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Kehrblech

B1 noun 11 min read

Kehrblech

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips Kehrblech in 30 Seconds

Explanation Kehrblech in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that 'das Kehrblech' is a dustpan. It is a thing you use to clean the floor. You usually use it with a small brush called a 'Handfeger'. You might hear your teacher or a roommate say: 'Hol das Kehrblech!' (Get the dustpan!). It is a 'das' word, so you say 'mein Kehrblech' or 'ein Kehrblech'. It is important for basic chores. Imagine you drop some sugar in the kitchen; you need a Kehrblech to pick it up. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet, just remember the name and that it is for cleaning.

At the A2 level, you should be able to use 'Kehrblech' in simple sentences about household routines. You can describe where it is: 'Das Kehrblech liegt unter der Spüle' (The dustpan is under the sink). You can also use it with modal verbs: 'Ich muss das Kehrblech suchen' (I have to look for the dustpan). You should also learn the plural form 'die Kehrbleche', although you usually only use one at a time. At this stage, you might also learn the word 'Handfeger' as its partner. Knowing these words helps you participate in shared living tasks, like the 'Putzplan' (cleaning schedule) in a shared apartment.

At the B1 level, you can talk about the quality and material of a Kehrblech. You might compare a plastic one to a metal one: 'Das Kehrblech aus Metall ist stabiler als das aus Plastik' (The metal dustpan is more stable than the plastic one). You can use the word in the context of the 'Kehrwoche' and understand its cultural importance in Germany. You should be comfortable using it in different cases, such as the dative: 'Der Staub ist auf dem Kehrblech'. You also start to recognize related words like 'Kehrgarnitur' and can explain the function of the tool in more detail using subordinate clauses: 'Das ist ein Werkzeug, mit dem man Dreck aufhebt'.

At the B2 level, you use 'Kehrblech' fluently in discussions about household management, ergonomics, or environmental choices. You might discuss why an 'ergonomisches Kehrblech mit Gummilippe' is better for your back. You can understand more complex instructions or descriptions in a hardware store. You are also aware of regional differences, knowing that while 'Kehrblech' is standard, some people might say 'Kehrschaufel' or 'Müllschippe'. You can use the word in more abstract contexts, perhaps in a story or a detailed description of a scene, and you understand the nuances of the 'ich-laut' pronunciation.

At the C1 level, the word 'Kehrblech' is part of your extensive vocabulary of everyday objects. You can use it in professional contexts, such as describing safety protocols in a workshop where metal shavings must be removed with a 'Metallkehrblech'. You understand the etymological roots of the word and how 'Blech' implies a certain traditional quality. You can follow fast-paced conversations about household traditions like the Swabian 'Kehrwoche' and understand the social implications of having a clean or dirty dustpan. Your use of the genitive ('die Kante des Kehrblechs') and complex sentence structures is natural and precise.

At the C2 level, 'Kehrblech' is a word you use with total native-like precision. You might use it in literary descriptions to evoke a specific domestic atmosphere. You understand all regional variations and can code-switch if necessary. You might even know historical terms or very specific industrial types of 'Kehrbleche'. You can discuss the word's role in the German language's preference for descriptive compound nouns. Whether you are reading a technical manual for industrial cleaning equipment or a classic novel describing a kitchen scene, the word 'Kehrblech' and all its connotations are fully integrated into your linguistic repertoire.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

Kehrblech in 30 Seconds

Kehrblech is the German word for dustpan, a neuter noun (das) used for collecting dust after sweeping.
It is a compound of 'kehren' (to sweep) and 'Blech' (sheet metal), reflecting its traditional construction material.
Commonly paired with a 'Handfeger' (brush), it is essential for the German tradition of the 'Kehrwoche'.
Regional synonyms include 'Kehrschaufel' and 'Müllschippe', but 'Kehrblech' is standard in Northern and Central Germany.

The German word Kehrblech is a compound noun that translates literally to 'sweeping tin' or 'sweeping sheet.' In practical terms, it refers to a dustpan. This essential household item is used in conjunction with a small brush, known as a Handfeger, to collect dust, dirt, or debris that has been swept into a pile. While it might seem like a mundane object, the Kehrblech holds a significant place in German domestic life, particularly within the context of the famous German cleanliness standards. Historically, these pans were indeed made of Blech (sheet metal), usually galvanized steel or zinc, to ensure durability against heavy-duty cleaning tasks. In modern times, while plastic versions are ubiquitous, the name remains a testament to its metallic origins.

Domestic Necessity: The Kehrblech is found in almost every German household, typically stored near the kitchen or in a cleaning cupboard. It is the go-to tool for quick clean-ups when a vacuum cleaner is too cumbersome or loud.

