Always wear close-toed shoes when using a string trimmer. No need for steel-toed work boots; any pair of covered shoes will provide adequate protection against a standard string trimmer line.

The best way to measure the amount of fresh line you need for your string trimmer is to use your arm span, says Mark Clement, home and garden tool reviewer and licensed contractor with MyFixitUpLife.

Using a pair of durable scissors, cut the line so you have a 16-foot length of string. After you've cut your length of line, it's time to start installing it into your trimmer.

Consumer Reports shows you how to use your string trimmer as an edger to give your yard a professionally landscaped look.

Consumer Reports reveals the easiest string trimmers to use for giving your lawn a manicured look. Trimming grass around edges and tight spots is less of a chore with these models from our tests.