Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for sanitizing feet and footwear. A sanitizing mat includes a base portion comprising a bottom surface and raised walls to create a reservoir. A sponge element containing a sanitizing solution sits within the reservoir. A surface element covers the top of the sponge element. The surface element is permeable, such that the resultant pressure of a user stepping on the sanitizing mat squeezes the sanitizing solution out of the sponge element and through the surface element to sanitize the feet or footwear of the user. The surface element comprises an abrasive material, such that debris from the user's feet or footwear may be loosened and left on the surface element. The user then steps off of the mat without carrying germs or bacteria on the soles of their feet or footwear.

Abstract: A hedge trimmer provided with a deflector which deflects, gathers, and rolls forwardly together and simultaneously materials cut by the trimmer in the direction of the sweep of the trimmer.