Ich habe das Glas fallen lassen; bitte bring mir schnell das Kehrblech und den Handfeger.

In Southern Germany, particularly in Baden-Württemberg, the Kehrblech is a central figure in the Kehrwoche (sweeping week). This is a traditional duty where residents of an apartment building take turns cleaning the communal areas like the staircase and the sidewalk. During this time, the sound of a Kehrblech scraping against the stone floor is a common acoustic signal of civic responsibility. Using a high-quality metal Kehrblech is often seen as a sign of a serious cleaner, as plastic versions can warp over time and leave a line of dust behind. The edge of the pan is particularly important; a good Kehrblech will have a thin, flat edge or a rubber lip to ensure every last speck of dust is captured.

Material Variations: While 'Blech' implies metal, many modern versions are 'aus Kunststoff' (made of plastic). However, professional cleaners and traditionalists still prefer the 'Metallkehrblech' for its weight and longevity.

Das alte Kehrblech aus verzinktem Stahl rostet nicht und hält ein Leben lang.

Linguistically, the word is a neuter noun: das Kehrblech. It is important to remember the article because it dictates the endings of any accompanying adjectives. For example, 'the new dustpan' becomes 'das neue Kehrblech.' In everyday speech, you might also hear the word Kehrschaufel, which is a perfect synonym. However, Kehrblech is more common in Northern and Central Germany, whereas Schippe or Müllschippe might be heard more frequently in the West or South. Understanding these regional nuances can help you sound more like a native speaker depending on where you are in the German-speaking world.

Compound Logic: The verb 'kehren' means to sweep. The noun 'Blech' means sheet metal. Put them together, and you have a specialized tool for sweeping. This is a classic example of German word construction.

Stell das Kehrblech bitte wieder in die Abstellkammer, wenn du fertig bist.

Using the word Kehrblech correctly involves understanding its grammatical gender and common verb pairings. Since it is a neuter noun (das), it follows specific declension patterns. In the accusative case, which is most common when you are 'using' or 'getting' the dustpan, the article remains das. For example, 'Ich hole das Kehrblech' (I am getting the dustpan). In the dative case, for instance when something is 'on' the dustpan, it becomes dem: 'Der Dreck liegt auf dem Kehrblech' (The dirt is on the dustpan).

Action Verbs: Common verbs used with Kehrblech include 'benutzen' (to use), 'leeren' (to empty), 'halten' (to hold), and 'suchen' (to look for).

Kannst du das Kehrblech bitte kurz halten, während ich den Dreck zusammenkehre?

When describing the physical state of the Kehrblech, adjectives are placed before the noun and must agree with its neuter gender. 'Ein schmutziges Kehrblech' (a dirty dustpan) or 'das kaputte Kehrblech' (the broken dustpan). In professional or technical contexts, you might specify the material: 'ein emailliertes Kehrblech' (an enameled dustpan). If you are referring to the set that includes both the pan and the brush, the term Kehrgarnitur or Kehr-Set is often used, though colloquially people just ask for the Kehrblech and assume the brush comes with it.

Prepositional Usage: Use 'auf' for things on the pan and 'mit' when using it as a tool. 'Mit dem Kehrblech lässt sich der Müll leicht aufheben.'

Nachdem sie den Boden gefegt hatte, leerte sie den Inhalt des Kehrblechs in den Mülleimer.

In more complex sentence structures, you might see the genitive case used to show possession or belonging. 'Die Gummilippe des Kehrblechs ist abgenutzt' (The rubber lip of the dustpan is worn out). While the genitive is becoming less common in casual speech, it remains standard in written German and formal instructions. Furthermore, you can use the word in the context of instructions: 'Fegen Sie den Staub auf das Kehrblech und entsorgen Sie ihn' (Sweep the dust onto the dustpan and dispose of it). This imperative form is common in manuals for cleaning supplies or house rules.

Compound Verbs: Sometimes the object is implied in verbs like 'aufkehren' (to sweep up). 'Ich muss das noch kurz aufkehren' implies the use of a Kehrblech.

Ohne ein vernünftiges Kehrblech bekommt man den feinen Sand nie ganz vom Boden weg.

The word Kehrblech is most frequently heard in daily domestic settings. If you are living in a shared apartment (WG - Wohngemeinschaft) or with a German family, you will hear it during the weekly cleaning routine. It is also a staple word in hardware stores (Baumärkte) like OBI, Bauhaus, or Hornbach. If you ask an employee, 'Wo finde ich die Kehrbleche?' they will direct you to the cleaning supplies aisle, usually near the brooms and mops.

In the Workplace: In workshops, factories, or craft businesses (Handwerksbetriebe), the Kehrblech is an essential tool for keeping the workspace safe and clean. Here, you are more likely to find the heavy-duty metal versions.

