Seeing a properly managed lawn is indeed delightful. However, the upkeep may appear daunting, particularly regarding mowing. Mulching mowers have been engineered to simplify and enhance this duty. They are capable of slicing grass into tinier fragments and spreading them back onto the lawn, acting as a natural fertilizer. This approach not only conserves resources and time, but also encourages a healthier lawn.
When choosing the best mulching mower, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the type of blade. Mulching mowers come with either a single or multiple blades. Single blade mowers are ideal for smaller lawns, while multiple blade mowers are better suited for larger lawns. The second factor to consider is the deck size. The deck size determines the width of the cut and the size of the lawn that can be mowed at once. Finally, the power source is also an essential consideration. Mulching mowers can be powered by gas, electricity, or battery. Each power source has its own advantages and disadvantages.
We spent several hours researching and testing various mulching mowers to identify the ones that are efficient and reliable. In the following section, we will discuss the top mulching mowers that we found, highlighting their features, pros, and cons.
Best Mulching Mowers
We have researched and tested various mulching mowers to bring you the best options available on the market. Mulching mowers are an excellent solution for homeowners who want to keep their lawns healthy and green. These mowers chop grass clippings into fine pieces and distribute them back into the lawn, acting as a natural fertilizer. They are also environmentally friendly, as they reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. In this article, we will introduce you to the top mulching mowers that will keep your lawn looking its best.
1. PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for an affordable and efficient mulching mower, the PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 170cc OHV gas-powered engine is easy to start and ensures high performance for long periods of time.
- The patented cutting system with a 21-inch cutting deck makes it easier to trim a large yard and helps you mow more in less time.
- The 2-in-1 push lawn mower allows for side-discharging or mulching, which can provide organic nutrients to make your lawn even healthier.
Cons
- The metal deck makes the mower a bit heavy at 56 pounds, which can make it difficult to maneuver for some users.
- The hopper is a bit difficult to use and does not hook in very well, which can cause grass to build up in the hooking area.
- The rubber flap on the bottom of the lawn mower can come off and get cut up easily.
We recently had the chance to test out the PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower, and we were impressed by its performance. The engine starts easily with just a pull of the recoil cord, and the forced air cooling system ensures that it runs smoothly for long periods of time. The 21-inch cutting deck is perfect for trimming a large yard quickly, and the patented cutting system ensures that the grass is cut evenly and efficiently.
One of the best things about this mower is its 2-in-1 push design, which allows for side-discharging or mulching. We found that the mulching capability provided organic nutrients to our lawn, making it healthier and greener. However, the hopper is a bit difficult to use and does not hook in very well, which can cause grass to build up in the hooking area.
Another minor issue we encountered was the rubber flap on the bottom of the lawn mower, which can come off and get cut up easily. However, this did not affect the overall performance of the mower.
Overall, we would recommend the PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower to anyone looking for an affordable and efficient mulching mower. Its easy-to-use design and 2-in-1 capabilities make it a great option for homeowners with a large yard. Plus, with a 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime technical support, you can rest assured that you’re making a smart investment.
2. CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21-inch, 3-in-1 Mulching Push Mower with Bag, 140cc OHV Engine (M215)
CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas
If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful lawn mower that can handle small to medium-sized yards, the CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower is definitely worth considering. With its 140cc OHV gas engine and 21-inch cutting deck, this mower is capable of mulching, side discharging, and rear discharging grass clippings, making it a versatile tool for any lawn care enthusiast.
Pros
- The powerful gas engine comes equipped with recoil and auto choke, making it easy to start and operate.
- The 3-in-1 capabilities of this mower allow for side discharge, rear discharge, and mulching, giving you more options for managing your grass clippings.
- The front-wheel drive design makes it easy to maneuver around level terrain, and the self-propelled feature allows you to move around your yard with less effort.
Cons
- The dual-lever adjustable cutting height feature could be more user-friendly and intuitive.
- The zag treading on the wheels could be more durable and long-lasting.
- The bagger could be larger and more efficient, as it tends to fill up quickly and require frequent emptying.
