Tired of the noisy drone of gas-powered lawnmowers? Craving a more mindful connection with your yard? Or maybe you’re just looking for a more eco-friendly and cost-effective way to keep your grass trim. Whatever your motivation, you’re not alone in your desire to ditch the electric and embrace the manual. The world of manual lawnmowers is surprisingly diverse, offering a range of options to suit every need and budget. This guide will explore where you can find your perfect manual mower, from classic reel mowers to innovative rotary models, and provide tips on choosing the right one for your lawn.
So, where can you buy a manual lawn mower? The good news is, there are many options available, from big box stores to specialty retailers and even online marketplaces. The key is knowing where to look and what to look for.
Brick-and-Mortar Stores:
Big Box Stores:
- Home Depot and Lowe’s: These giants of the home improvement world often carry a selection of manual lawnmowers, particularly reel mowers. Their selection might be limited, but they offer a convenient and accessible option.
- Walmart: While Walmart primarily focuses on budget-friendly options, you can still find a selection of manual mowers, particularly rotary mowers, at competitive prices.
Specialty Retailers:
- Garden Centers and Nurseries: These stores specialize in gardening supplies and often carry a wider range of manual mowers, including more specialized models for different lawn types.
- Hardware Stores: Locally owned hardware stores can be a treasure trove for finding unique and high-quality manual mowers. They often have knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right mower for your needs.
Online Shopping:
- Amazon: Amazon offers a massive selection of manual lawnmowers, from budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line models. You can find reviews, compare prices, and even enjoy free shipping with Prime.
- eBay: eBay is a great place to find used manual lawnmowers, often at discounted prices. Just be sure to check the seller’s ratings and the condition of the mower before buying.
- Specialty Online Retailers: Numerous online retailers specialize in lawn care equipment, including manual mowers. These retailers often offer a wider selection than big box stores, and their websites are specifically designed for browsing and comparing different models.
Choosing the Right Manual Lawn Mower for You:
Now that you know where to shop, let’s talk about how to choose the right manual lawn mower for your needs. There are two main types of manual mowers:
Reel Mowers
- Cutting Action: Reel mowers have blades that rotate on a horizontal axis, cutting the grass with a scissor-like action.
- Benefits:
- Sharpest Cut: Reel mowers offer the sharpest cut, which leads to healthier grass and reduces the need for mowing as frequently.
- Quiet Operation: Reel mowers are extremely quiet, making them ideal for use in noise-sensitive areas.
- Eco-Friendly: Reel mowers require no fuel or electricity, making them a sustainable choice.
- Low Maintenance: Reel mowers are relatively simple machines with few moving parts, which means they require minimal maintenance.
- Drawbacks:
- Limited Terrain: Reel mowers work best on flat, relatively smooth lawns. They can struggle with hills, uneven terrain, and tall, thick grass.
- Initial Investment: Reel mowers can be more expensive than rotary mowers, especially higher-quality models.
Popular Reel Mower Brands:
- Scotts: Scotts is a well-known brand that offers a variety of reel mowers at different price points.
- Gardena: Gardena is a German company known for its high-quality garden tools, including reel mowers.
- Fiskars: Fiskars offers durable and easy-to-use reel mowers, making them a popular choice for homeowners.
Rotary Mowers
- Cutting Action: Rotary mowers have a single blade that spins on a vertical axis, cutting the grass with a chopping motion.
- Benefits:
- Versatile: Rotary mowers can handle a wider range of terrains, including hills, uneven surfaces, and tall grass.
- More Affordable: Rotary mowers are generally more affordable than reel mowers.
- Easier to Push: Rotary mowers are often lighter and easier to push than reel mowers.
- Drawbacks:
- Less Sharp Cut: Rotary mowers produce a less precise cut than reel mowers, which can lead to a less manicured lawn.
- Less Environmentally Friendly: Some rotary mowers are made with plastic, which isn’t as sustainable as metal reel mowers.
- Higher Maintenance: Rotary mowers typically require more maintenance than reel mowers.
Popular Rotary Mower Brands:
- Sun Joe: Sun Joe offers affordable and reliable rotary mowers.
