Finding the correct leaf removal equipment is not just for professional landscapers. I cover all the best tools for collecting, bagging, and mulching.
Both the average homeowner and DIY enthusiasts can get rid of pesky leaves much faster with the right tools.
At Leaf Blower Guides, I believe it is important to talk about all the right tools for fall leaf clearing work and not just leaf blowers. So, here’s my guide on how to find the right equipment for clearing yard debris easily.
Contents
Leaf Removal Equipment (For DIY Use)
You don’t need commercial equipment for a DIY job, sometimes you may even find that leaf removal equipment rentals are enough. After all, why invest in tools and machinery if you only clear leaves once during the autumn months.
However, if you do need to clear regularly then here are some of the best tools to have in the shed for DIY leaf clearing.
A Leaf Blower
Whether you prefer to use an electric or a gas-powered model, leaf blowers are probably one of the fastest and most efficient leaf removal tools available. They are perfect for larger lawns during fall for when a big pile of leaves drops every week. For large amounts, look for a model with high air volume and airspeed for a quicker job.
As most models are handheld blowers be sure to look for a model with an ergonomic design, especially if you need to blow leaves for extended periods of time.
The Leaf Rake
If you don’t have a huge area or too many trees around, then a leaf rake is a good tool to use. Although using a rake is labor-intensive, it is a great form of exercise and does the job well. Why not gather the family and make it a fun task for fall or spring. Maybe have a family garden party or BBQ when the job is done.
It is important that you look for a fan rake. These have wider heads and gentler tips which allows you to gather more leaves without damaging the grass of your lawn.
Scoops & Claws for Leaves
I think these tools are a great bit of kit to have handy once you’ve raked or blown your leaves into piles. By using leaf scoops or claws will you be able to pick up leaves easily, taking far less time to do so.
Although you should always be wearing your gloves, using scoops or claws is an even safer option. After all, you never know what may be crawling within the pile.
Leaf Vacuum
Although you will find that some blowers also feature a vacuum setting and come with a collection bag. In recent years leaf vacuums have started to come into their own, with a good selection now available.
Not only is a leaf vacuum perfect for collecting the leaves in those hard-to-reach places. But, it also mulches the leaves as they pass into the bag. Making them great for under shrubs, garden beds, and tight corners.
When you use a leaf vacuum you are removing the need to rake or blow and even having to pick the leaves up. In fact, you have ready-made mulch to improve the health of your garden.
Commercial Leaf Removal Equipment
This grade of leaf removal equipment is best for small businesses or large yards. Even if you only work to clear leaves during the fall, the basic homeowners’ equipment may fall short.
Leaf Mulcher/Shredder
Most homeowners will also ask that you take the leaves away after collection. For this reason, investing in a portable mulcher to shred them is well worthwhile. By shredding you reduce the volume considerably, making bagging and transporting them a lot easier.
Gas Leaf Blower
When compared to the small electric blowers a gas-powered leaf blower is superior and ideal for dealing with a larger space and more than one yard per day. When choosing a leaf blower or leaf vacuum you do need to check the air volume (CFM & MPH).
Check out my blog on how to choose a leaf blower for a more detailed insight.
However, before you go rushing out and ordering a gas-powered leaf blower, check your state laws. In recent years various states have restricted or even banned the use of leaf blowers due to noise pollution.
A Lawn Sweeper
Although a lawn sweeper looks somewhat like a lawnmower, it definitely doesn’t do the same job.
After mowing the lawn, you pass through with a sweeper to collect the remaining grass clippings, fall leaves, and other yard debris. Great for your driveway, patio and pathways.
Lightweight Leaf Tarp
One of the best tricks I learned about how to bag leaves quickly, is to collect them on a tarp. Once you have your pile then gather up the four corners and you can transport them quickly and easily to wherever you need to.
Look for lightweight, but, sturdy weather-proof materials. When choosing, take into consideration the size that you will be able to manage, especially if you are on your own.
Commercial Leaf Removal Equipment (Landscapers Tools)
Professional landscapers need equipment that can take care of both dry and wet leaves. They should be durable, powerful, and efficient – here is the answer to how do landscapers pick up leaves.
Backpack Leaf Blower
The most powerful backpack leaf blowers have commercial-grade engines that last for the long haul. Be sure to find the right size backpack leaf blower to suit your body shape and size, while also making sure it is ergonomically designed.
When using this equipment it is important that you invest in the appropriate operators’ safety gear. These are serious power tools that need to be handled carefully.
Mulching Mower
All landscapers with regular clients should be equipped with a mulching mower. The mower cuts and chops as it goes creating a mulch. This mulch then slowly releases all the nutrients back into the soil, helping to maintain the lawn.
This saves you money on lawn feed, precious time, and labor spent collecting grass cuttings. Definitely a tool that is a great alternative to blowing or raking early in the fall season. It also helps prepare your lawn for winter.
Leaf Roof Brush
Most homeowners don’t have the appropriate tools for clearing leaves from the roof, so that is where landscapers come in. Using a roof brush is one of the safest ways to clear debris from high up.
Look for a model with adjustable length and an ergonomic grip and place a tarp on the ground to catch the debris.
Note: NEVER attempt to climb on a roof without appropriate safety gear and training.
Eco-Friendly Leaf Bags
When it comes to bagging leaves then invest in eco-friendly reusable bags and do your part. In the long run, not only are reusable bags are also more affordable, they are far more environmentally friendly.
Fortunately, garden waste is no longer put into landfills throughout most of America. But please be careful what you actually put in your garden waste for curbside collection. Include the wrong things and they cannot be recycled, check out this article by Scarce.org to find out more.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
There you go, all the tools of the trade. I hope this info has helped you decide which are the tools for you. As a quick recap, I would like to answer just a few of the questions I get asked the most.
What is the best way to remove leaves?
In my opinion, the best way to remove leaves is either with a leaf blower or vacuum. Wait until you have dry leaves to make the most headway, then finish off with a fan-shaped rake.
What machine is best for picking up leaves?
What machine is best for picking up leaves depends on the quantity. If you have a large area with a lot of leaves then a tractor mower and leaf collecting bag would be best. For smaller areas, a good leaf vacuum works wonders, especially for those hard-to-reach places.
What is the easiest way to remove leaves from a lawn?
Besides calling a landscaper to do it for you, the easiest way to remove leaves from your lawn is to use a combination of tools. Use a mulching mower for thinner layers of leaves and a blower/vacuum tool for an uneven landscape.
Conclusion
Finding the right tools for the type of yard and landscape makes all the difference. Think about your needs when deciding between manual labor or power equipment.
