A lush, green lawn can be the pride of any homeowner, but maintaining it requires the right tools. Enter the mulching lawn mower, a game-changer for those who want their lawns to thrive while saving time and effort.
These mowers not only cut grass but also finely chop the clippings and return them to the soil, enriching it with nutrients.
Choosing the best mulching lawn mower isn’t just about cutting power. It’s about finding a machine that fits your yard’s needs, whether it’s a compact model for tight spaces or a powerhouse for larger terrains. With various options flooding the market, picking the right one can be daunting.
In this roundup, we’ve sifted through the noise to bring you the top contenders in mulching lawn mowers. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a lawn care newbie, our selection will help you make an informed choice, ensuring your grass stays greener on your side.
10 Best Mulching Lawn Mowers
When it comes to maintaining a beautiful lawn, choosing the right mulching lawn mower is essential. Mulching mowers not only cut grass but also finely chop clippings, returning them to the soil as nutrient-rich mulch.
This not only saves time but also promotes a healthier lawn by retaining moisture and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. Here’s a look at ten of the best mulching lawn mowers available today.
1. Efficient Performance: Greenworks 80V 21″ Brushless Cordless (Self-Propelled) Lawn Mower

Boasting a robust motor and long-lasting power, the Greenworks 80V 21″ Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower is built for efficiency. It’s self-propelled, easing the burden of mowing, especially on uneven terrain.
The cutting width of 21 inches means more lawn mowed in less time. Plus, the 3-in-1 system allows flexibility—whether you prefer mulching, rear bagging, or side discharge.
Powerful and quiet, this mower includes a brushless motor, ensuring reduced noise and longevity. You’ll love the push-button start—the days of bothering with pull cords are gone.
Equipped with a 4.0Ah battery, it offers up to 45 minutes of runtime, perfect for small to medium lawns. The 7-position height adjustment gives the freedom to choose the grass height that suits your taste or weather conditions.
Folding handles add convenience by making storage a breeze, fitting easily even in tight spaces. The intelligent power adjustment optimizes battery use, prolonging operation time. Start every time with reliability that draws from integrated technology built for performance and ease.
Its ergonomic design and simple controls make it a user-friendly option for all. Furthermore, the vertical storage option is space-saving, ideal for garages or sheds with limited room.
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Item Weight: 64.15 Pounds
- Cutting Width: 21 Inches
- Number of Positions: 7
- Operation Mode: Automatic
- Product Dimensions: 62.6″D x 37.8″W x 22.05″H
2. Versatile and Compact: Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless (Push) Lawn Mower

Offers a practical solution for those seeking both versatility and compactness. The Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower is powered by a long-lasting 40V lithium-ion battery, ensuring clean energy use and remarkable runtime.
Whether you’re mowing a small yard or tackling multiple zones, this mower’s got the power to handle it.
Provides a 2-in-1 system enabling both mulching and rear bagging, so you can choose how to manage your grass clippings. Its 16-inch cutting width makes it perfect for small to medium lawns, allowing easy maneuverability without sacrificing efficiency.
You can also adjust the height with just a button, offering five different settings to customize your cut to your lawn’s needs.
Easily store this mower, thanks to its collapsible handles which make it a breeze to fold away. It’s also lightweight at just 37.5 pounds, making it simple to transport.
Moreover, compatibility with over 75+ Greenworks tools means your garden maintenance tasks can be streamlined with just one battery system.
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Style: 4.0Ah
- Cutting Width: 16 Inches
- Number of Positions: 5
- Item Weight: 37.5 Pounds
- Product Dimensions: 50.79″D x 18.9″W x 38.98″H
3. Enhanced Lawn Health: Sun Joe AJ805E 15-Inch 13-Amp Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier

Tackling lawn health has never been easier with the Sun Joe AJ805E Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier. Featuring a powerful 13-amp motor, it quickly rakes a generous 15-inch wide path, ensuring you cover your lawn quickly.
Scarification is a breeze, cutting grass roots to boost thickness and promote a healthier lawn. AirBoost technology, using spring steel tines, ensures maximum pick-up of thatch while maintaining tine sharpness for consistent performance.
Managing maintenance is stress-free since there’s no need for gas or oil. Operating it is straightforward with a simple push button start, avoiding the hassle and fumes of gasoline-powered tools.
Adjust the raking and scarifying depths easily with the 5-position depth control knob, allowing versatile lawn care tailored to your needs.
Remember to keep the work area safe and follow safety guidelines. If the motor doesn’t start, ensure you’ve connected to a power supply or check for any electrical defects. For unsatisfying results, replacing the worn cutting device might just do the trick.
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Item Weight: 27.1 Pounds
- Cutting Width: 15 Inches
- Number of Positions: 5
4. Powerful and Adjustable: PowerSmart 21″ Push Lawn Mower with 140cc Engine

