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5 Best Lawn Aerators

Best Lawn Aerators
Best Lawn Aerators

Most recommended
Yard Butler Lawn
  • Promotes vigorous root growth
  • Style: Coring Aerator
  • Item Weight: 3.72 pounds
A good choice too
Butler Lawn Spike
  • Lawn Aerator 36in
  • Style: Spike Aerator
  • Item Weight: 2.25 pounds
A good choice too
Garden Weasel
  • Easy to use
  • Color: Red and Silver
  • Item Weight: 2.35 pounds
Truly Holey Aerator Tool
  • Deeper soil penetration
  • Durable steel construction
  • Item Weight: 6.65 pounds
Lawn Aerator Shoes
  • Comfort lawn sandal design
  • High-end aerator shoes
  • Item Weight: 2.36 pounds

Choose the Best Lawn Aerator

Customer’s Choice: the Best Rated Lawn Aerators

30 users answered this survey. Please help us improve this review!

60% of users selected Yard Butler Lawn, 6.67% selected Butler Lawn Spike, 10% selected Garden Weasel, 20% selected Truly Holey Aerator Tool and 3.33% selected Lawn Aerator Shoes. Every month we analyze your answers and change our rating.

Lawn aeration is one of the most important things you can do for your yard. Not only does it help the grass grow better, but it also helps to prevent diseases and pests from taking hold. If you’re looking for a new lawn aerator, then you’ve come to the right place. In this buyer’s guide, we will discuss some of the best lawn aerators on the market today. We’ll also give you a few tips on how to choose the right model for your needs. So whether you’re a homeowner or a professional landscaper, read on for the best information on lawn aerators!

Table of Contents

Yard Butler Grass Garden Manual Aeration Tool, 37 Inches

Fiskars 4-Claw WeederDo you want to bring back the life to your old grass? The Yard Butler Aeration Tool is just what you need! This innovative tool reduces compaction and promotes a healthy root system, making your lawn greener and more vibrant.

Made of durable steel construction, this tool is rust-resistant and built to last. It’s also easy to use, with a comfortable push handle that makes it a breeze to maneuver. Plus, it comes with a lifetime guarantee, so you can be sure it will provide years of dependable performance. This handy tool is great for small areas and works better with wet lawns. The middle bar can be a bit of an inconvenience, but overall this is a great option for anyone wanting to get their yard back in shape.

Pros
  • Durable steel construction
  • Reduces compaction
  • Promotes healthy root system
  • Lifetime guarantee

Cons
  • Middle bar can be inconvenient
  • Works only with wet lawns
  • Doesn’t work in big areas.


Yard Butler Multi Spike Gardening Lawn Aerator, 37 Inches

Fiskars 4-Claw WeederDo you want to make your grass greener and help it grow roots? The Yard Butler Lawn Aerator is the ideal solution for those who want to keep their lawn looking fresh and healthy.

This 37-inch aerator is built sturdy and is guaranteed to last a lifetime – perfect for amateur and professional gardeners alike. It might be too small for tall users as the handle is a bit short. It’s also ergonomically designed, so you won’t have any back strain, and it’s easy to use – just put in the effort while working and you’ll see those results in no time!

Pros
  • Lasts a lifetime
  • Ideal for small areas
  • Ergonomic design

Cons
  • Handle might be too short for tall users
  • Takes a bit of effort to use


Garden Weasel Comfort Carbon Steel Grass Aerator

Fiskars 4-Claw WeederDo you love spending time in your garden, but hate all the work that goes into keeping it healthy and beautiful? We have the solution: the Garden Weasel Grass Aerator. This compact tool will make your gardening life so much easier!

The Garden Weasel penetrates the soil, allowing water and useful nutrients to reach the roots of your grass, stimulating growth. It’s easy to use and takes very little effort, thanks to its durable steel construction. Plus, it’s small enough to store easily in your garage or shed. Some users noted that the straight handle is a bit uncomfortable for them. Also, while working, there are clogging issues.

