it easier to maintain.
FAQ
Q. How does a lawn sweeper work?
A. A lawn sweeper works very much like a home vacuum cleaner, only it requires no electricity. The device has stiff brushes that spin whenever the lawn sweeper rolls. As the brushes whirl, they comb through the grass, catching debris in the bristles and kicking it into a container (hopper) attached to the sweeper. As soon as the hopper is full, you can dump its contents into your compost pile (or trash) and continue your task with an empty hopper.
Q. Will I just use my lawn sweeper in the early spring and then need to find a place to store it for the rest of the year?
A. No. A lawn sweeper can be used year round. Whether you are clearing away winter debris for a spring cleaning, sweeping up grass clippings during the mowing season, or taking care of your leaves (instead of just blowing them into your neighbor's yard) in the fall, a lawn sweeper can be used in all seasons. It is even possible to clear a light, powdery snow from your sidewalk or driveway with a lawn sweeper.
Q. What kind of maintenance do I need to perform on my lawn sweeper?
A. The ideal maintenance involves a quick inspection before each use to be sure the tires are inflated and the brushes are tightly fastened yet can rotate freely. Also, check to be sure that there are no loose or damaged parts. After every use, the hopper should be emptied, and the entire unit should be wiped down with a dry rag. If your device requires lubrication or any other regular maintenance, as stated in your owner's manual, be sure to perform that as well.
