Lawn edge cutter petrol. Best Way To Edge With A String Trimmer (Illustrated Guide)

3rd August 2023

Best Way To Edge With A String Trimmer (Illustrated Guide)

I learned how to edge my lawn with a string trimmer out of necessity. For some time now I have had my eye on a battery-powered edger. I’m not quite ready to pull the trigger on it though so I make do with what I have.

Best way to edge a lawn with a string trimmer: The most effective way of edging with a trimmer is by turning the trimmer on its side with the string spinning away from you and placing the shaft on your shoulder. This allows precise movement of the string along the edges as well as visual confirmation as you work.

String trimmers, weed eaters, or weed whackers as they are commonly known, are not considered the best tool for the job when it comes to edging. That being said, I have seen many homeowners and a decent number of professionals using trimmers to get the job done just fine. And I get by with this technique as well.

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Let’s walk through this process and I will demonstrate exactly how this is done.

Trimmers Vs. Edgers

It’s important to acknowledge that the absolute best way to get any project done is to have the right tool for the job. When it comes to edging, no tool will give you as true and straight of a cut as an edger. That being said, it is still possible to get impressive results using a string trimmer.

I’ve used the STIHL KombiSystem for years so that’s what I’m going to be demonstrating with. But the technique is the same regardless of the brand of string trimmer that you are using.

First Things First: Direct Debris Away From You!

When you edge with a string trimmer by turning it on its side you are reducing its built-in ability to protect you from flying debris. This is because the weed guard is designed to be used in a horizontal, not vertical orientation.

Because of this, we need to make sure that debris is directed away from you. String Trimmers generally rotate clockwise but check yours first to be sure. Once you are certain of the rotation, you can determine the best direction to hold your trimmer while edging.

It’s also a really good idea to wear safety glasses or goggles while doing this.

Step 1: Rotate The String Trimmer Into An Edging Position

Holding the string trimmer in its normal position, rotate the shaft until the guard is up and you have a clear line of sight to the string. You will notice that as you rotate it, the angle of the trimmer head changes. Our goal is to get the trimmer head close to 90 degrees with the surface.

You will notice that by simply rotating the head over we do not get a true 90-degree angle. In order for this to work, we need to raise the back end of the string trimmer. That’s where the next step comes in.

Step 2: Shoulder-Mount The Trimmer Shaft To Edge

This is a little misleading because you generally are not actually resting the trimmer shaft on your shoulder. What you are doing is holding the shaft in your hand and resting your arm in this upward position near your shoulder.

Be mindful with gas-engine trimmers that you do not put the engine too close to your head so as to avoid burns. I’ve never had an issue with this to be honest since you aren’t actually holding it right next to your ear, it is several inches away. Still, be mindful of this.

You will notice that this position will put the string at just about the 90-degree angle that we are looking for. While the position may look awkward it is surprisingly comfortable. The back end of the trimmer is simply resting on your hand.

Note: Hearing protection is a good idea anytime you are working with gas-engine yard tools but especially when holding one this close to your ear. Click here to read about the noise-canceling headphones that I use anytime I’m working with loud yard engines.

Step 3: Edge With Your String Trimmer At A Slow But Steady Pace

Don’t get in a rush as you do this, especially in the beginning when you are learning. You want to move slowly but deliberately along the edge line, careful to stay on your intended path. You can absolutely maul your yard’s edge line if you try to go too fast. Remember, slow and steady wins the race.

Why Use The Shoulder-Mount Approach

It’s possible to simply rotate the shaft and edge by holding the trimmer in much the same fashion as you would when weed-eating. The problem is that this technique can result in more back strain.

I found that my back was always aching when trying to edge in this manner. By holding the trimmer next to my shoulder I can rest the shaft on my arm and significantly reduce back strain.

Additionally, as I stated earlier, simply rotating the weed eater’s head will not give you a true 90-degree angle for edging. You need to raise the back end of the trimmer to get this angle.

Tips For Best Practices When Edging Using A String Trimmer

Flying Debris

As a rule, you are going to want to be extra mindful of nearby cars, Windows, and people since edging with a string trimmer does not provide the same level of debris control as it does when using it for trimming.

You have to remember that the plastic debris guard is turned up while edging. While this may help to prevent some debris from flying directly up, it sure doesn’t stop it from shooting out to the side.

Since we decided on rock for our flower bed (we considered pine straw but you may want to read this article if you are considering using pine straw as mulch.

The point is, small rocks and sticks can act like projectiles as they are thrown away by the string. Be mindful of this. Wear eye protection and always be aware of the direction that the debris is being thrown.

