When it comes to selecting the right wheelbarrow for your garden, landscaping, or construction projects, one of the most common decisions is choosing between plastic and steel.
Our team analysed online commentary about whether a plastic or steel barrow is better. We found that while plastic offers benefits like being lightweight and rust-resistant, a quality steel barrow, such as the Australian-made Moss Wheelbarrows, provides the longest life and is not limited only to lightweight tasks.
Both types of wheelbarrows have their advantages, and understanding the pros and cons of each will help you make an informed decision that suits your specific needs.
The Case for Plastic Wheelbarrows
1. Weight and Maneuverability
One of the biggest advantages of plastic wheelbarrows is their lightweight nature. Made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or similar materials, plastic wheelbarrows weigh considerably less than their steel counterparts. This makes them easier to manoeuvre, especially if you’re working in tight spaces or over uneven ground. The reduced weight also puts less strain on the user, making it a more suitable option for individuals who might not be as strong or for long-term use when fatigue is a concern.
2. Corrosion Resistance
Plastic wheelbarrows are impervious to rust, which is an important factor if you’re working in areas that are frequently wet, such as gardens, or storing your wheelbarrow outdoors. The non-metallic nature of plastic means you won’t have to worry about water exposure, and it won’t corrode when coming into contact with acidic or alkaline materials. This makes plastic wheelbarrows ideal for tasks like carrying fertiliser, compost, or even corrosive construction chemicals.
3. Low Maintenance
Compared to steel wheelbarrows, plastic ones require minimal upkeep. With no risk of rust and fewer parts prone to wear and tear, these wheelbarrows can last a long time without the need for constant maintenance. Occasional cleaning is usually enough to keep them in good working order.
4. Affordability
Plastic wheelbarrows tend to be more affordable than steel models, however it does depend on quality. For hobby gardeners or those who only need a wheelbarrow for light-duty tasks, the cost-effectiveness of a cheap plastic wheelbarrow is appealing. If you’re not dealing with heavy or sharp materials on a regular basis, this option can give you good value for your money. However, if you want a quality plastic wheelbarrow that can handle a bit of weight, or be used daily for professional trades, these plastic barrows tend to be a similar price to the steel wheelbarrows.
5. Shock Absorption
The inherent flexibility of plastic means it has some shock-absorbing qualities. If you hit a bump or a rock while pushing a plastic wheelbarrow, the material tends to absorb the impact, making the ride smoother. This characteristic can also help prevent damage to the wheelbarrow when it’s dropped or knocked over.
Drawbacks of Plastic Wheelbarrows
While plastic wheelbarrows have plenty of advantages, they also come with some drawbacks. The most notable of these is their strength limitations. Plastic is not as strong as steel, and while modern plastic wheelbarrows are far more durable than older models, they can still crack or break under heavy loads or after prolonged exposure to UV light from the sun. If you’re moving sharp, jagged materials such as rocks or debris, plastic may wear down over time or even puncture.
The Case for Steel Wheelbarrows
1. Strength and Durability
The primary advantage of steel wheelbarrows is their unmatched strength and durability. Steel can handle heavy loads much better than plastic, making it the preferred choice for construction sites, large-scale landscaping projects, and other demanding tasks. Whether you’re transporting bricks, concrete, or large piles of soil, a steel wheelbarrow can take the weight without buckling or bending.
2. Resistance to Physical Damage
Unlike plastic, steel wheelbarrows are highly resistant to physical damage. They are much less likely to crack, break, or deform, even if you’re dealing with jagged or abrasive materials. For those who frequently work with sharp stones, heavy equipment, or large, dense loads, the durability of steel becomes a significant advantage.
3. Long-Term Investment
Although steel wheelbarrows tend to be more expensive upfront, they can be a long-term investment due to their superior durability. If properly maintained, a steel wheelbarrow can last many years, making it a cost-effective choice for professionals who rely on their tools every day. For people in construction or landscaping, where equipment takes a beating, this investment pays off over time.
4. Better Balance for Heavy Loads
Many steel wheelbarrows feature reinforced handles and frame construction, which can provide better balance when handling heavier loads. This design consideration makes it easier to transport materials without tipping over. For those dealing with uneven terrain or steep inclines, the extra balance and stability of a steel wheelbarrow can be a major advantage.
Drawbacks of Steel Wheelbarrows
The key drawback of steel wheelbarrows is their weight. While the extra weight can provide better stability for heavy loads, it also makes the wheelbarrow more difficult to manoeuvre, especially when empty. This can be a problem for lighter users or those working for extended periods. The risk of rust and corrosion is another major concern. Steel wheelbarrows, if not coated or treated properly, is prone to rust when exposed to moisture, making regular maintenance essential. Over time, corrosion can weaken the metal, especially around the seams and joints, and shorten the lifespan of the wheelbarrow – making it essential to choose a quality steel wheelbarrow.
