The Best Back Scratcher

Buying Guide

There’s nothing more torturous then an itch you can’t scratch. If no one in your family is home to come to your aid, it’s helpful to have a back scratcher on hand. Fortunately, there are plenty of different options available, and when you’re ready to shop, you’ll want to consider the following features.

Make sure the back scratcher is constructed from a durable material. There may be times when you’re putting a lot of pressure on the wand to relieve an itch, and you don’t want it to break in the middle of a scratch. Some models are made from thick plastic, while others are constructed from stainless steel. You’ll also come across back scratchers, like the TungSam Therapeutic Back Scratcher, which are made entirely of bamboo.

Check the reach of the back scratcher next. Models that extend often start as small as eight inches long, which makes them perfect for travel. The wands either bend to their full length or pull straight out from the base. You should be able to reach between 22- and 26-inches when the scratcher is fully extended.

Examine the head of the back scratcher to ensure it is capable of relieving your itch. Some models utilize soft bristles, while others use claws or fingers. There are even back scratchers on a stick that are a bit different in that they have two sides. One side has low spikes for moderate itching and the other side has high spikes for severe itching.

Consider any extras the back scratcher may have to offer, such as a hole at one end for hanging the scratcher when not in use. There are also models that have a set of knuckles at the base of the handle for relieving pressure points, as well as models that offer a cushioned handle with finger grips.

• Some back scratchers use bristles that may be painful for anyone with sensitive skin.
• To keep the back scratcher clean and free of germs, it’s good practice to wipe it down every so often with a little white distilled vinegar. Vinegar is an excellent all-natural cleaner that can kill 80% of the germs it comes into contact with.
• Back scratchers can be used for more than scratching an itch. You can also use them to reach objects that are high up or to pull objects at a distance toward you.
• If you use massage or essential oils on your back, stick with a metal back scratcher. Wooden scratchers can absorb some of the oils, which will make them a bit slippery.
• The price of back scratchers varies based on design and construction materials. The TungSam Therapeutic Back Scratcher and the CERRXIAN Extendable Metal Back Scratcher, 4-Pack have a more basic design, and therefore are the most affordable. The Flanker-L Telescoping Back Scratcher, 2-Pack and the RENOOK Bamboo Back Scratcher, 5-Pack cost a little more, as they have an extended reach.