Straight Lines Take Patience And Practice

If you find yourself frustrated with the results you are getting, remember that this is a new technique for you and that it will take some time to get good at it. If you stick with it you will be surprised how quickly you can master straight edging lines. It may never overshadow the results of a truly dedicated edger, but it will still give you impressive results with a little practice.

Can I Taper My Edges With This Technique?

If you prefer to taper the edges instead of having a 90-degree angle, you can simply rotate the shaft slightly so that the trimmer cuts at roughly a 45-degree angle. This is very easy to do and might be a better solution for you depending on your situation.

Is An Electric Or Gas Powered String Trimmer Better For Edging?

The results will be the same but electric trimmers do generally offer a weight advantage over gas-powered models. For example, the gas-powered Husqvarna 129C weighs 10 pounds. Compare that to the WORX WG163 20V battery-powered trimmer that weighs just 5.3 pounds.

At the same time, it depends on your physical condition and comfort level. The STIHL KombiSystem that I use weighs around 12 pounds with the trimmer attachment. My 14-year-old son and I use it just fine for edging. If you feel that the weight may be an issue, however, read below to ascertain whether you should use your string trimmer to edge or just buy a dedicated lawn edge tool.

Note: There is also a significant noise difference between gas and battery trimmers. As for technique, however, the shoulder-mount approach can work for either model so long as the shaft length allows for it.

Should You Use A String Trimmer Or Just Buy An Edger?

As I said at the onset, this technique works but it will not give you the level of precision that you will get from an actual edger. There are several factors that you need to consider if you plan to edge with a string trimmer.

Edge Lines Are Not As Accurate

I explained earlier that straight lines take practice but you should be realistic in your expectations. There is no edge line as clean and distinct as the cut from a dedicated lawn edge tool.

I have watched lawn care pros using the should-mount edging technique with string trimmers and they can get impressive results. But there are two important points to note:

they do this for a living, and
as good as those cuts are, it still is not as perfect as an edger would be.

What is important here is that you manage your expectations and remember that you will get better at it with time but it may never quite reach that precision-groomed look that a true lawn edge tool gives.

Edge Tools Are A Better Choice Ergonomically

Shoulder-mounting a string trimmer to use it as an edger does relief a lot of the back pain but you are still using the tool it a manner that it was not designed for. As a result, it is not as ergonomically friendly as just using an actual lawn edge tool. Edgers are designed to be operated in that orientation and so they are generally more comfortable to use for longer periods.

I get by just fine using my weed eater as an edger but I recognize the benefit of having the right tool for the job. As a result, I’ve been on the search for a solid battery-powered edger. I’ve even considered going the dual-purpose route with the WORX WG163 which is both a trimmer and an edger and is powered by a 20V lithium-ion battery.

What I do not recommend unless you have very specific circumstances is a corded edger (or trimmer for that matter). I actually own a Black and Decker corded Edger and it sits in my garage collecting dust because it is just too much of a hassle to use. Save yourself the frustration and go with a battery-powered model if you choose to purchase a separate edge tool.

Conclusion

You can absolutely edge with a string trimmer. It takes some practice and it’ll never truly match the precision of a dedicated edge tool but it can be done.

Take your time, perfect your technique, and don’t beat yourself up over a few mauled areas as you are learning. The more you do it the better you will get at it. And that holds true for pretty much anything in life.

You may have noticed that I use a STIHL trimmer. I’ve used their powered yard tools for years. If you are interested in learning if the performance and reliability of this brand warrant the cost, read my article titled Are STIHL Trimmers Worth The Money? Cost Vs. Benefit Review.

If you already own a STIHL trimmer, make sure you understand How To Grease The Gearbox.

Paul has a two-acre yard on red clay soil in Southeast Texas. He knows exactly what the challenges are to nurturing a thriving yard in difficult soil.Paul takes a practical approach to yard improvement and enjoys putting best practices and “golden rules of lawn care” to the test.

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WARRANTY OVERVIEW

Jono Johno offers a 12-month warranty on all products. Warranty period is 12 months for the home user and 6 months for commercial use.

We pride ourselves on selling good quality kit and will be fair and prompt honouring our warranties. If you’re in trouble, we’ll help you out.

WHAT IS COVERED?

Exactly what is covered by warranty will depend on 2 things:

Minor faults caused by user. Parts will be supplied for repair at user expense.

