For those who take great pride in their garden, you will often find their grass is striped, creating a beautiful effect across the lawn. Some might take it a step further and mow their garden to look like a chequerboard or work diagonal lines into the mix.
Striping your lawn has more benefits than just an appealing visual effect. These stripes can lead to your garden remaining healthier and growing evenly in the long run. With this in mind, we have looked at the 7 best lawn mowers for stripes to buy.
Our TOP Lawn Mower Picks for Stripes
Best Lawn Mowers for Stripes to Buy
Here are our top picks of the best lawn mowers for stripes to buy:
- Flymo Chevron 32VC Electric Wheeled Lawn Mower
- Lawn Master MX 24V Battery Powered Lawn Mower
- Hyundai HYM3800E 1600W Electric Rotary Lawn Mower
- Mountfield Princess 34 Electric Rear Roller Lawn Mower
- Bosch Advanced Rotak 650 Lawn Mower
- Flymo EasiMow 340R Rotary Lawn Mower
- Hyundai HYM430SPER Petrol Lawn Mower
Let us take a closer look at each of these mower options.
Striping your lawn has a host of benefits. When grass is patchy, the taller grass can create a canopy over shorter blades, leaving patches of yellow or dead grass in your garden. Striping ensures that blades are moved uniformly to promote healthy growth.
It is important to note that not all lawn mowers come with a rear roller included, you may need to buy this part separately. There is a downside and an upside to this.
Some may find it bothersome to buy the part separately, however, if the brand has several compatible rollers, you can choose the best one for you. Additionally, you will need to factor in the cost of the part into your final purchase price.
Note that some mowers do not offer this feature at all so be wary when you decide on the best mower for stripes.
Flymo Chevron 32VC Electric Wheeled Lawn Mower
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: electric
- Cutting width: 32cm
- Item weight: 8.7kg
- Dimensions: 125 x 99 x 37cm
- Special feature: adjustable cutting height
With a 1200w motor, this mower is smaller and less powerful than others on this list. However, the benefit you get with the Flymo mower is the lightweight, compact design and integrated rear roller.
As previously discussed, rear rollers are often an additional feature and not the standard. However, the Chevron 32VC is equipped with a rear roller automatically allowing you to create a striped finish on your garden while mowing.
A lever situated above the wheel allows you to adjust the cutting height of the blades, giving you more variety. The blades can be adjusted between 2 and 6cm, making it easier to cut specific grass types.
While the 32cm cutting deck may suggest this mower is suitable for large gardens, it is better for small to medium gardens. This is further shown through the power cable. At 10m, this cable is long enough for small to medium gardens but will not reach far enough for a larger space.
Finally, this mower has a generous 29l collection bag to make cleaning up after mowing easier. As this mower is suitable for smaller gardens, you are unlikely to fill the bag per mowing session so you will not need to empty the bag partway through.
Pros:
- 5 cutting heights are available
- Lightweight at 8.7kg
- 29l grass collection bag
Cons:
- Not suitable for larger gardens
Lawn Master MX 24V Battery Powered Lawn Mower
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: battery powered
- Cutting width: 34cm
- Item weight: 11.4kg
- Dimensions: 23 x 38 x 97cm
- Special feature: spare battery
If you are looking for greater freedom in movement that a cable would otherwise prohibit, this MX 24V battery-powered lawn mower may just be the answer. With an additional battery, this mower has been designed to give you greater comfort while mowing your garden. The best cordless lawn mowers are a blessing.
This mower features a 2-in-1 function when it comes to grass collection. Grass clippings are collected in the 32l collection bag to be disposed of. Additionally, you can take this a step further by using the mulching plug to create an easy and free fertiliser for your garden.
A rear roller that comes with the mower helps create a striped finish. When used alongside the mulching plug, these features can help improve the health of your garden, reducing excessive corrections that you would otherwise need to make.
The carbon steel blade is durable and will last against frequent use and exposure to moisture. It can be adjusted to 6 cutting heights ranging from 20 to 70mm by using the easy-to-reach lever.
Finally, the compact design allows you to store your mower in small spaces. It can be positioned upright for vertical storage and can fit under certain counter sizes to stow it away.
Pros:
- Lightweight at 11.4kg
- A spare battery for longer use
- Mulching plug included
Cons:
- Batteries overheat during long run time
Hyundai HYM3800E 1600W Electric Rotary Lawn Mower
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: electric
- Cutting width: 38cm
- Item weight: 14kg
- Dimensions: 92 x 45 x 132cm
- Special feature: adjustable cutting heights
The HYM3800E is the best rotary mower on this list for cutting stripes into your grass. With this lawn mower, you do not need to worry about buying an additional rear roller as it is included with the simple setup.
With 5 cutting heights available, you can set the blade height between 2cm and 7cm to create the desired striping effect on your grass. Combined with the powerful 1600w motor, this mower is ideal for getting your mowing done efficiently and precisely.
