Lawn mower aerator wheels. Best Lawn Aerators: Reviews & Tips for Choosing

Best Lawn Aerators: Reviews Tips for Choosing

Click here to jump to product recommendations, advice about effectively aerating your lawn or a short description of the differences between common models on the market. Aeration is a necessary part of any effective lawn care regimen – whether it’s carried out over the space of an acre or a single backyard. Thatch, compacted and nutrient-depleted soil, and weak, poorly-rooting grass are all problems that can be remedied with proper aeration. Choosing the best lawn aerator possible will also go a long way in making sure you get optimal results. This article is in two parts. I’ve selected five of my favourite aerators and they’re listed in the second half. The first part of the article is a crash course in soil aeration I also take a look at the ways in which various models (electric, manual, sandals, rollers etc.) differ towards the end. Let’s dive in…

What is aeration?

Aeration involves perforating turf with small holes that are each a few inches deep. Usually, the soil from the holes (called plugs) is removed and left on the top of the lawn. Alternatively aeration spikes can be pressed into the ground without unearthing any soil.

Why does your lawn need aerating?

Image Courtesy of U. of Minnesota

There are two main reasons for aeration: to break through the thatch barrier and to improve the circulation of air, water and nutrients in compacted soil. Thatch (explained below) hinders the flow of nutrients and water beyond the surface of the lawn whilst compaction prevents the movement of air and water (both essential for healthy plants) through the small pores in soil. An absence of air s (called macropores) means that both air and water cannot flow freely. Compaction also hinders proper rooting because it’s difficult for plants to penetrate packed-down earth.

What is thatch?

Diagram of a grass plant.

Thatch is a layer of both dead and living plant material (essentially live and decaying roots) that lies below the surface greenery and above the surface of the soil. When grass plants die their roots (crowns) begin to decompose and this accumulated organic matter is what can eventually cause a thick impenetrable thatch through which water and nutrients struggle to pass. Ultimately bad thatch will also hinder the growth of healthy new grass because seed will effectively be germinating in the thatch layer.

When does your lawn need aerating?

• If your house is new. In many instances the soil surrounding new-builds is very poor. During the course of building, the ground is churned up, destroying the topsoil in the process. Because of this, it’s vital that you do everything you can to improve the health of your lawn.

• If your lawn has recently been lain. If you have recently put down sod (strips of grass or turf) then aerating will help blend the fine “sod soil” with the topsoil underneath.

• If your lawn is prone to dryness or waterlogging. In both cases aerating will help.

Usually, the best time to aerate is during the growing season (late spring to early autumn) when your lawn is slightly wet. Aerating during the warmer, brighter months will mean that your grass has time to repair itself and fill in the plugged gaps.

It’s also worth going over the heavily-compacted parts of your lawn a few times. Leave plugs to dry out and then pass over them with a lawn mower or rake to break them up.

You have a few options when it comes to picking a lawn aerator. Let’s have a look at some of them…

Our top 5 picks (US UK selections)…

Full Disclosure – Where appropriate, I’ve linked product images to commercial sites. If you buy from these sites, I earn a small affiliate fee, which helps me keep Urban Turnip going.

Nylon Spiked Aeration Sandals (Gardenite) (UK and US)

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Aeration sandals can be a bit hit and miss. Though they’re often a great option for gardeners because they’re inexpensive and easy-to-use, their quality can be poor. This pair of sandals from Gardenite, however, ticks all the boxes as far as quality and functionality are concerned.

To start off with, the “soles” are made from nylon, which is much stronger than the plastic usually used to make aeration sandals. The straps are fastened with zinc buckles (again, not plastic) and there are four of them, as opposed to the usual three. Spare spikes and a wrench are included and there’s also a money-back guarantee (no questions asked).

Agri-Fab 48-Inch Plug Aerator (UK and US)

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If you’re looking after a larger lawn, then a more sophisticated aerator may be required. The Agri-Fab 48-Inch Plug Aerator is made with 8 spools, each with 4 galvanised steel spikes. The idea is to use the (48-inch long) tray to weigh down the spikes so that they better penetrate the soil. A breeze block would be ideal.

You will obviously need a tractor lawnmower to pull it. One complaint is that the lever for lifting and lowering the spools can’t be reached from a sitting position. The tyres are pneumatic, so you won’t need to worry too much about getting a permanent flat. If you’re working on an area above a few acres, then “industrial level” equipment will probably be needed.

Fiskars Coring Aerator (Plug) (US)

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A human-powered model like this one will be the best option for those aerating smaller areas of grass. The 4-inch steel prongs remove a circular chunk of earth (as opposed to the spike aerators which simply press holes into the ground) which can then be left on the surface of the lawn (each step pushes the previous step’s “cores” out). Both the T-handle and the central platform for pressing the prongs into the soil are very robust and will work well on even the most compacted soils. The model as a whole is also strikingly light.

I’ve included the two-pack here because it represents the best value for money. Single units are also available.

Kingfisher Plug Lawn Aerator (UK)

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With five individual coring prongs, the Kingfisher Plug Aerator is a great manual option for small lawns. It’s a well-built and strong tool and the 6-inch or so tines are very effective. Like the previous Fiskars model, each step pushes out the cores from the previous one. As long as you’re aerating after rain, you shouldn’t have any trouble using this tool on even the hardest of clay soils. Another good thing about it is that the prongs aren’t overly wide, so the “damage” to your lawn will appear minimal.

The handle doesn’t have any extra padding, so if you’re prone to blisters, you might want to consider covering it in some padding.

Agri-Fab Rolling Spike Aerator (US)

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For the final entry, I’ve picked a medium-power manual aerator that sits between sandals and tractor-pulled machinery on the power spectrum. It’s a push aerator with 5 wheels each consisting of seven spokes. The central platform, much as with the tractor-pulled model by the same company, is meant to hold a weight of some kind (a breeze block is ideal) so as to push the spokes into the ground.

It comes with a 3-year warranty and is easy to assemble. For the price, this is a great piece of kit. Generally speaking, plug aerators are better for lawns, but if you’re after a quick solution, then this rolling aerator will happily do the job!

