{"id":118013,"date":"2024-08-08T15:54:00","date_gmt":"2024-08-08T18:54:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/?p=118013"},"modified":"2025-08-25T15:13:48","modified_gmt":"2025-08-25T18:13:48","slug":"how-to-rake-leaves","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Rake Leaves"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Leaf cleanup is easier when you know how to rake leaves properly. Apart from using effective techniques and having an efficient strategy, you\u2019ll also need to choose the right time and tools.<\/p>    <p>Follow this step-by-step guide to help you maintain the cleanliness of your yard safely and efficiently.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-550cab6c-1372-465b-83a7-0198b02a4d91\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\"><\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/#0-1-choose-the-right-tools\" style=\"\">1. Choose the Right Tools<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/#1-2-use-proper-techniques-to-avoid-injury\" style=\"\">2. Use Proper Techniques to Avoid Injury<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/#2-3-have-a-good-efficient-strategy\" style=\"\">3. Have a Good, Efficient Strategy<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/#3-4-properly-dispose-of-leaves\" style=\"\">4. Properly Dispose of Leaves<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/#4-faq-on-raking-leaves\" style=\"\">FAQ on Raking Leaves<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Project Difficulty:<\/strong> Moderate<br><strong>Estimated Time to Complete:<\/strong> 1 to 3 hours (depends on yard size and leaf volume)<br><strong>Project Cost:<\/strong> Low \u2014 DIY raking costs less than $10 if you already have the necessary equipment, while <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/cost\/leaf-removal-price\/\">professional leaf raking costs<\/a> around <strong>$107 to $435<\/strong>.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-1-choose-the-right-tools\">1. Choose the Right Tools<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/clearing-leaves.jpeg\" alt=\"Close-up of a rake gathering colorful autumn leaves on green grass, showing fall lawn cleanup and garden maintenance work.\" class=\"wp-image-113478\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/clearing-leaves.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/clearing-leaves-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/clearing-leaves-150x100.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/clearing-leaves-768x513.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Gathering leaves using rake. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/rake-with-fallen-leaves-at-autumn\/218851978?asset_id=218851978\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">encierro<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock Free \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/rake-with-fallen-leaves-at-autumn\/218851978?asset_id=218851978\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>Using the right tools can make raking leaves faster, easier, and a lot more comfortable. Here\u2019s a list of must-have leaf-raking gear:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Leaf rake:<\/strong> A wide plastic rake works well for sweeping dry leaves, while a metal rake with a spring joint is great for damp leaves.<\/li>    <li><strong>Gloves:<\/strong> Protect your hands from splinters, blisters, and sharp twigs with a good pair of work gloves.<\/li>    <li><strong>Footwear:<\/strong> Wear sturdy shoes or boots with a good grip to avoid foot injury or slipping, especially when walking on uneven ground.<\/li>    <li><strong>Eye and nose protection:<\/strong> Debris or dust can fly everywhere, so wear goggles and a dust mask to protect your eyes and nose.<\/li>    <li><strong>Tarp:<\/strong> Instead of bending over to pick up the raked leaves, you can just rake the leaves onto the tarp, making it easier to haul them.<\/li>    <li><strong>Leaf scoops and hand rake:<\/strong> Great for reaching tricky spots around shrubs and flower beds.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/reviews\/best-leaf-rakes\/\">7 Best Leaf Rakes [Reviews]<\/a><\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td>Don\u2019t have these tools and find it troublesome to buy from the store? You can hire a <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=leafRemoval\">LawnStarter leaf removal pro<\/a> instead. With a <strong>customer rating of 4.3 stars<\/strong> and a proven track record of nearly <strong>12,000 completed jobs last year<\/strong>, our pros make leaf removal effortless for around <strong>$158 per service<\/strong>.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-2-use-proper-techniques-to-avoid-injury\">2. Use Proper Techniques to Avoid Injury<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"527\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Woman-smiling-and-raking-leaves-in-lawn.jpeg\" alt=\"Smiling woman in plaid shirt rakes leaves into a pile on sunny lawn, enjoying autumn yard work and seasonal cleanup.\" class=\"wp-image-114790\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Woman-smiling-and-raking-leaves-in-lawn.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Woman-smiling-and-raking-leaves-in-lawn-300x198.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Woman-smiling-and-raking-leaves-in-lawn-150x99.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Woman-smiling-and-raking-leaves-in-lawn-768x506.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Woman smiling and raking leaves. