Imagine the satisfying hum of a quiet lawnmower, leaving behind perfectly striped grass without the roar of an engine or the smell of gas. That’s the dream for many homeowners, but the reality of choosing a reel mower can feel a bit overwhelming. You’ve seen them in stores or online, and maybe you’ve even heard they’re great for the environment and your health, but where do you even begin?
The world of reel lawn mowers offers a refreshing alternative to gas-powered giants. They’re eco-friendly, whisper-quiet, and give your lawn a clean, scissor-like cut. However, navigating the different types, sizes, and features can leave you scratching your head. Are they easy to push? Which one is best for your grass? How do you even maintain one?
Don’t worry, we’re here to clear the air. By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the key differences between reel mowers, know what to look for when shopping, and feel confident picking the perfect one for your yard. Get ready to discover the simple joy of a beautifully cut lawn, the reel mower way.
Our Top 5 Reel Lawn Mower Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Reel Lawn Mower Detailed Reviews
1. American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
Rating: 8.8/10
Take on your small lawn with the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red. This mower offers a clean cut and an eco-friendly way to keep your grass looking neat. It’s designed for simplicity and effectiveness on most grass types.
What We Like:
- It has a 4-blade reel for a sharp cut.
- The cutting width is 14 inches, which is good for smaller areas.
- Durable 8.5-inch polymer wheels make it easy to steer.
- It’s very light, weighing only 19 pounds, so it’s easy to push.
- This mower is good for small lawns and most turf grasses.
- You can adjust the blade height from 0.5 to 1.75 inches.
- It’s a pollution-free and noise-free option.
- Maintenance is low, making it simple to own.
- It cuts grass without bruising or damaging the blades.
What Could Be Improved:
- It works best on grass up to 4 inches tall.
- It’s less effective on grass that is taller than 4 inches.
- You should avoid mowing when the grass is wet.
- For best results, mow no more than 1/3 of the grass blade at a time.
This reel mower is a fantastic choice for maintaining a tidy yard without the hassle of gas or electricity. Its user-friendly design makes lawn care simple and enjoyable.
2. LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade
Rating: 8.9/10
The LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade offers a simple and effective way to keep your lawn looking its best. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a quiet and eco-friendly mowing experience. This mower uses a clever design to cut grass cleanly, promoting a healthier yard.
What We Like:
- SCISSOR-LIKE CUT: It cuts grass like scissors, which means no ripped or torn blades. This makes your lawn look healthier.
- CUSTOMIZE YOUR CUT: You can easily change the cutting height. There are four settings from 1 inch to 2 inches.
- MAX MANEUVERABILITY: The 14-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels make it easy to steer around your yard. You can get close to bushes and garden beds.
- MOTORLESS DESIGN: It doesn’t need gas or batteries. This is good for the environment and saves you money on fuel.
- QUALITY MATERIALS: The blades are made of strong, hardened steel. They are built to last for a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not for Tall Grass: This type of mower works best on shorter, well-maintained grass. It might struggle with very tall or thick weeds.
- Requires Effort: Since it’s a push mower, you will need to put in some physical effort to move it.
Overall, the LawnMaster LMRM1401 is a solid choice for maintaining a neat and healthy lawn with minimal environmental impact. It’s a great tool for a clean cut and a greener yard.
3. LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of noisy gas mowers and tangled cords? The LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower offers a simpler, greener way to get a beautiful lawn. This 18-inch mower uses a clever 5-blade system to give your grass a clean, scissor-like cut. This means no more ripped or torn grass blades, leading to a healthier, lusher lawn. It’s also super easy to use, making lawn care a breeze.
What We Like:
- The scissor-like cut keeps grass blades healthy and prevents tearing.
- You can easily adjust the cutting height with 9 different positions, from 3/4 inch to 2 inches.
- The 18-inch deck and large 10-inch front wheels make it easy to steer and move around your yard.