Spikes vs. Plugs

OK, so onto the difference between spikes and plugs.

A spike aerator is a spiked tool (you guessed it) used to push holes in the ground. Sandals are a perfect example. The spikes (or tines) themselves are solid (unlike plugs) and don’t remove any soil from the ground. Rather, they compact it to the sides.

A plug aerator works in exactly the same way as a spike aerator, the only difference being that the tool removes a “plug” of soil from the lawn. They tend to be the better option because they don’t cause the same kind of compaction that spike aerators do.

Rollers vs. Sandals

If you’re going for spikes, which are the quicker option, then you can choose between rollers or sandals. The idea behind sandals is that you attach a spiked platform to your shoes and walk around the garden. The main benefit is that they’re inexpensive and it’s easy to pass over the heavily-compacted areas several times.

Best Lawn Aerator Reviews In 2023 | Top 6 Perfect Lawn Aerators For Yard Maintenance

Rollers work on the same principle, just with spikes attached to a drum that is pushed in the same way as a lawn mower. The main thing to check for when buying a roller is that the drum is heavy enough to force the spikes into the ground, particularly if you’ve got hard clay soil.

Whats the difference between an aerator and a scarifier?

One last point. Don’t confuse a scarifier with an aerator – both have different uses. Where, as has as already been explained, aerators pierce the surface of the lawn to improve drainage and aeration, scarifiers are used to remove thatch.

A scarifier uses spikes (or tines) to pull thatch and moss from the surface of a lawn, rather than dig holes into it. Ideally, scarification and aeration should be done in conjunction.

What are your thoughts? Leave a comment below!

So there you have it – my best picks and advice about choosing a lawn aerator! What are your thoughts? Have you used the products I’ve reviewed? Or do you have your own favourites? Leave a comment in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев section below.

Welcome! I’m Dan and Urban Turnip is a blog about urban gardening and living well in the city. Learn more about us.

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Seven of the best lawn aerators, from manual to combination machines

A perfect lawn needs a bit of TLC. Read our comprehensive guide to lawn care and browse our pick of the very best aerators, from manual to electric.

What are the Greenkey Rolling Lawn Aerator’s main features?

This manual, rolling spike aerator is basic but efficient. It needs assembling, which is simple to do, and everything fits together well. although you’ll need a wrench or something similar, to attach the nylon-thread bolts. Should you get stuck putting it together, there’s also a short instructional video on their website. Featuring a T-bar grip, the shaft is adjustable to suit your height, which is a useful feature. Made from aluminium and plastic, it’s lightweight but sturdy, the drum is 30cm wide, which covers a lawn quickly and easily, and there are 30 x 4.5 cm spikes to ensure deep, even aeration.

What’s the Greenkey Rolling Lawn Aerator like to use?

Simple to manoeuvre, the spikes sink into soft ground with ease, but it requires a little more effort on dry, harder ground, where we found it best to lean on the shaft to apply gentle downward pressure to ensure the spikes were pushed in deeply enough. On uneven ground, the spikes don’t penetrate evenly – however, if you run it over your lawn several times in different directions it should address the issue. The T-bar grip doesn’t have any padding, which may become uncomfortable if you’re working on a large lawn.

Who is the Greenkey Rolling Lawn Aerator most useful for?

For those with a small- to medium-sized garden where the soil needs only a moderate amount of aeration. It’s also good if storage is an issue as it’s smaller than powered aerators, and if safety is a consideration, plastic caps are provided, which fit on the individual spikes when not in use.

Is the Greenkey Rolling Lawn Aerator good value for money?

It’s not the cheapest of its type (they range from £25 to £65), but the construction is sturdy, as are the spikes. It also comes with a two-year warranty, so we felt as an entry-level aerator, this was a perfectly good option.

Love your lawn? Check out our tests of the best lawn aerators and best lawn scarifiers, and while you’re at it, you might find our round up of the best cordless mowers and best robotic mowers useful. We’ve also put together expert tips on lawn care and Alan Titchmarsh shows the best way to scarify a lawn.

This review was last updated in October 2021. Unfortunately, change and things go out of stock so we apologise if anything has changed.A lush, green lawn is source of pride and joy for many gardeners but it’s often where all the action takes place in the garden. The focal point for gatherings with friends and family, it can suffer from overuse and too much wear and tear. Terrific turf needs a good lawn care regime to achieve it and while regular mowing and watering will take you so far, there are a couple of additional tasks for your to do list, which will help keep your lawn in tip-top condition.

Regardless of how often you cut your lawn, over time the soil underneath the turf becomes compacted, while above ground a thick, impenetrable layer of thatch and organic debris develops around the roots. This undesirable combination prevents air, water and nutrients from reaching deep down to the grass’ root system and ultimately weakens its growth, leaving the plant susceptible to pests and diseases. Scarifying your lawn will help remove thatch and debris, but if you need to relieve compacted soil underneath the turf, it’s best to aerate it. Aeration is the process of making air holes in the lawn to create ventilation. In small lawns a simple garden fork can be used, in either the spring or autumn, to push holes into the ground but you can also buy manual aerators, either solid or hollow tined, which require the same effort as a fork. However, if you have a lot of lawn and not much time, other types of aerator are probably the best option. Whether you’re pushing a roller covered in spikes, or using a powered machine, these aerators are a labour-saving version of the trusty garden fork, mechanically making a series of holes in the lawn.

The best time to aerate the lawn is after rainfall, when the ground is damp and soft, otherwise it can be quite hard work. While it sounds very hands on, doing it once or twice a year will make a big difference and help keep your lawn healthy.

We reviewed the most popular aerators on the market, putting them through their paces to bring you a list of the best aerators, both manual and powered.

Each model has a detailed list of pros and cons for clarity and has been rated according to ease of use, handling, performance, and value for money. Each aerator has scored a minimum of four out of five stars, so you can buy with confidence.

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Best lawn aerators to buy at a glance

Time to show your lawn some TLC? Check out our round up of the best lawn scarifiers and expert tips on how to improve your lawn in 12 weeks. You can also keep edges looking neat with our pick of the best lawn edging.