In der Werkstatt benutzen wir nur Kehrbleche aus Metall, weil Kunststoff bei den heißen Metallspänen schmelzen würde.

Another place where the word is prominent is in the context of the Kehrwoche in Southern Germany. This is a legally binding obligation in many rental contracts. You might hear a neighbor say, 'Sie sind diese Woche mit der Kehrwoche dran; vergessen Sie das Kehrblech nicht!' (It's your turn for sweeping week; don't forget the dustpan!). In this cultural context, the Kehrblech is almost a symbol of neighborly duty and social order. If the sidewalk isn't perfectly clean, the Kehrblech might be the subject of a polite (or not-so-polite) reminder from a neighbor.

Retail and Advertising: In weekly advertising flyers from supermarkets like Aldi or Lidl, you will often see 'Kehr-Sets' or 'Kehrblech-Garnituren' on sale, especially during the spring cleaning season (Frühjahrsputz).

Das Angebot der Woche umfasst ein ergonomisches Kehrblech mit langem Stiel für rückenschonendes Arbeiten.

You might also encounter the word in child-friendly contexts. Children in Germany often have miniature cleaning sets to help their parents. A 'Kinder-Kehrblech' is a common toy. Hearing a parent say, 'Hol dein kleines Kehrblech und hilf mir mal,' is a standard part of a German childhood, teaching the value of cleanliness from an early age. In professional cleaning services (Reinigungsfirmen), the terminology might be more specialized, but Kehrblech remains the fundamental term for the object itself, regardless of whether it is a basic model or a high-tech industrial version.

Regional Variations: In Austria and Bavaria, you might hear 'Aufkehrschaufel' or simply 'Schippe'. In Northern Germany, 'Kehrblech' is the dominant term used by almost everyone.

Der Hausmeister hat sein Kehrblech im Flur stehen lassen.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with Kehrblech is getting the grammatical gender wrong. Many assume that because it is a tool, it might be masculine (der) or because it's associated with domestic work (historically feminine-coded), it might be feminine (die). However, it is strictly neuter: das Kehrblech. This is because the head noun of the compound is Blech, which is neuter. Always remember: the gender of a German compound noun is determined by the last element.

Gender Error: Incorrect: 'Gib mir den Kehrblech.' Correct: 'Gib mir das Kehrblech.' Even if you use a plastic one, it is still 'das Blech' linguistically.

Viele Lerner sagen fälschlicherweise 'die Kehrblech', aber es ist ein Neutrum.

Another common error is confusing Kehrblech with Schaufel. While a Schaufel is a shovel (used for gardening or snow), a Kehrblech is specifically for dust and small debris indoors. While they share a similar shape, using the word 'Schaufel' for a dustpan might lead to confusion, as your interlocutor might look for a large garden spade. Similarly, don't confuse the Kehrblech with the Handfeger (the brush). They are often sold together, but they are distinct objects. If you ask for a Kehrblech, you are asking only for the pan.

Pluralization Mistake: The plural is 'Kehrbleche'. Avoid saying 'Kehrblecher' or 'Kehrblechen' in the nominative. The '-e' ending is standard for many neuter nouns ending in a consonant.

Wir haben drei neue Kehrbleche gekauft, nicht 'Kehrblecher'.

Pronunciation can also be a hurdle. The 'ch' at the end of Kehrblech is the 'ich-laut' (the soft 'ch' sound), not the 'ach-laut' (the hard 'ch' sound). Because it follows the letter 'e', it should be a light, hissing sound made at the front of the mouth. Pronouncing it like a 'k' (Kehrblek) or a hard 'kh' (like in Bach) is a common mistake for English speakers. Furthermore, make sure to pronounce the 'h' in 'Kehr' as a vowel lengthener—the 'e' is long, and the 'r' is often vocalized or very soft, depending on the regional accent.

Using the Wrong Verb: Don't say 'putzen' with Kehrblech. You 'kehren' (sweep) the dust onto it. 'Putzen' usually implies water and cleaning agents.

Man nutzt das Kehrblech zum Fegen, nicht zum Wischen oder Putzen.

While Kehrblech is the standard term, German is rich with regionalisms and synonyms for this cleaning tool. The most direct synonym is Kehrschaufel. Both words describe exactly the same object, but Kehrschaufel is often preferred in formal product catalogs or in Southern Germany. The word Schippe or Müllschippe is also very common, though it feels slightly more colloquial and is frequently used in the Rhineland and parts of Westphalia.