Comparing Plastic and Steel Wheelbarrows by Task
Gardening and Light Landscaping
For lighter tasks like moving plants, mulch, and soil around the garden, plastic wheelbarrows are often the better choice. They are lighter, easier to move, and require less maintenance. Unless you’re regularly hauling heavy rocks or large loads, a plastic wheelbarrow should meet most gardening needs without issue.
Heavy-Duty Landscaping and Construction
When dealing with construction materials or larger, heavier loads, steel is the superior option. The added strength and durability allow you to handle rough terrain and larger weights without fear of cracking or bending. Steel wheelbarrows are well-suited to professionals who rely on their tools for daily, intensive use.
Mixed Use
If you are looking to buy a wheelbarrow for both light and heavy tasks, and you don’t want to invest in two, a steel wheelbarrow with a rust-resistant coating may offer a good compromise. Although it will be heavier, the added durability will allow you to use it in a broader range of tasks without worrying about overloading it.
Quality Matters: Not All Wheelbarrows Are Created Equal
When our team analysed whether a plastic or steel barrow is better, we found that quality is a key consideration. Both steel and plastic wheelbarrows come in a range of quality. A cheap steel barrow from a chain hardware store won’t compare to a heavy-duty barrow for concreters, and the same goes for plastic. If you’re dealing with heavy loads or tough tasks, a high-quality steel wheelbarrow, like the Australian-made Moss Wheelbarrows, offers greater durability and longevity than cheaper alternatives. Similarly, while plastic wheelbarrows have their place, lower-quality models may not hold up under stress, making quality just as important when selecting a plastic barrow.
How different can the quality really be?
When evaluating cheaper wheelbarrows, particularly those available at chain hardware stores, several consistent complaints emerge. One common issue is that these budget steel models often rust quickly, especially if left outdoors or used in damp environments. Reviews frequently mention that paint can start flaking off even within a few weeks, rust begins to form after just a few months, weakening the structure and reducing the lifespan of the wheelbarrow.
Another frequent complaint concerns bending and warping. Many users report that the steel on cheaper models is too thin, leading to buckling under heavier loads. This can cause the tray to dent or the handles to warp, making the wheelbarrow difficult to control and eventually unusable. The bending issue is particularly problematic when moving bulky or unevenly distributed materials like rocks, bricks, or soil, tasks where more robust models hold up better.
Additionally, breaking or cracking under pressure is another issue cited by customers. In some instances, the frame itself has failed, particularly at the joints or where the handles attach to the tray, causing the wheelbarrow to become unstable. Users also note that the wheels on cheaper models tend to deflate or malfunction easily, adding another point of failure.
Overall, these complaints highlight the downside of opting for lower-quality, budget wheelbarrows. While they may appear cost-effective initially, the rapid rusting, structural weaknesses, and general lack of durability mean they often need replacing sooner than expected¹. This makes high-quality wheelbarrows like the Moss Wheelbarrows, which are built to last and handle a broad range of tasks, a far better long-term investment.
What are the advantages of plastic wheelbarrows?
A quality plastic wheelbarrow is lightweight, making it easy to manoeuvre, especially in tight spaces. It’s resistant to rust and corrosion, ideal for damp environments, and requires little maintenance. Its flexibility offers shock absorption, reducing damage risk, and it’s more affordable than steel options.
Should I get a plastic or metal wheelbarrow?
If you are asking yourself if you should get a plastic or metal wheelbarrow, it comes down to what type of work you will be doing. Plastic is lightweight and rust-resistant, perfect for light garden work. Metal, especially steel, is better for heavy-duty tasks due to its strength and is more versatile. Either way, quality is key—cheap models often fail quickly with frames bending, plastic cracking, and poorly treated steel rusting once the paint flakes. Investing in a high-quality wheelbarrow ensures better performance and longevity, and is actually cheaper in the long run.
What’s better, plastic or metal wheelbarrow??
Plastic wheelbarrows are lightweight, affordable, and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for lighter tasks around the garden. But steel wheelbarrows provide superior strength, durability, and long-term value, making them the preferred option for heavy-duty tasks or professional use.
After weighing all these factors, we decided on a quality steel barrow like those from Moss Wheelbarrows because of their broad range of applications and superior quality. Moss has built an overwhelmingly positive reputation among serious tradesmen, making it clear that Moss produce the best wheelbarrows for durability and quality.
Whether you’re moving small loads in the garden or handling more demanding construction work, Moss wheelbarrows offer unmatched versatility and durability. They are the best choice for a wide variety of tasks. By considering the tasks you’ll be doing most often, the environment you’ll be working in, and your personal strength, you’ll be able to choose the right wheelbarrow to make your work easier, whether you’re gardening or tackling a large construction project.
If you found this article helpful, be sure to explore more of our insights! Check out “Types of Chainsaws – Everything You Need to Know!” for expert advice on picking the right chainsaw, or dive into “Is a Zero-Turn Mower a Good Investment?” to see if this cutting-edge mower is the best fit for your property. Both articles offer practical tips and in-depth information to help you make smart decisions for your outdoor projects.