There are many lawn mowers available. Consumer Reports is one of the best resources to help you choose the right model for your needs. This site provides ratings and reviews of various types, such as riding, push, battery-powered, and self-propelled mowers.
Riding lawnmowers
A riding mower provides a more comfortable and faster way to cut your grass than a push mower. A riding mower is available in a range of deck sizes that can be used across a variety or terrains.
Select a mower designed specifically for the terrain and type of yard that you have. This will allow you to cut your mowing time and achieve the look you are going for.
Depending on the size of your lawn, you may have to consider mowers with a larger diameter, such as models that are 48-inches or 60-inches. These are great choices for large properties with a lot of hills and bumps, as they are able to handle uneven ground.
They are also great for small areas, like around a planter or tree. You may need a larger, heavier-duty riding mower if your plan is to mow the whole yard.
Your budget and needs will determine which riding lawnmower is best for you. Consumer Reports experts have narrowed down their choices to help you make a decision.
The Best Lawn Mowers
To find the top rated riding lawn mowers, the editors at Consumer Reports tested them against a wide range of criteria. The editors of Consumer Reports mowed more that 500,000 square foot of ryegrass to mimic real-world conditions.
They scored each mower based on how it handled the lawn, how well it mulched, etc. They also looked for features such as how easy they were to use and if the mower had any that would 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. A reputable brand that offers excellent customer service can help ensure you have peace of mind.
A warranty can be especially important with high-end mowers. They are often expensive. Consumer Reports suggests a warranty covering all repair expenses over the lifetime of the product, as well providing a new mower at no cost in the event of a malfunction.
Courtney Pennicooke of CR says that a simple mower should be able withstand a certain amount of wear and tear. It's best to invest in a better mower, rather than replace it prematurely.
Consumer Reports recommends purchasing a lawnmower that is made out of steel, rather than aluminum. The mower will be more durable, last longer and perform better.