In additoin to aerators and scarifiers, we’ve tested a range of lawn mowers, including the best cordless lawn mowers, the best robotic lawn mowers and the best electric lawn mowers. For those with small lawns, our guide to the best hand push mowers will be helpful. For other help with lawn care, take a look at our reviews of the best strimmers and the best aerators, or check out our guide to the best lawn edging.

What is a lawn aerator and what does it do?

Aerating your lawn is part of a spring and autumn lawn care regime and there are two different methods of aerating your lawn:

• Spiking – this involves using solid spikes to create holes in the lawn, which are a couple of millimetres in width and several centimetres deep, to help relieve compacted soil.
• Hollow tining – as it sounds, hollow tines are pushed into the ground to remove cylindrical plugs of turf, around a centimetre wide and a few centimetres deep. Depending on the soil type, you may wish to fill these holes with a sandy mix or leave them to let the soil expand and close the holes, which helps with waterlogged clay soil.

Types of lawn aerators: the different ways to aerate your lawn

There are four types of aerator, each with their own pros and cons:

• Spike shoes. these are cheap and easy to use and most effective on soft – but not soggy. ground in small gardens.
• Manual aerators. although these are useful tools, which can do specific jobs (see above), using them requires a lot of effort as it gets tiring, even on a small lawn. But they’re cheap, and a great idea if you’re after a workout.
• Manual Rolling Drum Aerators – these are time and labour saving, as you simply walk across the lawn pushing the roller
• Powered Aerators – the obvious advantage of using these is that they’re labour saving. They’re also almost always available as part of a 2-in-1 combination machine that scarifies as well, so you get two jobs done for the price of one. However, it’s important to note these mechanical aerators don’t aerate in the same way that a manual aerator does. they use metal blades rather than spikes or tines. These blades create shallow slits rather than deep holes, and although they will help maintain a healthy lawn, by allowing air and water to move through this top layer of soil, they won’t improve your lawn if it’s compacted or you have heavy clay. Mechanical aerators are quite an investment too, as you’re using them twice a year at the most. even if they’re a 2-in-1 combination of aerator and scarifier – and they require more space to store than the other alternatives.

When it comes to choosing whether you go for an electric, cordless or petrol aerator, consider the pros and cons that are associated with each type:

Electric corded aerators: Lightweight, quiet and often at the budget-end, these are best suited to small and medium-sized gardens with a power supply. Most come with a collection box, which is a useful, time-saving feature, but the cord length can be restrictive as well as potentially hazardous.

How to choose the best lawn aerator

Depending on the type of aerator you’re going to choose, there are several key features to look for:

• Manual hollow tine – look out for strong, solid tines that will cope with compacted turf, a decent tread to prevent your foot from slipping, and a soft-grip handle for comfort.
• Manual rolling drum – ideally you want a good number of metal spikes on the drum to create plenty of holes – as a guide, 27 spikes will give you about 180 spikes per square metre. The spikes should also be at least 5cm long to ensure they penetrate the ground deeply.
• Mechanical aerator – go for strong, good-sized blades and a collection box. If storage space is an issue look for handles that fold down and a collapsible collection box rather than a solid one.

Browse our review of the best lawn aerators below.

Seven of the best lawn aerators

Kent Stowe 4 prong lawn aerator

Our rating: 4.3 out of 5

Awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for Manual Hollow Tined Aerating, this simple aerator from Kent Stowe works well. The smooth, FSC-grade ash handle is comfortable, lightweight and doesn’t rub, even after using it for a while. The handle runs into a single-riveted steel socket above wide steel treads and these treads are great for striking and pushing into soil. However, the 9cm, stainless steel tines don’t go in smoothly every time, despite being pointed. Its best feature is that it produces good, solid plugs of soil that are great for breaking down and reusing as topsoil.

Greenkey Lawn Aerator

RRP: £45.99Our rating: 4.5 out of 5

• Adjustable height
• Easy to use
• Lightweight
• Good for storage
• Plastic caps to cover the spikes when not in use
• Needs assembling – though it’s straightforward
• Hard work, so best suited to small gardens

Awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for Manual Aerating, the Greenkey Rolling Lawn Aerator is basic but does the job well. Lightweight with sturdy spikes, it’s just the tool if your small lawn needs aeration. Made from aluminium and plastic, it’s lightweight but feels substantial and features a T-bar grip as well as an adjustable shaft to suit different height users. The drum is 30cm wide, which covers a lawn quickly and easily, and there are 30 x 4.5 cm spikes to ensure deep, even aeration. It comes with a two year warranty.

Powerbase 1400W Electric Lawn Rake Scarifier

RRP £89Our rating: 4.5 out of 5

• Easy to manoeuvre
• Lightweight
• Compact
• Folding handles and removable collection box for storage
• Dual start system for safety
• Four depth settings
• Plastic collection box cover catches on handles
• Noisy at 103dB
• The collection box doesn’t pick up all the debris

Awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Budget Buy, the Powerbase 1400W Electric Lawn Rake Scarifier is a 2-in-1 combination machine that’s light and compact but fairly noisy, reaching 104dB. The interchangeable drums are easy to attach and remove with the allen key provided, and feature blades for shallow aeration, designed to help improve lawn health, rather than relieve compacted soil or open the structure of heavy clay and spring tines for scarification. It has a dual start system for safety with a working width of 32cm wide and four depth settings. The body is made from plastic, which feels sturdy, and it has a generous 40L collection bag, plus the handles fold for easy storage. It comes with a 10m cable and is only £24.02 more than the Wolf Garten Multi-Change® Roller Moss Removal Rake that we tested, so it’s a great, labour-saving alternative. It comes with a two-year warranty.