Pros
  • Compact tool
  • Durable steel construction
  • Allows water and nutrients to reach roots

Cons
  • Straight handle might be uncomfortable
  • Clogging issues while in use


Truly Holey Two Prong Manual Garden Aerator Tool, 5 Pounds

Fiskars 4-Claw WeederStop struggling with those clunky old garden tools that are a pain to use and never seem to get the job done right. The Truly Holey Garden Aerator is here to make your life easier.

This amazing tool effortlessly breaks up compacted soil, providing deeper penetration for your plants’ roots. It’s also incredibly durable, so you’ll be able to use it for years to come. Plus, it’s lightweight and features a “T” bar handle, making it easy to maneuver. This is the ideal implement for dealing with minor turf problems.

Pros
  • Effortlessly breaks up compacted soil
  • Durable
  • Lightweight
  • T bar handle for easy maneuvering.

Cons
  • Only ideal for minor turf problems.
  • Grips issues
  • Pricey.


GoPPa Comfort Lawn Aerator Shoes for Roots and Grass

Fiskars 4-Claw WeederLooking for an easy way to improve the look of your lawn without breaking the bank? Introducing GoPPa Lawn Aerator Shoes. These simple-to-assemble shoes are a great way to aerate your lawn without having to rent or buy an expensive aerator. Just strap them on and start walking!

However, the straps of the shoes are a bit flimsy and soil sometimes gets stuck. While some users have found them difficult to use, we think that once you get the hang of them, they’re quite easy. And unlike expensive aerators, there’s no risk of damaging your lawn with these shoes. So why not give them a try? We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the results!

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Easy to assemble
  • Can be used on any size lawn.

Cons
  • Straps are a bit flimsy
  • Soil gets stuck sometimes.

User reviews are important, but they shouldn’t be your only source of information when you’re looking for the best lawn aerator. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a buyer’s guide for the best lawn aerators on the market in 2022. So whether you’re looking for an affordable option or the best of the best, we’ve got you covered!


Lawn Aerators Buying Guide

When it comes to lawn care, one of the most important things you can do is aerate your lawn. Aerating helps to improve drainage and air circulation, which in turn helps your grass to better absorb nutrients and moisture. It also reduces compaction, allowing your grassroots to grow deeper and stronger.

Lawn Aerators Buying Guide

When choosing an aerator, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Read our guide to find out!

What exactly is a lawn aerator, and what function does it serve?

A lawn aerator is a tool or machine used to remove small plugs of grass and soil from your lawn, which improves the health of your turf by allowing oxygen, water, and nutrients to penetrate the grassroots more easily.

There are two main types of lawn aerators: manual and powered.
Manual aerators look like long-handled forks with spikes on the end, while powered aerators resemble either a small tractor with spiked wheels or a large walk-behind power tool with spiked drums that rotate. [1]

So, how do you choose the best lawn aerator for your needs? Keep reading to find out!

Who Needs to Aerate Their Lawn?

If you live in an area with a lot of clay in the soil, your lawn is likely to need more aeration than other types of grass. Clay soil doesn’t allow for proper drainage, which means that water and nutrients can’t reach the roots of your grass. Over time, this can lead to compacted soil and a thin, unhealthy lawn. If you have any doubts about whether or not your lawn needs to be aerated, talk to a local landscaper or lawn care professional. They’ll be able to give you specific advice based on the type of grass and soil in your yard.

The frequency with which you need to aerate your lawn will depend on a few different factors.  The type of grass you have, the amount of traffic your lawn gets, and the soil type are all important considerations. If you have sandy soil, for example, aeration isn’t as critical because sand drains well on its own. If you have clay soil, however, aeration is key to preventing compaction and promoting drainage. [2]

As a general rule of thumb, most lawns need to be aerated at least once a year.
If your lawn gets a lot of traffic (from kids playing or pets), you may need to do it more frequently. [3]

Aeration Methods

Plug Aerators

This aeration method involves using a machine that removes small cores of soil from your lawn. The machine leaves the cores on top of the grass, where they eventually break down and improve the quality of your lawn’s soil. [4]

Spike Aerators

Spike aerators also use a machine, but instead of removing plugs of soil, they simply poke holes in the ground. This method is less effective than plug aeration because it does not improve the quality of your lawn’s soil.

