An honest, experience-led review of the LawnMaster 18 Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower (LMRM1801), based on real user feedback, covering features, pricing, and early impressions for US buyers.
A Closer Look Before You Buy
The LawnMaster 18 Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower, model LMRM1801, is a manual reel mower aimed at homeowners who want a simple, low-maintenance way to keep a small lawn tidy. Priced roughly between $100 and $120 in the US, it sits in that affordable middle ground where expectations tend to be practical rather than premium.
This mower has attracted a lot of positive attention, particularly from people trying to move away from gas or electric models. At the same time, some mixed and negative feedback suggests it is not a perfect fit for everyone. I think it is worth approaching it with an open mind, especially if you are used to powered mowers and are considering a switch to manual cutting.
First Impressions
One of the main talking points is the 18-inch cutting width paired with a 5-blade reel. LawnMaster promotes a scissor-like cut, which supports cleaner trimming and may help reduce stress on grass blades compared to rotary mowers. In theory, this can improve lawn appearance over time, although results seem to depend heavily on grass type and mowing frequency.
Cutting Heights
The mower offers adjustable cutting heights, with settings ranging from about 1.1 inches up to 2.5 inches across nine positions. This flexibility helps, especially for users who like a neater finish or are managing seasonal growth changes. However, it is worth noting that the maximum height may feel limiting if your lawn tends to grow thick or slightly wild.
Key Features
Its manual, motorless design means no fuel, no cords, and very little ongoing cost. The 10-inch front wheels and relatively lightweight build support manoeuvrability, though durability perceptions vary. The included grass collection bag is a nice extra, but expectations should stay realistic given the price point.
At this stage, I would say the LawnMaster LMRM1801 looks promising on paper, but real-world experiences are where the full picture starts to form.
Positive Reviews
Overall, the positive feedback around the LawnMaster 18 Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower is detailed, enthusiastic, and often grounded in real use rather than first impressions alone. Many owners clearly understand what they are buying, a manual mower, and judge it on those terms rather than comparing it unfairly to gas or electric models.
Easy Assembly and Straightforward Setup
One of the most consistent positives is how simple the mower is to assemble. Several users highlighted that setup took only a few minutes, with no tools required.
Comments like “Anyone can put this together in less than 5 minutes” and “I had it out of the box and assembled in less than 10 min” come up repeatedly. Even first-time users found it manageable, with one noting, “I’m a girl who put this together by myself. It was very easy”, although they did mention the final handle step required some strength. This ease of setup seems to reduce early frustration, which I reckon plays a big role in overall satisfaction.
Cutting Performance on Well-Maintained Lawns
Many reviewers were genuinely impressed with the cut quality, especially compared to rotary mowers. The scissor-style action gets a lot of praise.
One user described the results as “Cut quality superb much better than any rotary”, while another said it “works fantastic and very easy to adjust, push and clean”. Even in less-than-ideal conditions, some buyers reported solid results, including “despite that the grass was tall and wet it worked just amazing”.
That said, positive reviewers often mention mowing regularly and sometimes doing multiple passes, which suggests the mower performs best with consistent upkeep rather than neglected lawns.
Quiet, Peaceful and Surprisingly Enjoyable
A theme that comes up more than you might expect is enjoyment. Several users describe mowing as relaxing rather than a chore.
One review calls it “oddly peaceful and relaxing using this little machine”, while another simply says, “Awesome, at the beginning little difficult, then, completely fun”. For some, the lack of noise and fumes appears to be a major quality-of-life improvement.
I think this aspect will appeal most to people who see lawn care as light exercise rather than a task to rush through.
A Light Workout Rather Than a Drawback
Instead of complaining about effort, many positive reviewers frame the physical aspect as a benefit.
Comments like “I treat it like a workout so its no big deal for me”, “Work out 101”, and “requires muscle but will not disappoint” suggest buyers went in with realistic expectations. One reviewer even noted, “Takes just as much force and energy as owning a rotary manual push lawn mower”.
There is also reassurance for different age groups, with one stating, “I have seen an 80 year old push reel mowers easily”, though strength requirements still come up occasionally.
No Gas, No Batteries, Less Hassle
A major reason people choose this mower is simplicity. The freedom from cords, fuel, and batteries is repeatedly praised. Statements such as “I no longer worry about an extension cord getting in the way” and “Best purchase because I don’t have to deal with gas or an electric one dying” show how appealing this can be. Another reviewer summed it up neatly, “No batteries or gas to deal with”.
For buyers tired of maintenance-heavy machines, this seems to be a strong selling point.
Suitable For Small Yards and Light Maintenance
Many five-star reviews come from owners with small to medium lawns. Typical comments include “Perfect for a small yard”, “Needed something small to maintain our front lawn and this was perfect”, and “My yard is roughly 1000 SF”.
Storage also gets positive mentions, with one user noting, “I love how small it is to store it as well”. This compact size appears to suit urban and suburban homeowners especially well.
Grass Catcher and Extra Practical Touches
The included collection bag divides opinion elsewhere, but some positive reviewers found it genuinely useful.
One detailed review says, “The bag works great with some minor adjustments… filled the bag all the way to the top”, while another notes, “the catcher attachment was so useful for other lawn need”. Expectations here seem key, those who treat it as a bonus rather than a full vacuum tend to be happier.
Family Friendly and Safe to Use
A few reviews highlight how safe and accessible the mower feels. One particularly telling comment says, “My son wanted one for his 8th birthday… it’s super easy to use and safe”. While adult supervision obviously matters, this reinforces the idea that the mower feels less intimidating than powered alternatives.