- Earthwise: Earthwise is known for its environmentally friendly lawn care products, including rotary mowers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Manual Lawn Mower:
- Lawn Size: If you have a large lawn, a rotary mower might be a better choice as it can handle more grass. For smaller lawns, a reel mower might be sufficient.
- Lawn Type: Reel mowers are best for fine, healthy grass, while rotary mowers can handle tougher and thicker grass types.
- Terrain: If you have a hilly or uneven lawn, a rotary mower might be a better option.
- Budget: Rotary mowers are generally more affordable than reel mowers, but higher-quality models can be pricier.
Tips for Choosing the Right Manual Lawn Mower:
- Read Reviews: Before you buy, check out online reviews from other users to get a better understanding of the mower’s performance and durability.
- Compare Features: Consider features like cutting width, height adjustments, and weight when making your decision.
- Test It Out: If possible, try out the mower at the store or ask for a demonstration to see how it feels and handles.
- Ask for Advice: If you’re unsure which mower is right for you, ask a salesperson for advice or seek recommendations from experienced gardeners.
Maintaining Your Manual Lawn Mower:
A little care goes a long way in extending the life of your manual lawnmower. Here are some essential maintenance tips:
- Sharpen the Blades: Sharp blades are essential for a clean cut and a healthy lawn. Sharpen the blades regularly, especially for reel mowers.
- Clean the Mower: After each use, clean the mower to remove grass clippings and debris.
- Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect the mower for any signs of wear and tear, and replace or repair damaged parts as needed.
- Store Properly: Store your mower in a dry, protected place during the off-season.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re looking for a quiet and eco-friendly way to mow your lawn or simply want to get a little more exercise, a manual lawnmower is a great option. By considering the factors discussed in this guide and following our tips, you can choose the perfect manual mower for your needs and enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained, healthy lawn.
FAQs
Where can I find a manual lawnmower?
You can find manual lawnmowers at a variety of retailers, both online and in-store. Some popular options include home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s, garden centers, and online retailers like Amazon and Walmart. You may also be able to find used manual lawnmowers at antique shops or online marketplaces like eBay. When choosing a retailer, consider factors such as price, availability, and customer service.
What are the benefits of using a manual lawnmower?
Manual lawnmowers offer several advantages over powered mowers. They are environmentally friendly, as they don’t require any fuel or electricity. They are also very quiet, which is beneficial for those who live in residential areas or have neighbors nearby. Additionally, manual lawnmowers provide a good workout and are a great way to get some exercise while maintaining your lawn.
How much does a manual lawnmower cost?
The price of a manual lawnmower can vary depending on the brand, size, and features. Basic models can be purchased for as little as $50, while more advanced models with features like height adjustment and mulching capabilities can cost upwards of $200. It’s important to consider your budget and the size of your lawn when choosing a manual lawnmower.
How do I choose the right manual lawnmower for my needs?
When choosing a manual lawnmower, it’s important to consider the size of your lawn, the type of grass you have, and your personal preferences. For smaller lawns, a 14-inch cutting width may be sufficient. For larger lawns, you may need a wider cutting width, such as 18 inches or 20 inches. Also, consider features like height adjustment, mulching capabilities, and the overall weight of the mower.
How do I use a manual lawnmower?
Using a manual lawnmower is relatively simple. Start by adjusting the cutting height to your desired level. Then, push the mower back and forth across your lawn, overlapping each pass slightly to ensure that all of the grass is cut. If you’re new to using a manual lawnmower, it’s a good idea to practice on a small section of your lawn before tackling the entire area.
How do I maintain a manual lawnmower?
Manual lawnmowers require minimal maintenance. After each use, you should clean the mower deck and blades to remove any grass clippings or debris. It’s also a good idea to sharpen the blades periodically to ensure optimal cutting performance. With proper care, a manual lawnmower can last for many years.
Are manual lawnmowers a good option for all lawns?
While manual lawnmowers are a great option for many homeowners, they may not be suitable for all lawns. If you have a very large lawn or a lawn with a lot of hills, a powered mower might be a better choice. Additionally, manual lawnmowers may not be ideal for lawns with very thick or tall grass. However, for smaller lawns with moderate grass growth, a manual lawnmower can be a convenient and environmentally friendly option.