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Every season has its downside. For fall, that downside is having to rake up the fallen leaves. Unless you’re a kid who loves jumping in piles of leaves, you probably don’t enjoy raking or picking up leaves. Unfortunately, it’s a necessity of the season. Fortunately, we’ve found some surefire tips and tricks on how to get your leaves cleaned up faster and easier.
Choose Your Rake Wisely
Most people don’t want to spend a lot of money on a tool for a chore that they hate, but if you’re using a cheap rake, you could be creating even more work for yourself. The most common rakes often end up impaling leaves and getting clogged, forcing you to stop raking and pick out the clogged leaves. Instead, opt for an extra-wide, no-clog rake that fits both your body and the type of leaves you have in your yard. Most rakes come in metal, plastic, or bamboo and they all have their own set of pros and cons. Try rakes out before you buy them to make sure they’re the right length and weight for you. There are also a number of other handy tools you can use to make leaf cleanup even easier such as a pickup rake and leaf scoops.
Harness the Wind’s Power
Always try to rake with the wind. Leaves are light and the wind can either help you or hurt you. Raking with the wind gives you an extra advantage, while raking against the wind will most likely cause you to rake up the same leaves over and over again. Also, if you are raking on an even or unlevel yard, do your best to rake downhill. Even leaves are controlled by gravity.
Don’t Rake...Mow
Instead of using manual labor to clear your leaves, mow them. If you have a mulching lawn mower, you can cut your grass and take care of those pesky leaves at the same time. As an extra bonus, when mixed with grass clippings, mulched leaves create a super compost that you can use to feed your lawn, garden, and trees.
Rake the Right Way
If you usually have back pain or any other serious aches after raking, you’re most likely doing it wrong. Using an ergonomic rake can help, but most likely the motions you’re making while raking are taking a toll on your body. Start by sweeping, rather than raking. You don’t have to drag the rake across the ground. The rake will pick up more leaves if you let it gently glide across the ground. Also, don’t stand still while you rake. Use your legs and move your feet when you’re bending and twisting. You’ll keep your back from turning in unnatural ways which will help prevent injuries. If you don’t want to risk an injury, you can always hire a professional to take care of your leaves for your.