In our experience, the CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower is a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile lawn mower. The powerful gas engine is easy to start and operate, and the 3-in-1 capabilities give you more options for managing your grass clippings. While the dual-lever adjustable cutting height feature could be more user-friendly, the front-wheel drive design and self-propelled feature make it easy to maneuver around your yard with less effort. Overall, we would recommend this mower to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient lawn care tool.
3. Sun Joe MJ403E Electric Lawn Mower/Mulcher
Sun Joe MJ403E Electric Lawn Mower/Mulcher
If you’re looking for a lightweight and powerful mulching mower, the Sun Joe MJ403E is a great option.
Pros
- The 13-amp motor can easily handle a 17-inch wide path, making it efficient for small to medium-sized yards.
- The 7-position height control allows you to tailor cutting height to your lawn’s needs.
- The mulching and mowing function makes it a versatile tool for any yard.
Cons
- The grass collection bag is only 12 gallons, so it may need to be emptied frequently for larger yards.
- The corded electric power source may limit mobility and require the use of an extension cord.
- The cutting height may not be suitable for very tall grass.
We’ve used the Sun Joe MJ403E for a while now and have found it to be a reliable and efficient tool for maintaining our lawn. The 13-amp motor is powerful enough to handle most lawns and the 7-position height control allows us to adjust the cutting height to match the season. The mulching function is a great feature that saves us time and effort in disposing of grass clippings.
However, the grass collection bag is only 12 gallons, which means we have to empty it frequently for larger yards. The corded electric power source may also limit mobility and require the use of an extension cord. Additionally, the cutting height may not be suitable for very tall grass, so we have to mow more frequently during the growing season.
Overall, if you have a small to medium-sized yard and are looking for an efficient and versatile mulching mower, the Sun Joe MJ403E is a great option to consider.
4. LiTHELi Cordless Lawn Mower 17 Inch
LiTHELi Cordless Lawn Mower 17 Inch
We highly recommend the LiTHELi Cordless Lawn Mower 17 Inch for those in need of a reliable and efficient mulching mower.
Pros
- With 2*20V Li-ion batteries, this mower offers doubled performance and is perfect for getting more work done, faster.
- The upgraded brushless motor has 40% higher efficiency than traditional models, offering a durable and energy-saving experience that is quiet and stable.
- Weighing at only 30 lbs (bare mower), this cordless lawn mower is lightweight and easy to push around the yard. No gas, no oil, and no emissions make it an eco-friendly choice.
Cons
- The battery life may not last long enough for larger yards, and it can take a while to fully recharge.
- The cutting width is a bit narrow, so it may take longer to mow larger lawns.
- The mower may struggle with thick and tall grass, requiring multiple passes to get the job done.
Our experience with the LiTHELi Cordless Lawn Mower 17 Inch has been nothing but positive. The six adjustable height options make it easy to find the perfect setting for any lawn, and the 17″ cutting deck allows for wider paths with each pass. The mulch plug and 11-gallon rear bag make bagging and mulching options available.
The customer service provided by LiTHELi is exceptional, with quick responses and helpful solutions to any concerns. Overall, the LiTHELi Cordless Lawn Mower 17 Inch is a great investment for those looking for a reliable and eco-friendly option for their lawn care needs.
5. BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered
BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered
If you’re looking for a versatile and efficient lawn mower, the BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The powerful 170cc 4-stroke OHV engine delivers 6.5 ft.lb of torque, ensuring efficient and reliable performance every time.
- The 3-in-1 steel deck with mulching, side discharge and rear bagging provides an extensive mowing path for efficiency.
- The single lever four-wheel synchronized height adjustment from 1.2″ to 3.75″ lets you customize the mowing height to perfectly match your lawn requirements.
Cons
- The plastic grass protector on the rear makes it difficult to cut in reverse.
- The side shoot that grass comes out of is not very sturdy and may not stay on.
- The cheap plastic parts may break easily.
We recently used the BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered and were impressed with its powerful engine. It was able to handle even the toughest grass with ease. The 3-in-1 steel deck allowed us to easily switch between mulching, side discharge and rear bagging, making our lawn maintenance a breeze. The single lever four-wheel synchronized height adjustment was also very convenient and allowed us to customize the mowing height to perfectly match our lawn requirements.
