Craftsman 18-in All-Purpose Push Broom

Cleaning up after a day's work in the shop or tidying up the garage can be a daunting task without the right tools. The Craftsman 18-in All-Purpose Push Broom (model CMXMLBA7218A) has become my go-to tool for keeping these spaces in order. Whether I'm dealing with dry dust or wet debris, this broom has proven to be a versatile and reliable companion.

One of the standout features of this push broom is its dual bristle design. The combination of stiff and soft bristles makes it exceptionally effective at sweeping up a range of materials. The stiff outer bristles are perfect for moving larger debris like leaves, small stones, or chunks of dirt, while the softer inner bristles handle finer particles such as dust and sand with ease. This dual-action approach ensures that I can clean up quickly and efficiently, no matter the type of mess I'm dealing with.

The design of the handle is another aspect that I appreciate. At 65 inches long, it provides ample reach, which is particularly beneficial for taller individuals like myself. The handle also features a comfortable grip, making extended use less tiring on the hands and wrists. The break-resistant connector between the handle and the broom head adds to its durability, ensuring that this tool can withstand the rigors of frequent use without falling apart.

In terms of weight, the broom is relatively lightweight at just 3 pounds. This makes it easy to maneuver, even when sweeping larger areas. The lightweight design does not compromise its sturdiness, however. The broom feels solid and well-constructed, giving me confidence that it will last for a long time.

One of the challenges I faced with previous brooms was their tendency to shed bristles, especially when used on rough surfaces. While the Craftsman push broom does occasionally lose a few bristles, it is not a significant issue and does not detract from its overall performance. I found that the shedding is more apparent on rougher surfaces like stone pavers, but it does not occur as frequently when used on smoother surfaces such as concrete or vinyl.

The versatility of this broom extends beyond just sweeping floors. I've used it for a variety of tasks, including cleaning up leaves in the yard and even brushing off fluffy snow from my truck. The stiff bristles are particularly effective at gathering leaves, often outperforming a rake in certain situations. For snow removal, the broom works well for lighter, fluffy snow, although it's not suitable for heavier, compacted snow.

Another use I found for this broom is in power washing tasks. The sturdy bristles are excellent for scrubbing vinyl siding during a power wash, helping to remove mold and grime effectively. While it would be even more convenient if the handle could extend a few additional feet, the current length is still adequate for most tasks.

One minor drawback is the Craftsman logo not extending the entire length of the handle, which is more of an aesthetic issue than a functional one. Additionally, while the 18-inch width is suitable for most tasks, there are occasions when a wider broom might be more efficient, especially for larger areas. However, the narrower width does make it easier to maneuver in tighter spaces.

The overall build quality of the broom lives up to the Craftsman name. The materials used are of high quality, and the construction feels robust. This is not the cheapest push broom on the market, but the quality and performance justify the price. It's a tool that I expect to last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 18-in All-Purpose Push Broom is a highly effective and versatile cleaning tool. Its dual bristle design, comfortable handle, and sturdy construction make it suitable for a wide range of tasks, both indoors and outdoors. While it has a few minor drawbacks, they are far outweighed by its many benefits. I would highly recommend this broom to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient cleaning tool for their shop, garage, yard, or any other space that requires regular sweeping. Its performance and durability make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.