Lawn Maintenance Tools
5 Best Dethatchers for a Healthier Lawn
Is your lawn looking a little yellow, patchy, or spongy underfoot? You might be watering and fertilizing correctly, but if you haven’t dealt with the layer of dead grass sitting just above the soil, your efforts might be wasted. This layer is called thatch, and when it gets too thick (over 1/2 inch), it chokes your lawn by blocking air, water, and nutrients from reaching the roots.
The solution is a dethatcher—a specialized tool designed to comb through your grass and rip up that suffocating layer of debris. But with options ranging from simple electric rakes to heavy-duty tow-behind models, choosing the right one can be tricky.
We’ve analyzed power, durability, ease of use, and customer feedback to bring you the 5 best dethatchers on the market for 2026. Whether you have a small urban yard or a sprawling acre, there is a tool on this list for you.
Top 5 Dethatchers Reviewed
We have selected these models based on performance, reliability, and value. Here is our deep dive into the best tools to revive your turf.
1. Greenworks 10 Amp 14-Inch Corded Dethatcher
Best Overall Value for Small to Medium Lawns
The Greenworks 14-inch model is the gold standard for homeowners who want a reliable, no-fuss tool. It features a robust 10-amp motor that powers stainless steel tines to rip up thatch effectively without damaging healthy grass. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, even for beginners.
- 14-inch dethatching path gets the job done quickly.
- 3-position tine depth adjustment for customized control.
- Stainless steel tines for durability and sharpness.
- Ergonomic padded grip and adjustable handle.
Pros
- Very affordable compared to gas models.
- Lightweight and easy to push.
- Quiet operation (electric motor).
- Zero maintenance (no oil or gas).
Cons
- Corded design limits range (requires extension cord).
- Not suitable for very large properties.
- No collection bag included (debris left on lawn).
2. Sun Joe AJ801E Dethatcher & Scarifier
Best Versatility (2-in-1 Tool)
If your lawn has serious thatch issues or moss, the Sun Joe AJ801E is a powerhouse. It comes with two interchangeable cylinders: a dethatcher cylinder with spring steel tines and a scarifier cylinder with solid blades that cut deeper into the soil to remove moss and thick thatch roots.
- Powerful 12-amp motor.
- 12.6-inch wide path.
- Airboost technology enhances grass collection.
- Includes a detachable collection bag for easy cleanup.
- 5-position depth control knob (-0.4 in to 0.4 in).
Pros
- Dual function: Dethatching and Scarifying.
- Powerful motor handles thick grass well.
- Collection bag saves raking time (for smaller areas).
- Instant start button.
Cons
- Collection bag fills up very quickly (often easier to remove it).
- Plastic wheels can feel a bit flimsy on rough terrain.
3. WORX WG850 12 Amp Dethatcher
Best Compact Design for Storage
WORX is known for user-friendly garden tools, and the WG850 is no exception. It packs a 12-amp motor into a sleek, compact frame that is easy to fold down and hang on a wall. Despite its size, it offers aggressive dethatching power.
- 12-Amp high-power motor.
- 14-inch cutting width.
- Depth adjustment allows for precise control (-9mm, -3mm, +3mm).
- Lock-off switch for safety.
- Fold-down handle for space-saving storage.
Pros
- Very easy to assemble out of the box.
- Excellent power-to-weight ratio.
- Collection bag compatibility (bag sold separately on some bundles).
- Takes up minimal garage space.
Cons
- Depth adjustment lever can be stiff.
- Does not include a scarifying blade option like the Sun Joe.
4. Agri-Fab 40-Inch Tow-Behind Dethatcher
Best for Large Properties & Riding Mowers
If you have a half-acre or more, pushing an electric dethatcher is not practical. The Agri-Fab 40-inch tow-behind model attaches to your riding mower or garden tractor. It uses 20 heat-treated spring tines to comb up thatch as you drive.
- Massive 40-inch working width covers ground fast.
- 20 heat-treated spring tines for durability.
- Universal hitch fits any lawn tractor.
- Weight tray allows you to add up to 70 lbs for deeper penetration.
- Transport handle to raise tines when crossing driveways.
Pros
- Extremely efficient for large lawns.
- Durable steel construction made in the USA.
- No motor to maintain (passive tool).
- Rust-proof tine construction.
Cons
- Requires a riding mower or ATV.
- Requires extra weight (cinder blocks) for effective use on hard soil.
- Assembly can be time-consuming.
5. Earthwise DT71613 13-Amp Dethatcher
Best Power for the Price
The Earthwise DT71613 offers a slightly stronger 13-amp motor than its competitors, giving it extra torque for tough grass types like Bermuda or Zoysia. It features a wide 16-inch path, which is wider than most walk-behind electric models, helping you finish the job faster.
- Powerful 13-Amp motor.
- 16-inch wide dethatching path.
- 45 spring steel tines for thorough cleaning.
- 5-position working depth adjustment (-0.4″ to +0.4″).
- Includes a 4-gallon debris catcher bag.
Pros
- Wider path than Greenworks or Sun Joe (16″ vs 14″).
- High tine count (45) ensures thorough thatch removal.
- Easy, tool-free assembly.
- Great for tougher grass varieties.
Cons
- Catcher bag is small and fills instantly (better to use without).
- Cord management can be tricky with the wider deck.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Dethatcher
Still unsure which one to pick? Consider these factors:
- Lawn Size: For small yards (under 1/4 acre), an electric walk-behind like the Greenworks or Sun Joe is perfect. For large properties (1/2 acre+), a tow-behind like the Agri-Fab is essential to save your legs.
- Thatch Severity: If you have thick moss or very old thatch, you need a scarifier (like the Sun Joe AJ801E) which cuts deeper than standard spring tines.
- Power Source: Electric models are maintenance-free but require a long extension cord. Gas models exist but are heavy and expensive, usually better suited for rental.
