Mulching provides multiple benefits. It saves time and effort while rewarding the lawn with essential nutrients that will help it to become lush and verdant.
Best of all, it is free fertiliser. We take a look at the options for the best lawn mower for mulching.
Our TOP Mulching Mower Picks
Best Mulching Lawn Mower to Buy
Here are our top picks for the best lawn mower for mulching:
- GardenTek 15″/38cm Corded Electric 1600w/230v Roller Mulching Lawn Mower
- HENSITA EGO LM1903E-SP 47cm Self Propelled Cordless Mower 56v
- Cobra MX4140V 41cm (16in) Cordless Lawnmower
- Murray 2x18V (36V) Lithium-Ion 44cm Cordless Lawn Mower IQ18WM44
- Honda HRX 537 HZ 53cm (21″), Hydrostatic, Self Propelled Lawnmower
- LawnMaster 1800W Electric Lawn Mower
- Bosch Lawnmower AdvancedRotak 750
- NEXUS NX46SP NX46SP-18 self-propelled Petrol Lawn Mower
Hyundai GardenTek Corded Electric 1600w/230v Roller Mulching Lawn Mower
Key features:
- Power source – Corded electric
- Power – 1600W/230V
- Cut width – 38cm
- Weight – 12.5kg
- Cut height – 5 settings
The GardenTek 15″/38cm Corded Electric Roller Mulching Lawn Mower from Hyundai is a popular choice for a mulching lawn mower. It has a generous 380 cutting width so perfect for lawns of medium size.
It is light at only 12.5kg which makes it easy to move and more accurate. Despite the weight, it has a tough build that is made to last.
The mulching feature works well, clipping the grass into fine pieces that will break down easily and return nutrients to the soil. While providing “free” fertiliser for a lush verdant lawn, it also saves effort as you don’t need to get rid of the grass clippings.
You might not want to mulch every time, so there is an easy-to-use grass catcher for collecting the clippings that holds 40L.
Another great feature is a rear roller for that professional striped look. The mulching roller mower allows you to choose between 5 height settings according to the season or your needs.
It offers decent value for money and is a reliable machine with good support.
Pros:
- Great at mulching
- Outstanding value for money
- Rear roller
- Durable
- Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre
Cons:
- Limited by the 10m power cable
HENSITA EGO LM1903E-SP Self-Propelled Cordless Mower 56v
Key features:
- Power source – Battery
- Power – 56V Li-Ion battery
- Cut width – 47cm
- Weight – 16kg
- Cut height – 3 Options 25cm to 80cm
If you want the freedom of a cordless mulching lawnmower, the EGO LM1903E is a great option. What makes it even easier to operate is the fact that it is self-propelled. This makes the push mulching mower almost effortless to use. You can adjust the speed as needed.
It has a powerful 56V Li-Ion battery which is a top performer in this category. The design also reduces overheating and prevents shutdowns. The charger is included and is fast and effective.
While you only have three height options, they range from 25cm to 80cm so should cover your needs throughout the year. It has a 47cm cut width and can handle lawns up to 800sqm with ease and efficiency.
The metal and polymer construction makes it tough and durable. It is comfortable to use and the handles can be adjusted according to your need needs.
While it mulches effectively it has a large 55L grass bag for when you need to collect clippings. It has an indicator to warn you when it needs to be emptied. The mower also folds away easily for convenient storage.
The brushless motor is an important feature. It improves the run time of the battery and also makes for low noise output. A fairly unique feature that comes in handy on those gloomy days is LED headlights.
It has a decent 5-year guarantee and is considered to be one of the best lawn mowers for mulching options.
Pros:
- Cordless
- Self-propelled
- Durable metal build
- Brushless motor
- Low noise output
Cons:
- Limited cut height positions
- On the expensive side
Cobra MX4140V 41cm Cordless Lawnmower
Key features:
- Power source – Battery
- Power – 40V
- Cut width – 41cm
- Weight – 21.4 kg
- Cut height – 7 stages from 25mm to 75mm
Another leading option for battery mulching lawn mower is the Cobra MX4140V. It has a 41cm cut width and a 40V battery. This makes it ideal for small gardens. You get a decent run time of 30 to 40 minutes. Another benefit is that the battery is interchangeable with other Cobra equipment in the same range.
What is impressive is the 7-stage height adjustment that allows you to move from 20 to 70mm with ease. This allows you to achieve the perfect cut for the season, grass type and your preference.
It mulches with ease but if you prefer to collect clippings, it comes with a fabric grass bag. It has a 50L capacity and indicates when it is full. Another feature that comes in handy is a power indicator on the handle. This will alert you when the battery is nearly flat.
This lawn mower comes with a 2-year warranty. The price is reasonable for what you get with this machine.