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/woman-raking-leaves-in-garden\/299201199?prev_url=detail&amp;asset_id=299201199\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Budimir Jevtic<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock \/&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/jo\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>To loosen your shoulders, back, and hamstrings and avoid straining your back, warm up with light stretching before raking leaves. Below are proper raking techniques to follow:<\/p>   <ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em; text-align: left; --ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); --ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-spacing: 0px; column-count: 1; --ub-list-mobile-column-count: 1; \" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-2cee3505-d3e4-4f06-9224-a68d96063caa\"> <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-231ea4e9-c90e-4fad-b7ae-9fa72a36327b\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Keep your back straight and bend at your knees<\/strong> (not your waist) to avoid putting too much strain on your spine.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-f7e2ceb6-2540-4330-8c2d-3515d692e958\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Maintain a good stance<\/strong> to distribute weight evenly and minimize strain on your body.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-d88a5954-5953-40af-8878-7091b13bc8f6\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Hold the rake close to your body<\/strong> with one hand near the top of the handle and the other about halfway down.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-cb12ae1c-0d74-408b-86b6-3f2675425aef\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Avoid twisting your body repeatedly,<\/strong> as it can cause considerable strain on your lower back and possibly injure it.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-517e51e4-c2d1-4fbf-9ab8-6c8f5dd8f1c1\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Use short, smooth strokes<\/strong> rather than aggressive, jerky movements.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-3ff4212c-a13c-4eee-bd08-2caf6f424468\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Switch sides regularly<\/strong> to avoid overusing one arm or side of your body.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-56922816-ddfb-4b38-bf5d-f6781290f50e\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Take a break every 20 to 30 minutes and hydrate<\/strong>, especially if you\u2019re raking a large yard.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <p><strong><em>Pro Tip:<\/em><\/strong><em> When raking leaves, just think of it as a workout \u2014 good form will make the job easier and almost pain-free.<\/em><\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-3-have-a-good-efficient-strategy\">3. Have a Good, Efficient Strategy<\/h2>    <p>To save time and energy, you\u2019ll need a sound plan, because having a smart strategy is just as important as working hard. Here are some tips to make leaf raking fast and easy:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Start at the edges and work toward the center.<\/strong> Direct the leaves to your main pile to avoid scattering them in the areas you just cleaned.<\/li>    <li><strong>Work in sections<\/strong> to make the task more manageable. Mentally divide your lawn into zones and finish one area before moving to the next.<\/li>    <li><strong>Use small, short strokes<\/strong>. You can cover more ground with big sweeping motions, but this approach can easily tire your arms and cause soreness. Use small strokes instead, which can also lessen shoulder and back strain.<\/li>    <li><strong>Work with the wind<\/strong> and rake in the same direction. Leaves can get blown to your face, so remember to wear protective goggles to keep your eyes safe.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><strong>Rake downhill<\/strong> if you have a sloped yard. Gravity is your friend and will make the task easier for you.<\/li>    <li><strong>Pull leaves toward you.<\/strong> Compared to pushing, pulling is easier on your muscles. Plus, pushing increases the downward force, making it harder to move the rake.<\/li>    <li><strong>Create multiple small piles<\/strong> rather than one large heap. They\u2019re easier to bag or move to your compost bin, saving your legs and back from pain and injury.<\/li>    <li><strong>Use a tarp to gather<\/strong> and transport leaves instead of bending over repeatedly. This way, you can easily drag the tarp to the next section of your yard.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p><strong><em>Pro Tip:<\/em><\/strong><em> <em>Nick Pauly, lawn care expert and owner of Denver Home Pros, recommends raking as soon as possible to avoid leaf rot, especially in states with high humidity levels.<\/em><\/em><\/p>    <p><strong>See Related:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/is-it-better-to-rake-or-mulch-leaves\/\">Is it Better to Rake or Mulch Leaves?<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/best-ways-to-clean-up-leaves-in-your-yard\/\">Best Ways to Clean Up Leaves in Your Yard<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-4-properly-dispose-of-leaves\">4. Properly Dispose of Leaves<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"483\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Putting-leaves-in-a-bag.jpg\" alt=\"Person in gloves gathers dry autumn leaves into tarp on green lawn, preparing for garden cleanup during fall season.\" class=\"wp-image-118029\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Putting-leaves-in-a-bag.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Putting-leaves-in-a-bag-300x181.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Putting-leaves-in-a-bag-150x91.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Putting-leaves-in-a-bag-768x464.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Person gathering autumn leaves. