Mowing: some people love it, some people hate it. I worked with a guy once who absolutely loved mowing his lawn, mostly because it was his only alone time. He would tell me, “Man, I LOVE mowing; I put on my earmuffs and I can’t hear my phone or anyone else asking me for something.” I like mowing too, but think about what he said there: he had to wear earmuffs because unlike reel push mowers, his mower was loud. I bet it was also hot and kinda stinky too, and probably not so great for the planet.
Unfortunately, if we have big lawns, there’s really not much choice but to use a riding lawn mower to keep it under control. Although, there are some electric riding models and improved battery powered push models starting to come into the market, we’ll tackle them in another post (and also give them some time to get more reviews and field trials). However, for the folks living in the ‘burbs or that just have a smaller lawn, there’s a great alternative: reel push mowers! This human-powered mower doesn’t need gas and doesn’t make noise, making it a great alternative to our typical gas-drinking loud mowers.
Now, full disclosure: I don’t currently have one of these sweet machines. When we moved to our current house in town I had intended to get one, but was given a gas push mower and have just used that. But it’s still something I’d like to get, and when I do I’ll be sure to update this post.
keepin’ it reel
A few quick considerations:
- If your yard is mostly flat, you’re good; a reel push mower should work fairly well. If you have a lot of hills and bumps, it may be tougher, as the wheels of the mower need to be in contact with the ground in order to move the blades. You could still use a reel mower, it may just be more difficult and not provide as clean of a cut. Also, they may not cut through sticks well, so if you’re living in the woods next to Snow White and the Dwarfs, reel push mowers may need the turf to be raked and stick-free first (don’t worry, the dwarfs are a pretty resourceful bunch).
- You’ll get more exercise! Not only will you be providing the horsepower yourself (Humanpower? Does anyone say that?), you will probably want to mow slightly more frequently, as letting the grass get too long and unruly will result in you having to shove your reel push mower through the suburban jungle.
- They’re cheaper to own and maintain. If you’re buying a new mower, the cost of a low-end gas powered push model will typically start at the cost for a high-end reel push mower. And of course, with less moving parts than an engine (especially with some self-sharpening models), reel mowers will probably give you less maintenance grief in the long run. You’re really only looking at some basic lubrication on the gears and the occasional sharpening (the manufacturer’s instructions will be your go-to on maintenance). Plus, no hauling gas cans in the trunk of your car back and forth from the gas station.
- Happy grass! Reel push mowers cut with a scissor-like action; as the reel spins, the blades moving on the reel will pinch the blades of grass in between a fixed blade, resulting in a nice clean cut. Powered mowers have blades that spin and chop or tear the grass. This clean cut will allow the plant to heal faster, be healthier, and look nicer around your home.
Alright, on to the reel push mowers!
**Some of the links found will be affiliate links, which means if you use that link to make a purchase, I get a small commission. The commission comes at no extra cost to you, and it helps support my family and our quest to be as sustainable as possible. I only recommend products based on my own experiences and/or opinions. Please only buy products you feel can be helpful to you and your family.**
Reel push mowers: da real MVPs
If I was making a reel push mower purchase today, I’d probably choose a Great States. In terms of price, they’re a good middle-of-the-road option. There’s various widths to choose from, the height is adjustable from ½” to 2 ¾” (side note: for healthy turf, horticulturist Grant recommends keeping your lawn on the longer end, unless you live on a putting green), and the blades are heat-treated, making them stronger and hopefully will stay sharper longer.
If you want the top end, check out this Fiskars model! In terms of reel push mowers bells and whistles, there’s certainly more here, including blades that are supposed to stay sharper longer, a mower that’s easier to push, and greater height adjustment range (up to 4” = me likee). It’s also got a chute that can direct the clippings forwards or backwards. It’s easy to see why this reel mower is at the top of the spectrum.
On the economy side, try either a Greenworks or Scotts. No frills, just mowing. If you’re not sure that you want to go all in on the whole reel mower bit, this can be a good low-cost way to dip your toe into the reel mowing pool.
a clean(er) Cut
Ready for mowing? Go Mow! If you get thirsty with all that mowing, I bet you’d enjoy some clean delicious water 🙂 And be sure to tell me in the comments which reel push mower you chose, and also enter your email below for more Sustainable Family Home Goodness – thanks!