It’s easy to see why this is one of the most commonly used cleaning equipment in the home. Sticks were used to hold the bristling head together, which could be made of fibers or corn husks. Even while brooms have come a long way since then, their primary function has remained the same: sweeping up dirt, dust, and other debris from floors.
Brooms, of course, aren’t all the same. A broom’s efficacy depends on the design and construction of the broom, as well as whether or not it’s appropriate for the task at hand. Learn how to pick the best broom for your needs and budget in the following paragraphs—and don’t forget to check out our list of our personal favorites at the end!
What to Look for in the Best Broom
The process of purchasing a broom isn’t always simple. Consider the following when sifting through the available selections.
Lobby or Push Broom
Most of us associate brooms with the term “traditional” with lobby brooms. Pulling them toward you rather than shoving them away is the best approach to use them. For indoor or light-duty clean-ups in the workshop or garage, Lobby brooms are ideal. Brushes with long bristles are called “push brooms,” whereas those with short bristles are called “broomsticks.” Outdoors, push brooms are ideal for cleaning decking, roads and sidewalks in large areas.
Bristle Type and Brush Angle
It is common for broom bristles to be formed of all-natural fibers like cornhusk, twigs, and plant fibers like yucca, rattan, and ixtle. Although these plant-based fibers can still be used to make bristles today, synthetic fibers are used by the majority of commercial brands due to their lower cost and greater durability. Some of the most common synthetic materials utilized include PET (a plastic), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), polypropylene, and custom-made mixtures.
Flagged and unflagged bristles can be found in both natural and synthetic bristles.
- The ends of flagged bristles are split, resulting in a frayed surface that attracts small particles of debris and dust for removal. Use a marked broom on hardwood floors and other smooth surfaces, such as stairs, bedroom floors, and corridors if you want to get rid of dust.
- Bristles that are unflagged do not have split ends, making them ideal for use on rough surfaces, in damp environments, or when cleaning up heavier material. You can use an unflagged broom in your kitchen or bathroom because it won’t get clogged and matted together.
The angle of the brush is also worth noting: This sort of broom head has bristles that are either flagged or unflagged. To remove hair, dust, and food crumbs from hard surfaces with these brooms is easy.
Indoor or Outdoor Use
Brooms can be used indoors or outdoors, or perhaps both. Lobby brooms with a slanted handle are typically used indoors, in garages, and in workshop areas. Outdoors, a push broom is the most common choice. Using their extra-wide brush heads to sweep driveways and pathways clean of pine needles, grass clippings, and other yard waste can be very beneficial
Dustpan
Long-handled dustpans on some brooms let you collect dust without stooping over, while detachable dustpans are standard on others. Indoors, a dustpan is almost always needed. If you’re comfortable sweeping dirt and trash onto the street or yard, you may not need one. Once dirt has been swept up, a rubberized lip on some dustpans helps keep the pan from tipping over.
Which Works Best: Broom or Dust Mop?
Brooms and dust mops are sometimes mistaken for one other, yet they serve distinct purposes when it comes to cleaning. While brooms are the preferred tool for sweeping hard surfaces, dust mops are becoming increasingly popular due to their ease of use and additional dusting capabilities. The flat head of a dust mop is coated in cotton or microfiber cloth, not conventional broom bristles. If you don’t want to use additional cleaning chemicals or a dustpan to remove dust and pollen from hard surfaces, microfiber is an ideal choice. Even if you’re just going to sweep up some dust about the house or yard, a dustpan is still necessary.
A dust mop and a broom are popular cleaning tools. In that case, a broom may be the better option, especially if it’s designed to be used both indoors and out. To clean tough surfaces, such as stone, concrete, cement, and brick, brooms are better fitted than dust mops.
BEST ALL AROUND: TreeLen Broom and Dustpan
This 52-inch long-handled broom and dustpan set features a dustpan that latches open for quick emptying and an effective design. The rubber lip of the dustpan is flush with the floor, while the plastic teeth on the upper edge of the dustpan keep broom bristles free of dirt and debris. Using ABS (a durable thermoplastic polymer), the dustpan is built, and the aluminum handle is coated. Soft, angled bristles made from recycled PET plastic bottles are ideal for removing dust from the floor and are environmentally beneficial.