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/seasonal-raking-of-leaves-in-the-garden-concept-of-cleaning-and-caring-for-the-garden-man-rakes-withered-and-colorful-leaves-in-the-garden-autumn-cleaning-before-winter-spring-cleaning-garden\/300998577?asset_id=300998577\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sebastian<\/a>&nbsp;\/&nbsp;Adobe Stock Free&nbsp;\/&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/jo\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>Don\u2019t know <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/\">what to do with the fallen leaves<\/a>? Once you\u2019re done with the leaf cleanup, here are several options for proper disposal:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Bag the leaves:<\/strong> This is the most common method, especially in cities with leaf collection programs.<\/li>    <li><strong>Compost:<\/strong> Mix dry leaves with kitchen scraps and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-compost-grass-clippings\/\">grass clippings<\/a> for nutrient-rich compost.<\/li>    <li><strong>Mulch:<\/strong> Using a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-equipment\/how-does-a-mulching-mower-work\/\">mulching mower<\/a>, mow over the leaves and leave a 1\/2-inch-thick layer on the lawn.<\/li>    <li><strong>Create leaf mold:<\/strong> Pile up moist leaves and let them decompose into rich, crumbly soil conditioner.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p>When choosing a method, pick the one that aligns with your local regulations. If possible, I recommend reusing leaves to feed your garden and lawn naturally.<\/p>    <p><strong><em>Pro Tip:<\/em><\/strong><em> You can also use whole leaves to protect plants and shrubs (like rose bushes) in the winter. Just secure them with a burlap screen so they won\u2019t fly everywhere.<\/em><\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-faq-on-raking-leaves\">FAQ on Raking Leaves<\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1755827389147\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When and How Often Should I Rake Leaves During Fall?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Experts recommend raking <strong>when 20% to 30% of the leaves have fallen<\/strong>. However, it would still depend on various factors. According to Pauly, \u201cIt\u2019s highly dependent on the climate you live in, the type of trees you have, and if you have grass under these trees.\u201d<br\/><br\/>If you have a lot of deciduous trees and leaves are falling fast, aim to rake once a week or every other week to prevent your lawn from suffocating. Alternatively, you can use a mulch mower as often as every few days.<br\/><br\/><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/reviews\/best-mulching-lawn-mowers\/\">10 Best Mulching Lawn Mowers<\/a><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1755827396552\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I Use a Leaf Blower Instead of Raking?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-use-a-leaf-blower\/\">leaf blowers<\/a> are faster and easier on your body, especially for large yards. However, raking is quieter and more eco-friendly \u2014 and it gives you a little workout, too. Plus, you have more control over where the leaves go with raking vs. blowing.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1755827403099\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is It Better to Rake Leaves or Mulch Them With a Mower?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">If you have a mulching mower, shredding the leaves and leaving them on your lawn as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/what-is-mulch\/\">mulch<\/a> can improve soil health and provide nutrients. Just be sure not to leave thick layers that can block sunlight and water.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-delegate-leaf-removal-to-the-pros\">Delegate Leaf Removal to the Pros<\/h2>    <p>You don\u2019t have to dread raking leaves every fall. With the right tools, smart timing, and good technique, you can tackle leaf cleanup quickly and pain-free, too. And if raking\u2019s too much this year, there\u2019s no shame in calling a <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=leafRemoval\">LawnStarter leaf removal pro<\/a>. You\u2019ll get a clean yard without the sore back.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle wp-block-ub-content-toggle-block\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-block-fb8f2cc4-384e-4e88-9657-5719c8bbe85b\" data-mobilecollapse=\"false\" data-desktopcollapse=\"true\" data-preventcollapse=\"false\" data-showonlyone=\"true\"> <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion\" style=\"border-color: #f1f1f1; \" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-block-\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title-wrap\" style=\"background-color: #f1f1f1;\" aria-controls=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-fb8f2cc4-384e-4e88-9657-5719c8bbe85b\" tabindex=\"0\"> \t\t\t<p class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title ub-content-toggle-title-fb8f2cc4-384e-4e88-9657-5719c8bbe85b\" style=\"color: #000000; \"><strong>Sources:<\/strong><\/p> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-toggle-wrap right\" style=\"color: #000000;\"><span class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-state-indicator wp-block-ub-chevron-down\"><\/span><\/div> \t\t<\/div> \t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-content-wrap ub-hide\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-fb8f2cc4-384e-4e88-9657-5719c8bbe85b\">  <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/turf.umn.edu\/news\/good-question-do-you-really-need-rake-all-those-leaves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Do You Really Need To Rake All Those Leaves<\/a>?\u201d By Sam Bauer, associate Extension professor. University of Minnesota.