Offers impressive power and adjustability, making the PowerSmart 21″ Push Lawn Mower a strong contender in the mulching lawn mower category. Its 140cc engine provides reliable power, tackling various lawn types with ease.
High wheels ensure better maneuverability, perfect for uneven terrains. Its compact design at only 59 pounds, paired with a 21-inch cutting width, allows you to cover ground efficiently without sacrificing control.
Features include adjustable cutting heights, adaptable for different grass lengths and conditions. The operation mode is automatic, simplifying the mowing process, so you can focus on crafting your perfect lawn.
It’s gas-powered, which means you can expect consistent performance without the fuss of cords or batteries. Durable alloy steel construction ensures longevity, even under regular use.
- Power Source: Gas Powered
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Item Weight: 59 Pounds
- Cutting Width: 21 Inches
- Automatic Operation Mode
- Product Dimensions: 32.9″D x 16.5″W x 22.6″H
5. High-Tech Convenience: EGO LM2112 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Push Lawn Mower

EGO’s high-tech LM2112 cordless lawn mower effortlessly combines power and innovation. Delivering 6.0 foot-pounds of torque, it outperforms some gas mowers without the usual fuss or fume.
You’ll enjoy a seamless experience with its high-efficiency brushless motor that ensures longer runtimes, minimal vibration, and exceptional durability.
This cordless push mower, working with a robust 56V 4.0Ah ARC Lithium™ battery, offers about 35 minutes of runtime per charge, making it ideal for mid-sized lawns.
Imagine cutting precision with its advanced mulching blade and seven adjustable cutting heights, ranging from 1.25 to 4 inches, all changeable with one hand.
The versatility is impressive, letting you choose between mulching, side discharge, or bagging grass clippings—all made easier with the included two-bushel grass collection bag.
When mowing at less ideal hours, its bright LED lights provide improved visibility for those early mornings or late evenings. Plus, its fold-flat design allows for convenient storage. The EGO LM2112 truly delivers Power Beyond Belief™, balancing performance with convenience.
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Style: Lawn Mower w/4.0Ah Battery, Brushless Motor
- Cutting Width: 21 Inches
- Number of Positions: 7
- Item Weight: 75.8 pounds
- Batteries: 1 Lithium-Ion battery required (included)
6. Lightweight and Easy to Use: Sun Joe 24V-X2-17LM 48-Volt 17-Inch Mulching Walk-Behind Lawn Mower

Cutting-edge technology defines the Sun Joe 24V-X2-17LM lawn mower. It’s powered by the robust IONMAX lithium-ion system, complete with two 24-Volt, 4.0 Ah batteries delivering 25 minutes of runtime. Dual-port chargers expedite power restoration, ensuring that downtime is minimal.
Tailoring your lawn’s appearance is simple with the 6-position height adjustment, allowing cuts from 1 to 3 inches. This flexibility means you can groom your lawn to perfection, no matter your grass type or season.
Mowing a 17-inch wide path on each pass, Sun Joe’s durable steel blade delivers consistent and even cuts. The 670 W brushless motor impressively combines power with efficiency, extending battery and motor life for reliable performance.
Collection is just as efficient, with an 11-gallon grass bag that features a handy indicator window. This avoids guesswork, letting you know exactly when it’s time to empty the bag and preventing thatch buildup on your lawn.
When you need a lawn mower that combines power, precision, and convenience, Sun Joe’s 24V-X2-17LM stands out. Its zero-emission performance also means a smaller carbon footprint, helping keep the environment cleaner.
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Item Weight: 33.8 Pounds
- Cutting Width: 17 Inches
- Number of Positions: 6
- Batteries: 2 Lithium Ion batteries required (included)
7. Reliable and Self-Propelled: EGO Power+ LM2100SP 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Delivers a powerful performance with its 56-volt battery, the EGO Power+ LM2100SP offers the torque of gas without any of the noise or fumes. This self-propelled mower features a sturdy 21-inch cutting width, ideal for various lawn types.
Run for up to 60 minutes per charge when used with the 7.5Ah ARC Lithium battery, letting users tackle even the toughest grass with ease. The mower’s variable speed ranges from .9 to 3.1 MPH, perfect for adjusting to your preferred pace while mowing.
Designed for versatility, this mower includes a three-in-one system that allows for mulching, side discharge, and bagging of grass clippings, offering flexibility in lawn maintenance.
Adjust cutting heights effortlessly with one hand, thanks to its six-position height adjustment from 1.5 to 4 inches. LED lights create the opportunity to mow whenever you need, whether at dawn or dusk, enhancing visibility.
Offers convenience in storage, the EGO Power+ LM2100SP folds flat, making it easy to store between uses. Its sleek and lightweight design ensures that moving and storing the mower is straightforward and hassle-free.
Compatible with all of EGO’s ARC Lithium batteries, it features patented battery technology for intelligent power management and long-lasting performance, preventing overheating during operation.
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Cutting Width: 21 Inches
- Item Weight: 62.6 Pounds
- Number of Positions: 6
- Product Dimensions: 61.61″D x 22.92″W x 46.46″H
- Style: Self-Propelled Mower Tool Only
8. Robust and Stylish: Greenworks 60V 25” Cordless (Self-Propelled) Lawn Mower