BEST FOR OUTDOOR USE: Quickie Bulldozer Soft Sweep Push Broom
Natural ixtle bristles are inlaid in the Quickie Bulldozer’s 24-inch resin head. However, even though their bristles aren’t designed for heavy-duty cleaning, they’re excellent for picking up dirt, sawdust, and grass clippings without requiring a lot of effort. The 60-inch steel handle is powder-coated to avoid chipping, denting, and rusting, making it extremely durable. It’s easy to store the broom head vertically because it’s pivotable.
HONORABLE MENTION: AmazonBasics Heavy-Duty Broom
The AmazonBasics Heavy-Duty Broom is an excellent choice for indoor cleaning. In order to aid the broom head pick up fine dust and smaller, dry material, the bristle ends are highlighted. Stiff synthetic bristles, on the other hand, are capable of taking on heavy debris. To make storage easier, the broom’s handle is height-adjustable and can be dismantled.
ALSO CONSIDER: TreeLen Angle Broom and Dustpan
Featuring a metal handle with three extension levels, this broom and dustpan combo is straightforward to assemble and can be adjusted from 40.5 to 54 inches. When it comes to dusting, the broom’s head is cleverly designed to clip right onto the dustpan. The TreeLen broom’s tilted head and synthetic fiber unfledged bristles make it ideal for usage indoors.
Best Overall: TreeLen Upgrade Broom and Dustpan
The broom’s width is 10.4 inches; the handle’s length is 52 inches; the broom’s weight is 3 pounds; and the handle’s material is metal.
what we enjoy
- An upright style
- included is a dustpan and brush
- The two sections fit snugly together.
Something That Frustrates Us
- The grip cannot be adjusted.
- Not designed to handle heavy-duty work.
There is no better set of brooms and dustpans than TreeLen’s. In addition to a 10-inch brush head with four layers of soft, yet durable, bristles, the 52-inch broom has a 10-inch handle and a 10-inch brush head. All of these surfaces can be cleaned using the same multi-surface cleaning buddy.
Its 38.5-inch handle and rubber lip on the dustpan ensures that no debris is left behind (or swept underneath). When you’re done sweeping, use the pan’s built-in teeth to remove any remaining hairs or dust bunnies from the bristles. For easy cleaning and storage, the two components snap together and stand on their own. Just be aware that this broom and dustpan combo isn’t designed for heavy-duty cleaning, and the handle doesn’t have an adjustable length.
Best Budget: AmazonBasics Heavy-Duty Broom
Weight: 2.27 lbs. | Handle Length: Not specified | Broom Width: Not listed | Handle Material: Plastic | Bristle Type: Flagged
what we enjoy
- It’s simple to keep everything organized.
- Handle with lock
- Useful for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Something That Frustrates Us
- Included in the price is a dustpan.
- The bristles of some brushes have a tendency to bounce.
As far as cleaning implements go, brooms are among the most basic. This broom, on the other hand, has a straightforward design that covers all the bases. It includes a three-piece interlocking handle that can be pulled apart when it’s time to store it, and soft bristles that can be excellent at sweeping or even removing stuck-on debris. Moreover, it can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Pook believes that simple models, despite their lack of bells and whistles, are excellent. According to The Spruce, she says, “We just use the regular broom you can find in the grocery store. Despite the fact that AmazonBasics is not sold in supermarkets, this budget-friendly broom is a reliable choice (and worth waiting three to five business days). Keep in mind that you will need to purchase a dustpan separately.
Best Angled: OXO Good Grips Any-Angle Broom
11.5-inch Broom Width x 45.96-inch Handle Length x Weight: 1.1 pounds / 1.1 pounds / 1.1 pounds
what we enjoy
- It’s all put together with a satisfying click.
- Breathable filaments
- Guaranteed for life
Something That Frustrates Us
- Included in the price is a dustpan.
- The grip cannot be adjusted.