Minor faults caused by manufacturer. Parts will be supplied for repair, with instructions provided by us on how to carry out repair. If the repair is time consuming in nature, you can contact Jono Johno to discuss labour cost compensation.

Major faults caused by manufacturer. Jono Johno will facilitate a return of the product for refund or replacement at our expense. Or if you’d prefer (at our discretion and in consultation with you), we can send appropriate parts and compensate labour costs if you can carry out the repair yourself.

Major faults caused by user. Where possible parts will be supplied at user expense. Where the item cannot be repaired by the user, Jono Johno will offer to have the item returned for repair at user expense. Our workshop rate is 60 per hour.

HOW DO I RETURN MY PRODUCT IF IT’S COVERED BY WARRANTY?

If you’re in reasonable driving distance of a Jono and Johno outlet, you can physically return the product yourself. Please contact us in advance to arrange a return authority.

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EXCEPTIONS TO THE RULE

If your product is out of warranty and is buggered, even though you’ve hardly used it, give us a call or shoot us an email. If there is a manufacturer fault or the item should have lasted a lot longer than it has, we’re happy to assess it outside of the warranty period. We do this on a case-by-case basis.

The best strimmers in 2023

Need a new strimmer? Tackle long grass and tricky corners with our pick of the very best cordless and corded models.

Strimmers are a great tool for tidying up straggly grass, as well as areas a lawn mower can’t reach, such as path and flower bed edges, and around the base of trees. They can also help clear overgrowth if you’re starting a new garden, and trim vegetation on steep slopes.

For more lawn tool reviews, check out our reviews of the best lawn mowers, particularly our tests of the best cordless lawn mowers. For more cutting, trimming, or pruning help, see our reviews of the best garden shears, the best hedge trimmers, the best secateurs and the best loppers.

Kate’s wildlife care

Our wildlife editor, Kate Bradbury, has some advice on using a strimmer responsibly.

“Always check before you strim. Use a broom or rake to sweep the grass before you start, taking care to look out for small critters like frogs and slow worms, but also larger animals like hedgehogs. Hedgehogs frequently sleep in long grass during the day and can suffer terribly from strimmer injuries, so it pays to check before you strim.”

The best strimmers to buy at a glance

Getting the best strimmer means ensuring it has the right features, weight and price for you. We’ve tested a range of cordless and corded strimmers, putting them through their paces across arange of grass and terrains, to help you find the right one for your garden.

Each strimmer has a detailed list of pros and cons for clarity and has been rated according to assembly and storage, handling, performance and value for money. Every strimmer in our round up below has scored a minimum of four out of five stars, so you can buy with confidence.

In every review we award outstanding products our coveted Best Buy award. To see these and the others we recommend, browse our pick of the best strimmers below.

Best Buy strimmers

Powerbase 550W electric grass trimmer

Our rating: 4.5 out of 5

Great cut
Both trimming and edging function
Wheels to help edging
Comfortable, soft-grip handle
Spare spool and storage on the machine
30cm cutting width
Good value
Short 10m black power cable is hard to see in the grass
Heavy to use
Stiff to switch between trimming and edging modes

This corded trimmer won a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy award for the best budget strimmer. A double line trimmer, it gives a fantastic cut, and thanks to its generous 30cm cutting width, tackles the job quickly and efficiently. It’s particularly good when edging due to wheels that help take the strain, so you can achieve a precise cut. The soft-grip loop handles on its telescopic shaft are comfortable and there’s a helpful loop for tucking the cable away when you’re moving around. It has an automatic feed and we love that there’s a storage compartment on the shaft for the spare spool, so it’s close-at-hand when it needs replacing. However, gardeners with limited mobility should note that this strimmer weighs 3.1kg, which is over a kilo more than the lightest machine on test, the Gtech GT50, and it doesn’t come with a strap to help take the weight. The black power cable is only 10m, so you’ll need an extension cord if you plan to strim further from a power source, and it’s tricky to see it in the grass. It also requires some heft to move between the strimming and edging modes as the mechanism is stiff. That said, it’s good value, gives a great cut, and comes with a generous three-year warranty.

