raking leaves with AMES 22-tine Steel Leaf Rake

If you have a yard and trees, raking leaves is an unavoidable chore in the fall. You can make it easier on yourself with the proper tools and techniques. By the end of this post, you’ll be ready to tackle your leaf-littered lawn with confidence.

Raking Techniques

Believe it or not, you can injure yourself by raking leaves improperly. It can cause back pain and negatively affect your neck, shoulders and hands.

Before you take to the rake, stretch and warm up the muscles you’ll be using. Focus on your wrists, torso and hips, as well as your back, neck and shoulders. Also, go for a quick walk or do other exercises to slightly elevate your heart rate.

Place one hand close to the top of the handle and hold the rake close to your body. Pictured: True Temper 24-inch Clog Free Rake

Once you’ve prepared your body for the work ahead, you’re ready to sweep up the leaves. How you do it can prevent injuries. Experts say to avoid twisting and keep your knees slightly bent. You’ll also want to switch hands every so often to evenly distribute the pressure.

Rake with short strokes that pull inward, and let gravity and the wind help you, if possible. It’s also recommended that you wait to rake until all the leaves have fallen and they’re dry. Wet leaves are heavier and harder to manage.

Lifting heavy bags of leaves can also cause pain. Proper posture is critical. Your back should be straight and you should bend your hips and knees. Let your legs do the majority of the work. Alternatively, use a wagon or wheelbarrow.

A wheelbarrow like the AMES Folding Wheelbarrow makes light work of transporting leaves.

Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

Raking Tools

The tools you use and what you wear matter, too. Put on comfortable and supportive footwear and loose clothing that covers your arms and legs. You might want to slip on a pair of gloves to prevent blisters and scratches.

Choose a rake that fits you. Much like a golf club, it should be the right length for your height. You also should consider the weight of the rake compared to your strength. One that’s too heavy will put a lot of strain on your body. Also, some rakes have special features like cushioned handles to make raking easier.

Finally, collecting the fallen leaves requires its own equipment. Assuming you’re not using the leaves as mulch in your yard, you’ll need to gather them up for pickup by your city or county. A multitasking tool that rakes and scoops your yard debris, like the AMES FLIP, cuts down on your workload. The Long-handle Leaf Collection Tool lets you stand upright while picking up leaves and twigs. Or, use your hands with the help of large hand scoops. The set also comes with a reusable collapsible yard waste bag.

Many cities and counties have switched from plastic collection bags to paper ones, so check with your local authority to be prepared with the correct bags this fall. Pictured: The AMES FLIP

Don’t leave raking to chance this fall. Be prepared with the right techniques and tools to keep yourself safe and your lawn looking beautiful.