However, we did have some issues with the plastic grass protector on the rear, which made it difficult to cut in reverse. Additionally, the side shoot that grass comes out of was not very sturdy and may not stay on. We also found that some of the plastic parts were cheap and may break easily.
Overall, the BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered is a great choice for those looking for a versatile and efficient lawn mower. However, if you need a mower with sturdier parts, you may want to consider other options.
6. Greenworks 12 Amp 18-Inch Corded Lawn Mower
Greenworks 12 Amp 18-Inch Corded Lawn Mower
We highly recommend the Greenworks 12 Amp 18-Inch Corded Lawn Mower for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile tool for maintaining their lawn.
Pros
- The 2-in-1 feature allows for both mulching and rear bagging, making it easy to customize the mower’s performance to meet your specific needs.
- The mower is easy to start and features folding handles for convenient storage and transport.
- The 5-position height adjustment makes it easy to achieve your desired cutting height.
Cons
- The corded design may limit your mobility and require the use of an extension cord.
- The 18-inch cutting deck may not be suitable for larger lawns or properties.
- The mower’s weight of 46lbs may make it difficult to maneuver for some users.
We found that the Greenworks 12 Amp 18-Inch Corded Lawn Mower was easy to assemble and use right out of the box. The push-button start made it easy to get started, and the 2-in-1 feature allowed us to quickly switch between mulching and rear bagging as needed.
The 5-position height adjustment was also a useful feature, allowing us to easily adjust the cutting height and achieve our desired results. The folding handles made it easy to store and transport the mower when not in use.
However, we did find that the corded design may limit your mobility and require the use of an extension cord. Additionally, the 18-inch cutting deck may not be suitable for larger lawns or properties, and the mower’s weight of 46lbs may make it difficult to maneuver for some users.
Overall, we believe that the Greenworks 12 Amp 18-Inch Corded Lawn Mower is a reliable and versatile tool for maintaining your lawn, and we highly recommend it to anyone in need of a new mower.
7. Greenworks 12 Amp 20-Inch 3-in-1Electric Corded Lawn Mower, 25022 20″ Corded Mower
Greenworks 12 Amp 20-Inch 3-in-1Electric Corded Lawn Mower, 25022 20″ Corded Mower
If you’re looking for a versatile and efficient mower for your mid-sized yard, the Greenworks 25022 Electric Lawn Mower is a great choice.
Pros
- The 12 amp motor and 20-inch steel deck with a 3600 RPM work together to cut through the toughest grass with ease.
- The 3-in-1 system allows for mulching, rear bagging, and side discharge, giving you the flexibility to handle clippings in various ways.
- The easy push button start and single lever 7 position height adjustment make using the mower a breeze, while the cam lock handle allows for easy folding and storage.
Cons
- It is important to use a 14 gauge 50’ or 12 gauge 100’ extension cord (not included) for optimal performance.
- The mower is corded, so you’ll need to be mindful of the cord while mowing.
- Some users have reported issues with the height adjustment lever.
We recently had the chance to try out the Greenworks 25022 Electric Lawn Mower, and we were impressed with its performance. The 12 amp motor and 20-inch steel deck made quick work of even the thickest grass, and the 3-in-1 system allowed us to choose the best option for handling clippings. We particularly liked the easy push button start and single lever height adjustment, which made using the mower a breeze.
One thing to keep in mind is that the mower is corded, so you’ll need to be mindful of the cord while mowing. It’s also important to use the right extension cord for optimal performance. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the height adjustment lever, so be sure to test it out before making a purchase.
Overall, we think the Greenworks 25022 Electric Lawn Mower is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and efficient mower for their mid-sized yard. With its powerful motor, durable cutting deck, and easy-to-use features, it’s sure to help keep your lawn looking neat and tidy.
8. Greenworks 40V 17″ (2-In-1) Push Lawn Mower
Greenworks 40V 17″ (2-In-1) Push Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for a reliable and convenient lawn mower with great features, the Greenworks 40V cordless lawn mower is a great option to consider. With its 17-inch deck size and 4AH battery, this lawn mower provides a clean and efficient cut for your lawn. The 2-in-1 function allows for rear bagging or mulching, while the 7-position height adjustment and push handle make it easy to use for people of all heights. With up to 45 minutes of run time, it’s perfect for smaller lawns. Plus, with the added bonus of a 3-year warranty, you can trust that you are making a wise investment in your lawn care.
