A push mower isn’t just an eco-friendly alternative to the petrol powered mower, it can also be more suitable for smaller patches of grass due to its lighter weight and manageable size.
Why choose a push mower?
Due to the fact they’re powered by nothing other than your own strength they’re also significantly quieter than motor powered mowers, which means you can tend to your lawn at any time without disturbing your neighbours.
There are plenty of advantages when considering a manual cutter, so we’ve put together our picks of some of the best push mowers below.
You can also read our rundowns of the best lawn mowers and best ride-on mowers.
Best push mowers to buy in 2024
Einhell GC-HM 300 Hand Push Lawn Mower
Key specs
- Weight: 6.5kg
- Number of blades: 5
- Cutting width: 30cm
- Cutting levels: 4
- Collection bag: 16L
Combining five blades made from high-quality steel with a cutting width of 30cm, this mower will be able to take care of green areas that are around 150 metres in size.
It has four different levels to help you tackle the grass, which can be set anywhere between 13mm and 37mm to find whichever height works best for you. It also has a collection box attached to the back which is capable of holding up to 16 litres, however this can also be detached if you prefer, which also makes emptying the cuttings especially easy.
The curved handle has also been ergonomically designed with comfort and convenience in mind.
Bosch AHM 38 G Manual Garden Lawn Mower
Key specs
- Weight: 6.8kg
- Number of blades: 5
- Cutting width: 38cm
- Cutting levels: 12-40mm
- Collection bag: 25L
Ideal for taking care of smaller patches of land that may need a quick tidy, this push mower from Bosch should be simple and easy to use.
It features five helical blades made from hardened steel that should have no trouble taking care of long grass, and the mower weighs just 6.8 kilograms so should be light work to push around.
It has a cutting width of 38 centimetres and should deliver a clean cut, ensuring the surface is nice and even.
The attached grass box also has a capacity of 25 litres which means you can tackle the area in one go without having to stop your progress to keep emptying your haul.
Sovereign 3cm Push Mower
Key specs
- Weight: 6.4kg
- Number of blades: Not specified
- Cutting width: 30cm
- Cutting levels: 18-38mm
- Collection bag: 23L
Boasting a neat finish that should make the grass appear as though it's been precisely cut with a pair of scissors, this push mower has an adjustable height that can manage everything from 18 to 38 millimetres. It also has a sizable grass box capacity with 23 litres of storage.
If you'd like to replicate the striped effect on your lawn for a final flourish this may be the ideal mower for you as it also has a rear roller that can do just that.
Webb WEH30 Push Lawnmower
Key specs
- Weight: 9.1kg
- Number of blades: 6
- Cutting width: 30cm
- Cutting levels: 10-40mm
- Collection bag: 17L
Perfect for manoeuvring around tight corners and small spaces, this push mower from Webb should be especially good at turning circles, making sure the awkward spots on your lawn are not overlooked.
Boasting a reliable design that won't let you down halfway through the job, this traditional styled mower should also be nice and silent so you can tend to your garden at any time without disturbing your neighbours.
It comes with a collection box that can store up to 17 litres, however it also promises a fine cut so the glass clippings can be left behind on the grass to help give your lawn an extra nutrient boost.
Webb 45cm Contact Free Sidewheel Lawnmower
Key specs
- Weight: 21kg
- Number of blades: 5
- Cutting width: 45cm
- Cutting levels: 9 (25-76mm)
- Collection bag: 22L
This versatile mower has a fairly expansive cutting range with nine different heights to choose from that can be aimed from 25mm right up to 76mm. It has two sturdy side wheels to help you move through the taller grass as well as a roller that will give your lawn a striped finish if you opt to use it.
The blade also has a contactless design which should make it last even longer, making this a durable and reliable mower with 22 litres of space in the collection bag to store all your cuttings.
Spear & Jackson 40cm Hand Push Cylinder Lawnmower
Key specs
- Weight: 8.5kg
- Number of blades: 5
- Cutting width: 40cm
- Cutting levels: 15-42mm
- Collection bag: 30L
Featuring five cylinder blades that will chop and trap the grass for a clean finish, this push mower from Spear & Jackson also has a sizable cutting width of 40cm.
It has a decent cutting range of between 1.5cm and 4.2cm as well, alongside a 30 litre capacity which means there's plenty of storage to take on your garden without having to make frequent trips to the compost bin.
MCMP38 Hand-propelled Lawnmower
- Buy now from B&Q (£45.00).
Key specs
- Weight: Not specified
- Number of blades: Not specified
- Cutting width: Not specified
- Cutting levels: 15-40mm
- Collection bag: 25L
Made with a durable steel that will see the mower through many cutting sessions, this push mower has a cutting adjustment level that can sit anywhere between 15mm to 40mm, giving you plenty of scope to work.
The grass box has a capacity of 25 litres and can be collapsed when not in use, helping to free up space in your shed or garden, with a fold down handle attached to make transportation especially easy.
How long do most push mowers last?
When investing in a push mower, it's essential to consider the expected lifespan of the equipment. On average, push mowers can last anywhere from 8 to 15 years, depending on various factors such as maintenance, usage frequency, and build quality. Regular maintenance, including keeping your mower clean and sharpening and oiling the blades, can significantly extend the life of your push mower.
Can push mowers cut long grass?
Push mowers are typically designed for regular grass cutting, but their ability to tackle long grass varies across different models. While some push mowers can handle taller grass with ease, others may struggle or require multiple passes. To ensure efficient cutting of long grass, look for a push mower with adjustable cutting height settings. Additionally, using a mulching blade can help in chopping up longer grass into finer clippings.
What is the fastest way to mow a lawn with a push mower?
To maximize efficiency and speed when mowing your lawn with a push mower, follow these tips:
- Start with the longest straight sections of your lawn and work your way towards the more intricate areas. This way, you can maintain a steady pace and avoid unnecessary backtracking.
- When making each pass with the push mower, overlap the previous path slightly. This ensures that no patches of grass are missed so you won't have to go over the same area more than once.
- Push the mower forward with a steady pace, allowing the blades to cut the grass effectively. Avoid rushing or pushing too quickly, as it may result in an uneven cut or missed spots.
- A sharp blade cuts grass more efficiently, reducing the effort required and improving cutting speed. Regularly clean and sharpen the blade as needed to maintain optimal performance.
By implementing these techniques, you can enhance the efficiency and speed of mowing your lawn with a push mower, achieving a well-maintained yard in less time.
Ultimately, the best push lawn mower is one that meets your specific requirements and provides a hassle-free mowing experience. By investing in a high-quality and reliable push mower, you can take pride in maintaining a well-manicured lawn and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done.
If hard manual labour doesn't tickle your fancy when keeping your lawn in check this summer, take a look at the best robotic lawn mowers for a more laid-back experience.