One of the best-known brands in the world of cleaning products is OXO. A solid aluminum handle and brush head are ideal for tackling problems in tight corners and hard-to-reach sections of your home, so it’s no surprise the manufacturer has created the best angled broom. Despite the lack of a dustpan and adjustable handle, you’ll find this simple broom to be a breeze to use around your house.
Once you’ve found the ideal slant, simply push your foot down and the brush head will lock into position. The broom’s feathery ends and flexible bristles allow it to easily pick up dust, debris, and pet hair from all over your house. A resounding success, to say the least.
Best Rubber: Evriholder FURemover Broom Pet Hair Removal Tool with Squeegee
7.9 inches wide; 36 to 60-inch handle lengths;.92 pounds; rubber handle; not mentioned bristle type
what we enjoy
- Budget-friendly
- It’s great for pet hair.
- Long-reaching handle
Something That Frustrates Us
- The handle is a little fragile, to say the least.
- Better suited to smaller rugs and carpets
A rubber broom known as the FURmover is one of the best on the market. You can use it to pick up floor trash and clean shower doors at the same time, which makes it an all-star pick in our book. You may use it to clean your windows and other nonporous surfaces while you’re doing your regular cleaning chores, and it’ll work overtime to get your place as clean as you need it.
For households with dogs or cats, the natural rubber head is a must-have, since it easily picks up pet dander. It can be used on carpets, rugs, and even upholstered furniture in addition to hard floors. The telescoping handle gives it an added point. Be cautious when using it due to its lightness of handle and plan on a few trial runs before you get the hang of it.
Best Corn: O-Cedar Heavy Duty Corn Broom
Handle length: 56 inches | Weight: 2.29 pounds | Bristle Type: Flagged | Broom Width: 8 inches
what we enjoy
- Bristles made of natural materials
- Produced using only natural resources
- Useful for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Something That Frustrates Us
- The grip cannot be adjusted.
- Included in the price is a dustpan.
O-“traditional” Cedar’s corn broom falls under that category. Even though it has the look of an antique broom, this heavy-duty model is up to the task of even the most arduous cleaning duties. 100% broomcorn is used to make the natural brush bristles. Broomcorn is a stiff, straw-like fiber that is excellent at picking up dust and other waste. Reinforced wires connect them to the 56-inch oak handle, ensuring long-term endurance.
Choosing this broom will deprive you of features such as a telescoping handle. If you want a product that can be used both indoors and outside, this is the one for you. A dusty garage or kitchen floor are no match for the power of this broom. It’s so adaptable.
Best for Hardwood Floors: Swopt Premium Straight Broom for Smooth Surfaces
Its width is 11 inches; its handle is 48 inches long; and its weight is 2.85 pounds. The handle is made of wood.
what we enjoy
- Bristles that are gentle on the skin
- The handle and head can be interchanged.
- Guaranteed for life
Something That Frustrates Us
- Included in the price is a dustpan.
- Bristles aren’t very long-lasting
Swopt can help maintain your hardwood floors clean and scratch-free if you have them at home. With a 48-inch handle and an 11-inch brush head, the brand’s Premium Straight Broom offers ultra-soft, strong bristles. To make daily duties a little easier, we created the handle with a comfortable grip in mind. For huge and very small particles on your floor, you can count on the bristles to do their job expertly (though they may fall out over time).
This is a great choice for pet owners because of the brush head’s ability to effortlessly remove pet hair. A variety of heads and handles are available to meet your household’s specific requirements. A dustpan is not supplied, but a lifetime warranty is available.
Best Outdoor: Yocada Heavy-Duty Outdoor Broom
13-inch broom with 54-inch handle weighs 2.33 pounds and is made of polyethylene terephthalate with an unlisted bristle type.
what we enjoy
- Heavy-duty construction
- Intuitive handling
- Storage and transportation are simple with this product.
Insights Lacking
- Included in the price is a dustpan.
- Bristles can be pliable.
