Ever stared at a stubborn patch of grass and wondered if there’s a better way to tackle it than just hacking away? You’re not alone. Whether you’re reclaiming a garden bed from an overgrown lawn or prepping a new area for planting, removing grass can feel like a wrestling match with the earth itself. The wrong tool can turn this chore into a back-breaking ordeal, leaving you frustrated and your muscles aching.
Choosing the right shovel for digging up grass is surprisingly important. Too flimsy, and it bends or breaks under pressure. Too heavy, and you’ll be exhausted before you’ve even made a dent. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the different types and features. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you find the perfect digging companion.
In this post, we’ll explore what makes a shovel great for grass removal. You’ll learn about the key features to look for, understand the different types of shovels that work best, and discover tips to make the job easier. By the end, you’ll be ready to choose a shovel that turns this tough task into a manageable project.
Our Top 5 Shovel To Dig Up Grass Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Shovel To Dig Up Grass Detailed Reviews
1. UST U-Dig-It Folding Shovel with Lightweight Stainless Steel Construction for Garden and Campsite Use While Hiking
Rating: 9.1/10
The UST U-Dig-It Folding Shovel is a super handy tool for anyone who loves the outdoors or spends time gardening. It’s built tough with stainless steel, so it can handle a lot of work. This shovel folds up small, making it easy to take with you anywhere.
What We Like:
- It’s really lightweight, weighing only 5.2 ounces, so it won’t weigh down your backpack.
- The stainless steel construction makes it strong and durable, ready for tough jobs like clearing rocks or digging fire pits.
- It folds down to a compact size (5.75″ L x 2.5″ W x 1″ D), which makes storing and carrying it a breeze.
- This shovel is very versatile. You can use it for gardening tasks like removing plants, or for camping needs like digging out a campfire pit or even scaling fish.
- It’s reliable for many outdoor situations, from your backyard garden to unexpected needs while hiking or camping.
- The stainless steel can even be heated and used as a makeshift cooking tool in a pinch.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, it’s designed for smaller digging tasks, so it might not be ideal for very large or heavy-duty digging jobs.
- The folding mechanism, while convenient, could potentially be a point of wear over very long-term, heavy use.
Overall, the UST U-Dig-It Folding Shovel is a fantastic, multi-purpose tool for any outdoor enthusiast or gardener. It’s a reliable companion that’s ready for whatever you throw at it.
2. 65 Inch Rake for Leaves
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of struggling with flimsy rakes that break or leave your back aching? Meet the 65 Inch Rake for Leaves, Rakes for Lawns Heavy Duty Hoe Lawns Leaf Lawn Leveling Rake Yard Tools. This heavy-duty tool is designed to make yard work a breeze. With its strong metal tines and adjustable handle, it tackles leaves, grass clippings, and even pine cones with ease. Get ready for a cleaner yard without the back strain!
What We Like:
- It has 25 sturdy metal tines that are great for heavy-duty jobs on your lawn.
- The adjustable handle extends from 37 to 65 inches, so both adults and kids can use it comfortably without bending over.
- The handle is made of strong stainless steel and the rake head is metal, meaning it won’t rust, break, or get damaged easily.
- The non-slip, ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to use, even for long periods, and reduces the effort needed.
- It’s perfect for reaching tricky spots like under bushes or around fences.
- The rake is lightweight and built to last, making yard work less tiring.
- It comes with a three-year warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the metal tines are strong, very large, heavy debris might still be a challenge.
- The “garbage” mentioned in the title might be a bit vague; it’s best suited for organic yard waste.
This rake is a fantastic investment for anyone who wants to keep their yard tidy with less effort. Its durability and adjustable features make it a tool you’ll use for years to come.
3. Soil Scoop
Rating: 9.0/10
Meet your new favorite garden buddy! This Soil Scoop is a plastic powerhouse designed to make all your digging, scooping, and transporting tasks a breeze. Whether you’re potting plants, moving compost, or even tackling winter ice, this versatile tool has got your back. It’s built to last and designed for comfort, making gardening more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- Perfect for filling pots with soil and moving compost or fertilizer.
- The ergonomic handle feels great in your hand, and the hanging hole makes storage easy.
- Its sturdy plastic construction means it’s tough enough for any job and won’t break easily.
- The square shape and flat bottom allow for neat stacking and storage.
- It can even help you sift soil for a finer texture.
- Works wonders for indoor tasks like changing pet litter boxes.
- It’s also handy for spreading salt on icy walkways in the winter.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, some users might prefer a metal scoop for extremely heavy-duty tasks.
- The plastic material, while good, might not be as aesthetically pleasing to some gardeners as a traditional metal trowel.
This scoop is a true all-rounder for your home and garden needs. It’s a simple yet effective tool that simplifies many common chores.
4. GZTFPQ Bend-Proof Garden Trowel – Heavy Duty Polished Stainless Steel – Rust Resistant Oversized Garden Hand Shovel for Quicker Work – Digs Through Rocky/Heavy soils – Comfort Grip (1)
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of flimsy garden tools that bend and break? The GZTFPQ Bend-Proof Garden Trowel is here to change your gardening game. Made from tough, polished aluminum alloy, this trowel is built to last. Its comfortable, non-slip handle makes digging easy, even in hard or rocky soil. Plus, the bright green handle is super easy to spot in your garden!
What We Like:
- Durable Material: Crafted from quality polished aluminum alloy, it’s strong and won’t easily rust or break.
- Easy Digging: Effortlessly digs, plants, and transplants, even in tough soil.
- Comfortable Grip: The non-slip handle ensures a secure and comfortable hold.
