A shovel is one of those essential pieces of equipment that no one ever thinks about until they need it. Having a shovel on hand can be a lifesaver if you live in an apartment, especially in winter.
Table of Contents
Why You Need A Shovel In Your Apartment
If your live in an area where it snows regularly, you know how important it is to have a shovel on hand. Snowstorms can happen anytime; you never know when you’ll need to dig your way out. Having a shovel near the door will help you be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way.
Perhaps you have a garden in a common area or on your balcony; a shovel is an essential tool for planting, weeding, and more. In the fall, leaves can start to pile up on your patio or balcony, and a shovel can help you clear them away quickly and easily. It’s also a great way to keep your outdoor space looking tidy and will help you clear other debris from your patio or balcony.
Having a shovel in your apartment is also an excellent way to be prepared for any emergencies that might occur. For example, if there is a fire, flood, or other disasters, having a shovel on hand can help you dig your way out or clear a path to safety.
In the winter, shovelling your sidewalks and walkways is a must to help keep them safe for pedestrians. Living in an apartment complex, you may share these common areas with your neighbours. You’ll be doing everyone a favour by keeping them clear of snow and ice.
A shovel is also handy if you need to dig yourself out of a snowbank or your car out of a parking spot covered in snow.
Not only will a shovel help dig your car out of a snowbank, but you can also use it to clear a path to safety if there is a fire or flood or to complete the task of scooping up animal droppings.
What To Look For In A Shovel
The type of shovel you choose is essential when living in an apartment. Of course, your location will determine what type of shovel would be best to have on hand, and there are a few different types of shovels to choose from.
Snow shovels have a broad, curved blade, which helps you lift the snow without bending over too much. Most snow shovels are made of plastic or metal, and some also have a built-in edge on the blade to help cut through any ice that may be present. Snow shovels also usually have a long handle, which makes them easy to use even if you’re tall. You’ll want to choose a shovel with a blade that’s big enough to handle the snowfall you typically get in your area. A snow shovel with a blade about 18 inches wide will be the shovel of choice.
Next is the All-Purpose Shovel, which you can use for various tasks, including shovelling snow, dirt, or leaves. An all-purpose shovel is typically made of metal and has a flat blade that you can use for scooping or shovelling.
A shovel similar to the all-purpose shovel is the Multi-Purpose Shovel, also known as a survival shovel, which usually has additional features that make it more versatile. For example, some multi-purpose shovels have a built-in measuring guide on the blade so you can shovel exact amounts of snow, dirt, or leaves. Others may have a detachable handle that you can use as a broom or rake. Whatever the case may be, these shovels are designed to make your life easier by being able to tackle multiple tasks with one tool.
Irrespective of the shovel type, the handle is also an important aspect. You will want one that’s comfortable to grip and long enough so that you don’t have to stoop over too much while shovelling. In addition, if you have any back or neck problems, look for a shovel with an ergonomic handle to help make the job easier on your body.
Now that you know a little more about the different shovels available, it’s time to choose the right one for your needs. A snow shovel is a must-have if you live in an area with heavy snowfall. However, if you’re looking for a versatile tool that you can use for multiple purposes, then an all-purpose or multi-purpose shovel would be a better option.
The Best Materials for Your Apartment Shovel
There are a few different materials to choose from when it comes to shovels. For instance, you can get a shovel made of plastic, metal, or even wood. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages.
Plastic shovels are lightweight and inexpensive. They’re also durable and won’t rust as metal shovels can. However, plastic shovels can break if you use them on very hard surfaces, such as concrete.
Metal shovels are more expensive than plastic shovels but are also more durable. They can withstand a lot of wear and tear, and they’re also great for shovelling on hard surfaces like concrete. However, metal shovels are heavier than plastic and can rust over time. So if you don’t think you’ll be using your shovel often, opting for one with a plastic blade may be more economical.
Regular Shovel Vs. Collapsible Vs. Telescoping Shovel
When choosing a shovel, you have three main options: a regular shovel, a collapsible shovel, or a telescoping shovel.
Regular shovels are the most common type of shovel and are typically the cheapest option. Collapsible shovels have blades that fold up for easy storage. They’re great for small spaces and can be stored in closets or under the bed. However, they’re not as durable as regular shovels and may not be suitable for heavy-duty use.
Telescoping shovels have extendable handles that allow you to adjust the length of the shovel, which is helpful if you are tall or short, as it will enable you to customize the shovel to your height. Telescoping shovels are also great for storage, as they can be collapsed down to a smaller size. However, they’re more expensive than regular shovels and may not be as durable.
Where To Store Your Shovel
Apartment living is generally known not to have much storage space, and finding a spot for a shovel in a limited area is a premium. Whether you’re looking for a regular shovel, folding, or a collapsible shovel that can tuck away in a closet, you have plenty of options.
Here are a few ideas for storing your shovel in your apartment:
- If you have a garage or storage unit, keep your shovel there.
- If you have an outdoor patio, balcony, hall closet, or utility closet, consider storing your shovel there. -If you don’t have a lot of space, look for a folding or collapsible shovel. These can be stored in small spaces or under the bed.
- A great way to save space and keep your shovel within easy reach is to hang your shovel on the wall using hooks or brackets.
The 5 Best Shovels For Your Apartment
While any shovel will do the trick in a pinch, we recommend investing in a good-quality shovel.
1. Our top pick is the Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to store in even the smallest apartment, but it’s also tough enough to handle heavy snowfall. As an added treat the shovels come in multiple colors to add to the decor of your aparment balcony.
2. The Remco 69822 Seamless Hygienic Shovel is designed from one piece which makes this shovel very durable. Designed to be use for food prep in manufacturing facilties, this shovel has fround it wasys into the hearts of those outside. The shovel is able to withstand temperature extremes and is also available in multiple colors.
3. The True Temper shovel is a rugged, tough shovel made from steel. The thick blade is useful for chipping ice and getting to the bottom of snow that has been compacted by people walking on the snow.
Final Thoughts
Having a shovel in your apartment is an excellent way to be prepared for anything life throws your way. Whether you need it for digging out after a snowstorm or clearing away leaves in the fall, having a trusty shovel on hand can be a lifesaver.