Heavy-Duty Broom from Yacada has three layers of extra-stiff bristles, making it excellent for outdoor use. Your front porch, garden path, patio, or deck can be swept with this tool Unfinished basements, garages, and sheds benefit greatly from the sturdy, heavy-duty design. The iron handle of this 54-inch broom features a comfortable grip and a hook at the end for storage. It is easy to use. The handle can be disconnected, however it is not adjustable. To make it easier to store and travel, it can be broken down into three sections.
While the bristles can be a little flexible for some outdoor cleaning activities, this broom does have its advantages. As long as you use a few different methods to complete your tasks, it should be OK.
Best Push: Swopt Multi-Surface Standard Push Broom
An unflagged bristle broom has a width of 24 inches; its handle is 60 inches long; it weighs 4.95 pounds, and its handle is made of stainless steel; the bristles are made of synthetic fiber.
what we enjoy
- In a variety of sizes.
- Head that can be removed and swapped out
- Guaranteed for life
Something That Frustrates Us
- Quite a bit of weight
- The grip cannot be adjusted.
Rather than the traditional push broom, Swopt has come out with a multi-surface cleaning device. It has a 60-inch handle and an 18-inch or 24-inch head, depending on your preference. Because of the steel handle and bristle block, this brush is very long-lasting and well-made. However, due to its design, it comes in at a heavy 4.6 pounds.
In spite of its size, you may expect rapid cleaning and simple maintenance. The head can be removed and replaced at any time. In addition, Swopt offers a lifetime warranty on this handy broom, which compensates for the fact that the handle does not adjust.
Best Whisk: Libman 1030 Whisk Broom with Hanger Hole
The broom’s width is 6.75 inches; its handle length is not specified; its weight is 5.6 ounces; and its bristle type is flagged.
what we enjoy
- Effective as an inside car detailing tool.
- Compact
- Created with recycled products
Something That Frustrates Us
- Included in the price is a dustpan.
- When the bristles are overly soft, it might cause irritation.
A whisk-style broom comes in handy for cleaning up smaller messes. Using this style of broom, you’ll be able to clean up grime from a variety of surfaces around your house, including your automobile, kitchen floor, desk, and workshop. As far as brooms go, the Libman 1030 has a 6.75-inch brush head and measures at 11-inches in length.
Despite being made of recycled materials, the flagged bristles have a remarkable ability to remove dirt and hair, as well as dust. Snaps into dustpan, which is not supplied, and includes a hole at the end of the handle for storing convenience. If you’re like most people, you’ll end yourself using it all the time in your house.
Final Verdict
The TreeLen Upgrade Broom (see at Amazon) is our top recommendation for brooms because of its soft, yet robust, bristles and the integrated upright wide-mouth dustpan that is attached to the handle. A rubber lip and built-in teeth on the dustpan make it easy to clean. Go for the AmazonBasics Heavy-Duty Broom if you’re looking for a more affordable option (view at Amazon). There’s no dustpan included, but it’s an effective tool for cleaning.
How To Clean a Broom and Dustpan
What You Need
- an easy-to-use cleaning comb
- a bucket, a sink, or a container that has been cleared out
- Vinegar that has been distilled into a clear liquid.
- Soap for washing dishes
- A piece of trash
- Cleaner for all surfaces
- Eraser of Eternal Youth
Instructions
- Use a garbage can or similar object to gently tap your broom against if you’re able to get some fresh air. If you don’t have access to a yard or garden, you can also use an empty (but lined) garbage can as a percussion instrument.
- Comb your broom to remove any hair, thread, or other debris that has been entangled in the bristles.
- Your cleaning solution can be made at home: Empty an old storage bin or utility sink and add one cup of white vinegar and a few drops of dish soap to the water.
- Broom soak: Put the brush in a bucket with water, shake it around, and then let it sit for 30 minutes.
- A vinegar solution or all-purpose cleaner can be used to clean the handle of the broom.
- Wipe out the dust pan with a rag once it has been rinsed. Surely, you can’t refuse, can you?
- Remove the broom from the cleaning solution and run it under cold water to rinse it well.
- Set the broom upside down in the shower or outside to drip dry.
