Your three main types of lawnmower can be electric or petrol-driven but some cylinder mowers are hand-push.
Electric lawnmowers
They're cleaner and lighter than petrol mowers and need minimum maintenance. And they're ideal for people who don't have a lot of time - just plug in and go! If you have a small or medium lawn, go for an electric lawnmower. (Remember you'll need a power source close by, and watch out for that trailing cable.)
Always install an RCD adapter when using an electric mower.
Test the RCD to make sure it's working.
Never cut the grass when it's wet.
Choose a machine with an integral cable and plug tidy so you can reel the cable in.
Get a mower with a lock-off switch so the machine can't be switched on before you're ready.
Petrol lawnmowers
These can be more expensive than electric models. They need more upkeep and you'll have to have some petrol stored. But they're a great choice for larger gardens where you want that extra bit of power. And you won't have a trailing cable to worry about.
Petrol mower start-up
Petrol mowers come with electronic key ignition or a recoil starter. Mowers with electronic key ignition usually cost a little more but they're simple to get going. With the recoil starter, just pull on the starter cord to begin mowing. The recoil action might not be best for infirm or elderly users as you need a bit of strength to pull the cord.
Self-propelled or push?
If you're worried about the weight of a petrol mower, think about a self-propelled lawnmower. There's no need to push so they're really easy to handle. Some self-propelled lawnmowers have variable speed control. You simply adjust to match your walking pace.
Manual
Some cylinder models are propelled manually. Inexpensive and easy to maintain and store, the manual cylinder mower is perfect for small lawns or tiny spaces where you need a really close, fine cut. But if you have difficulty pushing a mower or your garden is on a slope, choose a power mower.
Grass collection
Most grass boxes are detachable - you decide whether you want to collect grass clippings and compost them or just leave them to be reabsorbed into the soil. Obviously, the bigger the grass collection box, the fewer times you'll need to stop and empty it.
Some hover lawnmowers also compact grass in an integral collection box. That means fewer trips to the compost heap!
A clear viewing panel on the collection box lets you see how full it is - you can empty the box before it overfills and chokes the mower.
Stripes
Would you like a striped-effect lawn? Then choose a mower with a rear roller. As the mower cuts, the roller travels over the grass and flattens it in one direction, which gives that stripy effect. A rear roller also lets you mow up to and over the edge of borders. Rotary, cylinder and hover mowers with rear wheels are all available with a rear roller.
Mower safety tips
Never use your electric lawnmower in wet weather.
With electric lawnmowers, check that the socket outlet has RCD protection and test the RCD to make sure it's working.
Position an electric mower's trailing cable away from the cutting direction.
Always switch off (and unplug with an electric mower) and make sure the blades are still before you lift the mower to remove jammed clippings or empty the grass box.
Use and store petrol safely.
Keep children and animals away from the area.
Before you mow, remove stones and thicker twigs and branches that could fly up and hurt you or damage the blades and mower.
Read, understand and follow the manufacturer's instructions before using your lawnmower.
