by It is a common misconception that a bigger mower is always better. In fact, bigger mowers have big disadvantages. If you have a small lawn, or are planning your first DIY mowing session, you might be tempted to buy a big mower as it will take less time to finish your task. Yet, according to our guide, bigger mowers also have many drawbacks that make them less efficient than smaller ones: they are harder to use and they don’t cut the grass evenly. In other words, they can waste more time than regular mowers.
Still, if you have a big lawn and want to make the most of your time and effort, you should opt for a riding mower.
1. A Bigger Mower Takes Longer to Cut the Grass
The most obvious disadvantage of bigger mowers is that they are slower than smaller ones. Whereas a regular walk-behind mower can complete the job in less than half an hour, a big mower will take much longer. For example, according to some users, it takes around 60-90 minutes to mow a 1/2 acre with a 42-inch commercial mower. The mowing time depends on how big the lawn is, how often it’s mowed and whether the ground is uneven. It also depends on the height of the grass.
If you want to save time, you should opt for a smaller walk-behind mower with a 21-inch cutting deck. A unit like that can complete the job in less than half an hour.
2. Higher Chance of Inefficiency and Injury
Because a bigger mower needs more time to cut the grass, it’s more likely to get stuck and stop working in case of obstacles like rocks or tree roots. And if something goes wrong while you are mowing, you are more likely to get injured as you have to walk faster and push a heavy machine. Because of these dangers, bigger mowers are not recommended for people who have never used a mower before. If you are not physically fit, it’s better to start with a small unit instead.
3. Takes More Space to Store and Transport
A bigger mower is more difficult to store, as you need a truck or a trailer to transport it. If you don’t have enough space in your garage or shed and you don’t want to leave it outside, you should opt for a smaller mower.
4. More Expensive
Larger mowers are more expensive. A 42-inch commercial walk-behind mower costs at least twice as much as a 20-inch unit of the same brand. And professional mowers are usually much more expensive than the ones you can find in your local garden supply store.
5. Difficult to Start
If you have weak arms and hands, a larger mower might be hard to start. The starter cord is usually located at the back of the mower, so you have to turn it around to pull it. This takes strength and time.
6. Needs More Maintenance
Because of their higher chance of damage from obstacles and their bigger size, bigger mowers need more maintenance. You might need more oil, more fuel, and more spare parts for repairs. Some models also require special tools for servicing.
7. Harder to Maneuver
Bigger mowers are harder to maneuver because of their bigger size, which can get in your way as you mow. You might also need to make more turns with a larger mower, which can be hard and time-consuming. A smaller mower is easier to move around obstacles, and doesn’t need as many turns.
8. Might Be Too Heavy for You
If you have a weak back or are just not very strong, a large mower might be too heavy for you to push. Larger mowers usually weigh more than smaller ones. And some models can weigh as much as 75 pounds!
Why Choose a Smaller mower
1. A Smaller Mower is Easier to Store
Because of their compact size, small mowers are easier to store. You can keep them in your garage or even under your bed!
2. Takes Up Less Space on Your Lawn
Smaller mowers often take up less space on your lawn than bigger mowers. They are lighter, so you don’t need to make as many passes to cut your lawn. Also, when a smaller mower doesn’t need to make as many turns or go around obstacles, you can save time by mowing your lawn faster.
3. Help Your Lawn Stay Healthier
A smaller mower is gentler when it comes to mowing your lawn. It doesn’t have to go over the same area twice, or go over the same area more than once at all. So, you don’t have to worry about compacting your soil. Also, smaller mowers can cut closer to plants, so you don’t need to worry about cutting off as much of your grass. A smaller mower can help your lawn stay healthier and grow better than a bigger one.
4. Cheaper
Smaller mowers are cheaper than big ones. You won’t need to spend a lot of money on a small mower, which means you can save money and spend it on other things. Smaller mowers don’t need as much maintenance, either, which helps keep your costs down.
5. Better for Your Back
Smaller mowers are easier to push and use than bigger ones. So, a smaller mower can help your back stay healthier and stronger.
6. Better for the Environment
Smaller mowers are often designed to help you use less gas. This means they can reduce your carbon footprint. Also, they are easier to store, which can help save space in landfills and other places. They usually weigh less, so they take up less space when you throw them away. So, a smaller mower can help you be better for the environment!
7. A Smaller Mower is More Fun to Use
Smaller mowers are easier to use. This means you can get your work done faster and start enjoying the rest of your day sooner.
Conclusion
Smaller mowers are better than bigger ones, and there are lots of good reasons why. So, if you’re looking to buy a mower, try to get a smaller one that you can use for all your lawn care needs. You’ll be glad you did!