- It’s motorless, so it’s good for the environment and you don’t need gas or batteries.
- Built with strong steel blades, this mower is made to last.
- It comes with a handy collection bag to catch grass clippings.
What Could Be Improved:
- Reel mowers can sometimes struggle with very tall or thick grass.
- It requires some physical effort to push, which might be challenging for some users on larger lawns.
For a clean, eco-friendly lawn, the LawnMaster LMRM1801 is a fantastic choice. It delivers a superior cut and makes mowing simple and enjoyable.
4. Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of noisy gas mowers and messy oil changes? The Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower offers a greener, quieter way to keep your lawn looking its best. This grey push mower uses your own energy to spin its blades, giving you a great workout while trimming your grass. Its 16-inch cutting width means you can tackle your yard efficiently. The mower is built with a strong steel side plate for lasting use. It’s a fantastic choice for various grass types, including Bermuda and St. Augustine. You can easily adjust the cutting height from 0.5 to 2.5 inches for a clean, even look every time.
What We Like:
- It’s an eco-friendly alternative to gas mowers.
- The 7-blade reel with ball bearings makes mowing smooth and easy.
- It cuts grass cleanly and evenly with adjustable height settings.
- The durable steel construction means it will last a long time.
- It works well on many common grass types.
- It’s a great way to get some exercise while you mow.
What Could Be Improved:
- It requires physical effort to push, which might be challenging on very large or sloped yards.
- It may struggle with very tall or thick grass that hasn’t been mowed regularly.
- There’s no grass catcher included, so you’ll need to rake clippings.
This Earthwise reel mower is a solid choice for maintaining a neat lawn the planet-friendly way. It offers a simple, effective solution for homeowners seeking a quieter and more active approach to lawn care.
5. Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower
Rating: 9.3/10
Looking for a greener way to trim your lawn? The Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower in vibrant green offers a classic, eco-friendly approach to lawn care. This manual mower cuts with a 20-inch width, featuring a smooth 5-blade ball bearing reel. Its 10-inch dual tracking wheels help it glide across your yard. Adjusting the cutting height is a breeze with the quick-snap system, letting you choose between 1 and 3 inches for a neat, even finish every time. Made with heat-treated alloy steel blades, they stay sharp longer, and the ergonomic handle with a cushioned grip makes mowing more comfortable. Assembly is simple and requires no tools. Plus, it’s engine-free, meaning no gas or oil needed!
What We Like:
- It’s eco-friendly – no gas or oil needed, making it better for the environment.
- The 20-inch cutting width covers a good amount of lawn quickly.
- The 5-blade reel and alloy steel blades provide a clean, sharp cut.
- It’s lightweight and easy to push and maneuver around your yard.
- Tool-less assembly means you can start mowing in no time.
- The cushioned grip on the handle adds comfort during use.
What Could Be Improved:
- It doesn’t come with a grass catcher, so you’ll need to rake the clippings yourself.
- For very thick or tall grass, it might require more effort to push than a powered mower.
This Scotts reel mower is a solid choice for those seeking a simple, effective, and environmentally conscious way to maintain their lawn. It brings back a classic mowing experience while delivering a great cut.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing Your Reel Mower
Why a Reel Mower?
Reel mowers are a fantastic choice for maintaining a healthy, beautiful lawn. They cut grass like scissors, giving a clean, precise trim. This type of cut helps your grass grow stronger and healthier. Unlike rotary mowers that tear grass blades, reel mowers offer a gentler approach. They are also eco-friendly, as they don’t use gas or electricity. This means no pollution and no noisy engines!
Key Features to Look For
Cutting Width
The cutting width tells you how wide a strip of grass the mower cuts in one pass. Wider mowers cover more ground quickly. Smaller lawns might only need a 14-inch or 16-inch width. Larger lawns benefit from 18-inch or even 20-inch models. Think about the size of your yard when choosing.