Types of Lawn Aerators

Push Aerators

Push aerators are the most common type of lawn aerator. They are easy to use and relatively inexpensive.

Tow-Behind Aerators

Tow-behind aerators are more expensive than push aerators, but they are also more effective. They cover a larger area and can be used on all types of terrain.

Handheld Aerators

There are two types of handheld aerators: manual and motorized. Manual aerators are less expensive but require more effort to use. Motorized units are more expensive but much easier to operate.

Lawn tractors

Lawn tractors have built-in seats and engines that power the machine. They can be outfitted with a variety of attachments, including lawn rollers, plows, and dethatchers. Some models even have built-in aerators. [5]

Aerator Shoes with Spikes

If you have a small lawn, or if you simply want the most aeration for your money, then aerator shoes with spikes are the way to go. You can find these shoes online or at your local hardware store, and they typically range in price from $20-$40. The number of spikes on the bottom of the shoe will vary, but generally speaking, the more spikes there are, the better the aeration.

Aerator Shoes with Spikes

To use, simply put on the shoes and walk around your lawn. The spikes will penetrate the ground and create small holes that will allow air and water to reach the roots of your grass. For best results, do this in early spring or late fall when your grass is actively growing. [6]

What to Look for When Shopping for a Lawn Aerator

Material

The vast majority of lawn aerators are made from steel, which is both durable and lightweight. Some models may also be made from aluminum or plastic, which can be lighter but may not be as durable.

Size

Lawn aerators come in a variety of sizes, so it’s important to choose one that’s appropriate for your needs. If you have a small yard, a hand-held model should suffice. For larger yards, you’ll need something more powerful like a tow-behind model.

Weight and Mobility

The weight of the aerator is important because you don’t want a machine that will be too difficult to maneuver.

If you have a small lawn, then you won’t need as much power and weight.
But, if you have a larger lawn, then you will need an aerator that is more powerful and has more weight. The aerator’s mobility is also critical. You want an aerator that is easy to move around so that you can get the job done quickly.

Ease of Use

You also want an aerator that is easy to use. You don’t want something that is going to be difficult to operate or take a long time to set up. The best lawn aerators are going to be easy to use and will have all the features that you need. [7]

Type of soil

The type of soil in your yard will play a big role in how often you need to aerate. If you have clay soil, you will need to aerate more often than if you have sandy soil. If you have a lot of thatch on your lawn, you will also need to aerate more often.

Extra equipment and storage space

These things may also be something you want to consider. If you have a lot of lands or a large lawn, an aerator with a detachable tow bar is a great option because it will make it easier to maneuver. You may also want to look for an aerator that comes with a weight tray so you can add extra weight for more penetrating power.

Price

Finally, you want to consider the price of the aerator. You don’t want to spend more than you have to, but you also want to make sure that you are getting a quality product. The best lawn aerators are going to be reasonably priced and will offer great value for the money.

The Benefits of Aeration

Aeration is one of the best things you can do for your lawn. It helps improve drainage, break up thatch, and encourage root growth. All of which leads to a healthier, more beautiful lawn. If you’re not sure whether or not your lawn needs aeration, here are a few signs to look for:

  • Your lawn has heavy foot traffic
  • You live in an area with clay soil
  • Your grass is starting to thin out
  • The water isn’t draining properly from your yard

If you see any of these signs, it’s time to start shopping for an aerator. [8]

What are the Cons of Lawn Aerators?

There are some cons of lawn aerators to be aware of as well. One is that they can be expensive, and the other is that they can be a bit difficult to use. Additionally, lawn aerators can sometimes damage your lawn if used incorrectly. Finally, it’s important to note that lawn aerators only work on soil that is already dry – so if you have a particularly wet lawn, you may want to consider another method of aeration. Overall, though, lawn aerators are a great way to improve the health of your lawn!