Mow up to 3/4 acre efficiently with the Greenworks 60V 25″ Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower. It packs impressive features like dual cutting blades to tackle tall, wet, or thick grass without slowing down.
Its self-propelled functionality and rear-wheel drive offer easy navigation, ensuring your mowing experience remains comfortable. Thanks to SmartCut Technology, this mower adapts power based on grass conditions, optimizing cutting performance dynamically.
Recharge quickly and resume cutting with the included dual-port charger and two 4.0Ah batteries. They’re fully charged in just 80 minutes, keeping downtime minimal. The mower also supports seamless battery switchovers, extending run-time for larger lawns.
This model was even crowned “Best Cordless Mower” in the 2021 Popular Mechanics Tool Awards, highlighting its superior performance and innovative design.
Bright LED headlights allow you to start early or finish late without missing a beat, while the 2-in-1 mulching and bagging system offers flexibility in handling grass clippings.
Intelligent Power technology ensures a constant supply of fade-free power with zero emissions, making it an eco-friendly choice for lawn enthusiasts. Combining the TruBrushless motor with lithium-ion battery power makes mowing smoother and more powerful.
- Power Source: dc
- Material: Plastic
- Style: Powerful
- Item Weight: 67.17 Pounds
- Cutting Width: 25 Inches
- Operation Mode: Automatic
- Product Dimensions: 53.54″D x 27.56″W x 45.27″H
9. Powerful and Efficient: EGO Power+ LM2102SP 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Unleash the power and efficiency of the EGO Power+ LM2102SP lawn mower, designed to deliver all the torque of gas without the usual noise or fumes.
Powered by a 56V ARC Lithium battery, this self-propelled mower ensures up to 60 minutes of runtime, effortlessly tackling any grass type. Adjusting between six height settings, ranging from 1.5” to 4”, you can easily customize your lawn’s look without much hassle.
Featuring a lightweight and sleek design, this mower makes maneuvering and storage remarkably simple. Its advanced intelligent power management and cooling technology maximize performance and battery life.
Compatible with the entire EGO Power+ range, this mower offers versatility beyond a single-use tool.
The self-propel feature takes away the strain, adapting speed to your pace while cutting. Whether you’re mowing in the sun or under clouds, it’s equipped to withstand all-weather conditions, ensuring durability.
Moreover, the product video showcases friendly setup guides and comparisons for making the optimal choice for your lawn care routine.
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Material: Metal
- Cutting Width: 21 Inches
- Number of Positions: 6
- Item Dimensions: 46.46″D x 22.92″W x 61.61″H
- Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion battery (included)
10. Updated Lawn Care: 16-Inch 15 Amp Electric Dethatcher Scarifier with Adjustable Depth