Pros
- The cordless feature provides more freedom to move around the lawn without having to worry about cords or outlets.
- The 17-inch deck size allows for quick and efficient cutting of large areas of grass.
- The 2-in-1 function allows for both rear bagging or mulching, giving you more options for disposing of grass clippings.
Cons
- The run time may not be sufficient for larger lawns or tougher grass conditions.
- The battery may take a while to fully charge before use.
- The mower may struggle with taller or thicker grass.
We recently used the Greenworks 40V cordless lawn mower for our small front lawn, and we were impressed with its performance. The cordless feature made it easy to move around without worrying about cords or outlets, and the 17-inch deck size allowed for quick and efficient cutting. We also appreciated the 2-in-1 function, which allowed us to choose between rear bagging or mulching. However, we did notice that the run time was not sufficient for our larger backyard, and the battery took a while to fully charge before use. Additionally, the mower struggled with taller or thicker grass. Overall, we would recommend the Greenworks 40V cordless lawn mower for smaller lawns with less demanding grass conditions.
9. Eopzol Spacer for Black and Decker CMM1200 LM175 MM275 MM575 MM675 MM675 MM875 MM450 Electric Mulching Mower
Eopzol Spacer for Black and Decker CMM1200 LM175 MM275 MM575 MM675 MM675 MM875 MM450 Electric Mulching Mower
If you’re looking to replace the spacer for your Black and Decker electric mulching mower, then the Eopzol Spacer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Compatible with various Black and Decker models
- Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and 18-month warranty
Cons
- Aftermarket replacement part
- May not fit all Black and Decker models
- No reviews available
We recently tried out the Eopzol Spacer for our Black and Decker electric mulching mower and found it to be a simple and straightforward replacement part. The installation process was quick and easy, and we were able to get our mower back up and running in no time.
One of the great things about the Eopzol Spacer is that it is compatible with a wide range of Black and Decker models, including the CMM1200, LM175, MM275, MM575, MM675, MM875, MM450, and many more. This means that if you have multiple Black and Decker mowers, you can purchase one spacer that will work for all of them.
It’s also worth noting that the Eopzol Spacer comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and an 18-month warranty, giving you peace of mind that you’re making a wise investment. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is an aftermarket replacement part, and may not fit all Black and Decker models.
Overall, we were pleased with the Eopzol Spacer and would recommend it to anyone in need of a replacement spacer for their Black and Decker electric mulching mower.
10. HASME Replacement Spacer
HASME Replacement Spacer
If you’re looking for a replacement spacer for your Black and Decker electric mower, the HASME Replacement Spacer is a good option to consider.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Compatible with a wide range of Black and Decker electric mowers
- 30-day money-back guarantee and 18-month warranty
Cons
- Aftermarket replacement part
- May not fit all models
- Limited customer reviews
We recently used the HASME Replacement Spacer on our Black and Decker CMM1200 electric mower and found it to be easy to install. It’s also compatible with a wide range of other Black and Decker electric mowers, including the MM875 19″ Electric Mulching Mower with Rear-Bag and the CMM1200 Lawn Mower.
One thing to note is that this is an aftermarket replacement part, not an official Black and Decker product. Additionally, while the spacer is compatible with many models, it may not fit all of them, so be sure to check your mower’s specifications before purchasing.
Overall, the HASME Replacement Spacer is a solid option for those in need of a replacement part for their Black and Decker electric mower. Plus, with a 30-day money-back guarantee and 18-month warranty, you can feel confident in your purchase.
11. Mighty Max Battery 12V 18AH Gel Replaces Black & Decker CMM1000 Cordless Mulching Mower
Mighty Max Battery 12V 18AH Gel Replaces Black & Decker CMM1000 Cordless Mulching Mower
If you’re looking for a reliable mulching mower battery, the Mighty Max Battery 12V 18AH Gel is a great choice.