What are the Cons of Lawn Aerators?

If you’re thinking about purchasing a lawn aerator, be sure to do your research and find one that will best suit your needs. [9]

Maintenance Requirements

As with any lawn tool, aerators require some level of upkeep. Be sure to clean the blades after each use and sharpen or replace them as needed. You should also oil all moving parts on a regular basis. Finally, it’s important to store your aerator in a dry place out of direct sunlight when not in use. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can ensure that your aerator will last for many years to come.

Now that you know what to look for in a lawn aerator, it’s time to get out there and start shopping!

When Is the Best Time to Aerate Your Lawn?

Fall is the best time to aerate your lawn. The cooler temperatures and moist soil make it easier for the aerator to do its job, and the grass will have plenty of time to recover before winter sets in.

Spring is also a good time to aerate, but you’ll need to be careful not to damage new growth.

If you live in an area with hot summers and little rainfall, you may need to aerate more than once a year. Aerating during the growing season can help reduce heat stress and encourage deep root growth.

Most lawns only need to be aerated once a year, but some may benefit from two or three treatments. If you’re not sure how often to aerate your lawn, ask a local lawn care expert. [10]

What Can You Expect from Aerating Your Lawn?

Aerating your lawn is one of the most important things you can do to ensure a healthy lawn. Here are some benefits of aerating your lawn:

  • Aeration reduces compaction and thatch on your lawn.
  • Aeration helps improve drainage and air circulation in your soil.
  • Aeration encourages the new growth of grassroots.
  • Aerated lawns are less likely to experience drought stress.

If you have a lawn, aerating it should be at the top of your to-do list!

How to Aerate Your Lawn: Easy Steps for a Better Lawn

If you want a healthy, green lawn, aeration is key. Aeration involves perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots of your grass. This simple process can make all the difference in the health of your lawn. Here are easy steps to follow when aerating your lawn:

The first step is to figure out whether your lawn needs aeration. If you see that your grass is starting to thin out or if there are bald spots, it’s time to aerate. Another good indicator that your lawn needs aeration is if you notice that water isn’t draining properly after rainfall or irrigation.

Once you’ve determined that your lawn needs aeration, the next step is to choose the right aerator. There are two main types of aerators: manual and powered. Manual aerators are best for small lawns, while powered aerators are better for larger lawns.

Once you’ve chosen an aerator, it’s time to get started! The process is simple: just start walking and let the machine do its job. Be sure to overlap each pass so that you cover the entire lawn.

Aerate your lawn once or twice a year and you’ll notice a big difference in the health of your grass! [11]

What Is The Difference Between A Cheaper And A Costlier Version?

The primary difference between a cheaper and a costlier lawn aerator is the build quality. In general, the more expensive models are made with better materials and have features that make them more durable. They also tend to come with longer warranties, so you can feel confident that you’re making a wise investment. If you have the budget for it, we recommend opting for a higher-end model. However, if you’re on a tight budget, there are still some great options available at lower price points.

What Is The Difference Between A Cheaper And A Costlier Version?

Aerator vs Scarifier

While both lawn aerators and scarifiers serve similar purposes, there are some key differences between the two. Lawn aerators puncture the ground with small holes in order to allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots of your grass. On the other hand, scarifiers actually remove a layer of thatch and moss from your lawn.

If you´re not sure which one is right for you, consider these factors:

  • The condition of your lawn: If your lawn is mostly free of thatch and moss, an aerator will do the trick. However, if thatch and moss are starting to build up, you may need a scarifier.
  • The time of year: Aerating is best done in the spring or fall when the ground is moist but not too wet. Scarifying, on the other hand, can be done at any time of year.
  • The type of grass: Some grasses benefit more from aeration than others. If you´re not sure which type of grass you have, consult a lawn care professional.