Provides efficient dethatching with a powerful 15-amp motor and a 16-inch wide path. Its design allows you to cover more ground quickly, enhancing the dethatching experience for any lawn enthusiast.
Features wheels designed for varied terrains. The 8-inch front and 6-inch rear wheels let this dethatcher easily navigate obstacles like rugged grounds or holes, ensuring smooth operation.
Offers simple depth adjustments. Easily tailor the working depth to suit your lawn’s needs with the adjustable settings, promoting healthier grass growth with every pass.
Designed for ease of use. With automatic operation, you can switch on the dethatcher without breaking a sweat. It’s perfect for those who want efficient lawn care without the hassle.
● Power Source: Electric
● Cutting Width: 16 Inches
● Number of Positions: 5
● Material: Stainless Steel
● Item Weight: 29.55 Pounds
● Color: Green
● Maximum Adjustable Cutting Height: 0.4 Inches
● Product Dimensions: 40.94″D x 23.62″W x 40.94″H
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mulching Lawn Mower
When selecting a mulching lawn mower, several critical factors must be considered to ensure you choose the right model for your yard and personal needs. This guide will walk you through essential aspects to think about, helping you make an informed decision.
Size and Weight of the Mower
Selecting the right size and weight is crucial. Smaller mowers, like the Greenworks 40V 16″, are ideal for compact lawns, weighing less and being easier to maneuver. Larger models, such as the PowerSmart 21″, offer greater coverage but can be heavier.
Choose a size that fits your lawn and storage capacity, and consider how much weight you’re comfortable pushing or handling.
Battery Life and Charging Time
Battery life directly affects how long you can mow without interruptions. For example, the Greenworks 80V provides impressive 60-minute runtime on a single charge.
Charging times are equally important—look for mowers like the EGO LM2112, which balances power and relatively quick recharging, allowing you to continue mowing without long delays.
Engine Power and Cutting Width
Engine power determines the mower’s ability to handle tough grass. The Sun Joe AJ805E offers sufficient power for dethatching as well as mowing, while cutting width, like the 21 inches on the EGO LM2112, impacts how quickly the job is done.
Choose a model with the right power and width to match your lawn size and type.
Versatility and Additional Features
A versatile mower should tackle all lawn care tasks with ease. Models such as the EGO LM2112 offer multiple options for mulching, bagging, or side discharge, enhancing their adaptability.
Additional features, like LED lights or easy-fold designs, can improve usability and convenience, making your mowing experience more enjoyable.
Maintenance Tips for Mulching Lawn Mowers
Keeping your mulching lawn mower in top condition ensures it delivers the best performance, making your lawn care routine smooth and efficient. Here are some essential maintenance tips to help you keep your mower running like new.
Regular Blade Sharpening
Sharp blades are crucial for efficient mulching. Dull blades tear grass rather than cutting it cleanly, which can lead to ragged brown edges and an unhealthy lawn. Check the blades after every 20 hours of mowing and sharpen or replace them if they’re worn.
A file or grinder can do the trick for sharpening, but always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Remember a sharp blade cuts energy consumption and reduces strain on the motor.
Proper Cleaning After Use
Grass clippings and debris can accumulate under the deck, affecting performance. After every mow gently spray the underside of the deck with a garden hose to remove stuck clippings. Be sure to disconnect the power source or spark plug before cleaning to ensure safety.
Regular cleaning prevents buildup that could impede the mulching process, and it’s just a few minutes that can save time in the longer run.
Seasonal Maintenance Checks
Seasonal checkups are fundamental. At the start and end of each mowing season inspect the mower for worn parts or potential issues. Clean or replace air filters, check belts for wear and tear, and ensure that the wheels are aligned and functioning correctly.
Also, change the oil if necessary, especially in gas-powered mowers such as the PowerSmart 21” model. Remember, a well-maintained mower not only mulches better but also has a longer lifespan, helping you maintain the vibrant and healthy lawn you desire.
Related FAQs
What is a Mulching Lawn Mower?
A mulching lawn mower is a specialized tool designed to cut grass clippings into fine pieces. It typically features special blades and a deck that allows it to finely chop grass. This mower type efficiently returns nutrients back into the lawn, promoting healthier growth.
How Does a Mulching Mower Work?
A mulching mower works by using blades engineered to repeatedly cut clippings as they’re circulated under the deck. These clippings become tiny pieces that easily fall back onto the soil. This process enriches the lawn with nutrients, reducing the need for additional fertilizers.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Mulching Mower?
Using a mulching mower offers several benefits, including improved lawn health, reduced waste, and savings on fertilizers. It returns essential nutrients to the soil, helps retain moisture, and decreases the effort of grass bagging or disposal.
Mulching mowers also contribute to a greener and more eco-friendly lawn care approach.
How to Choose the Right Mulching Lawn Mower for My Lawn Size?
Choosing the right mulching lawn mower depends on your lawn’s dimensions and terrain type. For small lawns, a lightweight electric or battery-powered model might be perfect.
Larger areas with tougher grasses require a gas-powered option with a wider cutting width and a robust motor. Consider features like cutting depth, blade quality, and overall maintenance needs to ensure efficient performance for your specific lawn care.
Conclusion and Final Recommendations
Choosing the right mulching lawn mower depends on your specific lawn care needs and preferences. For those seeking powerful performance and versatility, the EGO Power+ LM2100SP and Greenworks 60V models stand out with their self-propelled features and robust battery life.
If maneuverability and compact design are priorities, the Greenworks 40V and Sun Joe 24V-X2-17LM offer lightweight options with efficient mulching capabilities.
For eco-conscious users, cordless models like the Greenworks 80V and Sun Joe AJ805E provide quiet, emission-free operation. Meanwhile, the PowerSmart 21″ Push Lawn Mower offers a reliable gas-powered alternative for those who prefer traditional engines.
Ultimately, prioritize features like cutting width, battery runtime, and additional functionalities like bagging or side discharge to find the perfect fit for your lawn. With the right mower and regular maintenance, achieving a lush, healthy lawn is within reach.