Top 7 Best Lawn Mower Blades for Clean and Healthy Garden

Maxpower 561713XB, Maxpower 561713XB, Toro 131-4547-03, EGO Power+ AB2101, EGO Power+ AB2101, Honda HRR, Greenworks 29712, and Maxpower 561556 are some of the top lawn mower blades that deliver clean and fast cuts. Ensure you pick the right one compatible with your models.

The power of a lawnmower lies in its motor and cutting ability. However, it is better to have the best lawn mower blades with sharp edges as they always compensate for a not-so-powerful motor. So, if you notice you are not getting a speedy cut, it is time to replace the blade.

You would need a blade that is tailored for your lawn mower and within your budget. Check the build material, toughness, and hardness to get a durable product that will withstand the highest pressure even when cutting thick grass.

We have taken time to present the 7 best lawn mower blades that have received positive feedback from verified customers. Read through for a wise pick.

What are the best lawn mower blades?

In case you are in a hurry, here is the summary of the best lawn mower blades that help you maintain your garden stress-free.

Maxpower 561713XB: Best overall

 A well-built blade that features bow ties center hole and measures 21 by 2-1/4 inches for a universal fit. It can replace the mower blades with 742-04100, 742-0741, 742-0741A, 942-0741, and 942-0741A OEM numbers.

Maxpower 561713XB: Best for highest cutting depth munching blade

 A powerful 2-set blade that measures 21 inches each for a fast cut at a go. It offers cutting depth due to uniquely designed edges.

Toro 131-4547-03: Best Toro lawn mowers

Before this product hit the market, the owners of Toro mowers had the stress of finding a perfect replacement for their device. Toro 131-4547-03 has been designed with a triple hole to fit most Toro mowers measuring 21-11/16 inches.

EGO Power+ AB2101: Best for bagging

This product is made of genuine Ego parts for excellent compatibility with the brand’s lawn mower. The blade has been designed for bagging, and it offers clean-cut to ensure a healthy lawn.

Honda HRR Blade Set: Best for honda lawn mowers

2-set blades, one for munching and the other for high lifting, are compatible with Honda lawn mowers. Measuring 21 inches, you are sure to use the blade out of package as it is already factory sharpened.

Greenworks 29712 lawn mower Blade Replacement set: Best for durability

A 10-inch steel blade compatible with Greenworks twin force mower, Model 25302. Its rust resistance makes it durable.

Maxpower 561556: Best for versatility

A 6-point star center hole blade replaces 942-04312, 942-04308, 742-04308, 742-04312 and 119-8456 OEM. It can be used on craftsman CMXGZAM110108, Troy-Bilt, Club Cadet, and MTD mower presenting the much-needed versatility.

Comparison table of the best lawn mower blades

Best Lawn mower blade	Best (for)	Manufacturer	Weight
Maxpower 331528B	Overal	MaxPower	1.6lbs
Maxpower 561713XB	Highest cutting depth munching blade	MaxPower	5.2lbs
Toro 131-4547-03	Toro lawn mowers	Toro	1.76lbs
EGO Power+ AB2101	Bagging	Ego Power+	1.75lbs
Honda HRR Blade Set	Honda lawn mowers	Honda	2.94lbs
Greenworks 29712 lawn mower Blade Replacement set	Durability	Greenworks	‎10.5 ounces
Maxpower 561556	Versatility	MaxPower	3.39lbs

Top 7 best lawn mower blades in 2021

Here is the detail review of each selected lawn mower blade to help you make an informed decision.

On top of our list is a powerful and versatile Maxpower 331528B lawn mower blade that can be used on 742-04100, 742-0741, 742-0741A, 942-0741, and 942-0741A OEM numbers. It also fits craftsman CMXGZAM100067. Included is one mulching blade measuring 21″ by 2-1/4″ and features a bow ties center hole for universal fit. So, there are no compatibility issues.

The sturdy built is another amazing feature of Maxpower 331528. You are sure of getting the best cuts even on more demanding tasks. The blade offers excellent balance making it suitable for various lawn works. Furthermore, the device is corrosion-resistant for durability and reliability. You will take less time cutting grass using the blade as its centrifugal airlift design boosts its efficiency.

