What Does Cutting Width Mean on a Lawn Mower?
Cutting width is the width of grass cut in a single pass, typically 30-32cm for small electric mowers up to 50cm+ for larger petrol models. A wider cutting width covers a lawn in fewer passes, saving time on bigger gardens, but wider mowers are heavier and less manoeuvrable around borders, beds and tight corners.
Understanding cutting width is crucial when choosing a lawn mower to ensure it’s appropriately sized for your garden. The stated width – often around 30-32cm for compact electric mowers or extending beyond 50cm for larger petrol models – represents the distance between the front and rear blades as they rotate. However, this isn't always a simple measurement; manufacturers sometimes use ‘overall cutting width,’ which includes the body of the mower itself. You can accurately check this by measuring from the edge of the mowing deck to the edge of the housing with a flexible tape measure. It’s vital to consider this when assessing how efficiently a mower will cover your lawn, particularly if you have a larger area. Smaller mowers might require multiple passes over a bigger garden, while wider models offer greater speed but can struggle in confined spaces – think around flowerbeds or narrow paths.
Related categories
FAQ
How do I know which cutting width is right for my lawn size?+
Generally, smaller lawns (under 100 square metres) benefit from a narrower cutting width, around 30-40cm, to allow for more frequent passes and avoid scalping. Larger gardens – over 200 square metres – will typically perform better with a wider cutting width of 50cm or more to reduce the number of passes needed and provide a neater finish.
What does ‘overall cutting width’ actually mean?+
‘Overall cutting width’ includes the entire mower body, not just the blades. This measurement is often listed on product specifications and gives you a better sense of the area covered by each pass. Always check both figures to understand the true potential performance.
Why do some mowers have different cutting widths despite similar features?+
Manufacturers might use slightly varying blade geometries or deck designs, impacting the actual cutting width achieved. It’s worth reading reviews and comparing specifications carefully beyond just the stated width; look for independent tests if available.
Is a wider cutting width *always* better?+
Not necessarily. A significantly wider mower might be harder to manoeuvre, especially on uneven ground or around obstacles. Consider the layout of your garden before prioritizing maximum cutting width – manoeuvrability is often more important for ease of use.
How does cutting width relate to grass collection?+
Wider decks generally collect more clippings in a single pass, reducing the need for multiple passes and improving overall lawn health. However, very wide mowers can sometimes create drag, potentially causing uneven cutting if not balanced correctly.
What’s the impact of cutting width on grass quality?+
Consistent cutting with the appropriate width helps maintain a healthy lawn by preventing ‘tear feeding,’ where long grass is repeatedly cut in one pass. A wider mower can reduce this effect, but proper technique (e.g., overlapping passes slightly) remains essential.
I’ve seen mowers advertised as having a ‘wide-area cutting system’. What does that mean?+
This typically refers to designs with multiple blades or strategically positioned cutting elements designed to increase the effective cutting width and improve cut quality, often found on higher-end models – it doesn't necessarily equate to a significantly wider physical deck.
Can I adjust the cutting width on my mower?+
Many modern mowers allow you to adjust the cutting width, offering flexibility for different lawn sizes. However, remember that adjusting the width can impact performance and may require adjustments to your mowing technique.
What’s the difference between cutting width and deck size?+
Cutting width is the distance covered by the blades, while deck size refers to the overall dimensions of the mower’s cutting area. A larger deck generally allows for a wider cutting width but can make the mower heavier and less agile.
What should I check when measuring my lawn's area?+
Use a tape measure to determine the length and width of your garden, then multiply these figures to find the square footage. This is essential for accurately assessing which cutting width will be most suitable for your space – remember to account for any obstacles or areas you don’t want to mow.