As a homeowner with a small yard, finding the right lawn mower can be a challenge. You want something that is efficient, easy to maneuver, and can handle your lawn with ease. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start. That's why we've put together a comprehensive guide to help you find the best lawn mower for small yards in 2023. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about selecting the perfect lawn mower for your space, including key features to look for, popular models, and our top picks.
Why Do You Need a Lawn Mower for Your Small Yard?
You might be wondering if a lawn mower is really necessary for your small yard. After all, it's a small space, so why not just use a pair of shears or a manual reel mower? While it's true that there are other ways to keep your lawn trimmed, a lawn mower is the most efficient and effective option. With a lawn mower, you can quickly and easily cut your grass to the desired height, ensuring that it stays healthy and lush. Plus, using a lawn mower saves you time and energy, so you can spend more time enjoying your yard and less time maintaining it.
Types of Lawn Mowers
When it comes to choosing a lawn mower for a small yard, there are several types of mowers to consider. Here are some of the most popular options:
Electric Mowers: Electric mowers come in both corded and cordless models. Corded mowers require an electrical outlet and are typically more powerful, while cordless battery-powered mowers are more convenient and easier to maneuver. Electric mowers are quiet, efficient, and environmentally friendly.
Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers: Gas-powered mowers offer more power and are better suited for larger yards, but there are some models that are appropriate for smaller yards. They are generally heavier and louder than electric mowers, and require more maintenance.
Manual Reel Mowers: Manual reel push lawn mowers are environmentally friendly and offer a quiet and efficient option for smaller yards. They require some physical effort to operate, but are easy to maintain and don't require gas or electricity.
Robotic Mowers: Robotic mowers are a newer option and are designed to autonomously mow your lawn. They are generally more expensive than other types of mowers, but offer the convenience of not having to manually mow your lawn.
Key Features to Look for in a Lawn Mower for Small Yards
When choosing a lawn mower for a small yard, there are several key features to consider. Here are some of the most important:
Size: Look for a compact and lightweight mower that is easy to maneuver in small spaces. A smaller size also makes the mower easier to store when not in use.
Power source: Choose between gas, electric, or manual mowers based on your personal preferences and needs. Electric mowers are great for small yards as they are quiet, efficient, and require little maintenance. Gas mowers offer more power, but require more maintenance and can be noisier.
Cutting height adjustment: Make sure the mower has adjustable cutting heights to achieve your desired grass length. This is important if you have different types of grass or if you want to adjust the height of your lawn as the seasons change.
Cutting width: Consider the cutting width of the mower deck to ensure it is wide enough to cover your lawn efficiently. A cutting width between 16-21 inches is suitable for most small yards.
Mulching capabilities: Mulching is a great way to fertilize your lawn naturally, so look for a mower that has mulching capabilities. This will save you time and effort by eliminating the need to rake up grass clippings.
Maneuverability: Look for a mower that is easy to maneuver in tight spaces, especially if you have obstacles such as trees or garden beds in your yard. A mower with a small turning radius is ideal for small yards.
Bagging and Discharge Options: If you prefer to collect grass clippings rather than mulch, look for a mower that has bagging or discharge options. This will allow you to easily remove grass clippings from your lawn.
By taking these features into consideration, you can choose a lawn mower that is well-suited to your small yard and will keep your lawn looking great without breaking the bank.
How We Choose the Best Small Lawn Mower
Our team of experts scours the internet to gather customer reviews and feedback to get a better understanding of how well the product performs and how it holds up over time. We take this feedback and combine it with our own industry knowledge and expertise to make informed decisions on which products to recommend. Our goal is to ensure that our customers are getting the best value for their money and are completely satisfied with their purchase. So, when you choose a product from our selection, you can trust that it has been carefully vetted and chosen based on its quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
Greenworks Corded Lawn Mower
Why We Love It
The Greenworks Corded Mower is the perfect solution for small yards. It's a corded electric lawn mower, so you don't have to worry about refueling or recharging, and it's easier to use than a push mower. The compact 17" cutting deck makes it ideal for small spaces, while the 10 Amp motor provides sufficient power to get the job done quickly and efficiently. The 7-position single lever height adjustment ensures that you can cut your grass at just the right height with ease. With its lightweight design and easy maneuverability, this is one of the best electric lawn mowers for small yards.
Worx Cordless Lawn Mower
Why We Love It
The Worx WG779 Cordless Mower is an excellent tool for lawn care. It is a cordless lawn mower for small yards that can quickly and easily cut the lawn without the need for cords or cables. This model comes with batteries and charger included, so you don’t need to worry about additional purchases. It is also good for small yards as it provides great power and maneuverability, allowing you to get your lawn work done in no time at all. The battery is also long-lasting, so you don’t have to worry about running out of juice mid-mow! Plus, its easy-to-use design and height adjustable handle make it a great choice for those looking to take on their lawn care needs with ease. Our pick for best cordless lawn mower on our list.
Fiskars Push Reel Lawn Mower
Why We Love It
The Fiskars Reel Lawn Mower is one of the best budget reel mowers on the market. It offers an easy to use design that allows you to mow your lawn with minimal effort. The cutting blades are made from hardened steel and feature a stay sharp technology which ensures a smooth cut every time. The ergonomic handles make it comfortable to push around and the built-in grass catcher makes it easy to dispose of the clippings. This mower is perfect for small yards, as it can easily maneuver around tight corners and edges. It’s lightweight design makes it easy to store when not in use, making it an ideal choice for those who want a quality reel mower without breaking the bank. This is the best reel mower for small yards.