Ideal for medium-sized gardens, this rotary lawn mower has a 38cm cutting deck that allows you to tackle larger areas of grass at a time. This cuts down the total time needed to tend to your garden.
While it may not seem compact given the dimensions, this mower features foldable handles to make it easier to transport and store. The handles fold over the rest of the mower making it space-saving, while the 14kg weight makes it easy to move without strain.
Finally, this mower is perfect for collecting and mulching grass cuttings as a natural fertiliser. The 40l collection bag makes cleaning up easier, with the grass collected through the rear-discharge chute.
Pros:
- 3-year warranty with Hyundai
- 40L grass collection bag
- Long-reach power cable at 10m
Cons:
- No replacement blades are available
Mountfield Princess 34 Electric Rear Roller Lawn Mower
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: electric
- Cutting width: 34cm
- Item weight: 13kg
- Dimensions: 126 x 41 x 97cm
- Special feature: collection bag included
Powered by a 1400w electric motor, this self-propelled mower makes cutting stripes into your garden effortless. The lightweight mower weighs just 13kg, making it easy to push around without straining yourself.
The Princess 34 is another mower that has a rear roller included, with Mountfield stating it leaves a lightly striped finish to your garden. With 6 positions available, the blade height can be adjusted from 25 to 75mm allowing you to mow shorter and longer grass easily.
Users have found that the cut adjustment lever has been a great benefit. It does not require you to take the blades out and add in washers. Simply adjust the lever to change the height of the blades and get back to tending to your garden.
Aside from the rear roller, this mower comes with a mulching plug and grass collection bag to elevate your mowing experience. Mulching your grass cuttings provides you with a free and eco-friendly fertiliser for your garden, which this mulching plug makes possible.
One downside to this mower is the high noise level. Anything over 70dB(A) can cause hearing damage when experienced for longer periods. This mower has a sound level of 78.6dB(A) for the operator’s ear which may pose some harm in the long run. It might also disturb the family and the neighbours.
Pros:
- 35l collection bag included with the mower
- Foldable handlebars for storage
- Lightweight at 13kg
Cons:
- Difficult to manoeuvre through long grass
- Rather noisy
Bosch Advanced Rotak 650 Lawn Mower
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: electric
- Cutting width: 41cm
- Item weight: 16kg
- Dimensions: 76 x 50 x 45cm
- Special feature: generous collection bag
Bosch is a well-established and trusted brand that is both reliable and affordable. As a smaller variation of the Rotak 750, the 650 is ideal for small to medium gardens and features many of the same benefits. The only difference in mowers is the size of the cutting deck which reduces the maximum lawn area.
With a cutting deck of 41cm, the blades can be adjusted to 7 heights for greater control of your mowing. The blade can be adjusted between 25 and 80mm which is a wider range than other mowers on this list.
Bosch has created this mower with a 75% reduction in noise levels. This means that mowing your garden is less of a bother for your neighbours and will allow you to complete your garden work with ease.
The handles of this mower are adjustable in height to make it suitable for all users. These handles are designed with Bosch’s ErgoSlide which refers to the ergonomic design of the handles for easier use.
LeafCollect has been designed by Bosch to make cleaning up after mowing easier. This blade allows you to shred and easily dispose of collected leaves and garden debris, leaving your garden spotless once mowing is done.
Pros:
- Large 50l grass collection bag
- Quiet operation
- Adjustable and comfortable
- Adjustable cutting height
Cons:
- Short power cord
Flymo EasiMow 340R Rotary Lawn Mower
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: electric
- Cutting width: 34cm
- Item weight: 10.8kg
- Dimensions: 39 x 121 x 95cm
- Special feature: integrated rear roller
As an electric mower, the Flymo EasiMow has a 1400w motor which makes it ideal for small to medium gardens. It has been designed to provide a clean look, with striping and edge-cutting possible.
An integrated rear roller allows you to create neat stripes across your garden, adding that extra step to its appearance. This mower has been designed for close-edge cutting meaning you do not need to strim areas next to walls and fences after mowing.
To make storing this mower easier, 2 hooks along the handle allow you to store the cable neatly. The handles fold over the body of the mower making the entire device compact and easy to store without taking up space.
An easy-to-reach lever allows you to adjust the blade height to 5 options, ranging from 20 to 60mm, depending on your preferences and the type of grass you have.
The large grass collection box makes cleaning up easier and a full grassbox indicator lets you see when the box needs to be emptied.
Pros:
- Generous 35l grass collection box
- Compact design for storage
- Lightweight at 10.8kg
Cons:
- Struggles a bit on slopes
Hyundai HYM430SPER Petrol Lawn Mower
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: petrol
- Cutting width: 43cm
- Item weight: 36kg
- Dimensions: 130 x 48 x 103cm
- Special feature: 3-year home-use warranty
If you are looking for a petrol mower to cut stripes and leave your garden looking pristine, look no further than the Hyundai HYM430SPER. This mower has been designed for use in small to medium gardens.
