How to Buy a Lawn Mower

There are a lot of options when it comes to finding the perfect mower for your lawn, your lifestyle, and your wallet.

Step 1: Research Ask around or search the internet to find which brands and features are appealing to you. Stick to brands that are known for quality.
Step 2: Budget Figure out how much you can afford. Mowers with more power and features generally cost more.
Step 3: Consider power source Decide if you want a gas-powered, manual, or electric mower. Factor in your lawn size, gas versus electricity prices, and environmental impact.
TIP: Electric lawn mowers are less noisy and less polluting than gas-powered mowers.
Step 4: Consider driving style Determine if you want a mower you have to push or one that is self-propelled. Push mowers give you more exercise.
Step 5: Deal with clippings Decide whether you want a mower that mulches clippings or bags them. Some do both.
TIP: Mulching mowers recycle clippings back into your lawn where they decompose quickly, eliminating waste that's created with bagging.
Step 6: Consider features Consider horsepower, cutting path width, and any additional features of the mowers you are comparing before you buy.
Step 7: Buy Buy the best mower for your needs. Be prepared to secure the mower in your trunk or truck bed with tie-downs, or arrange for delivery.
FACT: Emissions from gas-powered lawn mowers contribute 5 percent of all air pollution in the U.S.