Five Benefits of a Manual Push Mower AKA Reel Mower

Why don't I have a manual push mower? We ended up being given a free gas mower when we moved into our new home. We're on a tight budget, so we took the free mower. If not for that, we had already decided on a reel mower. In fact, when this mower breaks down, that's the avenue we've decided to take. There are a lot of good reasons to own a manual push mower. It isn't just about saving the earth, but that is a big part of it.

Reel mowers don't pollute. That fact alone would have made our decision easy. Protecting the environment is very important to both of us. Neither of us are city people. We're not impressed with fancy gadgets and noise. We like the simple life. We're both happiest when puttering around the yard. Somehow the idea of polluting our little paradise just doesn't suit our style.

Manual push mowers are cheap. I would say inexpensive, but I'm not that fancy. I tell it like it is. In fact, you can buy a reel mower for under $100. Even the deluxe model comes in under $200. While it's true, a cheap gas mower can be under $200. as well, it won't be as reliable as the push mower and requires a lot of maintenance.

There's very little maintenance involved with a reelmower. There aren't a lot of moving parts to replace. You don't need oil, gas or electricity to run them. You do have to lubricate the parts occasionally. You have to keep the blades sharp. They don't break down very much. In fact, my Dad had one that he had since he was a kid. He was in his fifties when I left home. It still hadn't broken down.

A manual push mower is good exercise, but lightweight. They are admittedly, a little harder to push than a self propelled mower. They're definitely harder than a riding mower. Still, I like them just for those reasons. I think we need a little more exercise in our day anyway. Why not get it through a little good honest work? The newer reel mowers aren't quite the struggle the old ones were. I think I can handle it.

Manual push mowers are quiet and they don't bruise the grass. You can mow at midnight (without disturbing the neighbors). What's more, they're actually better for your lawn. They don't rip and tear at the grass the way motorized mowers do. So all that sodding, plugging and sprigging you did won't go to waste. Keep the blades sharp and you get a nice clean cut. You can buy a bag for your reel mower if you like, but it's not necessary. They spread cut grass evenly to give your lawn a fertilizer boost.

Anyone want a free gas mower? I think I've just talked myself into buying a manual push mower this year.

More from this contributor:

Five Tips for No-Fuss Home Landscaping

Where to Plant Wildflowers in Your Yard

Backyard Mini Golf Course - Five Fun Cheap Ideas

Source:

Personal experience