There are many lawn mowers available. Consumer Reports has a wide range of resources that can help you pick the right model. The site features ratings and review of different types of mowers. These include riding, pushing, self propelled, and battery powered models.
Riding Lawn Mowers
A riding mower is a faster and more comfortable way to mow your lawn than a traditional push mower. They are available in different deck sizes, and can be used for a variety terrains.
Select a mower designed specifically for the terrain and type of yard that you have. This will help you achieve the look that you desire and reduce your mowing.
You may want to consider larger mowers, like those that measure 48 inches or 60 inches, depending on the size of your property. These mowers are perfect for large yards with lots of hills and bumps. They can also handle uneven terrain.
These are also good options for mowing small areas of your yard, such as around a flower bed or a tree. You may need a larger, heavier-duty riding mower if your plan is to mow the whole yard.
The best riding lawn mower for you depends on your specific needs and budget. Consumer Reports' experts have put together their top three choices to help narrow down your options.
Best Riding Lawn Mowers
To find the top rated riding lawn mowers, the editors at Consumer Reports tested them against a wide range of criteria. They mowed ryegrass over 500,000 sq. ft. in various conditions to simulate real-world situations.
The mowers were scored on their ability to mulch, cut and handle the lawn. They also considered how easy the mower was to use, and if there were any features which could improve its performance.
Some of these features include a powerful engine, an ergonomic design for the seat, a seat-suspension system that eliminates vibrations, or a safety feature to prevent the mower from tipping and injuring people.
Pay attention to your mower's warranty. You can have peace of mind by choosing a brand with a good reputation and excellent customer service.
The warranty is particularly important for high-end lawn mowers because they are expensive. The experts at Consumer Reports recommend a warranty that will cover any repair costs over the life of the machine, as well as provide a replacement mower for free should anything go wrong.
Courtney Pennicooke, CR's product expert, says even a basic lawnmower should be able withstand some wear over time. It is better to buy a quality mower rather than having to replace it too soon.
Consumer Reports recommends purchasing a lawnmower that is made out of steel, rather than aluminum. This will increase the durability and lifespan of the mower, while also improving its performance.