Pros:
- 7 Height adjustment options
- Power indicator
- Large grass bag
- Durable steel deck
Cons:
- No rear roller
- Replacement batteries are costly
Murray 2x18V (36V) Cordless Lawn Mower IQ18WM44, Powered by Briggs & Stratton
Key features:
- Power source – Battery
- Power – 36V 1, 5 kW
- Cut width – 44cm
- Weight – 14kg
- Cut height – 7 positions from 25mm to 75mm
This is a popular option for medium gardens up to 640 Sq.m. The cut width is 44cm for speed and efficiency.
This cordless mower has dual 18 V lithium-ion batteries. You even get a dual battery charger in the kit. It is fitted with a powerful and durable Briggs and Stratton engine, a leading brand for performance and reliability, delivering 1, 5 kW power.
The cut height options allow this mower to be used as a leaf mulcher mower on the higher settings.
What is more, is that it is a brushless motor. This is an advantage as they are relatively quiet and more efficient. The run time is roughly 36 minutes which is impressive.
The handles have a soft grip for comfort and to reduce vibrations. They fold back making the mower easy to store or transport. The machine itself is light and agile.
While it does a great job of mulching it does require the purchase of a lawn mower mulching plug. It is not the cheapest lawn mower on the market and this accessory adds a bit to the cost.
Pros:
- Briggs & Stratton engine
- Light and easy to move
- Decent run time
- Brushless motor
- Low noise
- Ergonomic soft-grip handles
Cons:
- The mulching plug is an additional cost
- Somewhat more expensive than comparable options
Honda HRX 537 HZ
Key features:
- Power source – Petrol
- Power – 187cc
- Cut width – 53cm
- Weight – 45kg
- Cut height – 7 Positions from 20 to 100mm
While I love the Briggs & Stratton engines there is no doubt that Honda knows a thing or two about quality durable engines. They are powerful and will keep going strong if looked after.
Be aware that this is one of the best mulching lawn mowers you can buy but it is a sizeable investment. You get some amazing features and outstanding power but you will pay for them.
It has an electric key start which is convenient as well as adds to the safety and security of your investment.
The height adjustment is easy and offers a brilliant range of seven options ranging from 20 to 100mm. This is a much better range than most mowers on the market. It will allow for precise control of your lawn height according to the weather conditions, the type of grass, and the look you are going for. Height adjustment is quick and easy.
One of the main advantages of this lawn mower is the hydrostatic drive function. This feature optimises the blade speed irrespective of your pace. This not only makes operation easier but ensures an even and neat cut. It is self-propelled with a variable speed.
Power is no issue and the 187cc4-stroke OHV engine can handle large lawns with ease. The engine is complimented by a 53cm cut width. It has steel blades that are hardened and effective. The entire construction is robust and built for performance and durability.
It is also designed to reduce vibration and noise output. Despite the size and power, you will not disturb the family or neighbours too much.
The Versamow variable mulching system is one of the features that makes this a leading mulching lawn mower. The twin-blade design ensures fine clippings that are ideal for optimal mulching. You can choose to collect or mulch, just switch between options with a simple lever. If you do want to collect, this mower has a massive and well-designed 88L grass bag.
Pros:
- Self-propelled with variable speed
- Hydrostatic drive function
- Excellent range of cut height options
- Versamow mulching system
- Key start
- Quality 7-year warranty
Cons:
- Comes with a hefty price tag
- Rather heavy
- No rear roller
LawnMaster 1800W Electric Lawn Mower
Key features:
- Power source – Corded electric
- Power – 1800W
- Cut width – 40cm
- Weight – 15kg
- Cut height – 6 Positions from 20 to 70mm
This is a popular option that comes in at an incredible price. Don’t let that fool you. The many positive reviews speak for themselves.
The 1800W LawnMaster has a decent 1800W power and the T-Drive adjusts the torque to keep a regular blade speed. The 40cm cut width allows this machine to be effective in medium to large gardens up to around 400m2.
It has a robust alloy steel construction. The power cable is only 10m so you might need an extension cord for larger areas.
You have six cutting height options from 20 to 70mm which should be perfect for most needs. The blades are carbon steel and provide a neat, efficient cut. It even has a rear roller for the striped Wimbledon look.
It comes with a 42L collection bag as well as a mulching plug. The handles fold back for ease of transport and storage. LawnMaster has good safety features, including a mechanical brake.
Pros:
- Exceptional value for money
- Light and nimble
- Rear roller
- Good safety features
Cons:
- 10m Cable
- Some may prefer a larger grass bag
Bosch Lawnmower AdvancedRotak 750
Key features:
- Power source – Corded electric
- Power – 1700W
- Cut width – 44cm
- Weight – 16kg
- Cut height – 7 Options
Another affordable option, also from a trusted brand, is the Bosch AdvancedRotak 750. It has a 44cm blade so can handle medium to large gardens. It has a powerful motor yet it is relatively quiet thanks to the ProSilence feature, a Bosh trademark. This technology reduces noise output by as much as 75 percent, so you do not disturb the household or the neighbours.