Adjustable Cutting Height
You want to be able to set the height of your grass. Most reel mowers let you adjust this. Look for a mower with a good range of height settings. This helps you keep your grass at the perfect length for the season.
Wheel Size and Type
Larger wheels make mowing easier, especially on uneven ground. They help the mower roll smoothly. Some mowers have solid wheels, while others have pneumatic (air-filled) tires. Pneumatic tires offer a softer ride but can go flat.
Handle Comfort and Adjustability
You will be pushing this mower! A comfortable handle is a must. Look for padded grips. Handles that adjust in height can help people of different sizes use the mower easily. Some handles even fold for easier storage.
Important Materials
Blades
The blades are the heart of a reel mower. They are usually made of hardened steel. Good quality steel stays sharp longer. Look for blades that are rust-resistant. This helps them last for years.
Frame and Body
The frame and body are often made of metal, like steel or aluminum. Steel is strong but can be heavier. Aluminum is lighter and won’t rust. Some mowers also use durable plastic for parts of the body.
Wheels
Wheels can be made of rubber, plastic, or metal. Rubber wheels offer good grip. Sturdy plastic wheels are common and durable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Blade Sharpness and Quality
Sharp blades are crucial. They cut grass cleanly. Dull blades tear the grass, making it look brown and unhealthy. High-quality steel blades stay sharp longer. Some mowers have blades that are easy to sharpen or replace.
Construction and Durability
A well-built mower will last a long time. Look for sturdy connections and a solid frame. Mowers with fewer plastic parts tend to be more durable. Check reviews to see how well the mower holds up over time.
Ease of Assembly and Maintenance
Some mowers are simple to put together. Others can be tricky. Easy maintenance, like simple blade adjustments or cleaning, makes owning a reel mower more enjoyable. You might need to oil the blades occasionally.
User Experience and Use Cases
Lawn Type and Size
Reel mowers work best on flat, well-maintained lawns. They are ideal for small to medium-sized yards. They struggle with very tall grass or thick weeds. If you have a large, uneven yard, a different type of mower might be better.
Effort and Ease of Use
Reel mowers require physical effort. They are great for exercise! They are very quiet. You can mow your lawn early in the morning or late in the evening without disturbing neighbors. They are simple to operate and don’t have complicated parts.
Aesthetics
Many people love the look of a lawn mowed with a reel mower. The grass blades stand up straight, giving a neat, striped appearance. This creates a very tidy and professional look for your yard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are reel mowers hard to push?
A: They can require some effort, especially on thick grass or uphill. However, good quality reel mowers with large wheels are easier to push.
Q: How often do I need to sharpen the blades?
A: It depends on how often you mow and the type of grass. Generally, you might need to sharpen them once or twice a year. Some high-quality blades stay sharp for a long time.
Q: Can reel mowers cut tall grass?
A: They work best on grass that is not too long. For very tall grass, you might need to mow more often or use a rotary mower first.
Q: Do reel mowers collect grass clippings?
A: Most basic reel mowers do not have a grass catcher. The clippings are small and fall back onto the lawn, acting as fertilizer. Some models offer optional grass catchers.
Q: Are reel mowers noisy?
A: No, they are very quiet! You can mow your lawn without making much noise at all.
Q: What kind of maintenance do they need?
A: Basic maintenance includes cleaning the blades after each use and oiling them occasionally to prevent rust. You may also need to adjust the blades periodically.
Q: Are they good for the environment?
A: Yes! They don’t use gas or electricity, so they produce no pollution and help you reduce your carbon footprint.
Q: Can I use a reel mower on a bumpy yard?
A: They work best on flat, smooth lawns. Bumps and uneven terrain can make them harder to push and might not give a clean cut.
Q: How do I store a reel mower?
A: Many reel mowers have handles that fold down. This makes them easy to store in a garage or shed.
Q: Are reel mowers safe?
A: Yes, they are generally very safe when used properly. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and keep your hands and feet away from the blades.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.