Buy the Powerbase 550W Electric Grass Trimmer from Homebase

Stiga GT 500e cordless grass trimmer

RRP: £139 (£301 including battery and charger)

Our rating: 4.5 out of 5

Telescopic shaft, which separates in two for storage
Both strimming and edging function
Support wheels for vertical edge cut
50 minute fast charge
Battery level indicator lights
Powerful performance
Part of the Stiga ePower cordless range
Heavy to use
Guard is awkward to attach
Battery and charger must be bought separately
Comparatively expensive

Awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for performance, this trimmer has a generous 30cm cutting width, and the durable nylon double line automatic feed keeps working, so you don’t have to bump line out. The head is easy to rotate for use as an edge trimmer and the wheels help to support the weight of the body, ensuring it cuts at a consistent height. However, as it doesn’t come with a support strap, it’s eventually tiring to use. It’s powered by a large 2Ah 48V lithium-ion battery, which along with the charger is sold separately, making this significantly more expensive than other models in the test. That said, after a fast 50 minute charge it runs for 20 minutes, cutting powerfully and efficiently. It copes well with large patches of long grass, as well as hard to reach areas, and cuts lawn edges cleanly. Light indicators on the battery let you know how much time you have left to finish the job, the telescopic shaft separates in two for easy storage and it comes with a two year warranty.

Buy the Stiga GT 500e Cordless Grass Trimmer from Stiga

Worx WG184E dual battery cordless grass trimmer

RRP: £199.99 (including battery and charger)

Our rating: 4.5 out of 5

Telescopic shaft, which separates in two for storage
Both strimming and edging function
Comfortable handle
Variable speeds
Support wheels for vertical edge cut
Automatic feed
Battery level indicator on the shaft
Part of the Worx 20V Powershare tool system
Three year warranty

Awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for features, the Worx WG184E grass trimmer includes variable speed settings, an adjustable handle and shaft, an automatic feed and wheels. Powered by two 20V lithium-ion batteries, it has a 20-minute run time from a one hour charge, and there’s a battery level indicator on the shaft, so you can see how much power you have while you’re using the strimmer. The cutting head rotates to convert to an edger, and the wheels provide support and ensure a neat, consistent cut along an edge. We like the different speed settings, so you can boost power for longer grass, or reduce it to conserve the battery life if you’re just neatening up edges. The 33cm cutting width makes this the widest model in the test. That said, at 3.9kg it’s also the heaviest in our test, but the telescopic shaft and adjustable loop handle help to balance this strimmer and make it comfortable to hold and manoeuvre. However, it doesn’t come with a strap for additional support and becomes tiring after use in the strimmer mode. It comes with a generous three year warranty.

like this

Buy the WORX WG184E from eBay and Amazon

Gtech grass trimmer GT50

RRP: £129.99 (including battery and charger)

Our rating: 4.5 out of 5

Lightweight
Both trimming and edging function
Adjustable loop handle
Ergonomic harness
Battery level indicator
Safety switch
Good value

Awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for ease of use, the Gtech grass trimmer GT50 is a well-designed tool. It includes a safety switch, an ergonomic harness, an adjustable loop handle, a swivel head to change from trimmer to edger, and easy-to-fit plastic blades. Weighing just 1.8kg, it’s the lightest in the group we tested, but has a relatively narrow 23cm cutting width, so it takes longer to cover ground than the Worx, with its generous 33cm head. On test it tackled long grass and thin woody weeds on uneven terrain, as well as leaving lawn edges looking neat. However, you’ll need to plan ahead for strimming sessions as the 18V lithium-ion battery takes a lengthy four hours to charge to give 30 minutes of power, though there are helpful indicator lights on the battery to keep track of how much time you have left. As it includes a battery and charger, it’s comparatively cheaper than some other cordless trimmers, but the battery is only compatible with two other Gtech cordless tools, the HT50 hedge trimmer and SLM50 lawn mower. which doesn’t represent the best value for money. Other cordless systems have more battery-sharing tools available. It comes with a two year warranty.

Buy the Gtech GT50 from Gtech, Amazon, and Robert Dyas

Husqvarna Aspire T28-P4A

Our rating: 4.3 out of 5

Incredibly light weight and portable
Long run time
Low noise level at just 78 dB
Power button and charge level indicator on the handle
Metal plant guard to protect delicate flowers and shrubs
Batteries compatible across many cordless brands
No wheel attachment for easy edging
No adjustable cutting head
Smaller cut capacity of 28 cm

This is a lightweight and powerful cordless strimmer with a telescopic shaft. Even with the large 4.0 Ah battery installed, it weighs just 3 kg, which earns it a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for large areas.It comes in all cardboard packaging and it’s easy to assemble too. a couple of screws attach the blade guard, and you’re ready to go. The battery charge time is a respectable 60 minutes and the run time a generous 50 minutes, which is almost the longest in our test. An auto-feed double line trimmer, it cuts beautifully through even thick grass, and with minimal vibration transmitted through to your hands. You can brace the end of the strimmer against your elbow on a rubberised section as well, which makes it particularly comfortable, even without a shoulder strap. The loop handle is comfy enough to hold on to, but it’s a bit small so you get less leverage for angled cutting. It comes with a handy storage hook that can be directly screwed into a shed wall or hung on the Husqvarna’s Storage Rail system, which is a great way to get it up off the floor and save some space. Both the battery and charger are compatible not only across the Husqvarna Aspire range but with the Power For All Alliance of cordless tools, which includes Flymo, Gardena and Bosch and will save you money if you invest in any of those tools in the future. It comes with a two year warranty.