Both lawn aerators and scarifiers have their pros and cons, so it´s important to choose the right one for your needs. With this buyer´s guide, you should be able to find the best lawn aerator or scarifier for your yard.


FAQ

What kind of aerator is best for your lawn?

There are three main types of lawn aerators: manual, plug, and spike. Manual aerators are the most affordable option and are best for small lawns. Plug aerators have rotating drums that pull out plugs of soil, making them ideal for larger lawns. Spike aerators puncture holes in the ground with spikes, which is perfect for compacted soils.

Is it better to use a core or a spike aerator?

The debate over which type of aerator is better – core or spike – has been around for years. Each type of aerator has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Spike aerators are less expensive than core aerators and they are easier to use. Spike aerators also do a good job of removing thatch from your lawn. The downside to using a spike aerator is that it can damage your lawn if used too often.

Core aerators are more expensive than spike aerators, but they don’t have the same risk of damaging your lawn. Core aerators also do a better job of loosening compacted soil so that water and nutrients can reach the roots of your grass. However, core aerators can be more difficult to use than spike aerators.

So, which type of aerator is best for you? If you have a small lawn and you’re on a budget, a spike aerator may be the best option. If you have a large lawn or you’re concerned about damaging your grass, a core aerator may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what will work best for your lawn.

When should you aerate your lawn?

For most lawns, the best time to aerate is in the fall. This allows the grassroots time to grow and establish before winter sets in. Spring is also a good time to aerate, but you’ll want to wait until after the last frost. Early summer is not generally recommended, as it can stress the grass and lead to brown patches.

Are lawn push aerators effective?

Lawn push aerators are a very effective way to aerate your lawn. By pushing the aerator through your lawn, you are able to get oxygen and nutrients down to the roots of your grass, which is vital for healthy growth.

When choosing a lawn push aerator, make sure to consider the following:

  • The size of your lawn: You will need to choose an aerator that is the right size for your lawn. If you have a small lawn, you can get away with a smaller aerator. However, if you have a large lawn, you will need a larger aerator.
  • The type of soil: Different types of soil require different types of aeration. If you have clay soil, for example, you will need an aerator that can penetrate the ground easily.
  • Your budget: Lawn push aerators range in price from around $30 to $200. It is important to find one that fits your budget and needs.

There are many factors to consider when purchasing a lawn push aerator. By taking the time to do your research, you will be able to find the perfect one for your lawn.

What is the best depth for aeration of your grass?

This is a common question that we get asked, and the answer really depends on your lawn. If you have a very dense lawn, you may need to aerate to a depth of four inches. However, if your lawn is not as dense, you may only need to aerate it to a depth of two inches. The best way to determine the depth that you need to aerate your lawn is to consult with a professional landscaper or turf specialist.

What happens after you’ve aerated your lawn?

If you’ve never aerated your lawn before, you might be wondering what happens after you do it. The most important thing is to remember that aeration is a stressor to your lawn. Just like mowing or fertilizing, aeration should be done with care and attention.

After you’ve aerated your lawn, make sure to water it deeply and evenly. This will help the roots of your grass recover from the stress of being aerated. You should also avoid using any chemicals on your lawn for at least a week after aerating. This includes herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides.

Aeration is an important part of keeping your lawn healthy, but it’s only one part of the puzzle. Be sure to also mow your lawn regularly and fertilize it according to the needs of your grass type. With a little care and attention, you can keep your lawn looking its best all year long!

What are the different types of lawn aerators?

There are two main types of lawn aerators: manual and powered. Manual aerators are typically less expensive than powered ones, but they require more effort to use. Powered aerators are more expensive, but they’re much easier to use.

Both manual and powered aerators have their pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. If you have a small lawn, a manual aerator might be all you need. But if you have a large lawn, a powered aerator will make the job much easier.

Should you seed before you aerate?