Kehrblech vs. Kehrschaufel: Kehrblech emphasizes the material (metal), while Kehrschaufel emphasizes the shape (shovel). In practice, they are 100% interchangeable.
Kehrblech vs. Schippe: A 'Schippe' can be a dustpan, but it can also be a larger shovel. 'Kehrblech' is more specific to cleaning floors.

Ob man Kehrblech oder Kehrschaufel sagt, hängt meistens von der Region ab.

In a professional cleaning context, you might encounter the term Kehrgarnitur. This refers to the set consisting of the pan and the brush. If the pan is attached to a long handle so you don't have to bend down, it is called a Stielkehrschaufel or Stehkehrschaufel. These are particularly popular among elderly people or professional janitors who spend hours cleaning. Another related word is Kehricht, which is the formal term for the dust and waste that you sweep up onto the Kehrblech. You might see this in official city regulations regarding waste disposal.

Aufkehrer: This is a slightly rarer, more old-fashioned term for the dustpan, often used in Northern Germany or in literature.

Die Kehrgarnitur ist praktischer, weil der Handfeger direkt am Blech befestigt werden kann.

When comparing Kehrblech to its English equivalent 'dustpan', the German word is much more descriptive of the traditional material. In English, 'dustpan' focuses on the purpose (collecting dust). In German, Kehrblech tells you what it does (sweeping) and what it is made of (metal sheet). This reflects a general trend in the German language toward descriptive compound nouns. If you are looking for an alternative in a more metaphorical sense, there aren't many, as this is a very literal, utilitarian word. However, in the context of 'sweeping things away,' the verb wegkehren is the action you perform using this tool.

Regional: Dreckschaufel: Literally 'dirt shovel'. This is very informal and used in many German dialects to refer to the Kehrblech.

In manchen Dialekten sagt man einfach nur 'Schippe' zum Kehrblech.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Despite most dustpans today being made of plastic, the word 'Blech' (metal sheet) persists, showing how language preserves historical material usage.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈkeːɐ̯ˌblɛç/

US /ˈkeɪrˌblɛk/

Primary stress is on the first syllable: KEHR-blech.

Rhymes With

Blech Pech frech ech Spech Zech rechen blechen

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ch' as 'k' (Kehrblek).
Pronouncing 'ch' as 'sh' (Kehrblesh).
Making the 'r' too hard (American style).
Misgendering as 'der Kehrblech'.
Using a hard 'ach-laut' for the 'ch'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in context due to its literal components.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the neuter gender and the 'ch' ending.

Speaking 4/5

The 'ich-laut' at the end can be tricky for English speakers.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation usually makes it easy to hear.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

kehren das Blech der Besen der Dreck sauber

Learn Next

der Handfeger die Kehrwoche die Schaufel wischen der Staubsauger

Advanced

der Kehricht die Garnitur verzinkt ergonomisch die Gummilippe

Grammar to Know

Compound Noun Gender

Das Kehr-Blech (takes gender from 'das Blech').

Accusative Case for Objects

Ich hole das Kehrblech.

Dative Case with 'auf'

Der Staub liegt auf dem Kehrblech.

Plural Formation with -e

Die Kehrbleche.

Adjective Declension (Neuter)

Ein neues Kehrblech.

Examples by Level

Wo ist das Kehrblech?

Where is the dustpan?

Nominative case, neuter noun.

Ich brauche ein Kehrblech.

I need a dustpan.

Accusative case, indefinite article.

Das Kehrblech ist blau.

The dustpan is blue.

Subject-predicate sentence.

Hier ist das Kehrblech.

Here is the dustpan.

Simple identification.

Das Kehrblech und der Besen sind neu.

The dustpan and the broom are new.

Compound subject.

Kaufst du ein Kehrblech?

Are you buying a dustpan?

Question with accusative object.

Mein Kehrblech ist kaputt.

My dustpan is broken.

Possessive pronoun 'mein'.

Das Kehrblech ist klein.

The dustpan is small.

Descriptive adjective.

Das Kehrblech steht in der Ecke.

The dustpan is standing in the corner.

Prepositional phrase with dative.

Kannst du mir das Kehrblech geben?

Can you give me the dustpan?

Modal verb with dative 'mir' and accusative 'das Kehrblech'.

Ich habe den Dreck auf das Kehrblech gefegt.

I swept the dirt onto the dustpan.

Perfect tense with preposition 'auf' + accusative.

Wir suchen das Kehrblech im Schrank.

We are looking for the dustpan in the cupboard.

Verb 'suchen' + accusative.

Das Kehrblech ist schmutzig.

The dustpan is dirty.

Simple adjective use.

Benutz bitte das Kehrblech für die Krümel.

Please use the dustpan for the crumbs.

Imperative sentence.

Wo hast du das Kehrblech gelassen?