Aside from the power, the biggest benefit of this mower is the full-width rear roller which comes with the mower. The ribbed roller allows you to create neat stripes in your garden with the split allowing you to easily turn the mower when needed.
The blade height can be adjusted between 5 positions ranging from 25 to 75mm. Fitted on a 43cm cutting deck, this mower allows you to tend to your garden efficiently.
Although the HYM430SPER has a powerful, 3.5hp motor, this mower weighs 36kg, making it a bit difficult to manoeuvre. Some users found that they struggled a bit to move it themselves, however, the rear-wheel drive helps with gardens with slopes or uneven terrain.
Finally, this mower comes with a 3-year home-use warranty which is a great benefit. If you should have any issues with your mower or a particular piece, Hyundai will help you find a solution to your problem, either through repair or replacement.
Pros:
- Rear discharge
- Large 45l grass collection bag
- Various cutting positions
Cons:
- Somewhat heavy at 36kg
How to Buy the Best Lawn Mower for Stripes
Power Source
Depending on the neighbourhood you live in, you may require a quieter mower than a petrol mower. In this case, an electric mower would be an ideal choice, however, you are forfeiting the power you would receive with a petrol mower. Petrol generally delivers more power but requires more maintenance and can be a tad noisy.
Durability
Lawn mowers, when cared for properly, can last many years. This time is increased when durable materials are used as you will not need to replace parts frequently. Finding materials that last against use and exposure to moisture is a must.
Cutting width
For larger gardens, you are going to need a larger cutting deck to decrease the time you spend mowing your garden. You need to evaluate how long it would take you to mow your garden with different-sized mowers and make your selection with that in mind.
Size
If you are wanting to store your mower during certain seasons, you need to make sure you have enough space available and that your mower will fit into this area. Finding a compact or collapsible mower is ideal for smaller areas to save you space.
Cutting height
Depending on your preferences and the type of grass you have, you may need to adjust the cutting height of your mower. Most mowers have adjustable cutting decks available for this purpose but you need to ensure the mower you choose includes this feature.
Warranty
The last thing you want to deal with after a piece of your mower breaks is having to pay out of pocket to repair it. This is why finding a mower with a warranty is important. It ensures that the company will help you repair or replace a piece if it fails. A good warranty shows that the manufacturer has faith in the materials and workmanship of their products.
Mower type
Different mowers are suitable for different lawn sizes and needs. Robotic mowers are ideal for smaller gardens as they have smaller cutting decks whereas ride-on mowers are suitable for large gardens. Finding the right mower for your garden’s needs is imperative.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do mowers need maintenance?
How often your mower needs maintenance will depend on your mower. You should have the entire mower checked annually, but the blades should be sharpened more often. Additionally, if you have a petrol mower, you need to ensure you are draining it often to prevent damage to the motor.
How is striping your garden a good thing?
Each time you stripe your garden, the blades are manipulated slightly differently. This leads to the grass receiving light from different directions, leading to a healthier lawn and even growth. Importantly, it looks great. It is a neat and professional look that demonstrates you take pride in your lawn. The “Wimbledon” style stripes will be the envy of the neighbourhood.
What is the best mower height for stripes?
Ideally, you want to mow your grass to be between 6.5 and 9cm to create the visual effect of striping in your garden. Longer grass will bend easier and create a more pronounced effect.
How thick should each stripe be?
Although the size of your cutting deck will affect the size of the stripe initially, you can go along again to make it larger depending on your preference. Some can be as small as 10cm wide though the maximum size is up to you.
Is all grass suitable for striping?
It may seem like you can create this effect with all grass but the type of grass does limit your choices. Thicker grass does not bend as easily so you cannot create this effect, while longer and flexible blades will work well.
Is it difficult to mow lawn stripes?
It might take a bit of practice to get it perfect but it is not that difficult. If you mow logically and systematically, something you should do even without stripes, you will soon get it spot on.
Conclusion
It is clear to see that striping can have a positive effect on your garden and why you should look for a mower to do this. As stated before, not all mowers include a roller and you may need to purchase it separately, so prepare yourself for that.
Each of these mowers has been evaluated on a range of factors, including the size and weight of the mower, the power and the cutting deck size. These factors can all make or break your decision to buy a mower so it is important to evaluate your choices against these parameters.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to get in contact with us.
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Charl is a full-time writer with a range of passions and expertise in lawn mowers and other garden power tools. After many years in the corporate rat race, he decided to follow these passions. When not writing, Charl can be found in his garden, tending to or propagating plants, keeping the lawn near perfect, and enjoying the outdoors with his dogs. He is also fascinated by emerging technology and tries to squeeze in a round of golf as often as possible.
