Buying guide for best pooper scoopers
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No matter how much you love dogs, there's one thing thing nobody loves doing – picking up their poop. Unfortunately, it's a necessary evil and the price you pay for being blessed with a four-legged friend. Using a pooper scooper can make this task easier, especially if you have to cover a large area or you have trouble bending down.
Which is the best pooper scooper for you? How do you sort the gems from the rubble? If you need some assistance deciding which pooper scooper to buy, you've come to the right place.
At BestReviews, we carefully research products and create thorough reviews that help readers make buying decisions.
Why buy a pooper scooper?
Why should you buy a pooper scooper? Why not just use a bag? Here we look at some compelling reasons.
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A pooper scooper can be used to clean up a large area – such as your backyard – faster and easier than if you were to do it by hand with bags.
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A pooper scooper lets you clean up your dog's mess while standing upright. If you have difficulty bending down due to an injury or ailment, this is helpful indeed.
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Using a pooper scooper is more environmentally friendly than using plastic bags, which take countless years to degrade in a landfill.
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You don't have to get up close and personal with your dog's leavings when you use a pooper scooper.
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Some people are simply more likely to clean up after their dog if they have a pooper scooper handy.
Did you know?
Some pooper scoopers come in a set that includes bags and holders. This can be useful if you plan to use bags in conjunction with your scooper. If you choose to use bags with your pooper scooper, consider using the biodegradable type.
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Types of pooper scoopers
One-piece pooper scoopers
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One-piece pooper scoopers are all-in-one varieties that can usually be operated with one hand.
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Jaw-type models are the most common one-piece pooper scoopers, but you can find some other options as well.
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One-piece pooper scoopers tend to be more portable than two-piece models, and they're easier to use if you have only one hand free. This is helpful if you’re walking your dog on his leash, for instance.
Two-piece pooper scoopers
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Two-piece pooper scoopers are generally comprised of a rake or spade and a dustpan.
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Although easy to use, two-piece models can get messy or leave traces of feces behind, especially with softer specimens.
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If you need to quickly clean up a large area, a two-piece pooper scooper is an excellent option.
Considerations for selecting a pooper scooper
Weight
Some pooper scoopers are extremely lightweight, whereas others are on the heavier side. The main thing to consider is whether you can comfortably lug it around for reasonably long amounts of time. If your chosen pooper scooper is likely to make your arms ache during a typical clean-up session, look for a lighter model.
Size
The size of your chosen pooper scooper is not only important in terms of storage and portability, but also in terms of the size of the piles you'll be picking up.
Smaller pooper scoopers are easier to carry and won't consume much space when not in use. However, they're really only suitable for picking up after small dogs. After all, smaller dogs tend to product smaller amounts of waste.
On the other hand, you'd have a tough time picking up your Great Dane’s business with a small pooper scooper. As such, you should make sure the size of your pooper scooper matches the size of your dog.
"A two-piece pooper scooper with a large-capacity dustpan doesn’t need to be emptied as often during a session as a scooper with a smaller capacity."
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Material
The majority of pooper scoopers are made from plastic or metal. Plastic is cheap and lightweight, but it isn't as durable as metal.
If you opt for a plastic pooper scooper, choose a product made of heavy-duty plastic that isn't likely to break with regular use.
Metal pooper scoopers tend to be extremely durable, but make sure the one you choose is either made from rust-proof metal or has a rust-resistant coating.
Ease of use
Not all pooper scoopers are equally easy to use. Make sure you select one that's simple for you to operate.
Most people find two-piece models quite straightforward. If you've ever used a long-handled dustpan and broom, then you know what to do.
While jaw-style scoopers are easy for most people to use, the operating mechanism can be stiff, and people with arthritis or similar ailments may find it too hard to grip.
Caution
Dog poo can spread disease and parasites if not picked up. Furthermore, the bacteria and other microorganisms in the waste could potentially seep into the soil and ultimately contaminate bodies of water.
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Pooper scooper prices
A decent pooper scooper shouldn't cost the earth. In fact, most are quite reasonably priced. On the other hand, we wouldn't recommend buying the cheapest option, since very inexpensive poop scoops are generally of poor quality.
Budget
Budget pooper scoopers cost as little as $5 to $10. These models are usually made of flimsy plastic and aren't particularly durable or reliable.
"With a jaw-style pooper scooper, you can empty the waste straight into a trash can or, if you don’t have ready access to a bin, you can place it in a bag first."
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Mid-range
Mid-range pooper scoopers are usually priced between $10 and $20. Most options in this price range are made from durable plastic and do the job effectively.
High-end
High-end pooper scoopers tend to cost around $20 to $40. You'll find more metal options in this price range, as well as models with useful extra features like adjustable handles.
Did you know?
Pooper scoopers with ergonomic grips on the handles are much more comfortable to use, especially during longer scooping sessions. Some pooper scoopers also have adjustable handles that make it easier for people of all heights to use them.
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Tips
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Look at the construction quality of your chosen pooper scooper. A poorly made model that breaks mid-scoop could leave you in a very messy situation.
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Consider where you'll be using your pooper scooper. If you only want to pick up messes in your yard, then portability won't matter much. But if you plan to take the scooper out on walks, you’ll definitely want a portable model.
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Think about your desired posture while scooping poop. Some pooper scoopers allow you to remain completely upright while you clean up your dog's mess, whereas others require you to stoop slightly. If your main reason for buying a pooper scooper is to avoid bending down (due to a back injury or other ailment), make sure your chosen model allows you to stay completely upright.
FAQ
Q. Are all pooper scoopers suitable for use on all surfaces?
A. Some pooper scoopers are suitable for use on a wide range of surfaces including grass, gravel, and concrete. Others are better for use in sand or on grass and may fall down on other surfaces, leaving too much behind. And some models can cause damage to your lawn if you’re not careful, especially if the ground is soft or wet.
If you're likely to be picking up dog mess on a range of surfaces, we recommend buying a good all-round model.
Q. Are pooper scoopers easy to clean?
A. It's not a pleasant job, but you will have to clean your pooper scooper occasionally, since they can get messy with regular use. Most models should come clean with a quick dip in some hot, soapy water and a wipedown with a paper towel or dedicated rag. Beware of scoops with too many awkward nooks and crannies where feces could get stuck and refuse to come out. Some pooper scoopers let you line the dustpan part with a bag for easier cleanup.
Q. Are pooper scoopers environmentally friendly?
A. Using a pooper scooper is much more environmentally friendly than picking up dog mess using plastic bags. Since you can deposit the leavings straight into a trashcan, you're not creating so much waste, and you're not using large amounts of plastic, either.