Where did you leave the dustpan?

Perfect tense question.

Das Kehrblech kostet fünf Euro.

The dustpan costs five euros.

Stating a price.

Ein Kehrblech aus Metall hält länger als eines aus Plastik.

A metal dustpan lasts longer than one made of plastic.

Comparative structure.

Ohne das Kehrblech kann ich den Boden nicht richtig sauber machen.

Without the dustpan, I cannot clean the floor properly.

Preposition 'ohne' + accusative.

Die Gummilippe am Kehrblech hilft, den feinen Staub aufzunehmen.

The rubber lip on the dustpan helps to pick up the fine dust.

Infinitive construction with 'zu'.

Hast du gesehen, dass das Kehrblech verrostet ist?

Did you see that the dustpan is rusted?

Subordinate clause with 'dass'.

Wegen des Regens ist der Dreck auf dem Kehrblech ganz nass.

Because of the rain, the dirt on the dustpan is all wet.

Genitive with 'wegen' and dative with 'auf dem'.

Ich stelle das Kehrblech immer hinter die Tür.

I always put the dustpan behind the door.

Two-way preposition 'hinter' + accusative (movement).

Das Kehrblech gehört zur Grundausstattung jeder Wohnung.

The dustpan belongs to the basic equipment of every apartment.

Verb 'gehören zu' + dative.

Man sollte das Kehrblech nach jedem Gebrauch leeren.

One should empty the dustpan after every use.

Modal verb 'sollte'.

Das ergonomische Kehrblech ermöglicht das Reinigen ohne Bücken.

The ergonomic dustpan allows cleaning without bending down.

Nominalized verb 'das Reinigen'.

In der Industrie kommen oft Kehrbleche aus verzinktem Stahl zum Einsatz.

In industry, dustpans made of galvanized steel are often used.

Passive-like expression 'zum Einsatz kommen'.

Obwohl das Kehrblech alt ist, erfüllt es noch seinen Zweck.

Although the dustpan is old, it still serves its purpose.

Concessive clause with 'obwohl'.

Die Qualität des Kehrblechs erkennt man an der Stabilität des Griffs.

You can recognize the quality of the dustpan by the stability of the handle.

Genitive case 'des Kehrblechs'.

Er suchte verzweifelt nach dem Kehrblech, um die Scherben aufzuheben.

He searched desperately for the dustpan to pick up the shards.

Purpose clause with 'um...zu'.

Das Kehrblech wurde speziell für feinen Werkstattstaub entwickelt.

The dustpan was specially developed for fine workshop dust.

Passive voice.

Anstatt ein neues Kehrblech zu kaufen, hat er das alte repariert.

Instead of buying a new dustpan, he repaired the old one.

Infinitival clause with 'anstatt...zu'.

Je glatter der Boden, desto besser funktioniert das Kehrblech.

The smoother the floor, the better the dustpan works.

Comparative 'je...desto'.

Die kulturelle Bedeutung des Kehrblechs in der schwäbischen Kehrwoche ist nicht zu unterschätzen.

The cultural significance of the dustpan in the Swabian Kehrwoche is not to be underestimated.

Gerundive-like 'sein + zu + infinitive' construction.

Das Kehrblech dient als unverzichtbares Utensil bei der Beseitigung von Kehricht.

The dustpan serves as an indispensable utensil in the removal of sweepings.

High-register vocabulary like 'Utensil' and 'Kehricht'.

Bei der Wahl eines Kehrblechs sollte man auf eine hochwertige Gummikante achten.

When choosing a dustpan, one should look for a high-quality rubber edge.

Prepositional phrase 'bei der Wahl'.

Es ist bemerkenswert, wie sich das Design des Kehrblechs über Jahrzehnte kaum verändert hat.

It is remarkable how the design of the dustpan has hardly changed over decades.

Indirect question with 'wie'.

Trotz technologischer Fortschritte bleibt das einfache Kehrblech ein Standardwerkzeug.

Despite technological progress, the simple dustpan remains a standard tool.

Genitive with 'trotz'.

Die Materialbeschaffenheit des Kehrblechs ist entscheidend für seine Langlebigkeit.

The material properties of the dustpan are decisive for its longevity.

Compound noun 'Materialbeschaffenheit'.

In der Hausordnung ist festgelegt, dass das Kehrblech nach der Nutzung zu säubern ist.

The house rules stipulate that the dustpan must be cleaned after use.

Passive replacement 'sein + zu + infinitive'.

Das Kehrblech fungiert hier beinahe als Symbol für bürgerliche Ordnung.

The dustpan functions here almost as a symbol of middle-class order.

Abstract metaphorical usage.

In der literarischen Beschreibung der Küche verlieh das rostige Kehrblech der Szene eine morbide Authentizität.