The cut height is easy to adjust and offers seven choices, from 25 to 80mm.
Another Bosch feature that most appreciate is their ErgoSlide handles. They are comfortable and easy to adjust. This makes the mower versatile and it can be used by anyone.
One more feature they offer is their LeafCollect system. The blade will shred or collect leaves. Some times of the year, this comes in very handy. It is also great at edges. You get a lot of bang for your buck with this machine and the value for money is impressive.
Pros:
- Powerful
- Quiet operation
- Ergonomic and comfortable to operate
- Reliable
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- The 10m cord is a bit limiting
NEXUS NX46SP NX46SP-18 Petrol Lawn Mower with Briggs & Stratton 500E Series Engine
Key features:
- Power source – Petrol
- Power – 140cc
- Cut width – 46cm
- Weight – 28kg
- Cut height – 6 Settings from 28 to 92mm
This is a steady and sturdy option. The NX46SP NX46SP-18 is a robust and durable option at a fair price. It has a generous 46cm cutting width so will take care of larger lawn areas with ease. The 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine has plenty of power.
The deck is steel making it tough and rust-resistant. It is easy to change between the six cutting positions ranging from 28 to 92mm.
You have a choice of mulching, rear or side discharge, or collection in the large 60L bag.
It comes with a 2-year warranty and you need to purchase SAE30 4-stroke engine oil separately. While you get some great features, a powerful dependable engine, and great durability, this machine is still affordable.
Pros:
- Self-propelled
- Decent power
- Reliable
- Durable
- Value for money
Cons:
- No rear roller
- The drive is only one speed
How to Buy the Best Mulching Lawn Mower
If you want to mulch the lawn as you cut, you need to decide on the best lawn mower for the job. Consider these important factors before investing in the best mulching lawn mower.
Power
To get a fine mulch you need a fair amount of power. A less powerful motor will not cut the grass blades small enough to make quality mulch.
Naturally, if your lawn area is large or has steep slopes you will also need more power.
Power Source
Your main options are petrol, corded electric and cordless. All have advantages and disadvantages:
Petrol
Pros:
- More power
- Effective at mulching
- Great for large areas and slopes
- Freedom of movement
Cons:
- A bit noisy
- Require servicing
- Somewhat heavier
Corded electrical
Pros:
- Quiet
- Efficient
- Easy to use
- Little to no servicing is required
Cons:
- Limited by the length of the cord
- No as much power as petrol
Cordless
Pros:
- Freedom of movement
- Light and easy to move
Cons:
- Limited by the battery life
- Some are limited in power
Another option is robot lawn mowers. While these do not generally have a mulching feature, they cut regularly so can still be used for mulching. Once set up, they are easy to use and require very little effort.
Mulching Mechanism
Not all lawn mowers that offer mulching work in the same way. Some are specifically designed to mulch. The blade design, settings and other aspects make this an inbuilt feature. Other mowers need a mulching plug. This is easy to fit and allows for effective mulching by blocking the exit channel so the fine grass clippings remain on the lawn.
Note that some mulching lawn mowers come with the mulching plug while with some models it is an additional purchase and therefore an extra cost.
Build Quality and Materials
This will impact the durability of your mulching lawn mower. Steel or alloys are harder and tougher but tend to be heavier. Modern plastics used by some manufacturers are lighter and still durable. The quality of the workmanship is also an important factor to consider.
Warranty
A good warranty is a sure sign that the brand has faith in the quality of the mower. It will give you peace of mind that if something goes wrong you will be looked after.
Mulching Mower vs Regular Mower
Advantages of Mulching
We have discussed the benefits of mulching but to break it down:
- Grass clippings are free fertiliser for your lawn
- It saves time as you mow as there is no need to rake up or empty grass clippings
- Mulching reduces the need for water as mulch slows evaporation
- It increases worm activity which also adds nutrients as well as aerating the soil
- Weed growth is reduced as the mulch stops or slows weed germination
Disadvantages of Mulching
- Mulching could spread weeds that have germinated
- The nutrients could help weed growth for existing weeds
- The mulch does not always break down rapidly
- The worms, while beneficial, can be a problem for some
- You might need to mow more frequently
How to Mulch Correctly
- Ensure the blades are sharp and clean
- Do not mow more than a third of the grass in one session
- Mow more frequently
- Only mulch dry grass
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mulch plug on a lawn mower?
On compatible lawn mowers, a mulch plug is inserted to close the chute to the grass bag.
What is the best mower height for mulching grass?
The first rule is to never cut more than one-third of the grass height in one go. For effective mulching, set the height to roughly 4 to 5cm.
Conclusion
The Hyundai GardenTek stood out as our best lawn mower for mulching. It is a good combination of value, durability, power, and features.
Now you know what to look for in the best mulching lawn mowers and some of the leading options, you can safely invest in the one that is best for your needs.
If you have any questions or comments, please let us know below.
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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.
