7 Garden Kneelers That'll Help Protect Your Knees and Back

These kneeling benches will keep your back and knees pain-free no matter what gardening task you're working on.

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Composite of garden kneelers
Photo: Courtesy of Gardeners, Songmics, Walmart

For as fun and beneficial as gardening can be, it can also wreak havoc on your joints and back. Time spent bending over pruning flowers, kneeling on the dirt to sow seeds, and carrying heavy equipment can cause body aches and pains all over.

Luckily, a well-designed garden kneeler can save you from future back and knee pain. "A garden kneeling bench is a gardening tool that helps you work in the proper mechanical position while relieving pressure on high-stress points of the body, such as your arms, knees, and spine," says Chad Henriksen, a chiropractor and director of WorkSiteRight at Northwestern Health Sciences University.

There are a lot of garden kneelers to choose from, but selecting one that's suited to your needs will keep your body protected from damage. "The best kneeling benches can be used in both kneeling and sitting positions, and provide adequate cushioning as well as stable side supports and handles." Here are the best garden kneelers that tick off all these boxes.

Best Garden Kneeling Benches

Best Multifunctional: Ohuhu Upgraded Garden Kneeler and Seat

Ohuhu Upgraded Garden Kneeler and Seat
Courtesy of Amazon

The only thing better than a good garden kneeling bench is one that doubles as a seat. The Ohuhu Upgraded Garden Kneeler and Seat lays flat on the ground for an extra-plush kneeling pad, but also has a sturdy steel black frame that can be raised to make a chair. "An added bonus is that this bench comes with pockets to keep your tools close by," Henriksen says.

Best Posture: Gardener's Supply Company Deep-Seat Garden Kneeler

Gardener's Supply Company Deep-Seat Garden Kneeler
Courtesy of Gardeners

A garden kneeler should provide support and flexibility when working in a variety of positions. "Improper bending can result in stress on your back, muscle strain, and more," says professional gardener Melinda Myers. Consider a kneeling bench, like this one from Gardener's Supply Company that will help position you properly to work in both in-ground gardens and raised beds.

Best Waterproof: LUCKYERMORE Garden Kneeler and Seat

LUCKYERMORE Garden Kneeler and Seat
Courtesy of Amazon

Whether you're weeding, seeding, or planting, a garden kneeler with a foam mat that's at least 1-inch thick is essential. "Also make sure that the mat is composed of a waterproof material, like EVA, or features a water-resistant coating," says Christopher Landercasper, director of farming operations for Sonoma's Best Hospitality Group. This kneeling bench fits the bill—it comes with a soft, EVA foam padding that will keep you comfortable as you work.

Best Storage: Aimerla Foldable Garden Kneeler Seat

Aimerla Foldable Garden Kneeler Seat
Courtesy of Walmart

A supportive garden kneeler with built-in storage is a splendid thing. Along with a notably wider seat than most kneeling benches, the Aimerla gardening bench comes with a side bag for your tools, as well as a larger, portable bag that fits conveniently under the seat.

Best Compact: TomCare Garden Kneeler

TomCare Garden Kneeler
Courtesy of Amazon

For a reliable kneeling bench that you can move around a garden with ease, consider the TomCare Garden Kneeler. Composed of strong but lightweight metal, this portable kneeler weighs just 5 pounds and quickly folds up into a compact shape for simplified portability and storage.

Best Extra Cushion: SONGMICS Folding Garden Kneeler

SONGMICS Folding Garden Kneeler
Courtesy of Songmics

The thicker the pad, the more comfortable the garden kneeler. This one features a foam pad that's over 1-inch thick to ensure plenty of back and knee support when you're sitting and kneeling. "Position the garden kneeling bench to directly face your work, to help minimize twisting and reduce stress on the spine," says Henriksen.

Best Budget-Friendly: Gardener's Supply Company Plastic Garden Kneeler and Seat

Gardener's Supply Company Plastic Garden Kneeler and Seat
Courtesy of Gardeners

For a pro-approved garden kneeling bench that's available at a lower price point, consider the Gardener's Supply Company Plastic Garden Kneeler and Seat. Not only is this lightweight, plastic bench-seat waterproof and easy to carry, but it also boasts two storage compartments and a built-in kneeling pad (under the seat) to boot.

Updated by
Madeline Buiano
Madeline Buiano, Staff Writer for Martha Stewart
Madeline Buiano is the staff writer for MarthaStewart.com, sharing her knowledge on a range of topics—from gardening and cleaning to home and pets. She has five years of writing and editing experience in the digital publishing industry.
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