AYI Robot Lawn Mower
AYI Robot Lawn Mower for Large Yard, Mows Up to 1/2 Acre / 22,000 Sq. Ft, Triblade Brushless Motor, Multiple Mowing Patterns, Self-Charging, IPX Waterproof, Wi-Fi App Control [2022]
Why We Love It
AYI Robot Lawn Mower is the perfect solution for mowing a small yard. This lawn mower is easy to use and operate, allowing you to easily take care of your lawn without spending too much time and effort. It has a powerful motor that allows it to cover more ground in less time, so you don’t have to spend hours on end mowing your yard. The robot features an adjustable cutting height, allowing you to adjust it depending on the length of your grass. It also has a collision detection system which stops the robot from running into obstacles like trees or fences. Additionally, its rechargeable lithium-ion battery ensures that you can use it for longer periods of time without having to worry about running out of power. Finally, it is equipped with a safety guard that prevents the blades from coming in contact with your legs or feet when mowing. All in all, AYI Robot Lawn Mower makes for an efficient and effective way to mow the lawn and keep up with your lawn maintenance needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Lawn Mower for Small Yards
Choosing the right lawn mower for your small yard can be a confusing and overwhelming task. With so many different models and features available, it's difficult to know where to start. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions about the best lawn mowers for small yards.
What is the best type of lawn mower for a small yard?
The best type of lawn mower for a small yard depends on your individual needs and preferences. Some popular options include electric mowers, gas mowers, and manual reel mowers. Electric mowers are great for small yards as they are compact, lightweight, and easy to maneuver. Gas mowers offer more power and are better suited for larger yards. Manual reel mowers are environmentally friendly and offer a quiet and efficient option for smaller yards.
Can I use a riding mower for a small yard?
Riding lawn mowers are not recommended for small yards as they are typically larger, heavier, and more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. Additionally, they tend to be more expensive and require more maintenance than other types of mowers.
How important is the size of the cutting deck?
The size of the cutting deck is an important factor to consider when choosing a lawn mower. A larger cutting deck can cover more ground quickly, but it may not be necessary for a small yard. For most small yards, a cutting deck between 16-21 inches should be sufficient.
Should I choose a gas or electric lawn mower?
The choice between gas and electric mowers comes down to personal preference. Gas mowers tend to be more powerful, making them better suited for larger yards. Electric mowers, on the other hand, are more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Do I need a self-propelled mower?
Whether or not you need a self-propelled mower for your small yard depends on several factors. If your yard is relatively flat and doesn't have a lot of hills or slopes, a self-propelled mower may not be necessary. However, if your yard has steep inclines or rough terrain, a self-propelled mower can make the job much easier and less strenuous on your body. Self-propelled mowers have a motor that powers the wheels, which means that they require less effort to operate. This is especially helpful if you have mobility issues or if you have a large yard that requires a lot of mowing. However, self-propelled mowers tend to be heavier and more expensive than traditional push mowers. If you have a small yard and are on a tight budget, a push mower may be a more practical option.
Are corded electric mowers more powerful than cordless mowers?
Corded electric mowers tend to be more powerful than cordless mowers, as they can draw more electricity from an outlet. However, cordless mowers are more convenient and offer more flexibility in terms of where you can mow.
Can I use a corded electric mower in the rain?
No, it is not safe to use a corded electric mower in the rain. Water can cause electrical shocks, which can be dangerous. If you need to mow your lawn in wet conditions, use a cordless mower or a gas mower.
What are the benefits of a mulching lawn mower?
Mulching lawn mowers are designed to cut the grass into small pieces, which are then distributed back onto the lawn as natural fertilizer. This helps to improve the health and appearance of your lawn, while also reducing the amount of yard waste that needs to be disposed of.
How often should I sharpen the blades on my lawn mower?
Blades should be sharpened at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice that the mower is struggling to cut the grass. Dull blades can damage the grass, making it more susceptible to disease.
Can I use my lawn mower to trim hedges or shrubs?
No, lawn mowers are not designed to trim hedges or shrubs. Instead, use pruning shears or a hedge trimmer to shape and maintain your shrubs and hedges.
How often should I mow my lawn?
The frequency of mowing your lawn depends on a variety of factors, including the type of grass, the climate, and the amount of rainfall. In general, it's best to mow your lawn when the grass has reached a height of about 3 inches. This will help to maintain a healthy and attractive lawn. During periods of active growth, you may need to mow your lawn once a week, while during periods of drought or inactivity, you may only need to mow once every two weeks.
Can I use my lawn mower to pick up leaves and debris?
Some lawn mowers are equipped with bagging attachments that can be used to collect leaves and debris. However, it's important to note that not all mowers are designed for this purpose, and using your mower to pick up leaves and debris can cause damage to the blades and motor.
How do I maintain my lawn mower?
To keep your lawn mower running smoothly, it's important to perform regular maintenance. This includes changing the oil, cleaning the air filter, and sharpening the blades. Refer to the owner's manual for specific maintenance instructions for your particular model.
Can I store my lawn mower outside?
It is possible to store your lawn mower outside, but it's not recommended. Exposure to the elements can cause rust and corrosion, which can damage the motor and other components. It's best to store your mower in a dry, covered area, such as a garage or shed.
Conclusion
Keeping your small yard looking great doesn't have to be a chore. With the right lawn mower, you can easily maintain a beautiful, healthy lawn without spending hours on upkeep. Whether you opt for an electric, gas, or manual mower, be sure to look for key features like size, power source, cutting height adjustment, cutting width, and mulching capabilities. By choosing one of our top picks, you'll be well on your way to a perfectly manicured lawn.