In the literary description of the kitchen, the rusty dustpan lent the scene a morbid authenticity.

Complex literary structure.

Die Evolution vom handgeschmiedeten Kehrblech zum spritzgegossenen Massenprodukt spiegelt die Industriegeschichte wider.

The evolution from the hand-forged dustpan to the injection-molded mass product reflects industrial history.

Separable verb 'widerspiegeln'.

Man mag das Kehrblech als trivial abtun, doch seine funktionale Schlichtheit ist ein Triumph des Designs.

One may dismiss the dustpan as trivial, yet its functional simplicity is a triumph of design.

Conjunctive mood 'mag'.

Die haptische Qualität eines schweren Metallkehrblechs steht im krassen Gegensatz zur Leichtigkeit moderner Varianten.

The haptic quality of a heavy metal dustpan stands in stark contrast to the lightness of modern variants.

Sophisticated vocabulary 'haptisch', 'krass'.

Jegliche Rückstände auf dem Kehrblech sind nach Beendigung der Reinigungsarbeiten ordnungsgemäß zu entsorgen.

Any residues on the dustpan are to be properly disposed of after the completion of cleaning work.

Official administrative style.

Das Kehrblech, obgleich ein profaner Gegenstand, ist tief im kollektiven Gedächtnis der deutschen Hausarbeit verwurzelt.

The dustpan, although a profane object, is deeply rooted in the collective memory of German housework.

Concessive conjunction 'obgleich'.

Die filigrane Handhabung von Handfeger und Kehrblech erfordert eine gewisse motorische Geschicklichkeit.

The delicate handling of brush and dustpan requires a certain motor skill.

Abstract noun phrases.

Sollte das Kehrblech Deformierungen aufweisen, ist ein bündiges Aufkehren nicht mehr gewährleistet.

Should the dustpan show deformations, flush sweeping is no longer guaranteed.

Conditional clause with 'sollte' (inversion).

Common Collocations

das Kehrblech leeren

auf das Kehrblech fegen

Kehrblech mit Gummilippe

ein rostiges Kehrblech

Kehrblech und Handfeger

das Kehrblech halten

ein ergonomisches Kehrblech

das Kehrblech wegstellen

Kehrblech aus Kunststoff

Kehrblech aus Metall

Common Phrases

Alles auf ein Kehrblech fegen

— To sweep everything onto one dustpan. Often used literally.

Wir müssen alle Scherben auf ein Kehrblech fegen.

Das Kehrblech parat haben

— To have the dustpan ready for use.

Beim Heimwerken sollte man das Kehrblech immer parat haben.

Ein billiges Kehrblech

— A cheap dustpan that often doesn't work well.

Kauf kein billiges Kehrblech, das lässt immer Staub liegen.

Das Kehrblech suchen

— A common household activity of looking for the misplaced tool.

Ich suche schon seit zehn Minuten das Kehrblech.

Handfeger und Kehrblech Set

— A retail term for the brush and pan combo.

Im Baumarkt gibt es ein günstiges Handfeger und Kehrblech Set.

Das Kehrblech an die Wand hängen

— To hang the dustpan on the wall for storage.

Häng das Kehrblech bitte an den Haken an der Wand.

Mit dem Kehrblech aufnehmen

— To pick something up using the dustpan.

Du kannst die Asche mit dem Kehrblech aufnehmen.

Ein Kehrblech mit langem Stiel

— A long-handled dustpan.

Für den Garten ist ein Kehrblech mit langem Stiel ideal.

Das Kehrblech säubern

— To clean the dustpan itself.

Nach der Arbeit musst du auch das Kehrblech säubern.

Das Kehrblech benutzen

— To use the dustpan.

Warum benutzt du nicht das Kehrblech anstatt deiner Hände?

Often Confused With

Kehrblech vs Schaufel

A Schaufel is a large shovel for dirt or snow, not for dust.

Kehrblech vs Handfeger

The Handfeger is the brush, the Kehrblech is the pan.

Kehrblech vs Besen

A Besen is a large broom with a long handle.

Idioms & Expressions

"Den Dreck unter den Teppich kehren"

— To hide a problem instead of solving it. While it uses 'kehren' (sweep), it implies avoiding the Kehrblech.

Du kannst deine Fehler nicht einfach unter den Teppich kehren.

Figurative

"Alles über einen Kamm scheren"

— To judge everyone by the same standard. Cleaning related metaphor.

Man darf nicht alle Jugendlichen über einen Kamm scheren.

Figurative

"Besenrein hinterlassen"

— To leave a place swept clean (ready for the next tenant).

Die Wohnung muss besenrein übergeben werden.