The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the type of grass you have, the time of year, and your lawn’s overall health. If you have cool-season grass, like Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue, aerating in late summer or early fall will give your lawn a boost before winter. Seeding before aerating is generally not recommended for warm-season grasses, like bermudagrass or zoysia. These types of grasses are best seeded in late spring or early summer. However, if your lawn is thin or has bare spots, seeding before aerating can help the new seedlings establish themselves more easily.

If you decide to seed before you aerate, be sure to use a quality seed mix that is appropriate for your lawn’s needs. You should also water the seeded area regularly until the new grass has germinated and is well-established.

How often should you aerate your lawn?

The frequency with which you need to aerate your lawn depends on a number of factors, including the type of grass you have, the amount of foot traffic your lawn gets, and the soil type. In general, cool-season grasses need to be aerated once a year, while warm-season grasses can generally get by with being aerated every other year. If your lawn gets a lot of foot traffic, you may need to aerate more frequently. The best way to determine how often to aerate your lawn is to ask your local nursery or lawn care professional.

What are the benefits of aerating your lawn?

Aerating your lawn has a number of benefits. First, it helps improve drainage by allowing water, air, and nutrients to penetrate the soil more easily. Second, it helps reduce compaction, which can damage grassroots and make it harder for grass to grow. Third, aeration can help improve the overall health of your lawn by promoting new growth and improving the soil structure. Finally, aerating can also help reduce thatch buildup.

Is there a difference between aeration and scarifying?

Yes, there is a difference between aeration and scarifying. Aeration is the process of making small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots of your grass. Scarifying is the process of removing thatch and other buildups from the surface of your lawn.

Aeration is important because it helps your lawn breathe. It also allows water, air, and nutrients to reach the roots of your grass so it can grow healthy and strong. Scarifying is important because it helps remove buildups that can prevent your grass from getting the oxygen it needs to grow.

If you have a lot of thatch or buildup on your lawn, you may need to do both aeration and scarifying. You can usually tell if you need to aerate or scarify your lawn if the grass is looking unhealthy or if it´s difficult to mow.

If you decide you need to aerate or scarify your lawn, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you choose the right time of year. Aerating and scarifying is best done in the fall or spring when the grass is actively growing. Second, make sure you have the right equipment. You can rent an aerator or scarifier from a hardware store, but it’s also important to choose the right size for your lawn.

Third, be prepared to do some work. Aerating and scarifying can be time-consuming, so it´s important to have a plan and be prepared for the work involved.

If you´re not sure whether you need to aerate or scarify your lawn, talk to a lawn care expert. They can help you assess your lawn and choose the best course of action. With the right equipment and a little bit of effort, you can have a healthy, beautiful lawn in no time.

Is it possible to aerate too much?

Yes, it is possible to aerate too much. If you do not have a thatch problem, then you should only aerate once a year. Aerating more than necessary will only serve to compact your soil.

Video Tutorial: How to Aerate Your Lawn

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our guide on the best lawn aerators. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact us. Thank you for reading and Happy Gardening!


References:

  1. https://www.pennington.com/all-products/grass-seed/resources/why-aerate-your-lawn
  2. https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/yardandgardenreport/2017-08-18/should-you-aerate-your-lawn
  3. https://www.fantasticgardeners.co.uk/lawn-care/what-is-lawn-aeration-why-when-and-how-to-do-it/
  4. https://www.happysprout.com/gardening/plug-aerating-lawn/
  5. https://www.doityourself.com/stry/5-different-types-of-lawn-aerators-explained
  6. https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/lawn-aerator-shoes-do-they-really-work/
  7. https://www.homequestionsanswered.com/what-should-i-look-for-when-buying-a-lawn-aerator.htm
  8. https://www.ryanturf.com/why-aerate/
  9. https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/lawn-aeration-diy-vs-hiring-professional/
  10. https://www.scotts.com/en-us/library/scotts-way/how-aerate-dethatch-your-lawn
  11. https://www.briggsandstratton.com/na/en_us/support/maintenance-how-to/browse/aeration-why-how-and-when-to-aerate-your-lawn.html