Can You Cut Wet Grass With a Strimmer? Cutting wet grass is a common challenge, especially in the UK, where rain is frequent and lawns often stay damp for days. If you’ve wondered whether you can use your strimmer to tackle wet grass or how to mow damp grass safely, you’re not alone.

In this guide, I’ll explore whether it’s safe, practical, and advisable to use a strimmer in these conditions, and offer tips on how to do it effectively.

How Does a Strimmer Work on Grass?

Strimmers, also known as line trimmers or grass trimmers, use a rapidly spinning nylon string or metal blade to shear through grass and weeds.

These handy tools are perfect for maintaining a well-kept lawn, especially in tight or hard-to-reach spaces. However, when it comes to wet grass, things can get tricky.

When grass is wet, it tends to clump together, making it more difficult for the strimmer to cut cleanly. Wet grass can also clog the cutting head, reducing the tool’s efficiency and causing the motor to work harder than it should.

This means that cutting wet grass can be more of a challenge compared to dry grass, especially if you don’t have the right equipment.

Is It Safe to Use a Strimmer on Wet Grass?

Safety should always be your top priority when using a strimmer, particularly in wet conditions. The risks associated with using a strimmer on wet grass vary depending on the type of strimmer you own:

• Corded electric strimmers pose the highest risk, as water can increase the likelihood of electric shock. If water seeps into the electrical components, it can cause serious malfunctions or even lead to injury.
• Cordless battery-powered strimmers are somewhat safer in wet conditions, as there’s no direct electrical connection to worry about. However, they are still susceptible to battery drain and performance issues if they become clogged with wet grass.
• Petrol-powered strimmers are generally the safest option for wet conditions because they don’t have any electrical components at risk. However, petrol strimmers are heavier, and wet ground can make handling them more challenging.

No matter which type of strimmer you use, it’s important to wear protective clothing, such as non-slip boots and gloves, and to ensure that your grip and footing are solid to prevent accidents.

Does Wet Grass Damage a Strimmer?

Yes, cutting wet grass can damage your strimmer. Here are some common issues that can arise when using a strimmer on wet grass:

• Clogging: Wet grass tends to wrap around the cutting head, causing clogs that slow down the tool and make it less effective.
• Overheating: The strimmer’s motor has to work harder to cut through thick, wet grass, which can lead to overheating and, in some cases, permanent damage to the motor.
• Water damage: For electric or battery-powered models like Flymo, water can damage the electrical components, shortening the lifespan of your strimmer.

To reduce the risk of damage, it’s essential to stop regularly and clear the cutting head of debris when working with wet grass during the clearance of overgrown garden. After use, always clean and dry your strimmer thoroughly to avoid corrosion and mechanical issues.

Are There Any Strimmer Models Better Suited for Wet Grass?

Some strimmer models are better suited for cutting wet grass than others. Here’s a breakdown of the most effective types:

• Petrol-powered strimmers: These are typically the most powerful and durable models, making them the best choice for cutting thick or wet grass. Since they don’t rely on electricity, there’s no risk of electric shock, and their engines are built to handle tougher conditions.
• Cordless battery strimmers: While not as powerful as petrol models, cordless strimmers are safer than corded ones in wet conditions. However, they do tend to run out of battery more quickly when cutting wet grass, so keep a spare battery handy if you plan to work for an extended period.
• Corded electric strimmers: These should be avoided in wet conditions due to the risk of electrical shock and damage to the internal components. If you only have a corded model, it’s best to wait until the grass is dry.

When selecting a strimmer, look for features like high motor power, durability, and water-resistant components if you frequently deal with damp lawns.

What’s the Best Way to Maintain Your Strimmer After Cutting Wet Grass?

Proper maintenance is crucial to keeping your strimmer in good working condition, especially after using it on wet grass. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to maintaining your strimmer:

1. Turn off and unplug the strimmer (if electric) or let it cool down (if petrol).
2. Remove any debris: Use a cloth or small brush to clear away grass that may be wrapped around the cutting head or other components.
3. Dry the strimmer: If your strimmer has been exposed to moisture, wipe it down with a dry cloth, paying special attention to the motor area and any ventilation slots.
4. Inspect for damage: Check for signs of wear, such as frayed strings, dull blades, or electrical damage.
5. Store the strimmer in a dry, covered space to prevent further exposure to moisture.