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/otservices.wustl.edu\/ergonomic-form-for-raking-leaves\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ergonomic Form for Raking Leaves<\/a>.\u201d By Leigh Wilson, lead physical therapist \/ clinical associate. Washington University Medicine.<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/nicholaspauly\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nick Pauly<\/a>, lawn care expert and owner of Denver Home Pros. Personal interview.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.urmc.rochester.edu\/encyclopedia\/Content?contentTypeID=1&amp;ContentID=20767\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Take Care When Raking Leaves<\/a>.\u201d University of Rochester Medical Center.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.msstate.edu\/blog\/rake-or-not-rake\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">To Rake or Not to Rake<\/a>?\u201d By Mary Michaela Parker, marketing and communication coordinator. Mississippi State University Extension.<\/li> <\/ul>  <\/div> \t\t<\/div> <\/div>   <p>Main Image: Family cleaning up autumn leaves. Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/family-cleaning-up-autumn-leaves-outdoors\/316726192?asset_id=316726192\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixel-Shot<\/a>&nbsp;\/&nbsp;Adobe Stock Free&nbsp;\/&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/jo\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how to rake leaves, which involves choosing the right tools and timing in addition to using proper techniques and disposal.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":131,"featured_media":118012,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1583],"tags":[59],"class_list":["post-118013","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-leaf-removal","tag-leaf-removal"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Family-cleaning-up-autumn-leaves-outdoors.jpg?wsr","author_info":{"display_name":"Melanie Joseph","author_link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/author\/melanie-josephlawnstarter-com\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Rake Leaves<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to rake leaves, which involves choosing the right tools and timing in addition to using 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She\u2019s passionate about sharing practical tips to help homeowners cultivate healthier, greener yards \u2014 one blade of grass at a time.\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/author\\\/melanie-josephlawnstarter-com\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/leaf-removal\\\/how-to-rake-leaves\\\/#faq-question-1755827389147\",\"position\":1,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/leaf-removal\\\/how-to-rake-leaves\\\/#faq-question-1755827389147\",\"name\":\"When and How Often Should I Rake Leaves During Fall?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Experts recommend raking <strong>when 20% to 30% of the leaves have fallen<\\\/strong>. However, it would still depend on various factors. According to Pauly, \u201cIt\u2019s highly dependent on the climate you live in, the type of trees you have, and if you have grass under these trees.\u201d<br\\\/><br\\\/>If you have a lot of deciduous trees and leaves are falling fast, aim to rake once a week or every other week to prevent your lawn from suffocating. Alternatively, you can use a mulch mower as often as every few days.<br\\\/><br\\\/><strong>See Related:<\\\/strong> <a href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/reviews\\\/best-mulching-lawn-mowers\\\/\\\">10 Best Mulching Lawn Mowers<\\\/a>\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/leaf-removal\\\/how-to-rake-leaves\\\/#faq-question-1755827396552\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/leaf-removal\\\/how-to-rake-leaves\\\/#faq-question-1755827396552\",\"name\":\"Can I Use a Leaf Blower Instead of Raking?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes, <a href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.lawnstarter.com\\\/blog\\\/leaf-removal\\\/how-to-use-a-leaf-blower\\\/\\\">leaf blowers<\\\/a> are faster and easier on your body, especially for large yards. 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According to Pauly, \u201cIt\u2019s highly dependent on the climate you live in, the type of trees you have, and if you have grass under these trees.\u201d<br\/><br\/>If you have a lot of deciduous trees and leaves are falling fast, aim to rake once a week or every other week to prevent your lawn from suffocating. Alternatively, you can use a mulch mower as often as every few days.<br\/><br\/><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/reviews\/best-mulching-lawn-mowers\/\">10 Best Mulching Lawn Mowers<\/a>","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/#faq-question-1755827396552","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/#faq-question-1755827396552","name":"Can I Use a Leaf Blower Instead of Raking?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-use-a-leaf-blower\/\">leaf blowers<\/a> are faster and easier on your body, especially for large yards. However, raking is quieter and more eco-friendly \u2014 and it gives you a little workout, too. Plus, you have more control over where the leaves go with raking vs. blowing.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/#faq-question-1755827403099","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/#faq-question-1755827403099","name":"Is It Better to Rake Leaves or Mulch Them With a Mower?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"If you have a mulching mower, shredding the leaves and leaving them on your lawn as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/what-is-mulch\/\">mulch<\/a> can improve soil health and provide nutrients. 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