How to Shop for Lawn Mowers

By Maggie McCormick , last updated February 4, 2011

As the weather heats up, you know that you're going to have to start taking care of your lawn, which can mean shopping for a new lawn mower. Walk into a home improvement store and you'll see rows and rows of lawn mowers to choose from. Fortunately, choosing the right one for you doesn't have to be a difficult task.

Decisions, Decisions

You need to decide which type of lawn mower you want. Lawn mowers come in either a push-style or a ride-on style. If you have a large lawn, then a ride-on mower may be a necessity, but if you're lawn is average-sized, consider whether the ease of use is worth the added expense. You may be able to make due with a push mower.

Most popular mowers are gas-powered, but this isn't your only option. A manual mower features rotating blades that move through the act of pushing. Electrical mowers use electricity rather than gas, but check carefully before you purchase. Some electric mowers require you to keep it plugged in with an extension cord as you mow, which can be cumbersome. Look for one that has a battery instead.

Popular Brands

It's always smart to choose a well-known brand over the cheapest version, since the brands are often known for their reliability. Some of the most popular brands for lawn mowers are Black & Decker, Briggs & Stratton, John Deere and Craftsman.

Where to Buy

Home improvement stores often offer good deals on lawn mowers throughout the growing season. You can also find mowers at discount stores like Walmart and Target. The advantage to shopping for your mower at these types of stores is that you can look at the mower you'll buy and simulate using it to see if it's a good fit for your size and weight.

On the other hand, you may be able to get a better price by comparing your options online. The size of a mower may deter you from making an online purchase, but it's still smart to look. Many retailers offer free shipping, so a good deal really is a good deal.

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