Manual Push Lawn Mower

A manual push lawn mower is the simplest of them all. It may take some more physical effort, but manual push mowers cut very well and don’t cost anywhere near what modern, electric mowers do.

Powered mowers have their place, but a manual push reel lawn mower has its own advantages. Sure, it’s a bit more work, but with one of the best manual grass cutter machines in your shed, you’ll always be ready to clean up — no matter the weather or electricity situation!

What is a Manual Push Lawn Mower?

A manual push lawn mower (also known as a push reel lawn mower) is a grass-cutting machine that operates without a motor — it relies on human power to cut grass. These kinds of mowers use a set of rotating blades (reels) to cut the grass. The blades spin around a stationary cylindrical bar and provide a smooth, scissor-like cut.

Reel mowers are known for their precise, clean cuts, which not only make your lawn look amazing, but also promote healthier grass. They are best suited for flat lawns with shorter grass types and require no gas or electricity.

Benefits of Manual Push Lawn Mowers

 

Environmentally Friendly

Manual push lawn mowers don’t use gas or electricity, so they don’t give off any emissions. This makes them an eco-friendly choice, which helps to reduce your carbon footprint and promote a healthier environment.

Low Maintenance

These mowers have fewer parts than motorized versions, so they are easier to maintain. There are no engines to service, no spark plugs to replace, and no fuel to buy. Regular blade sharpening and cleaning are usually all that’s needed.

Improves Health

Using a manual push lawn mower provides a good workout! Pushing a mower across the lawn engages your muscles, gets your heart rate up, and burns extra calories, contributing to better overall fitness, weight management, and health.

Quiet Operation

Since manual push lawn mowers don’t have engines, they are much quieter than powered mowers or battery powered mowers. This means you can mow your lawn early in the morning or late in the evening if you need to, without disturbing your neighbors.

Cost-Effective

Manual push lawn mowers are generally cheaper to buy than motorized mowers. They also have lower ongoing costs since they don’t need fuel, oil, or expensive repairs. This makes them a budget-friendly option for maintaining your lawn.

How to Choose the Right Manual Push Lawn Mower 

Assess Your Yard

Size and Terrain

A manual push lawn mower works well for small to medium-sized lawns. If your yard has slopes or uneven areas, look for a mower with larger wheels to make it easier to move around.

Type of Grass

Thicker grass will either need more muscle and energy, or a stronger mower! Manual push lawn mowers are great for finer grass, but might not be able to cut thicker, tougher varieties.

Lawn Mower Features

Cutting Width

The cutting width determines how much grass the mower cuts in one pass. Wider cutting widths can cover more ground quickly but can be harder to push. On the other hand, smaller cutting widths are easier to maneuver, but take more time to mow large areas.

Number of Blades

Manual push mowers have between four and eight blades. More blades generally result in a cleaner cut, especially for thicker grass. For example, a 4-blade push reel lawn mower won’t cut as well as a 5-blade push reel lawn mower. However, your best bet is simply going for the highest blade count you can.

It’s worth noting that mowers with more blades can also be harder to push, so you’ll need to consider both the cleanness of the cut and the work involved.

Height Adjustment

Look for a mower with adjustable cutting heights. This feature allows you to change the blade height to match your grass type and the lawn height you want. It also helps when transitioning from one season to another, because different growth rates in different weather may need different cutting heights.

Grass Catcher

A grass catcher collects clippings as you mow, keeping your lawn tidy. If you prefer not to leave clippings on the lawn, choose a lawn mower with a grass catcher. Some models come with detachable grass catchers, giving you the option to use them as needed. If you choose one without a grass catcher, you’ll need to go and rake it all up when you’re finished mowing.

Weight

The weight of the mower affects how easy it is to push. Compact and lightweight mowers are easier to push, especially on slopes, but they may not cut as effectively through thick grass. Heavier mowers provide more cutting power, but they aren't as easy to push. Make sure yours is light enough to handle easily.

Ergonomics

Ergonomic features like padded handles and adjustable handle heights make mowing more comfortable. These can help reduce strain on your hands and back, making it easier to mow for longer periods of time without discomfort.

How to Maintain Your Manual Reel Lawn Mower

Proper maintenance makes sure your manual lawn mower keeps going for many years to come. Here are some tips to keep it operating at peak efficiency.

Clean After Each Use

After using your manual push lawn mower, clean it thoroughly to remove any grass clippings, dirt, or debris. Use a brush or cloth to wipe down the blades and other parts. Keeping the mower clean will prevent rust and keep it running like clockwork.

Keep the Blades Sharp

Sharp blades make it much easier to cut your grass effectively. Check the blades regularly and sharpen them when needed. You can use a sharpening kit specifically designed for reel mowers, or take the mower to a professional for sharpening.

Lubricate

Lubrication keeps the moving parts of your reel mower working smoothly. Apply a light machine oil to the blades, wheels, and other moving parts every 1 to 2 months — the frequency depends on how often you mow your lawn. Lubrication reduces friction and prevents wear and tear, which extends the lifespan of your mower.

Store in a Safe Place

When you aren’t using it, store your manual reel lawn mower in a dry, sheltered location like a garage or shed. Protecting it from the elements helps prevent rust and damage. If possible, hang the mower to keep it off the ground and avoid any accidental damage.

Challenges with Manual Push Mowers

Manual push mowers have many benefits, but they also come with some challenges. Here are a few common issues you might face when using a manual push mower:

• Cutting Thick or Long Grass: This can be hard with a manual push mower. The blades may struggle to slice through the dense, longer grass, and you might need to go over the same patch multiple times.
• Navigating Uneven Terrain: Mowing uneven terrain requires more effort. Manual push mowers work best on flat surfaces. If your lawn has hills or bumps, you’ll need to push harder and navigate carefully.
• Mowing Large Lawns Quickly: Mowing large lawns manually can be time-consuming! Since manual mowers rely on your physical strength, covering a very large area will take longer compared to using a gas or electric lawn mower.
• Cutting Wet Grass: Manual push mowers might be less effective on wet grass. Wet grass tends to clump and stick to the mower blades, so it’s harder to get a clean cut and increase the effort needed to push the mower.

Manual Push Lawn Mower FAQs

What’s the Difference Between a Reel Mower and a Cylinder Mower?

Reel mowers are considered non-electric, while cylindrical mowers are powered by a battery or electrical supply. However, the terms are often used interchangeably. Technically, reel mowers and cylinder mowers operate in the same way — with a set of blades rotating around a cylindrical bar.

How Often Should I Sharpen the Blades on My Manual Push Mower?

You should sharpen the blades once a year to keep your manual push mower performing well. If you mow more often or have a larger lawn, you will likely need to sharpen them more regularly, perhaps every 6 months.

You can gain further insights into lawn care by exploring our informative piece called "Push vs. Self-Propelled Mowers."

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