When it comes to mowing your lawn, it’s not just about how often you mow—it’s also about how you manage the grass clippings. Most modern lawnmowers offer three cutting options: mulching, side discharge, and bagging. Each method has its pros and cons, and understanding when to use each one can help you maintain a healthier lawn with less effort.
Mulching: Feeding Your Lawn Naturally
What It Does:
Mulching mowers chop grass clippings into fine pieces and return them to the lawn, where they decompose and return nutrients to the soil.
When to Use It:
Mulching is ideal for regular lawn maintenance, especially when you’re cutting only about one-third of the grass blade. It works best when the grass is dry and not overly long.
Pros:
- Naturally fertilizes your lawn.
- Reduces waste and eliminates the need for disposal.
- Saves time since there’s no need to stop and empty a bag.
Cons:
- Not ideal for tall or wet grass, as clippings may clump and smother the lawn.
- Requires a mulching blade or a specific setting on your mower.
Best For:
Eco-conscious homeowners who mow regularly and want to improve soil health over time.
Side Discharge: Quick and Efficient
What It Does:
Side discharge mowers expel clippings out the side of the mower deck, dispersing them in rows as you mow.
When to Use It:
This method is best when mowing tall, thick, or wet grass—like after a long vacation or during fast-growing spring months.
Pros:
- Handles tall or damp grass better than other methods.
- Keeps the mower from clogging.
- Generally faster, especially for larger lawns.
Cons:
- Leaves visible clumps of grass, which may require raking.
- Can spread weed seeds and requires attention to direction to avoid blowing clippings onto sidewalks or driveways.
Best For:
Large or overgrown lawns, or when mowing less frequently.
Bagging: A Clean Finish
What It Does:
Bagging mowers collect clippings in an attached container, which you then empty into a compost pile or yard waste bin.
When to Use It:
Use bagging when you want a pristine, clean-cut lawn with no clippings left behind—especially useful before hosting events or during the fall to collect leaves.
Pros:
- Leaves the lawn looking clean and tidy.
- Prevents spreading weed seeds or fungal spores.
- Useful for composting or collecting leaves.
Cons:
- More time-consuming due to emptying the bag.
- Doesn’t return nutrients to the lawn.
- Requires storage space for the bag attachment.
Best For:
Smaller lawns, homeowners focused on appearance, or times when grass is too long or full of weeds.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right mowing method depends on your lawn’s condition, your goals, and how often you mow. For general lawn health and convenience, mulching is often the best choice. When dealing with overgrowth, side discharge is the most practical. If you’re aiming for a polished look, bagging delivers the cleanest results. Switching between methods as needed can give you the healthiest and best-looking lawn year-round.