Vonhaus 1800W 2-in-1 scarifier

Our rating: 4.3 out of 5

• Easy to manoeuvre
• Lightweight
• Folding handles and removable collection box for storage
• Interchangeable drums are easy to remove and install
• Dual start system for safety
• Five depth settings

The Vonhaus 1800W 2-in-1 Scarifier is a sturdy, combination machine, with a robust but lightweight plastic body, which weighs 16.1kg. Powered with a 1800W motor, it’s a little noisy at 104dB, but removes moss, thatch and other organic lawn debris very efficiently with its 38cm working width. It has two interchangeable drums: one with metal blades that slit the top layer of ground to aerate and help improve the health of the lawn, (rather than deep holes to relieve compacted or heavy clay soil) and one with spring tines for scarification. It has folding handles for easy storage, a dual start system for safety, and a built-in thermal cut out if it overheats. There are five depth settings, ranging from.12mm.9mm.3mm and 6mm – although we found the lowest setting made the lawn look quite ravaged. At 60cm wide it’s one of the largest machines we tested, but is still easy to manoeuvre and comes with a 10m cable. The generously-sized 55L collection bag is moderately efficient, but misses some debris as there is a gap between the box and the blades. It comes with a two-year warranty.

Stiga Essential SV 213E Electric Lawn Scarifier

RRP £139Our rating: 4.3 out of 5

• Buy now from: Mowers Online, (£139)

• Easy to use
• Lightweight and compact
• Folding handles and removable collection box for storage
• Interchangeable drums are easy to remove and install
• Dual start system for safety
• Four depth settings
• Quiet at 91dB

The Stiga Essential SV 213E Electric Lawn Scarifier is light, compact and efficient when it comes to tackling moss and thatch in the lawn. It has two interchangeable drums, one with spring tines for scarification and the other with blades for shallow aeration, which is designed to help improve lawn health, rather than relieve compacted soil or open the structure of heavy clay. It also has a dual start safety system and can be adjusted to four depths, ranging from.6mm to 4mm, which is shallower than the other models we tested. We found that the 40L collection bag left some debris behind and the 15m cable – the longest in the group we tested – is an additional cost of £21.71. It’s compact and easy to fold the handles for storage, and comes with a two year warranty.

STIHL RLA 240 Cordless Lawn Scarifier

Our score: 4.5 out of 5

• Buy now from Just Lawnmowers, (£219)

The BEST Manual Core Aerator for the Lawn With Catch Bucket #shorts

Awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for safety, this combination machine is powered by a 36v, 4.8Ah battery. It takes 205 minutes to charge, but is easy to plug in and has a helpful charge indicator, although this is faint in daylight. The battery also has great safety features – it won’t work without a safety key, and there’s a lock on the powerbar for an effective dead-man switch. and it lasts long enough to cover a 250m2 lawn, about the size of a tennis court. Thanks to smooth, high-quality wheels, it feels lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, which is surprising given that it weighs 15kg. Powerful aerating blades cut through the top layer of soil well, to help improve lawn health, rather than relieve compacted soil or open the structure of heavy clay, and in doing so, also tackle most of the thatch and moss in the lawn. The scarifying drum attachment was effective on moss too, though not as efficient with thatch. However, this machine struggles with inclines. If your lawn isn’t level, it catches on the soil and shuts itself off. Fortunately, this isn’t too much of a problem, because you can easily adjust the heights – 7.5 mm to.9.5 mm – to avoid this problem, and this automatic shutdown is also a great safety feature.

Cobra S3840V Cordless Scarifier

Our score: 4 out of 5

The Cobra S3840V Cordless Scarifier handles well. It’s big, and the wheels are prone to being a little stiff, but it’s lightweight and has a soft-grip handle, which makes it comfortable to use. At 92dB, it’s relatively quiet, too. The 40V 5Ah battery charges quickly in just 90 minutes, and offers 40 minutes’ use. The machine itself is easy to use, and we loved being able to see the charge indicator through the transparent window. The aeration blades and spring tine scarifying drum can be set at five heights, which range from.10mm to 5mm. Unfortunately, the instructions are poor, so it takes a while to get this machine up and running. On the plus side, at 38cm wide, it covers a large area of lawn, reducing how long you spend on the job, but its size makes this combination machine very bulky and difficult to store.

How we tested lawn aerators

To see how well lawn aerators perform, the GW reviews team tested a range of models across a range of garden situations – creating holes and slits in different turf and ground conditions. Before we started, we checked for any wildlife in the grass and organic debris on the lawn surface. The lawn aerators were compared, and the following criteria used to calculate the scores, with equal weight given to each:

• Set-up storage: We looked at the assembly needed, ease and clarity of instructions, any storage features and, where relevant, the cable length.
• Handling: We assessed ease of use, weight, noise levels, comfort and safety features.
• Performance: Considered the strength of the tines or blades, as well as how well they created holes and slits in the lawn. For the 2-in-1 machines, we also evaluated how well the spring tines removed moss and thatch in the scarifying mode.
• Value for money: We reviewed all of the above, plus quality and design, the RRP and the length of warranty.

For more information on our testing process see How we Review

This review was last updated in April 2022. Unfortunately, change and things go out of stock so we apologise if anything has changed.

To find the best lawn aerator for your lawn-care needs and budget, start with our top tips and recommendations.

By Tom Scalisi and Heather Blackmore and Mark Wolfe | Updated Jul 12, 2023 6:58 AM

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Maintaining a lawn is demanding—there’s no question about it. Grass requires regular watering, mowing, and weeding to stay verdant and lush. If bare patches persist despite your best efforts, compacted soil is the likely culprit. Compaction is when the space between soil particles becomes so tight that air, water, and nutrients can no longer circulate around the roots.

Soil compaction often occurs in lawns with heavy clay soil that receive a lot of foot or wheeled traffic. Drainage suffers, and a thick thatch layer—a mix of dead stems, leaves, and roots—may develop between the soil and the grass. A yearly pass with a lawn aerator opens space for air and water to reach your lawn’s roots. This could be the key that unlocks the gate to greener pastures.

We scoured the market to present a list of top picks in a variety of categories. After reviewing the specifications, features, and customer reviews for each of the products below, we tested them in our own backyard. Read on to learn more about our shopping considerations, how each aerator performed, and why we believe these are some of the best lawn aerators available.

