broomsticks

A broomstick is the long handle portion of a broom, a cleaning tool used for sweeping floors and other surfaces. The handle is typically a straight, rigid piece, most commonly made of wood, but it can also be metal or plastic. The bristles or brushes are attached to one end of the handle and act as the sweeping surface.

Traditionally, broom bristles are bound to the handle in bundles. Bristles may be natural fibers, such as broomcorn (a type of sorghum), straw, or other plant fibers, or they may be synthetic materials like nylon or polypropylene. The binding is usually accomplished with twine, wire, or a band that helps secure the bristles and maintain the broom’s shape. The overall length of broomsticks varies to suit different tasks, from lightweight, short-handled brooms to longer, floor-sweeping versions.

Materials and varieties have evolved with manufacturing advances. Besoms are a traditional form using natural twigs bound at one end, while modern brooms commonly use synthetic bristles for durability and ease of cleaning. Broomsticks are found in households, schools, and workplaces, and there are variants designed for outdoor sweeping, industrial use, and specialized applications.

Culturally, broomsticks are often associated with folklore and fiction, most famously as the means by which witches are depicted as flying. In reality, broomsticks are practical tools for cleaning; the flying association remains a symbolic element in popular culture rather than a functional feature.

Care and maintenance involve keeping the broom dry to prevent bristle deterioration, cleaning off dirt after use, and replacing worn bristles when necessary. Proper storage helps extend the life of both handle and bristles.