- Great for Everyone: Its size and weight make it ideal for women and girls, but it’s tough enough for any gardener.
- Versatile Use: Perfect not just for gardening, but also for outdoor adventures like metal detecting or camping.
- Safe Design: The smooth tip without sharp edges means no worries about getting hurt.
- Brightly Colored Handle: The vibrant green handle makes it easy to find in your garden.
What Could Be Improved:
- Material Misalignment: The product description mentions “polished stainless steel” in the title, but the features list “polished aluminum alloy.” This could be confusing for buyers.
- Color Options: Only a black trowel with a green handle is mentioned, limiting color choices for personalization.
This trowel is a reliable and versatile tool for all your digging needs. It’s a practical gift for any gardener or outdoor enthusiast.
5. Garden Trowels – NEWGF Heavy-Duty Manganese Steel Super Garden Hand Trowels-Dig
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet your new favorite gardening companion: the NEWGF Heavy-Duty Manganese Steel Super Garden Hand Trowel. This trowel is built tough to help you dig, shovel, and plant with ease, making your gardening tasks more enjoyable and efficient. Its smart design and strong materials ensure it can handle whatever your garden throws at it.
What We Like:
- The ergonomic, rubber-coated handle gives you a super comfortable and secure grip, even when your hands are dirty or wet. It also supports your wrist during long gardening sessions.
- This trowel is incredibly strong. It won’t loosen, bend, or break, even when digging in tough soil or dealing with tricky roots. It’s built to last in any outdoor weather.
- The special surface treatment keeps rust away, so cleaning is a breeze. Just wipe it down, and it looks great and works perfectly for years.
- Its sharp, honed blade cuts through hard dirt, packed earth, and tough roots like butter. It even works well in rocky soil.
- This trowel is lightweight and small enough to fit in your backpack or tool bag. It’s perfect for taking on hikes, trips, or just keeping handy for everyday gardening.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the handle is comfortable, some users might prefer a slightly longer handle for extra leverage on very tough jobs.
- The “razor-sharp” blade, while effective, may require careful handling and storage to prevent accidental nicks or cuts.
This NEWGF garden trowel is a reliable and comfortable tool that will become indispensable in your gardening kit. It’s a fantastic gift for any gardener looking for quality and durability.
Choosing the Best Shovel to Dig Up Grass
Tired of overgrown grass taking over your yard? A good shovel for digging up grass can make a big difference. This guide will help you pick the right one. We’ll look at what makes a shovel great for this job and answer your questions.
Key Features to Look For
1. Blade Shape
The best shovels for digging up grass have a sharp, slightly curved blade. This shape helps you slice through sod and roots easily. A flat blade is okay, but it won’t cut as cleanly.
2. Handle Design
Look for a shovel with a comfortable handle. A D-shaped handle gives you a good grip. An ergonomic handle reduces strain on your hands and back. The length of the handle matters too. A longer handle means you won’t have to bend as much.
3. Durability and Strength
You need a shovel that can handle tough jobs. It should be strong enough to dig through compacted soil and thick grass. A well-made shovel will last for many seasons.
Important Materials
1. Blade Material
Most good shovels use steel for the blade. Stainless steel is a great choice because it resists rust. Carbon steel is also strong and durable. Make sure the steel is thick enough so it doesn’t bend easily.
2. Handle Material
Wood handles are classic and comfortable. They absorb shock well. Fiberglass handles are lightweight and very strong. They don’t rot like wood can. Plastic handles are the least durable and can break.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Shovel Better
- A sharpened blade cuts better.
- A strong connection between the blade and handle prevents wobbling.
- A well-balanced shovel feels good in your hands.
- A reinforced collar where the handle meets the blade adds strength.
What Makes a Shovel Worse
- A dull blade makes digging much harder.
- A flimsy handle can break under pressure.
- A poorly attached handle can become loose.
- Cheap materials will wear out quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using the right shovel makes digging up grass much easier. You can remove large sections of sod quickly. This is perfect for starting a new garden bed or laying down new sod. It’s also useful for removing unwanted grass from pathways.
A good shovel lets you work for longer periods without getting tired. It helps you get the job done efficiently. You’ll spend less time struggling and more time enjoying your yard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of shovel for digging up grass?
A: A spade shovel with a sharp, slightly curved blade is best. It cuts through sod and roots effectively.
Q: Should I get a shovel with a long or short handle?
A: A longer handle is generally better for digging up grass. It reduces bending and strain on your back.
Q: What material is best for the shovel blade?
A: Stainless steel or high-quality carbon steel blades are excellent. They are durable and resist rust.
Q: How important is the handle grip?
A: A comfortable and strong grip is very important. It helps you control the shovel and prevents blisters.
Q: Can I use any shovel to dig up grass?
A: While you can use many shovels, a spade is designed for this job. Other types might be harder to use.
Q: How do I keep my shovel in good condition?
A: Clean the blade after each use. Store it in a dry place. Sharpen the blade when it gets dull.
Q: Will a cheap shovel work for digging up grass?
A: A cheap shovel might work for a small job, but it will likely break or wear out quickly. Investing in a quality shovel is better for your yard work.
Q: What makes a shovel blade sharp?
A: The edge of the blade is ground to a thin point. This allows it to slice through the ground more easily.
Q: How can I tell if a shovel is well-made?
A: Look for solid construction. The handle should be securely attached to the blade. The materials should feel sturdy.
Q: Is digging up grass a difficult job?
A: It can be hard work, but the right shovel makes it much easier. Proper technique also helps.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!