• BEST OVERALL:Brinly-Hardy 40-Inch Tow-Behind Plug Aerator
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:Corona YardBreather Aerator
• UPGRADE PICK:John Deere 48-Inch Tow-Behind Plug Aerator
• BEST MANUAL:Yard Butler Manual Lawn Coring Aerator
• BEST HEAVY-DUTY:Agri-Fab 48-Inch Plug Aerator
• BEST WALK-BEHIND:Ryan Lawnaire IV Aerator
• BEST LIQUID:Covington Liquid Aerator

ALSO TESTED

Who Should Aerate Their Lawn

Before you run out and poke holes in your lawn, understand that not all lawns require aeration. But if one of the following scenarios applies to your lawn, you should consider it. Otherwise, let the green be.

• For newly constructed homes, aeration is almost always a good idea. Between the work crew’s trucks and heavy equipment passing over the soil, there’s a good chance you need to aerate your lawn.
• Is your lawn the neighborhood ball field? When a yard sees a lot of use, such as children, parties, pets, and other foot traffic, you should think about lawn aeration.
• For lawns built up from sod, a yard aerator can be a necessity. Until the sod can take root and make a connection to the rough soil underneath, it’s just a grass carpet sitting on top of the soil. Lawn aeration promotes that connection.

Your soil may not be breathing because there’s a thick layer of thatch on top. Thatch is made up of living and dead grass stems and roots that form at the soil surface, usually in response to poor drainage. In that case, a lawn dethatcher will help to remove the thatch layer. These tools simply scrape and remove the thatch without digging into the surface. After removing the thatch, aerate the lawn to repair the soil structure.

Should You Buy or Rent a Lawn Aerator?

It doesn’t always make good financial sense to purchase lawn equipment that you will rarely need. In fact, many homeowners grow gorgeous lawns without aerating. If you are new to your home and not sure whether aerating will be a one-time task or a recurring chore, your best bet might be to borrow or rent a lawn aerator. Most tool rental companies offer both walk-behind and towable lawn aerators for rent by the hour, half day, full day, or week.

On the other hand, some homeowners have problem areas that need yearly aerating. For them, dealing with the hassle of coordinating a rental pickup and return every year, and paying the fee over and over, makes owning an aerator much more cost-effective.

Aeration Methods

Depending on the method of aeration that’s best for your lawn, you may use one of two types of tools: a spike or a plug (also called a “core”).

Plug Aerators

A lawn plug aerator penetrates the lawn with hollow tines that remove plugs of soil. Home landscapers can either leave these plugs in place to decompose or collect them with a rake or lawn mower.

Candidates for plug aeration include lawns where:

• Water pools in the grass or runs off onto sidewalks after a rainfall.
• Soil is difficult to dig into.
• Frequent foot traffic has hardened the soil.

Whether your lawn has all or just one of these indicators, it will benefit from a plug aerator. The holes create spaces in the soil that allow roots to expand, water to soak in deeper, and air to circulate. The result is a healthy root system below and a lush lawn above.

Spike Aerators

Spike aerators don’t remove soil from the yard. Instead, they puncture the soil with long spikes and allow air and water to reach the roots. They typically work well on less compacted soil and sod. They might not do the trick for dense soil.

Spike aerators tend to work best with looser soil, especially if the goal is to increase root exposure to fertilizer or create spaces for grass seed to settle without running off the soil’s surface. We do not recommend using a spike aerator to repair compacted soil. Although they may appear to reduce lawn stress in the short term, repeated use of a spike aerator for a few successive seasons can actually exacerbate soil compaction.

How We Tested the Best Lawn Aerators

Our lawn aerator tests consisted of 2 days of product assembly, application, measurement, and observation. We marked out 5,000 square feet of lawn for each of the tow-behind and walk-behind models. For the shoes and handheld models, we marked out 100-square-foot test plots. The liquid lawn aerator required an A/B test of two identical 500-square-foot plots to compare the treated area with a nontreated area, with a monthlong care and observation period.

After assembly, we calculated the number of spikes per square foot for every model by dividing the area covered with one full turn of the reel assembly (width times circumference in inches, divided by 144) by the total number of aerating spikes. Aerators with fewer spikes per square foot penetrated deeper with less weight but required more passes for equal effect. Conversely, models with a higher number of spikes per square foot required more weight for equal penetration, but aerated thoroughly in a single pass.

We prepared the lawn for the aerator tests by mowing a notch lower than the normal maintenance height, then watered deeply to promote deep spike penetration. After 24 hours, we tested each aerator, adding a moderate amount of weight to the tow-behind models. After aerating, we randomly collected 50 extracted plugs from each plug aerator to calculate their average penetration depths. Our favorite models were plug aerators that penetrated at least 2.5 inches on average, and pulled at least 2.25 plugs per square foot.

Our Top Picks

Whether you’re looking for a handheld aerator to work a few square feet beneath the kids’ playset or a large tow-behind model to aerate several acres, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find out more about these tools, how they performed in our tests, and which one may be the best lawn aerator to care for your property.

Brinly-Hardy 40-Inch Tow-Behind Plug Aerator

DIYers who take lawn care seriously should consider Brinly-Hardy’s 40-inch tow-behind plug aerator. It features 24 individual 3-inch heat-treated plugs, all-steel construction, and a weight tray that can handle up to 150 pounds. All of these factors add up to a durable tool that provides optimal aeration.

This model features a universal hitch that can attach to ATVs, UTVs, and lawn tractors. The transport lever allows landscapers to disengage the knives to pull the aerator across sidewalks and driveways. “No-flat” tires enhance the unit’s overall durability.

In our tests, the Brinly-Hardy lawn aerator proved to be a top contender for routine maintenance applications. It was also the lowest-priced tow-behind plug aerator we tested. In average conditions with 120 pounds of weight added, it penetrated to an average of 2.75 inches deep. The steel coring spikes are strong but not sharpened, and they are rolled to a “C” shape instead of a complete circular plug shape, which helps with cleanout but might hinder penetration somewhat. Because this aerator punches only 2.5 plugs per square foot, we had to make two or three passes with it for the best results.