Buy the Husqvarna Aspire T28-P4A from Sam Turner, Husqvarna and World of Power

The best of the rest

Although some models didn’t quite achieve a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy award, they still have great features that make them worth recommending. Browse our pick of the best of the rest on test.

Makita DUR181RT 18V string trimmer

RRP: £178.00 (including battery and charger)

Our rating: 4.25 out of 5

Quietest on test at 88.5dB
Both trimming and edging function
Adjustable bump guard
Charges quickly
Includes shoulder strap
Rotating head
Battery compatible with more than 100 other Makita tools
Loud charger, which can be annoying
No spare line included
No charge indicator on battery

This single-line cordless model from Makita is easy to set up thanks to clear instructions. It has several adjustable features, so you can alter the length of the shaft from 115 to 133cm, change the angle of the trimmer head, and rotate this head to trim the edges of the lawn. Even the bump guard is adjustable with a screwdriver, so if you have a variety of obstacles to trim around you can get the distance exactly right. There’s a safety button, which must be pressed to turn it on, and at 88.5dB this was the quietest strimmer on test, compared to the Powerbase strimmer, which was the loudest at 95dB. It cuts quickly and efficiently despite a small cutting width of 26cm, and comes with a shoulder strap, so it feels light and manoeuvrable despite weighing nearly 3kg. However, the charger for the 18V, 5.0Ah lithium-ion battery emits a high pitched whine, which would be annoying if you have to charge it in the house, rather than in the garage or shed. It also doesn’t come with any spare line, and unlike some of other battery powered strimmers, there is no indication of the battery level as you work. As with all Makita tools, it comes with a generous three-year warranty, and the battery is compatible with a wide range of other Makita garden and power tools.

Buy the Makita DUR181RT from Amazon

Erbauer brushless cordless grass trimmer EGT18-Li. KIT

Price: £179.99

Our rating: 4/5

Solid build quality
Large 5.0 Ah battery lasts for ages
Battery features a charge level indicator
Powerful brushless motor
Weighs just over 3.5 kg
No edging attachment included
You can’t adjust the length of the shaft
No support strap for longer use

Lightweight, capable, and built for big gardens, the Erbauer EGT18 is a useful piece of kit. It didn’t take long to get up and running, there’s just a few screws to attach the shaft and blade guard. Supplied with a big 5.0 Ah battery and a wide cutting capacity of 30 cm, this double string auto-feed strimmer is well suited to large patches of grass or awkward garden areas. You can comfortably strim a garden on a single charge, and you can charge it back to full within an hour as well, which is very efficient. The large loop handle is comfortable and gives you extra leverage in tight corners, but it’s not designed for edging work. There’s a fair bit of vibration during use, and you’ll definitely need ear protection as it’s rather loud at 96 dB. You can fold the shaft in half for storage, but you need to undo a bolt and not lose it in between jobs. It comes with a two year warranty.

Buy the Erbauer Brushless Cordless Grass Trimmer EGT18-Li. KIT from Screwfix and B Q

Mac Allister 18V LI 280mm cordless grass trimmer

RRP: £79.99 (includes battery and charger)

Our rating: 4 out of 5

Lightweight
Both strimming and edging function
Cuts well
Comfortable to use when edging
Stiff to switch between modes
Stiff bump guard
Loud
Part of a cordless system, but only 6 other tools available

At just under 2kg, this strimmer feels lightweight and easy to move around the garden and it achieves a fast, efficient cut. It’s especially comfortable to hold when edging, has a simple automatic feed, and a relatively generous 28cm cutting width – the widest in the test was the Worx WG184E with 33cm. The 18V, 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery charges in 75 minutes and covers 250 square meters on a single charge. However, we found all its parts stiff to adjust. particularly lifting the bump guard up and down. and it’s fiddly to switch between the strimming and edging modes and to extend the telescopic shaft. Furthermore, the noise level is one of the loudest at 96dB, and this noise is noticeably high-pitched. It has a two-year warranty, and though it’s part of a cordless system, only six other tools are available.

