Mower deck size, explained
Cutting width, lawn size, and fit.
Disclosure: We may earn a commission if you buy through links on this page. It does not change our guidance. Affiliate Disclosure
What the deck is
The deck is the housing over the blade. Its size sets the cutting width: how wide a strip the mower cuts in one pass.
Widths by type
Ohio State says small walk-behind mowers offer relatively narrow cutting widths, usually up to approximately 22 inches. It says riding mowers offer wider cutting widths, some up to 60 inches and wider.
Matching the lawn
Ohio State says to select a mower based on the size of the lawn, operator experience, and preference. It says small walk-behind mowers suit smaller residential lots and trimming around areas larger mowers cannot reach. We do not set a lawn size for each width.
Fit and storage
Measure gates, paths, and the space where the mower will be stored. A wider deck has to fit through all of them.
Sources: Ohio State University Extension, Power Lawn Mowers.
FAQ
General information only. Read the operator's manual before you mow. Keep children and pets indoors or well away from the area you mow, and never let a child ride on a mower as a passenger. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that, in general, children should be at least 12 years old to operate a walk-behind power mower safely and at least 16 to operate a riding mower safely. Before you clear, adjust, or service the blade area, turn the mower off, wait for the blade to stop, and disconnect the spark plug wire; on a battery or corded electric mower, follow the manual to disconnect its power. Refuel outdoors, only with the engine off and cool. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and eye and hearing protection. In an emergency, call 911.
Next: riding mowers
Seats, slopes, no passengers.