Product Specs

• All-steel design is durable and built to last
• Weight tray can support up to 150 pounds
• Universal hitch compatible with most garden vehicles
• Durable flat-free wheels can handle most terrains
• Assembly required (about 1.5 hours)
• Low number of spikes per square foot
• Cannot operate the transport lever from the driver’s seat

Get the Brinly-Hardy lawn aerator at The Home Depot or Walmart.

Corona YardBreather Aerator

Those with only a small patch of yard to aerate might want to consider an inexpensive, easy-to-store handheld aerator like the Corona YardBreather. The YardBreather measures 40 inches high, with plugging spikes spaced 8 inches apart, and it weighs a little more than 3.5 pounds.

This rugged tool removes two 3.5-inch soil plugs at a time with a simple stepping motion. The tool ejects soil plugs from the top of the hollow spikes with each step. The footplate and plugging spikes are made of heat-treated steel for a long working life. Thick padded handles and a wide nonslip footplate eliminate stress points and reduce user fatigue.

With a little practice, we were able to remove an average of 100 plugs per minute with the YardBreather. It worked more effectively in heavily compacted and dry soils than any of the tow-behind aerators we tested because the user’s entire weight bears down on just two spikes instead of six or eight spikes at a time. In average soil conditions, the spikes consistently penetrated to the full depth of 3.5 inches. Although it is not an ideal solution for even the smallest whole-yard treatment, this tool would make an excellent purchase for those who regularly deal with pet paths around the property border or a worn pathway from the house to the toolshed.

Product Specs

• Comfortable grip helps prevent user fatigue
• Broad, slip-resistant step makes it easier to use
• Sharp edges for easy plugging
• This compact garden tool is easy to store

Get the Corona lawn aerator at Lowe’s or Tractor Supply Co.

John Deere 48-Inch Tow-Behind Plug Aerator

John Deere’s 48-inch aerator makes quick work of aerating the lawn. It boasts 12 four-way plug assemblies on the spool for a total of 48 spikes pulling 4.24 plugs per square foot. The heavy-duty body weighs in at 101 pounds and holds up to 250 pounds of additional weight for a total of about 350 pounds of downward pressure. The heat-treated plugging spoons penetrate up to 3 inches. The universal drop-pin towing hitch is compatible with most lawn tractors and riding mowers. Unlike the other towable aerators in our lineup, this one rolls gently on pneumatic tires while in transport mode.

The John Deere tow-behind plug aerator may be priced a bit higher than the other models we tested, but as they say, you get what you pay for. This one is a major upgrade. In a side-by-side comparison with the similarly sized Agri-Fab 48-inch tow-behind plug aerator, John Deere stood out immediately in terms of both material quality and overall design. The John Deere weighs 9 pounds more than the Agri-Fab model (101 vs. 92 pounds), and it can hold 250 pounds of added weight compared to 140 pounds for Agri-Fab. Not only that, but with 4.24 plugs per square foot, the John Deere works about 50 percent more efficiently.

With 120 pounds of added weight, this aerator penetrated the soil an average of 2.5 inches. It continued to penetrate well even while making 180-degree end turns. We especially liked that this model rides on inflated tires that distribute the weight better on soft ground instead of causing ruts as hard wheels do. If we could have operated the transport lever from the driver’s seat, this would have been a nearly perfect implement. This aerator’s size and heavy-duty build make it an ideal choice for larger properties with lots of open lawn space.

Product Specs

• Closely spaced coring spikes great for compacted earth
• Penetrates up to 3 inches even when making end turns
• Pneumatic tires for better weight distribution on soft ground
• Top-quality construction is a heavy-duty option
• Cannot operate the travel lever from the driver’s seat
• May be too large for some lawn tractors

Get the John Deere lawn aerator at The Home Depot, Green Part Store, or The Build Club.

Yard Butler Manual Lawn Coring Aerator

DIY lawn-care experts know the value of a quality manual aerator. Whether it’s for a small yard or tight grass pathways, the Yard Butler manual lawn coring aerator is up to the task. With a durable all-steel one-piece construction, it’s strong enough to sink the 3.5-inch tines into tough, compacted soil while the wide footplate provides plenty of leverage.

The Yard Butler measures 37 inches high, so users can maintain a comfortable posture while they work. At just over 3.5 pounds, it’s also easy to lift with the padded T-shaped handles.

While both are capable tools with nearly identical designs that easily remove two 3.5-inch soil plugs at a time, Yard Butler surpassed the YardBreather in a couple of key testing metrics. Their weights are nearly identical, at just over 3.5 pounds, but the Yard Butler is more compact: It is 0.25 inch thinner, 3.5 inches shorter, and the spikes are spaced 0.5 inch closer together.

The shorter height made the Yard Butler easier to pull out of the soil when we were working with it, while the narrow spike spacing increased overall plug density for more thorough aeration. Interestingly, even with the 0.5-inch reduction in spike spacing, Yard Butler’s footplate is just 0.25 inch narrower than the competition (4.75 inches vs. 5 inches), so those of us with big feet could still use it. Although the competition offered a more comfortable handle and nonslip footplate, we preferred the sleek dimensions of the Yard Butler for both working comfort and storage.

Product Specs

• Compact manual tool is ideal for small yards
• All-steel build is a durable choice
• Padded T-handle makes it more comfortable to use

Get the Yard Butler lawn aerator at Amazon or Walmart.

Agri-Fab 48-Inch Plug Aerator

For large yards or those with extremely compacted soil, a heavy-duty aerator like this model from Agri-Fab might be the best bet. The 48-inch-wide path on this tow-behind plug aerator makes quicker work of expansive lawns. Heavy-gauge galvanized steel knives with 32 spikes get the job done.

A 175-pound weight tray pulls enough weight for some of the most stubborn soil. A pair of 9.75-inch flat-free tires supports travel over rough terrain, and a transportation lever lifts the knives clear of sidewalks and driveways. The universal hitch fits ATVs, UTVs, and lawn tractors as well.