Buy the Mac Allister 18V LI 280mm Cordless Grass Trimmer from eBay

Vonhaus F-Series cordless grass trimmer

Our rating: 4 out of 5

Uncomfortable handles
No edging function
Loudest machine on test
Battery compatible with only three other tools

Despite its narrow 21cm cutting width, this strimmer gives an excellent cut. The plastic blades tackle grass and woodier material well, and the 30-minute run time is one of the longest in our test. We like the storage feature under the handle for the included spare plastic blades, which are bright pink and easy to spot if they snap off into the grass. However, while it’s efficient, this machine is the loudest on the test at 98dB, and the handles are uncomfortable too. It also takes an hour and a half to charge, which though less than the 4 hours of the Gtech model, is much longer than the 45 minutes of the Makita DUR181RT and Mac Allister 18V LI 18V 280mm. The 12V, 2.0Ah F-Series lithium-ion battery is compatible with just three other Vonhaus tools. a hedge trimmer, garden saw, and handheld hedge and grass trimmer. which can save you money if you buy these in the future, but is limited compared to other cordless systems such as the dozens of compatible tools in the Worx PowerShare cordless system. Crucially, this strimmer also has no edging function, so if you’re after neat lawn edges you should look elsewhere. Because it’s just 12V, the battery is less powerful than others on test, but if you need to tidy up a small garden on a budget, it will do the job well, and comes with a two-year warranty.

Buy the Vonhaus F-Series Grass Trimmer from Amazon and Vonhaus

What’s a strimmer used for?

Strimmers cut the long grass and weeds that a mower can’t reach. They’re great for cutting in tricky places, such as around the base of a tree, the corner of a lawn, or on steep slopes. Depending on their power and their blade material, they can also tackle woodier growth like ivy, brambles, and stinging nettles. Many strimmers can also be used to tidy up along the edges of a lawn by adjusting the angle of the cutting head.

What’s the difference between a strimmer and a trimmer?

There’s no difference between a ‘strimmer’ and a ‘trimmer’, they’re the same tool. ‘Strimmer’ is an old trademark name that caught on, as you might say ‘hoover’ for any vacuum cleaner or ‘coke’ for any cola.

What’s the difference between a strimmer and a brush cutter?

A brush cutter is a more powerful tool, usually with metal blades, designed to tackle thick vegetation, rough grass, and weeds. It’s more commonly used by professional gardeners.

What are the different types of strimmer?

Line (or string) strimmers. These strimmers cut by spinning a plastic or nylon cord at high speed. This cord wears down gradually over time, and is either replaced automatically (automatic feed) or has a button on the bottom of the strimmer you can bump on the ground to reel out more cord (bump feed). They are either single-line, using one line of cord, or double-line, which uses two lines of cord. Generally, the line is designed to wear down gradually rather than completely break, but if the cord catches a rock and snaps, just reel out more cord. However, these fragments of plastic aren’t good for the environment, and once you run out of cord, the spools can be fiddly to replace. Although powerful enough to cut long grass and weeds, line strimmers aren’t as strong as blade strimmers, and are therefore less effective on tough, woody material.
Blade strimmers. These strimmers cut using two blades, which on domestic models are usually plastic. This makes them more effective on woodier material than some line alternatives, but if they catch on a rock or tough bark the blades can snap and get lost in the grass, which can damage the mower next time you cut the grass. Strimmers with metal blades avoid this problem, but they’re more expensive and not as widely available.
Petrol strimmers. Powered by petrol these typically have steer handles. explained in more detail below. and a curved, angled shaft. Because they use fuel, they’re often more powerful than corded and cordless strimmers, but petrol is polluting and messy to store and use. They’re also heavy, noisy and need regular servicing. Thanks to the rise of cordless batteries, they’re less common nowadays, particularly for home use.
Electric corded strimmers. Corded strimmers use a power cable connected to mains electricity. Depending on the length of the cable, these strimmers are more suitable for smaller gardens, but you can expand their reach with an extension lead. They’re also more dangerous than cordless strimmers because you run the risk of accidentally cutting the cable.
Electric cordless strimmers. Cordless strimmers are powered by lithium-ion batteries rather than mains electricity. Because of this, you can use them anywhere in the garden, but you’re restricted by run time and how long the battery takes to charge. They also tend to be less powerful and more expensive than corded strimmers, but they can be excellent value if their batteries are part of a cordless system and can be used in other power tools.