Legal/Formal

"Neue Besen kehren gut"

— Newcomers or new tools work well at first.

Der neue Chef hat viel verändert; neue Besen kehren gut.

Proverb

"Sich um seinen eigenen Dreck kümmern"

— To mind one's own business (often related to cleaning duties).

Kümmer dich um deinen eigenen Dreck!

Informal/Rude

"Eine Schippe drauflegen"

— To increase effort or intensity (literally adding a shovel-full).

Wir müssen beim Training noch eine Schippe drauflegen.

Colloquial

"Weg vom Fenster sein"

— To be out of the picture (not directly related but often used in household contexts).

Nach dem Skandal war der Politiker weg vom Fenster.

Slang

"Mit eisernem Besen kehren"

— To clear out or reform something thoroughly and strictly.

Der neue Manager kehrt mit eisernem Besen.

Figurative

"Dreck am Stecken haben"

— To have a skeleton in the closet.

Er tut so unschuldig, aber er hat Dreck am Stecken.

Informal

"Den Staub von den Füßen schütteln"

— To leave a place with no intention of returning.

Sie schüttelte den Staub der Kleinstadt von ihren Füßen.

Literary

Easily Confused

Kehrblech vs Kehrschaufel

They mean the same thing.

Kehrblech is more common in the North, Kehrschaufel in the South.

In München sagt man oft Kehrschaufel.

Kehrblech vs Schippe

Both are used for scooping.

A Schippe can be much larger and used outdoors.

Er schippt den Schnee mit einer Schippe.

Kehrblech vs Blech

It's the second part of the word.

Blech alone means any sheet metal or a baking tray (Backblech).

Der Kuchen ist noch auf dem Blech.

Kehrblech vs Kehren

It's the first part of the word.

Kehren is the verb (to sweep).

Ich muss den Flur kehren.

Kehrblech vs Kehricht

Sounds similar.

Kehricht is the actual dust/waste you sweep up.

Entsorgen Sie den Kehricht im Restmüll.

Sentence Patterns

Das ist ein [Noun].

Das ist ein Kehrblech.

Ich brauche [Accusative Object].

Ich brauche das Kehrblech.

Wenn ich fage, benutze ich [Accusative Object].

Wenn ich fege, benutze ich das Kehrblech.

Es ist wichtig, [Infinitive with zu].

Es ist wichtig, das Kehrblech regelmäßig zu leeren.

Anstatt [Infinitive with zu], [Main Clause].

Anstatt das Kehrblech zu suchen, hat er einfach gesaugt.

Sollte [Subject] [Verb], [Main Clause].

Sollte das Kehrblech brechen, müssen wir ein neues kaufen.

Das Kehrblech aus [Material] ist [Adjective].

Das Kehrblech aus Metall ist sehr schwer.

Wo hast du [Accusative Object] [Past Participle]?

Wo hast du das Kehrblech hingelegt?

Word Family

Nouns

Das Blech

Die Kehrschaufel

Der Kehricht

Die Kehrwoche

Die Kehrgarnitur

Verbs

kehren

aufkehren

zusammenkehren

wegkehren

auskehren

Adjectives

blechern

kehrpflichtig

Besen

Handfeger

Schippe

Schaufel

Eimer

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in domestic and industrial cleaning contexts.

Common Mistakes

der Kehrblech → das Kehrblech
The noun 'Blech' is neuter, so the compound noun must also be neuter.
Kehrblecher (plural) → Kehrbleche
Neuter nouns ending in a consonant often take '-e' in the plural, not '-er'.
die Kehrblech → das Kehrblech
Confusing it with feminine nouns like 'die Schaufel'.
Kehrblek (pronunciation) → Kehrblech (soft ch)
The 'ch' after 'e' is always soft, never a 'k' sound.
Ich putze mit dem Kehrblech. → Ich fege mit dem Kehrblech.
'Putzen' implies water; 'fegen' or 'kehren' is for dry dirt.

Tips

Remember the Gender

Always learn 'das Kehrblech' as one unit. The gender of compound nouns in German is always determined by the last noun.

The Kehrwoche

If you move to Southern Germany, the Kehrblech will become your best friend. It's a symbol of community responsibility.

Material Matters

If you want a high-quality one, look for 'verzinktes Metall' (galvanized metal) or one with a 'Gummilippe' (rubber lip).

The Soft CH

Practice the 'ich-laut'. It's a very common sound in German and 'Kehrblech' is a perfect word to practice it.

Pairing

Don't forget the 'Handfeger'. They are the dynamic duo of German cleaning.

Where to Buy

You can find a Kehrblech in every 'Drogeriemarkt' (like dm or Rossmann) or 'Baumarkt' (hardware store).