Plus, the lightweight design ensures you are not fatigued and can get precise cuts in constricted places.

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Maxpower 561713XB is a powerful 2-set munching place that offers the highest cutting depth. Therefore, it is universal and works lawn mowers from various brands such as craftsman, Poulan, and Husqvarna. Compatibility is further enhanced by versatile 5-point start center holes that work with different lawn mowers.

With this blade, you get a 42-inches cutting area as each measure 21 inches in length. So, you can easily cover a large area at a go. And, unlike their counterpart Maxpower 331528B, 561713XB doesn’t leave a trail. Therefore, there is no clean-up burden after the cuts as the side-discharge takes care of all cut-off debris.

Even after the rains, you can attend to your lawn without the worry of getting grass clumps. The blade is designed for an all-weather condition that further enhances the reliability of the product.  To top it all, the blade doesn’t produce much noise; however, you will have to bear its additional weight.

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Toro 131-4547-03 blade is not compatible with lawn mowers from other brands, but it solves the problem for owners of Toro products. It is hard to find a replacement for Toro, so this blade comes in as a savior to many. Apart from compatibility issues, the blade gives you a better cutting angle and longer length for a good munch.  Even after the rains or watering, the blade cuts grass to a suitable size without clumps.

The device features sharp edges that cut with precision and a curved surface that keeps the grass clips in circulation. You will be amazed by the finer and small bits as the serrated edge does wonder. Your lawns benefit from the chipping as you can use the fine bits as fertilizers.

The only turn-off-point for Toro 131-4547-03 is its ability to get dull, which can be sorted through regular sharpening.

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This is a 3-in-1 blade that does discharge, bagging, and mulching functions. However, the EGO Power+ AB2101 is only compatible with EGO lawn mowers models LM2101, LM2100, LM2102SP, LM2100SP and LM2142SP. So, if you seek to enhance your mower from such a brand, this is the best blade in the market. All parts are genuine for quality performance, and high degree compatibility. 

You get clean-cut as the blade comes already sharpened and ready to make your lawn healthy. High lift blade design help achieve cut funnel grass with easier disposal as the clippings are pushed efficiently into storage bags. You will spend minimal effort to achieve a maximum and clean cut.

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This is a blade specifically for Honda lawn mowers with a 21-inch length. The package comes as a set of 2 blades, one for mulching and the other for high-lifting. Each of them is made of quality materials with a protective coating to prevent rust and corrosion.

Honda HRR features a thick design with flat edges to deliver unmatched rapid-cutting action for effortless lawn maintenance. Besides, the blade is double-sided to enhance its capability in mulching and bagging.

Finally, the blades are lightweight for efficient operation, though you will have to bear the not-so-sharp edges. However, you can improve the sharpness by removing the coating. Likewise, the noise can be somewhat loud, unlike the original blades with a Honda lawn mower. So, do the cutting at an appropriate time to avoid waking up your neighbors!

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This is a 10-inch blade that is compatible with Greenworks twin force mower, Model 25302. Its actual length is 1-inch shorter for a good clearance between deck edge and blade tip. Besides, you can always remove the blades with ease for replacement and sharpening.

The blades are made of heat-treated steel for sharp and precise cuts. Also, the material enhances durability for reliable and long-lasting services.

The main challenge with Greenworks 29712 comes during installation. Some customers complain of wrong guidelines on the user manual. However, when you grasp how to do it, it becomes straightforward.

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If you have 42-in Troy-Bilt, Club Cadet, or MTD mower and you need to replace the blade, Maxpower 561556 is the best choice to consider. The blade can replace 942-04312, 942-04308, 742-04308, 742-04312, and 119-8456 OEM numbers presenting a high degree of versatility. Actually, it can as well work on craftsman CMXGZAM110108.

The 6-point star center hole further enhances the compatibility of the blade with various models. With a length of 21-3/16-in and 2-1/4-in width, you can be sure to cover a large area at a go. However, before placing an order, it is always best to verify the OEM number of your lawn mower to avoid any disappointment.