The key thing is to always check before you strim. Use a broom or rake to sweep the grass before you start, taking care to look out for small critters like frogs and slow worms, but also larger animals like hedgehogs.

Can I use a strimmer to mow the lawn or trim hedges?

Hypothetically, you could use a strimmer to cut a lawn, but it would take a long time. Strimmers are much less efficient at this task than lawn mowers, and it’s more difficult to get an even cut.

Strimmers aren’t designed to trim hedges, as their woody growth is too thick to be cut with plastic blades or nylon cord, and it would be very dangerous. Instead, use a hedge trimmer, or for more precise work, shears, a pruning saw, or pair of secateurs.

What are the key features to look out for?

Before you buy think about the following :

Cutting head. The cutting head is the most important feature on a strimmer. It should be adjustable, so you can change the angle of the cut to cope with inclines and fiddly jobs. In most models, the head turns 90°, so you can trim along the edges of paths and flowerbeds. In the very best models, the cutting head also has wheels to help guide along edges and support the weight of the strimmer.
Adjustable shaft. The best strimmers have a telescopic shaft, so you change the height to suit you. In some models, the shaft is angled rather than straight to help you manoeuvre into tricky spots. If space is an issue, it’s also helpful if you can break down the shaft and cutting head after use for storage.
Line feed and blade replacements. It’s useful if a blade strimmer comes with spare blades, so you don’t run out if one breaks in the middle of a job. You should be able to get a new spool of line for a line strimmer or replace the whole head. With both types it’s helpful if the spare blades or line can be stored on the tool.
Handle types. There are two types of strimmer handles. The most common is a round, circular handle on the shaft of the strimmer, called a loop handle. It makes the strimmer easy and comfortable to control, and on the best models, it can be slid up and down the shaft, so you can adjust it to your height. Alternatively, there are ‘steer’ handles. two handles rather than a loop. These offer more control and let you use a comfortable scything motion when you cut, but they take up room, and can be a little more expensive. They’re also far more common on brushcutters and petrol strimmers than electric or cordless strimmers, so you might not find steer handles on many domestic models.
Straps and safety harnesses. A shoulder strap or safety harness is an excellent bonus feature. It takes some of the weight of the tool, making it more comfortable to use, and also helps balance it, for better manoeuvrability and a more precise cut.
Bump guard. Some strimmers have metal guards on the head, called bump guards, which prevent the strimmer from cutting beyond a certain point. This protects your garden, as it stops you from nicking a tree or garden furniture but it also protects your strimmer line or blades by preventing them from catching on a fence or wall and breaking. The best bump guards can be adjusted, so you can control how closely you cut.

How We Tested

We tested a range of strimmers, putting them through their paces on lawn edges, sloped areas and big and small gardens. They were assessed according to the following criteria with equal marks attributed to each:

Preparation. Assessed how easy the strimmers were to assemble, how long this took and if any extra tools were needed, and how easy the instructions are to use. We also looked at how easy and quick it was to charge the batteries and store the strimmers.
Handling. Looked at comfort, weight, balance and grip, including features like a safety button, the runtime, and noise.
Performance. Focused on blade shape and material, cutting width and efficiency, and smoothness and precision of cut. We also assessed power and any extra functionality.
Value for Money. Considered all of the above plus any special features, RRP and warranty.

For more information on our testing process, see How We Review.

The Pros and Cons of an Edger vs Trimmer for your lawn

What exactly is the difference between edging and strimming your lawn? How do these two tools differ, and can a string trimmer (grass trimmer) be used as an edging tool?

First up, let’s look at these two different gardening devices and their purpose.

What is a Lawn Edger?

An edging tool is designed to help you maintain the edges along the boundary of your lawn. Once you’ve mown, you’ll be left with some straggly stray blades of grass that you just can’t get to with a lawnmower.

This tool uses a vertical spinning blade that neatens and cuts off those overhanging bits of grass and really tidies up the appearance of your lawn and beds.

You’ll find both manual and motorised versions on the market and whilst the motorised edges are more expensive, they’re going to save you plenty of time, particularly if you have a large area to cover.

Can I trim my lawn using an edger?

The simple answer is no. The vertical blade of an edger is going to get in the way, or at worst, damage the grass in those little spots you need to get to with a lawn trimmer. Your lawn edging tool has one use – edging!

What is a Grass Trimmer (String Trimmer)?

The trimmer has a different use. Once you’ve cut down your grass, there are going to be little areas around trees, garden walls, and other obstacles that your lawnmower can’t effectively reach.

