Best Push Brooms

Understanding Push Brooms

Push brooms are designed for sweeping large areas quickly and efficiently. Unlike regular brooms, they have a wide head that allows you to cover more ground with each pass. They are particularly useful for outdoor spaces, garages, workshops, and commercial settings.

Key Considerations

Surface Type

The surface you plan to clean significantly influences your choice of push broom. For smooth surfaces like indoor floors or polished concrete, a broom with fine, soft bristles is ideal as it can effectively capture dust and small debris without scratching the surface. On the other hand, rougher surfaces such as asphalt, unfinished concrete, or gravel require stiffer bristles that can withstand the abrasive texture and push heavier debris.

Debris Type

Different brooms are designed to handle different types of debris. For instance, if you frequently deal with fine particles like dust and sand, a broom with finer bristles will be more effective. For larger debris such as leaves, twigs, or gravel, a broom with stiffer, coarser bristles is necessary.

Bristle Material

Bristle material is another crucial factor. Synthetic bristles (like nylon or polypropylene) are durable and resistant to chemicals, making them suitable for a wide range of environments. Natural bristles (like those made from horsehair or Tampico) are softer and better for fine dust but may not be as durable in harsh conditions.

Handle Length and Material

The handle length should be comfortable for your height and the task at hand. Longer handles allow for a better reach and less bending, which can reduce strain during prolonged use. Handles can be made from various materials, including wood, metal, and fiberglass. Wood handles offer a traditional feel and are sturdy, though they can be heavier. Metal handles are strong and often lightweight but may be prone to rust if not treated properly. Fiberglass handles combine durability with a lighter weight and are resistant to weather and chemicals.

Broom Width

The width of the broom head determines how much area you can cover in one sweep. Wider brooms (24 inches or more) are great for large, open spaces but may be cumbersome in tighter areas. Narrower brooms (18 inches or less) offer better maneuverability in confined spaces but require more passes to cover a large area.

Top Push Brooms on the Market

O-Cedar Professional 24" Multi-Surface Push Broom

This broom features a dual-bristle design with firm inner bristles for moving large debris and soft outer bristles for finer dirt. It has a durable plastic block and a comfortable, cushioned handle grip. The 24-inch width makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Quickie Bulldozer 24-Inch Push Broom

The Quickie Bulldozer is designed for heavy-duty use, with stiff inner bristles for large debris and softer outer bristles for finer particles. It has a sturdy steel handle with a resin block that resists warping. This broom is particularly effective on rough surfaces like driveways and sidewalks.

Libman 24-Inch Rough Surface Push Broom

Libman’s push broom is built for rough surfaces with its strong, stiff bristles that can handle gravel, mulch, and other heavy debris. The broom head is reinforced with a steel brace for added durability, and the handle is made of sturdy steel.

Rubbermaid Commercial 18-Inch Push Broom

Rubbermaid’s push broom is known for its durability and effectiveness in commercial settings. It features polypropylene bristles that are resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for sweeping a variety of debris. The handle is lightweight and designed for comfort during extended use.

Maintenance Tips

To ensure your push broom lasts as long as possible, regular maintenance is key. Clean the bristles after each use to remove trapped debris and prevent wear. Store the broom with the bristles off the ground to maintain their shape and effectiveness. Periodically check the handle and broom head for any signs of damage and replace parts as necessary.

Conclusion

Selecting the best push broom involves evaluating your specific cleaning needs and the characteristics of different broom types. By considering factors like surface type, debris, bristle material, handle length, and broom width, you can find a push broom that will make your cleaning tasks more efficient and less strenuous. Investing in a quality push broom can save you time and effort, making it a valuable addition to your cleaning arsenal.