Since the product is manufactured in the USA, there is the assurance of quality standards as per the OEM specifications.

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Factors to consider when buying Lawn Mower Blades (Buyer’s guide)

Given that a lawn mower cannot function optimally without quality blades, it is important to choose wisely when buying the accessory. Here are the considerations:

Length of the blade

Obviously, the first thing to check is the length of the blade to ensure it is a perfect fit for your mower. Most fall within size 16.75 inches and 22 inches, but the longer, the better as it covers a large area at a go. However, wider may not fit easily, and you might want to opt for a shorter that fits well for stress-free cutting.

Width of the blade

Typically, the width of the blade range from 2.25 and 3.5 inches. Pick a tailored blade for your model, as a wider option may not fit, and forcing it can damage your mower. However, the blade should not be too shallow as it might not cut well. So, before placing an order, check your lawn mower’s manual to get the ideal width that works well with your model.

The deck size

Like the width, you need to pick a blade with deck size that fits well to the mower. The size ranges from 16-30 inches, with the long fitting options the best choice. For riding mower, pick a little bigger option since the deck size tends to be higher.

Build material

The build material dictates the durability of your blade. Therefore, look for quality options, especially those made of stainless steel. This material is rust-resistant and stays sharp longer. Any rusting part can be dealt with by painting it.

If you go for lower metal blades, it can bring trouble when using them. Though it is cheaper, the compromise in efficiency and effectiveness can eventually tire you.

Number of blades

Does your mower use a single or double blade? The answer will guide you on the best package to order. For those who use more blades, it will be economical to order it as a set instead of buying single blades. Nonetheless, most push and self-propelled mowers used single blades, therefore no need to buy a set.

The shape of the blade    

The blade’s shape is another important factor to consider. Many tend to replace the exact same shape of the blade, though it is not necessarily a must. But to be sure, check if your previous blade features a perpendicular or parallel shape and buy one the matches it.

Blade holes

These are the latching holes that are used to join the blade to the mower. Most have a 5-point opening, with few having a 6-point opening. So, you need to pick one with the ideal blade hole based on your lawn mower model. Read your mower’s user guide to get its specs to order a blade with the hole that fits perfectly.

Sharpening lawn mower blades

Taking care of your lawn necessitates you to sharpen blades when cutting. Dull blades roughly rip through grass, leaving ragged tips that are susceptible to diseases and pests. You can sharpen using a bench grinder, angle grinder, rotary tool, or a hand file.

Clamp and file

Secure the blade in a vice, and then apply pressure to the file while running the edge of the blade perpendicular to it. This will grind down the edge and smoothens out any imperfections.  Once you are done with one side, reposition the blade and do the same on the other side of the edge. You will hone the blade’s edge shape. And though this method is slower, the result is quite impressive.

Bench grinder

Bench grinder sharpens the blades faster and requires that you are well equipped before beginning the process. The grinder has a spinning wheel, and therefore you need protective wear such as work gloves, earplugs, and eyewear. You power the grinder and strategically place the blade’s edge to tough the grinder such that as the wheel spins, the device gets sharpened. Though the file does work well, bench grinders are best used when the blade is heavily damaged.

Drill and blade sharpening stone

Unlike the bench grinder, blade sharpening drills are small and affordable. It sharpens better and faster than the file with reduced error as stone hugs that edge of the blade.

This video will help you sharpen with drill:

Cleaning lawn mower blades

Keeping your blades clean is essential as the benefits trickle down to your garden. The tips of the lawn will be cut well, reducing the chances of pest and disease infestation.