How You Start Sweeping Floors Like a Pro
- Choose a Broom: Select a broom that is appropriate for the surface you are cleaning. Synthetic brooms can be used on smoother surfaces, whereas natural fiber brooms may be needed on rougher floors. For cleaning beneath cabinets and in confined locations, choose for a broom with an angled edge, and make sure it’s at a manageable height and not too heavy. Brooms are available in over 200 varieties, but The Sweethome researchers have narrowed it down to just 14.
- When sweeping a room, there are a few various ways to go about things. Sweeping from the walls into the center of a room is a common practice for certain people. While some people prefer to start at one end of the room and work their way to the other, others prefer to start at one end of the room and finish at the other. Decide on a strategy and a place to begin based on your personal preferences.
- In order to get the most out of your sweep, you should keep the broom in constant touch with the floor without driving the strands too far into it. Drag the broom slowly toward your body, starting on a part of the floor that is far from your body. Long sweeping strokes or short rapid motions might be used to get the work done. Consider your personal style when picking a sweeping style.
- Next, you’ll want to rake the dirt into a pile. Once all the dirt has been gathered into a pile, brush it into a dustpan and then throw it away. Dust and grime might billow back into your face or onto your freshly cleaned floor if you dump the dirt too rapidly.
- After you’ve finished sweeping, put away all of your sweeping equipment and clean your broom if necessary, then store them away. If you want to keep your broom’s bristles in good shape, hang it up or place it upside down for storage.
Tips for Sweeping With Your Broom
- Make sure not to get your broom wet when using it. It shortens the broom’s lifespan and destroys it.
- To avoid bending or damaging the bristles, always dry a broom upside down after cleaning.
- On a daily basis, use a broom to sweep the floors. Sweeping has no predetermined timetable.
FAQ
Is an angled broom better?
A broom with angled bristles is more efficient per stroke because it has more bristles in touch with the floor than a broom with straight-angled bristles. Additionally, the tilt makes it simpler to reach into the corners, where loose food particles and dirt are more likely to collect.
What is the most effective broom?
It took us over 125 hours of study, interviews with cleaning professionals, and hands-on testing to find the best indoor broom. The Casabella Wayclean Wide Angle Broom came out on top.
Why are some brooms angled?
Various bristle variations are offered to suit various cleaning and sanitizing needs. Large material can be collected with angled brooms before additional cleaning or sanitizing with a narrow sweeper. When clearing heavy debris across large regions, push brooms are the most effective tool.
What is better than a broom?
A stick vacuum or canister vacuum that doesn’t have a beater bar is a better option than a vacuum with a beater bar. Due of their effectiveness on bare floors, stick vacs have grown in popularity. They are more effective than traditional brooms or moist Swiffer-style mops.
How should you clean a broom?
Cleaning your broom is an important part of keeping your floors clean. A detachable head would make it easier to clean and disinfect, according to Turford. It’s best to let the head dry on its own after you’ve soaked and rinsed it in soapy water for around half an hour. The broom can be soaked upright in a bathtub or bucket to remove the head from the handle if you are unable to do so.
A comb or a pick may be necessary to remove hairs and dust from the bristles. Using a moist cloth or a disinfectant wipe, the handle can be cleaned.
How tall should a broom be?
The height of a broom typically ranges from 48 to 60 inches. Your height has a role in determining the optimal length. Between 48 and 52 inches is ideal for most people, while those who are taller should aim for a model that is at least 60 inches in total length. If you’re looking for something that can be used by everyone in your family, telescoping handles are a great option.
Where can you use a broom?
Any room in your house can benefit from the usage of a broom. Wood, vinyl, laminate, tile, and concrete are all good candidates for this type of vacuum, but models with stiffer bristles or rubber heads can be used on rugs and carpets as well. If dirt and debris is tracked in from the outside, it is usually prudent to keep a broom near the front door to remove it.
Brooms can also be used to sweep the outside of your home. Clean your patio, deck, balcony, sidewalk, and more with a broom. Many people, however, prefer to use separate brooms for inside and outdoor cleaning.
