Clearing snow: shovel, broom or cordless snow blower?

Short answer: for a thin layer of fresh, dry snow a sturdy broom is enough. For a few centimetres of snow on a path or pavement a wide shovel works well, as long as you push instead of lift. For a thick layer, wet snow or a long drive a cordless snow blower is fastest and easiest on your back. Clear snow as early as possible, before it is trodden down and freezes. Wear warm, waterproof footwear with grip, gloves and highly visible clothing when it is dark.

Read this article in Dutch as well: Sneeuw ruimen: schep, bezem of accu-sneeuwfrees?.

Why think about snow now?

Snow does not fall every year in the Netherlands, but when it comes, there is often a lot at once. Brooms and shovels then sell out quickly and everyone is clearing at the same time. If you get your home and garden ready for winter in November, have your tools ready too. Read also our blog on getting your home ready for winter and our blog on getting your garden ready for winter.

Which tool suits which snow?

The broom: for thin layers

A street broom with scraper with a scraper on the head is ideal for a few centimetres of fresh snow on a pavement or patio. Use the scraper to loosen caked snow. For a wide path or a company yard you work faster with a wide industrial broom. Sweep as soon as possible after the snowfall: fresh snow is light, trodden snow turns into ice.

The shovel: push, do not lift

A wide shovel with a wide blade moves a lot of snow aside in one go. For wet or heavy snow a coal shovel or a sturdy garden shovel is handy, because the blade cuts through hard layers.

How to spare your back:

1. Push the snow to the edge instead of lifting it.
2. Lift small amounts if you have to, with bent knees and a straight back.
3. Do not twist your torso while throwing. Point your feet in the direction you want the snow to go.
4. Take breaks and work two short sessions rather than one long one.

⚠️ Shovelling snow is hard work for the heart and back. If you have heart or back problems, leave it to someone else or use a snow blower.

The cordless snow blower: for thick layers and long paths

With a snow blower you push the machine forward and an auger throws the snow aside. A cordless model is quiet, starts immediately and needs no petrol or engine maintenance.

• The SBS40BL cordless snow blower has a clearing width of 508 mm, throws snow up to about 8 metres and has LED lighting for dark mornings.
• The compact SHS40BL cordless snow blower is compact, weighs about 6 kilos and clears a strip 290 mm wide and up to 180 mm high. Handy for pavements, paths and patios.

Both run on the 20V battery system. Choose a 20V 4 Ah battery or an 20V 8 Ah battery for longer jobs and charge with the fast charger. More on this system is in our blog on the Stalco 20V battery system.

Only use a single-stage snow blower on paved surfaces, such as clinkers, tiles or asphalt. On gravel or loose sand it throws stones. Remove stones, branches, newspapers and toys from the path beforehand.

💡 Keep the batteries indoors at room temperature and only put them in the machine when you start. A cold battery delivers less power and runs out sooner.

Working safely

Wear snow boots with a non-slip sole and lined winter work gloves that stay warm when wet. A layer of thermal underwear keeps you warm without making you sweat. If you clear snow in the dark, wear an insulated high-visibility jacket and a headlamp or a winter hat with built-in light, so you can see and be seen. When chipping ice, safety goggles protect your eyes from ice splinters. More tips are in our blog on working outside in winter, our blog on thermal work underwear and our safety tip on working safely in the cold.

⚠️ Never put your hand or foot into the chute or the auger of a snow blower. Switch the machine off, remove the battery and clear a blockage with a stick. Never point the chute at people, windows or cars, and keep children and pets away.

👷 A professional is never unnecessary. Never climb onto a snowy or slippery roof yourself to clear snow. If there is a lot of snow on a flat roof, a sagging gutter or roof damage, call in a professional. For large company sites, professional winter gritting is often the safest choice.

After clearing

Clear walking routes first: front door, drive, pavement and the way to the bins. Grit afterwards, so the thin layer that remains does not freeze. Gritting on thick snow works poorly and turns it into slippery slush. Dry the broom, shovel and blower after use and store them frost-free. More on garden tools is in our guide to Stalco Garden tools.

Frequently asked questions

Does a cordless snow blower work with wet snow?

Yes, but more slowly. Work in narrow strips and clear early, before the snow becomes heavy and compact.

Can I use a snow blower on gravel?

Not a single-stage blower: it throws stones. On gravel use a broom or shovel and leave a thin layer of snow.

When is the best time to clear snow?

As soon as possible after the snowfall, before people walk or drive on it. With heavy snowfall, clear two thin layers rather than one thick one.

How do I avoid back pain when shovelling snow?

Push the snow instead of lifting it, lift small amounts with bent knees and do not twist your torso.

Where can you find everything for this job?

At Saniso, the online store for DIYers and professionals, you will find tools, materials and personal protective equipment for your job.

• Browse our construction tools and our workwear and safety.
• Create a customer account and order easily.
• Working on a bigger project or want to hand over the job? Request a project quote.
• Book a showroom visit, at least 24 hours in advance.
• Not sure which material suits your job? Get in touch with us.

In doubt about the approach? Feel free to call in a professional.

Saniso – Build your home with Saniso.