The following steps help keep your blades clean:

• Wear well-built work gloves as you will be handling sharp blades
• Empty the mower’s fuel tank by turning it upside down. This allows you to access the blade for cleaning and ensures there is no risk of spills. Use the hand pump to siphon the fuels or empty it dry.
• Detach the spark plug wire to ensure there is no risk of running current. As well, you are safe from any chance of mower powering on that could cause cut accidents. You can either remove it by pulling upwards, while some models require the use of a wench.
• Spray the blade using a high-pressure hose sprayer to get rid of all grass and any other debris. Laying the mower on its side is ideal as you can easily access the blade for effective spray.
• Now take a stiff bristles brush and clean off any remaining debris that was not gotten rid of by the hose.
• Use a ratchet set to detach the blade from the lawn mower. It does not come off easily, so use a long-handled wrench to apply the necessary force.
• At this point, you can sharpen the blade using the method of your preference.
• If the blade is still sharp, go ahead and oil it together with its housing. Vegetable oil is ideal, and the process help reduce the chance of debris accumulating on the blade. It also makes it rust-resistant.

Types of lawn mower blades  

Mulching blades

Mulching blades are used to perform most lawn tasks, hence a multipurpose option. The surface is curved, allowing the blade to work in three different ways. First, it cuts the grass, which is then sucked inside and chopped into small pieces. Finally, the pressure produced by the innermost blade curve blows the grass tiny pieces out. These blown-out pieces are important fertilizers to your lawn.

High lift mower blades

These are the blades that offer great suction power as their edges have a specific vertical angle. Due to great suction, the high lift blades are best for bagging. It is so efficient that there is minimum chance of cut grass clogging up at the cutting area. Compact and tall grass can also be cut easily using this type of blade. However, for it to work optimally, your mower should have a higher horsepower engine.

Low lift blades

These are for residential use as it is not powerful enough for professional-level jobs. The low lift types have low suction power and work best when mowing terrain with sandy soil. As a result, it is suitable for maintaining small lawns with less wild grass. On the positive, the blades are easy to maintain and consume less power.

Medium lift blades

Medium types strike a balance between low lift and high lift blades. Unlike the low lift, medium types handle bigger works and cut thick grass and weed the lawn with ease. It is most standard, easy to find, and suitable for both residential and professional work. However, it does not cut harshly as the high lift types.

Gator (3-in-1) blade

These are blades that combine the features of the other four for versatility.  It features serrated sections at both ends for higher lift mulching. However, it compromises a little on each area to strike a balance, so it cannot mulch and lift too well than the blades specifically designed. Yet, due to its all-around use, it remains popular.

FAQs

Are Gator blades better than mulching blades?

Gutter blades are far much better than mulching blades, especially if you look forward to a clean cut. Instead of pushing the grass down like mulching types, the gator’s high lift feature draws the grass up, resulting in an even and clean cut. Further, the high lift feature makes gators the best blades for bagging.

The gators also have raised angled teeth that do not cut but push redirect airflow. As a result, the cut grass is pushed back to the cutting edge repeatedly for tiny clippings, resulting in high-quality slashes. So, you will only sharpen the actual blade just as you would with any other standard type.

Do high lift blades cut better?

High lift blades cut better than low lift as it works best on both short and long grass. It has powerful suction that circulates and expels grass clippings leaving your lawn clean. The larger unique wind wings of the high lift blades create higher airflow, preventing any clogging even when cutting wet or tall grass.

On the other hand, low lifts blades are good for dry and shorter grass and thus best for small lawns.

Does mower blade brand matter?

The brand of the mower blade is not so important as long as you ensure the blade is designed to fit your lawn mower. The blades are interchangeable as long as the length and the center hole match that of your model. Check that the hole spacing is accurate, and you can tighten the bolts well to avoid any accidents that can happen if the blade flies off the mower.

Final Words

Keep your lawn well-cut and clean by replacing your old blade with the ones reviewed here. The ones selected have received positive feedback from verified customers, and you are guaranteed quality services. However, ensure that the blade is compatible with your model by checking the length, hole design, and width. The deck size, the built quality, and the number of blades should also be your guiding factor.

Nonetheless, if you have a lawn mower with OEM numbers 742-04100, 742-0741, 742-0741A, 942-0741, and 942-0741A, go for Maxpower 331528B. It is the best overall in our list as it featuresbow ties center hole for universal fit. The blade is also lightweight, rust-resistant, durable, and centrifugal airlift design to boost its efficiency.