In our tests, the Agri-Fab 48-inch tow-behind plug aerator delivered stronger, more efficient penetration than the smaller Brinly-Hardy model, thanks to its heavier build and relatively low density of sharpened plugging spikes. Fewer spikes meant that each one bore more downward pressure, and the heavier frame produced more pressure than the lighter model. The spikes penetrated to an average depth of about 2.5 inches.

However, punching only 2.67 plugs per square foot, we had to make two passes for thorough results. Like the other tow-behind aerators we tested, the rolled steel spikes were “C” shaped, not completely round, which meant that most soil plugs were not fully extracted from the ground. But cleanup was easy since very few plugs stuck inside the coring spikes. The Agri-Fab lawn aerator makes an affordable choice for maintaining larger properties.

Product Specs

• Control the travel lever from the driver’s seat
• Large powerful unit is ideal for large yards
• 9.75-inch flat-free tires can handle most terrains
• Universal hitch for a versatile usability

Get the Agri-Fab lawn aerator at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Ryan Lawnaire IV Aerator

When professional groundskeepers and landscapers perform lawn aeration services, Ryan aerators are commonly the machines of choice. The self-propelled Lawnaire IV walk-behind aerator covers a 19-inch-wide path with 5.63 coring spikes per square foot. A single pass with this machine is equivalent to two or more passes with most tow-behind units.

Traveling at speeds of up to 4 miles per hour, it aerates up to 0.67 acres (29,000 square feet) per hour. With two removable 25-pound weight cylinders and a fillable water drum, this aerator provides a maximum of 304 pounds of downward pressure to penetrate up to 3.5 inches despite the 2.75-inch spike length.

In our tests, the Ryan Lawnaire IV easily outperformed the rest of our lineup in terms of pure results, with the possible exception of the John Deere on flat straightaways. John Deere covered ground faster, but Lawnaire IV penetrated deeper with greater spike density. The Honda engine started with a single pull. The controls were well-placed and easy to operate. The machine moved quickly, aerated thoroughly, and was surprisingly easy to maneuver around curves and across moderate slopes.

We were easily able to maneuver the machine along a narrow grass corridor between two landscape beds where the lawn tractor could not drive, and this self-propelled machine had no difficulty moving up one short but particularly steep slope where the lawn tractor bogged down pulling the heavily weighted tow-behind models.

The coring spikes consistently penetrated 2.75 inches into the soil with only the cylinder weights installed. Although most homeowners won’t spend this much to buy a professional-grade machine, renting one could be a great option. It is amazingly effective at fast, thorough aeration and may be one of the best tools to prepare a lawn for overseeding.

Product Specs

• Spike length: 2.75 inches
• Spikes per square foot: 5.63
• Weight tray included: Removable weights and a water weight included
• Self-propelled up to 4 mph; easier to operate
• Closely spaced coring spikes provides thorough aeration
• Easily navigates curves, slopes, and narrow corridors
• Provides fast, professional results

Get the Ryan lawn aerator at Mowers at Jack’s.

Covington Liquid Aerator

Before we dive into this one, it is important to note that we could find no scientific data on the efficacy of liquid lawn aerators. Internet search volume indicates increasing consumer interest in these products, so we decided to test the Covington Liquid Aerator because of its strong customer reviews and our own curiosity.

The concentrated product contains low levels of manganese, sulfur, iron, and amino acid complexes to support plant growth along with microorganisms (20 percent), molasses (10 percent), humate (10 percent), and kelp (5 percent). Users are instructed to apply 2, 4, or 8 ounces of the product, depending on the severity of soil compaction, for every 1,000 square feet of lawn, every 45 to 60 days. The company recommends deep watering every 3 to 4 days following application. Presumably, the microorganisms (the “active ingredient”) include soil-building bacteria, but the label provides no further details.

We applied Covington Liquid Aerator on a 500-square-foot compacted pathway area as directed for moderate compaction. We also left an adjacent area untreated and watered both areas according to the prescribed follow-up schedule. After a 30-day testing period, our results were inconclusive. The area looked great, but then it didn’t look horrible before. It was difficult to parse the effects of the plant food versus any actual improvement in soil compaction, which would likely require significantly more time to develop anyway.

We found no noticeable difference in the physical appearance of either area beyond the lush green grass, which we would have anticipated from the added water. The good news is that it didn’t harm the lawn, and we did see improvement to grass health.

Product Specs

• Contains plant food supplements as an additional benefit
• Also contains beneficial soil microbes
• Ingredients help support healthy soil as well as aeration

Get the Covington liquid lawn aerator at Amazon or Covington Naturals.

ALSO TESTED

We also tested the following products, but they did not meet our criteria.

The positive effects of spike aerating are short-lived—a month or so at best—but frequent spike aerating actually compresses the soil over time. So we are generally opposed to spike aerating on the principle that this equipment often causes more harm than good. The argument in favor of spike aerators is that they do not leave unsightly soil plugs lying on the grass.

For those who prefer spike aerating, this may not be the best tool for the job. While the frame is adequately constructed to carry 100 pounds of added weight, we found the 7-pointed star-shaped spike rollers lacking. They are made of thin galvanized steel, approximately 0.06-inch thick, and only penetrate to a maximum depth of 2 inches at the apex of each point. Because of the triangular blade shape, very little soil is disturbed below a typical 0.5-inch thatch layer. A better spike aerator design would use nail-shaped spikes that penetrate at least 3 inches.

To reiterate, spike aerating is less than ideal because the benefits are short-term and because they can exacerbate soil compaction. But some gardeners prefer to use spike aerators to avoid leaving unsightly soil plugs on the yard from plug aeration.

These aerator shoes seemed like a handy design, but the effect was negligible at best. They fit size 10 (men’s shoes, not work boots) or smaller, and even then the strap system was not secure on our tester’s feet. The spikes sometimes grabbed chunks of grass and tore them out of the lawn. It was difficult at times to stay balanced while wearing them. Also, the nail-shaped spikes are only 2 inches long. Even if the soil is soft enough for them to penetrate to the maximum depth, they hardly reach to the base of the root zone. If these work on a particular lawn, then it probably doesn’t need to be aerated.