Storage

Most Kehrbleche have a hole in the handle so you can hang them up. This is a very German way to stay organized.

Schippe vs Blech

In casual talk, 'Schippe' is often used. But 'Kehrblech' is always safe and correct.

Compound Power

Use 'Kehrblech' to practice building other German words like 'Backblech' (baking tray) or 'Schlagblech'.

Context Clues

If you hear 'fegen' or 'kehren', the word 'Kehrblech' is likely to follow soon.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Care-Blech'. You CARE for your floor by using a metal BLECH (sheet) to pick up dust.

Visual Association

Imagine a shiny silver metal pan with a long handle. The 'K' in Kehrblech looks like a person bending over to sweep.

Word Web

Haushalt Putzen Besen Dreck Boden Küche Sauberkeit Handfeger

Challenge

Try to find the word Kehrblech on a German online shopping site like Amazon.de or Otto.de and read the product descriptions.

Word Origin

A compound of the verb 'kehren' (Old High German 'kerian', meaning to turn or sweep) and 'Blech' (Middle High German 'blech', meaning a thin metal plate).

Original meaning: A metal plate used for the collection of swept materials.

Germanic.

Cultural Context

No major sensitivities, but be aware that 'Blech' can also colloquially mean 'nonsense' (Red keinen Blech!).

In English, we just say 'dustpan'. The German word is more specific about the material (tin/metal).

The 'Kehrwoche' is a frequent topic in German comedy and cabaret. Loriot, a famous German humorist, often depicted domestic scenes involving cleaning tools. German children's songs sometimes mention sweeping and cleaning.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

In the kitchen

Krümel aufkehren
das Kehrblech unter der Spüle
etwas fallen lassen
den Boden fegen

In the workshop

Metallspäne entfernen
das Metallkehrblech benutzen
Sicherheitsschuhe tragen
den Arbeitsplatz reinigen

During Kehrwoche

das Treppenhaus fegen
die Nachbarn grüßen
den Plan einhalten
das Kehrblech teilen

At the hardware store

nach Putzmitteln fragen
Preise vergleichen
die Qualität prüfen
ein Set kaufen

In a shared flat (WG)

wer ist dran mit Putzen?
das Kehrblech ist weg
bitte sauber machen
den Müll rausbringen

Conversation Starters

"Hast du das Kehrblech gesehen? Ich habe gerade ein Glas zerbrochen."

"Welches Kehrblech ist besser: das aus Metall oder das aus Plastik?"

"In meiner Heimat benutzen wir selten ein Kehrblech, wir haben meistens Staubsauger."

"Wusstest du, dass man in Süddeutschland sehr streng mit dem Kehrblech umgeht?"

"Kannst du mir helfen, den Dreck auf das Kehrblech zu fegen?"

Journal Prompts

Beschreibe deine wöchentliche Putzroutine. Welche Rolle spielt das Kehrblech dabei?

Hast du jemals von der deutschen 'Kehrwoche' gehört? Was hältst du von dieser Tradition?

Stell dir vor, du kaufst Reinigungsmittel für deine erste eigene Wohnung in Deutschland. Was darf nicht fehlen?

Warum ist es wichtig, den Boden regelmäßig zu fegen, anstatt nur zu saugen?

Erzähle eine lustige Geschichte, in der ein Kehrblech eine Rolle spielt.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is always neuter: das Kehrblech. This is because the final part of the compound, 'Blech', is neuter. Even if the object is made of plastic, the grammatical gender remains neuter.

There is no functional difference; they are synonyms. 'Kehrblech' is more prevalent in Northern and Central Germany, whereas 'Kehrschaufel' is more common in Southern Germany and Austria.

Yes, many Germans still use a Kehrblech for small messes or in areas where a vacuum is impractical. It is also essential for the 'Kehrwoche' (communal cleaning duties).

It is the soft 'ich-laut'. You make the sound by placing your tongue against your lower teeth and letting air hiss out, similar to the 'h' in 'huge' or 'human'.

No, that is grammatically incorrect. Using the wrong gender is a common mistake for learners, but 'das' is the only correct article.

A 'Kehrblechgarnitur' is a set that includes both the dustpan (Kehrblech) and the matching hand brush (Handfeger).

Historically yes, hence the name 'Blech'. Today, however, most Kehrbleche sold for home use are made of plastic, though the name hasn't changed.

The 'Kehrwoche' is a traditional cleaning duty in apartment buildings. Residents use a Kehrblech and broom to clean the stairs and sidewalk during their assigned week.

The plural is 'die Kehrbleche'. You simply add an '-e' to the end.

The phrase is 'auf das Kehrblech fegen'. Note the use of the accusative case because there is movement involved.