These are great for getting rid of those stinging nettles that grow around tree trunks or get right up close to your garden bench or heavy stone statue.

The lawn trimmer has a horizontal string that rotates at high-speed and can cut weeds or grass right down to the level of your lawn. The string makes it flexible and perfect for difficult to reach places.

String trimmers are powered both by electric or petrol. If electric, ideally you’re going to want to invest in a cordless, battery-powered grass trimmer to give you the freedom to walk around your garden.

Electric trimmers tend to be smaller and lighter, whilst the petrol versions are heavier but usually have a strap to help your full body take the weight of the machine. If your surface area is large, then your petrol tank will allow you to spend longer working on the final touches of your garden. They also pack more power than electric versions.

Can I edge my lawn using a trimmer?

Trimmers are a little more flexible than edgers as you can move them around to cut sideways into difficult areas and the strings are flexible, rather than the ridged edging tool blade. So, can you edge with a trimmer? Yes, let’s take a look how…

How to edge your garden with a trimmer:

By now we’ve established that the trimmer works with a horizontal flexible string – not ideal for edging vertically, but it can be done.

Pop on some safety glasses as we don’t want debris flying upwards towards your face.
Hold the trimmer at a 90-degree angle so that the spinning string is now top to bottom or vertical.
Lower the string along your boundary edge and slowly make contact with the stray grass, moving the trimmer back and forth along the line.

It may take some time to get used to it but you can effectively create beautiful edges by using your trimmer. Or invest in both tools… the choice is yours!

Why not take a look at our range of trimmers and find out what works best for you and your garden space? We’ve got a wide range, so you’ll find the perfect trimmer for you:

After all, a grass trimmer can tidy up the edging of your lawn, but an edger can’t! So, grass trimmers win this battle.

The Pros and Cons of an Edger vs Trimmer for your lawn

What exactly is the difference between edging and strimming your lawn? How do these two tools differ, and can a string trimmer (grass trimmer) be used as an edging tool?

First up, let’s look at these two different gardening devices and their purpose.

What is a Lawn Edger?

An edging tool is designed to help you maintain the edges along the boundary of your lawn. Once you’ve mown, you’ll be left with some straggly stray blades of grass that you just can’t get to with a lawnmower.

This tool uses a vertical spinning blade that neatens and cuts off those overhanging bits of grass and really tidies up the appearance of your lawn and beds.

Can I trim my lawn using an edger?

What is a Grass Trimmer (String Trimmer)?

The trimmer has a different use. Once you’ve cut down your grass, there are going to be little areas around trees, garden walls, and other obstacles that your lawnmower can’t effectively reach.

These are great for getting rid of those stinging nettles that grow around tree trunks or get right up close to your garden bench or heavy stone statue.

String trimmers are powered both by electric or petrol. If electric, ideally you’re going to want to invest in a cordless, battery-powered grass trimmer to give you the freedom to walk around your garden.

Electric trimmers tend to be smaller and lighter, whilst the petrol versions are heavier but usually have a strap to help your full body take the weight of the machine. If your surface area is large, then your petrol tank will allow you to spend longer working on the final touches of your garden. They also pack more power than electric versions.

Can I edge my lawn using a trimmer?

How to edge your garden with a trimmer:

By now we’ve established that the trimmer works with a horizontal flexible string – not ideal for edging vertically, but it can be done.

Pop on some safety glasses as we don’t want debris flying upwards towards your face.
Hold the trimmer at a 90-degree angle so that the spinning string is now top to bottom or vertical.
Lower the string along your boundary edge and slowly make contact with the stray grass, moving the trimmer back and forth along the line.

It may take some time to get used to it but you can effectively create beautiful edges by using your trimmer. Or invest in both tools… the choice is yours!

Why not take a look at our range of trimmers and find out what works best for you and your garden space? We’ve got a wide range, so you’ll find the perfect trimmer for you:

After all, a grass trimmer can tidy up the edging of your lawn, but an edger can’t! So, grass trimmers win this battle.

Sources:

https://thrivingyard.com/edge-with-string-trimmer/
https://www.chainsawspares.com.au/lawn-edger-attachment-for-multi-tool-pole-saw-brus
https://www.gardenersworld.com/reviews/lawn-care/best-strimmers/
https://www.bimsonpower.com/blogs/news/lawn-edger-vs-trimmer
https://www.bimsonpower.com/blogs/news/lawn-edger-vs-trimmer

Lawn Mowers best, cutter, edge, lawn, petrol