Regular cleaning and drying will help extend the life of your strimmer, ensuring it remains effective even after dealing with wet grass.

Practical Tips for Strimming Wet Grass Safely

If you absolutely must strim wet grass, here are some practical tips to help you get the job done safely and efficiently:

• Use a petrol or cordless strimmer: As mentioned earlier, these models are better suited for wet conditions.
• Sharpen the blades or replace the string before use to make cutting easier.
• Clear the cutting head frequently to prevent clogs.
• Strim slowly: Wet grass is heavier and more difficult to cut, having clear understanding on how to cut grass and when to cut grass are important, so moving at a slower pace will help reduce strain on your strimmer.
• Watch your footing: Wet ground can be slippery, so make sure to wear non-slip boots and work on even ground when possible.

When Should You Avoid Using a Strimmer on Wet Grass?

While it’s possible to strim wet grass, there are certain situations where it’s safer to wait for better weather:

• Heavy Rain or Thunderstorms: Using a strimmer, especially corded models, in rain increases the risk of electric shock. Even petrol strimmers can be difficult to control in these conditions, and thunderstorms add the risk of lightning.
• Waterlogged Lawns: Strimming on heavily saturated ground can damage both the lawn and strimmer. Muddy soil makes it harder to balance, increasing the risk of slips and falls, and can also uproot grass.
• Strimmer Overheating or Clogging: If the strimmer is struggling, stop to prevent motor damage. It’s better to wait for conditions to improve.
• High Slopes or Uneven Ground: Wet grass on slopes increases the chance of slipping. It’s safer to wait for dry conditions to avoid injuries.

Waiting for drier conditions helps protect both your strimmer and your safety.

How Does Cutting Wet Grass Affect the Lawn’s Health?

Cutting wet grass can negatively impact your lawn in several ways:

• Uneven Cuts and Clumping: Wet grass sticks together, leading to uneven cuts and clumping, which can block sunlight and damage underlying grass mostly when cutting grass next to a wall.
• Grass Uprooting: Wet, heavy grass is easier to uproot, leaving bare patches that weaken the lawn.
• Increased Risk of Disease: Clumped, damp grass encourages fungal diseases, such as mold, which can spread and damage the lawn.
• Soil Compaction: Walking or strimming on wet grass can cause soil compaction, preventing water, air, and nutrients from reaching the roots.

For a healthier lawn, it’s best to trim when the grass is dry.

Pros and Cons of Different Strimmer Types for Wet Grass

Strimmer Type	Advantages	Disadvantages
Corded Electric Strimmer	Powerful, easy to use	Risk of electric shock, clogging issues
Cordless Battery Strimmer	No electric hazard, mobile	Battery life drains faster in wet grass
Petrol-Powered Strimmer	High power, best for thick/wet grass	Heavier, more expensive, needs maintenance

Conclusion

So, can you cut wet grass with a strimmer? Yes, but it’s not always the best idea. The safest approach is to use a petrol-powered or cordless strimmer and to take your time, ensuring you keep the cutting head clean and your footing secure.

If conditions are too wet, it’s often better to wait for a drier day to avoid damaging both your strimmer and your lawn.

By following the practical tips outlined here and properly maintaining your strimmer and knowing the legal time to mow grass, you can safely manage your lawn even in challenging UK weather.

FAQs

1. Can I strim wet grass without damaging my lawn?

Yes, but wet grass can uproot easily and cause soil compaction. Strim slowly and avoid walking on wet areas to prevent damage.

2. How can I make my strimmer more effective on wet grass?

Sharpen the blades, raise the cutting height, and strim in small sections to avoid clogs.

3. Is it possible to prevent grass clumping when using a strimmer on wet grass?

Raise the cutting height, use sharp blades, and rake the grass before strimming to reduce clumping.