High-Lift Blades and Mulching Blades

The most important function of your lawn mower is to cut your grass and the biggest factor in achieving a quality cut is your lawn mower blade. While all blades cut the grass, not all lawn mower blades are created equal. Different types of lawn mower blades function differently, and there are two styles of blades you should be aware of – high-lift blades and mulching blades.

High-lift blades

High-lift blades are also referred to as 2-in-1 blades. These blades aid in assist in cutting grass and discharging the grass clippings out from the deck to fall back onto your lawn. High-lift blades are designed to create higher-lifting airflow. These blades can be identified by a drastic upward angle on the back end of the blade, which helps to propel the clippings through the discharge chute to the back of the bag, reducing clogging.

Mulching blades

Mulching blades are also referred to as 3-in-1 blades. They cut the grass into extremely small particles, eliminating the need to frequently unload heavy bags or pick up clumps of grass clippings. This method of cutting has a positive effect on the health of your lawn. The mulching blades chop grass clippings into small particles that can become a natural fertilizer. That fertilizer replenishes the soil with nutrients that your grass has absorbed over the season.

Mulching blades are designed with a more curved style surface. They frequently include extra cutting surfaces along the blade edges and may also come in a “+” design. The “+” design is two individual blades arranged in a perpendicular manner to enhance mulching. Usually older style mowers utilize this blade design.

Mulching blades are used with mulch kits. Mulch kits generally consist of mulching blades, a mulching plug which closes off the discharge opening to keep grass clippings contained under the deck for re-cutting, and any necessary hardware for installation.

There is a different lawn mower blade for different situations and each one serves a very specific purpose. There isn’t one lawn mower blade that can do it all as effectively as the lawn mower blade specifically designed for the method you wish to use.