What to Consider When Choosing a Lawn Aerator

A nicely aerated lawn can be thick, vibrant, and the envy of the neighborhood. But there’s a lot that goes into choosing the best lawn aerator. The following sections break down the most important factors to consider.

Types of Lawn Aerators

The size of your lawn and the amount of physical labor you can handle will determine which type of aerator works best for you.

Push Aerators

Push aerators work best in small areas, especially those with obstacles like playsets and trees that require a little finesse to navigate. These aerators most often have spikes, not hollow tines, which make them better suited to lawns without compaction.

A bit harder to find, push aerators require more effort to force the tines into the soil. If the goal is to break down compacted soil, opt for a handheld or tow-behind plug aerator.

Handheld Aerators

Handheld aerator models typically work best on small lawns. They come in both plug and spike varieties. A dual-handle grip (placed high on the tool to prevent back pain) and a strong foot platform allow landscapers to step onto the tool to drive the hollow tines or spikes into the soil repeatedly across the entire lawn. Aeration with handheld tools takes a little more time and physical effort, but it works.

Tow-Behind Aerators

If you have a riding lawn mower, you probably have a large lawn. In this case, a tow-behind aerator might make sense. Connect the lawn aerator to the tow hitch on the mower and quickly cover a lot of ground. To dig deeper, tow-behind aerators come with a tray above the tines for adding extra weight.

Walk-Behind Aerators

Professional landscapers offer aeration services, and most of them use walk-behind plug aerators. These self-propelled machines operate at variable speeds of up to 4 miles per hour to aerate lawns quickly and thoroughly in a single pass. They are extremely heavy, more maneuverable than tow-behind models, and feature densely spaced coring spikes that penetrate about twice the depth of most tow-behind models. While the cost of buying one may be prohibitive for most individuals, this is the rental tool of choice for professional-quality results.

Aerator Shoes

Lawn aerator shoes let you aerate the lawn while you walk. But they’re a good idea only for mildly compacted soil and light maintenance. The sandal-like device fits over shoes with adjustable straps and solid spikes on the soles. As with other spike aerators, regular use may make compacted soil worse.

Material

Durability is always a factor when shopping for yard equipment. Aerators see particularly rough use as landscapers drive them deep into the ground. Therefore, the aerator’s construction materials are an essential consideration.

In general, the best lawn aerator uses stainless, galvanized, or heat-treated steel for the spikes or knives that dig into the ground. These tough materials resist rust and stand up to rocks and other rough terrain. The same goes for shoe-style aerators: Stainless steel spikes are best.

Also consider the framework of tow-behind aerators. Powder-coated frames, trays, and other components will help resist rust and aerate your lawn for years to come.

Yard Size

When choosing the best lawn aerator, shoppers need to consider whether they’d like to power the aerator themselves or tow it behind a lawn tractor.

Manual lawn aerators, such as the shoe style and the step-on design, require users to repeatedly drive the spikes or knives into the ground and pull them out again. The manual labor may be tolerable for small yards, but large lawns likely need a tow-behind model.

Tow-behind models are by far the most convenient for large lawns, but they do take some time to set up. Users have to attach the aerator to the tractor and place the appropriate amount of weight on top to ensure the spikes penetrate the soil. The right weight varies considerably between lawns, so there are no rules of thumb to follow.

Weight and Mobility

Weight and mobility can be tricky to balance when it comes to lawn aeration. On the one hand, an aerator needs to be heavy enough to get into the soil. On the other hand, a bulky, hard-to-maneuver aerator might not be of much use.

Large tow-behind aerators can weigh more than 90 pounds. It’s important that they’re heavy so they can really dig down into the soil. However, they’re hard to maneuver around garden beds, and the setup time might not be worth it.

For smaller yards, a lighter manual option might be a better fit. These models often weigh less than 5 pounds, which makes them easier to lift out of the soil. They’re incredibly mobile, so they’ll work in the tiniest plots of grass.

Additional Features

Some of the best lawn aerators have additional features that may make them more desirable in certain scenarios.

• Knife or spike length: The farther the spikes drive into the soil, the more air and water make it to the roots. But tines that are too long make the aerator difficult to operate. The optimal length is around 3 inches.
• Aerator/spreader combs: These models have hoppers that carry seeds and spreaders that distribute the grass seeds while the knives are aerating the soil.
• Handle shape: On manual models, look for an ergonomic handle design.

The Benefits of Aerating Your Lawn

Aeration can bring big benefits to lawns where:

• Pets tend to relieve themselves in the same spot.
• Thatch is thick and keeps water from absorbing into the soil.
• Soil can’t soak up water after heavy rains.

By loosening the dirt around pets’ go-to spots, the grass will get the nutrients, air, and water it needs to fight back against pet urine. The tines or spikes on an aerator dig through thatch and help it break down more quickly.

Plug aerators create air s and loosen the dirt around the hole. This allows water to drain quickly and efficiently instead of forming puddles after heavy rains.

FAQs

The following section aims to answer any remaining questions you may have about the best lawn aerator. Look for the answers to your questions below.

Q. Which is better: spike or plug aerators?

Ultimately, plug aeration is better than spike lawn aeration as it physically removes mass from the yard instead of merely poking into it. Repeated spike aeration may lead to more soil compaction over time.

Q. What is the best month to aerate my lawn?

The best month to aerate your lawn depends on the climate and grass type. The first month of spring weather is best for warm-season grasses and for lawns in cool climates. It’s also helpful to aerate in the fall before overseeding a cool-season lawn.

Q. Is it best to aerate the lawn before seeding?

Yes, aerating allows seeds to penetrate the surface for the best possible germination.

Q. How deep should I aerate the lawn?

For the best results, it is important to aerate deeply into the grass root zone. A depth of 3 to 3.5 inches is more than sufficient in most cases.

Q. Should I mow before or after aeration?

Mowing a notch lower than normal a day or so before aerating helps to ensure the best spike penetration. Mowing after using a plug aerator can help bust up the clumps left behind.

Q. How often should I re-aerate my lawn?

Once a year is usually sufficient, but any time the lawn is more compact than usual is a good time to poke a few holes.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.