The Ultimate Guide to Reel Mowers: Benefits, Usage, and Maintenance

Do you want to save money, reduce your environmental impact, and get some exercise while mowing your lawn? Look no further than a reel mower! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about reel mowers, from what they are to how to use them effectively and maintain them for long-lasting performance.

Table of Contents

What Is a Reel Mower?

A reel mower is a push mower that operates without fuel, electricity, or oil. Instead, it relies on the power of the person pushing it to spin sharp blades in a cylinder, cutting the grass as the wheels turn. Reel mowers are a popular choice for those who prioritize environmental sustainability, cost-effectiveness, fitness, noise reduction, and safety.

Reel Mowers vs. Rotary Mowers

Reel mowers offer several advantages over rotary mowers, making them ideal for certain situations and users. Some key differences include:

Environmentally friendly: Reel mowers do not emit pollutants and are a greener option compared to gas-powered mowers.
Lower maintenance costs: They require minimal maintenance, saving you time and money in the long run.
Lightweight and safer to use: Reel mowers are easy to maneuver and stop when you stop pushing, reducing the risk of accidents.
Noise-free: Enjoy a quiet mowing experience without disturbing your neighbors.
More efficient at mowing grass: They provide a cleaner, more precise cut compared to rotary mowers.
Easier to mow larger areas: Modern reel mowers are designed to handle cutting grass on uneven ground and can mulch up debris effectively.

Parts of a Reel Mower

Manual or push reel mowers are simple in design and operation. They consist of the following components:

Blades that turn as the mower is pushed, cutting the grass.
Protective guard to prevent grass clippings from blowing back on the operator.
Optional grass-collecting bag.
Adjustable blades for cutting grass at different heights.
Lightweight construction for easy pushing.

Reel mowers are best suited for small lawns with no trees, although they can be used on larger areas with some effort. Due to their manual operation, mowing a large lawn with a reel mower can be a strenuous task.

Why Should You Use a Reel Mower?

There are several reasons to consider using a reel mower for your lawn maintenance needs. Some compelling advantages include:

Environmental benefits: Reel mowers are a clean, eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered mowers.
Cost-effectiveness: They are affordable to purchase and require minimal maintenance.
Safety: Reel mowers stop when you stop pushing, reducing the risk of accidents.
Ease of use: Modern reel mowers are lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Noise reduction: Enjoy a quiet mowing experience without disturbing the peace.

While reel mowers have numerous advantages, they also have some limitations. They may not be suitable for mowing tall grass or areas with twigs and leaves. Additionally, manual removal of twigs from the blades and pre-mowing raking may be required for optimal performance.

How to Use a Reel Mower

Using a reel mower is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort. Follow these steps to mow your lawn effectively with a reel mower:

Set the desired grass cut height using the adjusting lever located on each wheel of the mower.
Push the mower around the yard, cutting the grass as you go.
Clean off the reel mower after use by brushing away the grass clippings.

Buying vs. Renting a Reel Mower

Reel mowers are an affordable investment, costing around $100 on average to purchase. Considering that mowing the lawn is a weekly chore, it’s more cost-effective to buy a reel mower rather than renting one repeatedly. When purchasing a reel mower, it’s essential to choose a well-made model with readily available blade sharpening kits for routine maintenance.

How to Maintain Reel Mowers

Maintaining a reel mower is relatively simple and requires regular blade sharpening to ensure optimal performance. Follow these steps to keep your reel mower in top condition:

Sharpen the blades once or twice a year using a grinding stone, grinding paste, and newspaper.
Wipe/wash off grass clippings after each use to prevent buildup and rust.
Store the reel mower in a dry place to prolong its lifespan.

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your reel mower and ensure that it continues to mow your lawn effectively for years to come.

When to Replace Your Reel Mower

With proper care, reel mowers can last for many years. However, if you find yourself struggling to mow frequently with a reel mower or have a larger yard to maintain, it may be time to consider upgrading to a powered mower or a riding lawn mower for added convenience.

In conclusion, reel mowers offer a range of benefits for environmentally-conscious individuals looking for a cost-effective, efficient, and practical lawn care solution. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can make the most of your reel mower and achieve a well-manicured lawn with ease.

Whether you’re a seasoned reel mower enthusiast or considering making the switch from gas-powered mowers, embracing the simplicity and effectiveness of a reel mower can transform your lawn maintenance routine for the better. So, why not give it a try and experience the joys of eco-friendly mowing firsthand?