What Is a Reel Mower and How to Use It
What Is a Reel Mower?
A reel mower is a manual or push mower that does not use fuel, electricity, or oil. It is powered by the person pushing it. Most reel mowers have two primary wheels and several sharp blades in a cylinder that spin around to cut the grass.
How Does a Reel Mower Work?
Unlike rotary mowers, which have blades that spin on a plane parallel to the ground, reel mower blades spin at an angle perpendicular to the ground. This scissor-like action cuts the grass cleanly, without tearing or shredding it.
Why Use a Reel Mower?
Reel mowers offer several advantages over rotary mowers, especially for small lawns:
- Environmentally friendly: Reel mowers do not emit any pollutants, making them a greener choice.
- Lightweight and safer to use: Reel mowers are typically lighter than rotary mowers and do not have any exposed blades, making them safer for children and pets.
- Noise-free: Reel mowers are virtually silent, eliminating noise pollution.
- Lower maintenance costs: Reel mowers have no engines or spark plugs, so they require less maintenance and are less expensive to operate.
Disadvantages of Reel Mowers
Reel mowers also have some disadvantages:
- Not as efficient on tall grass: Reel mowers are not as effective at cutting tall grass as rotary mowers.
- Can’t handle debris: Reel mowers can get clogged with twigs and leaves, requiring manual removal.
- Not suitable for large areas: Reel mowers are best suited for small lawns, as pushing them across a large area can be strenuous.
How to Choose the Best Reel Mower for Your Lawn
When choosing a reel mower, consider the following factors:
- Size of your lawn: Reel mowers are best suited for lawns up to 1/2 acre.
- Type of grass: Reel mowers are ideal for fine-bladed grasses, such as fescue and bluegrass.
- Frequency of mowing: If you mow your lawn frequently, a reel mower can be a good option.
- Budget: Reel mowers range in price from $100 to $300.
How to Use a Reel Mower
Using a reel mower is simple:
- Adjust the desired grass cut height with the adjusting lever located on each wheel of the mower.
- Push the mower around the yard, cutting the grass.
- Clean off the reel mower after finishing by brushing away the grass clippings.
How to Maintain Reel Mowers
The primary maintenance task for reel mowers is sharpening the blades. This should be done once or twice a year. You can buy sharpening kits or use a grinding stone, grinding paste, and newspaper.
When to Replace Your Reel Mower
Reel mowers can last for many years with proper care. However, if you find yourself not having the time to mow often with a reel mower, or you’ve gotten a larger yard, then you should consider replacing it with a powered mower.
Additional Tips for Using a Reel Mower
- After each use, wipe or wash off any grass clippings that have built up on the mower.
- Store the reel mower in a dry place to help keep it from rusting.
- If you have a larger lawn, consider using a rechargeable battery-powered mower, which offers similar benefits to a reel mower with less effort.