How to Safely Operate Your String Trimmer

Whether you’re using a curved shaft string trimmer (designed for precise angles and manicuring) or a straight shaft grass trimmer (better for taking out long grass and weeds and getting under bushes) here’s how to do it right.

Before Trimming

Gear Up
Wear long pants, long sleeves, soled shoes and eye and ear protection.

Tie it Up
If you have long hair, tie it up. Be sure to keep it clear of the engine.

Dry it Out
Let grass and weeds dry before trimming, otherwise you wind up with a big mess.

Proper Trimming Technique

Hold it Right, Hold it Tight
Hold the string trimmer firmly with both hands on the right side of your body, so the muffler faces away from you. Your left arm should be straight and your right arm slightly bent.

Stand Tall
Stand straight and hold the trimmer at waist level. The cutting head will still reach the grass.

Right to Left
Move slow and steady, cutting from right to left to direct clippings away from you.

Top to Bottom
When cutting longer grass, work your way gradually from top to bottom. It’s easier on the motor and you won’t scalp the lawn.

Releasing More Line
To release more line, lightly tap your grass trimmer’s bump knob to the ground. Bump on hard ground, not long grass, or the engine may stall.

Don’t Force It
Don’t force it: let the tip of the line do the cutting, especially along walls.

Watch your Line
Try not to hit anything other than weeds and grass. If you do, stop the engine and check the trimmer for damage.

30 Degrees to be Precise
For precise trimming around trees, posts or fences, rotate the entire trimmer so the cutting head is at a 30-degree angle to the ground.

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