Pros
- Long-lasting battery life
- Resists shocks and vibrations
- Maintenance-free
Cons
- Not compatible with all mulching mowers
- No mounting accessories included
- May require extra electrolytes to prolong life
We’ve been using the Mighty Max Battery 12V 18AH Gel in our Black & Decker CMM1000 Cordless Mulching Mower for a few months now, and it has been performing well. The battery lasts for a long time, even when we’re mowing a larger area, and it resists shocks and vibrations, which is great for a mower that gets jostled around a lot.
One thing to note is that this battery may not be compatible with all mulching mowers, so be sure to check the specifications before purchasing. Additionally, no mounting accessories are included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if needed.
Overall, we’re happy with our purchase of the Mighty Max Battery 12V 18AH Gel. It’s a reliable and long-lasting battery that has served us well so far.
Buying Guide
When choosing a mulching mower, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. In this section, we will discuss the most important features to look for when buying a mulching mower.
Cutting Width
The cutting width of a mulching mower determines how much grass it can cut in a single pass. A wider cutting width will allow you to cover more ground quickly, but it may not be suitable for smaller lawns. It’s important to choose a cutting width that suits the size of your lawn.
Cutting Height
The cutting height of a mulching mower determines how short the grass will be cut. It’s important to choose a mower that has adjustable cutting height settings, so you can customize the length of your grass. This is especially important if you have varying grass types or if you want to keep your grass longer during hot summer months.
Mulching Capability
Mulching mowers are designed to cut grass into fine pieces that can be left on the lawn as natural fertilizer. It’s important to choose a mower that has good mulching capability, so you can achieve a healthy and green lawn. Look for a mower that has a high-quality mulching blade and a powerful motor.
Maneuverability
The maneuverability of a mulching mower is another important factor to consider. If you have a lawn with many obstacles, such as trees or flower beds, you’ll want a mower that is easy to maneuver around these obstacles. Look for a mower with a lightweight design and easy-to-use controls.
Durability
Lastly, you’ll want to choose a mulching mower that is durable and built to last. Look for a mower that is made from high-quality materials and has a solid construction. A durable mower will save you money in the long run, as you won’t have to replace it as often.
In summary, when choosing a mulching mower, consider the cutting width, cutting height, mulching capability, maneuverability, and durability. By taking these factors into account, you can find a mulching mower that meets your needs and keeps your lawn healthy and green.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using a mulching mower?
Mulching mowers are designed to cut grass into finer pieces and redistribute them back onto the lawn. This process helps to fertilize the lawn naturally, as the grass clippings contain nutrients that are beneficial for the growth of the grass. Additionally, mulching mowers help to reduce the amount of waste generated by lawn mowing, as the grass clippings are not collected and disposed of.
What should I consider when buying a mulching mower?
When buying a mulching mower, there are several factors to consider. First, you should consider the size of your lawn and choose a mower that is appropriate for the size of your lawn. Additionally, you should consider the type of grass you have, as some grass types may require a more powerful mower. Other factors to consider include the cutting width of the mower, the height adjustment options, and the overall durability of the mower.
Can a mulching mower replace a bagging mower?
Yes, a mulching mower can replace a bagging mower. Mulching mowers are designed to cut grass into fine pieces and redistribute them back onto the lawn, which helps to fertilize the lawn naturally. This process eliminates the need for bagging and disposing of grass clippings.
Are there any downsides to using a mulching mower?
One potential downside to using a mulching mower is that it may not be as effective at cutting tall or wet grass. Additionally, if the grass is not cut frequently enough, the clippings may be too long and may not break down effectively, which can lead to a build-up of thatch on the lawn.
What is the difference between a mulching mower and a regular mower?
The main difference between a mulching mower and a regular mower is that a mulching mower is designed to cut grass into finer pieces and redistribute them back onto the lawn, while a regular mower collects and disposes of the grass clippings. Mulching mowers are also typically equipped with special blades that are designed to cut the grass more finely than regular mower blades.
Which brands make the best mulching mowers?
There are several brands that make high-quality mulching mowers, including Honda, Toro, and Snapper. When choosing a mulching mower, it’s important to consider the features and specifications of the mower, as well as the reputation of the brand.