Overall Sentiment from Positive Buyers
Taken together, positive reviews paint a picture of a mower that does what it claims, as long as buyers understand its limitations. Phrases like “Great buy”, “Worth keeping”, “Good value mower”, and “Highly recommended” appear frequently.
I reckon most satisfied owners are those who wanted a simple, manual solution and judged the LawnMaster LMRM1801 on those terms rather than expecting gas-mower convenience.
Mixed Reviews
The mixed reviews for the LawnMaster 18 Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower are where the most useful buying insights tend to appear. These are not outright rejections of the mower, but rather balanced experiences from users who found both strengths and limitations after real-world use. I think this section is especially important if you are trying to decide whether this mower fits your lawn rather than just your budget.
Works Well, But Only in the Right Conditions
A recurring theme is that the mower does cut grass, but only when conditions are reasonably favorable. One reviewer summed it up bluntly with “Cuts grass. Does NOT collect grass”, while another noted, “Works better than I expected, cuts lawn even once you get it dialed in”.
Several users emphasized that this mower performs best on small, flat, well-maintained lawns. One detailed review clearly stated, “This mower is NOT meant for a half acre lawn. If you have a smaller, flat, city type lawn, this is ideal for you”. When used outside of those conditions, effort and frustration tend to increase quickly.
Grass Type, Height, And Moisture Matter a Lot
Many mixed reviews focus on how sensitive the mower is to grass conditions. Taller, thicker, or wet grass often caused problems.
Comments like “Long, thick or wet grass… you will have to use a longer setting and have to go over it twice” and “First if grass and weeds above 6–7 inches this just pushes down without cutting” come up repeatedly. Another reviewer noted, “My grass grows QUICK, so once every two weeks wasn’t going to work with this mower”.
Weeds were another common challenge, with users saying things like “It does not like to cut weeds” and “didn’t mow down a certain weed… it just went right over it”. I reckon this is one of the biggest deciding factors for potential buyers.
A Genuine Workout for Many Users
Even those who rated the mower positively often described it as physically demanding. One reviewer put it simply, “This will give you a WORKOUT”, while another said, “Hard to push”.
The effort increases noticeably in uneven areas or when cutting at lower height settings. One detailed review explained, “Shorter setting equals more effort” and warned that thick grass “takes EFFORT and is not for the weary”. For some, this was acceptable, for others, it became a dealbreaker.
Struggles With Uneven Ground and Obstacles
Uneven lawns, holes, sticks, and debris appear frequently in mixed feedback. Users reported that “sticks, mulch… will immediately stop the blade” and that “a stick the size of a number two pencil will bring you to a dead stop”.
Hills were also a problem, with one reviewer explaining, “You really need to go down, not up”, as pushing uphill can force the blade into the turf. Even small holes could cause issues, as “if you hit a hole with a wheel, it’ll halt”.
Grass Catcher: Useful, But Far from Perfect
The grass catcher divides opinion. Some users liked having it, but many mixed reviewers found it frustrating.
Comments include “The basket does not stay on”, “Catcher gets full fast”, and “the bag kept coming off”. Others mentioned that clippings tend to collect on the rear plate when the catcher is not used, with one reviewer planning to try “a little silicone spray” to reduce buildup.
Still, some saw value in it, especially for composting, noting that leaving clippings behind seemed to “make my grass thicker and healthier”.
Maneuverability and Handling Limitations
While generally described as compact, turning can be awkward in tight spaces. One reviewer explained, “It’s somewhat difficult to turn, especially… on a shorter setting as you no longer have leverage with the handle”.
Another important point raised was blade placement. As one user warned, “Make sure you have the edge of the blade where you want to cut, not the edge of the wheel”, noting that edging still requires extra trimming.
Build Quality and Maintenance Observations
Build quality impressions were mostly positive, with comments like “Seems very well built” and “utilizing quality materials”. However, some users felt it was heavier than expected, stating, “This mower seems to weigh much more than described”.
Maintenance also came up, including “slight squeaking noise after a couple uses” and remarks that “the blades needed sharpened” out of the box. These are not unusual for manual mowers, but worth factoring in.
A Good Backup or Niche Tool for Some Owners
Several mixed reviewers said they would not use this mower as their primary tool but still found it useful. Examples include “I will probably use for quick trimming but not for overall mowing” and “Overall quite pleased with using this for small areas that my regular mower can’t reach”.
Others acknowledged its strengths while admitting it was not right for them personally, saying “I can totally see how this would be perfect for someone else though”.
Overall Mixed Sentiment
The mixed reviews suggest the LawnMaster LMRM1801 can be a solid, budget-friendly option when used exactly as intended. It seems to reward frequent mowing, flat terrain, and realistic expectations. I think most three- and four-star reviewers were not disappointed with the product itself, but rather with how demanding manual mowing can be if your lawn conditions are less than ideal.
Negative Reviews
The negative reviews for the LawnMaster 18 Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower highlight where expectations and real-world performance clearly fail to align for some buyers. These experiences are often shaped by lawn conditions, build issues, or quality control concerns rather than misunderstanding the concept of a manual mower alone. I think this section is especially important for anyone with thicker grass, uneven terrain, or limited patience for adjustments and troubleshooting.
Struggles With Thick, Tall or Dense Grass
By far the most common complaint is poor performance in thick or fast-growing grass types. Several users reported that the mower simply could not cope with certain lawns.
Comments include “My Bermuda grass is so heavy, I CAN'T PUSH THE PUSH MOWER THROUGH IT!” and “Only works if your grass is already short”. Others noted that bluegrass, dandelions, and weeds were left standing, with one reviewer saying “The blades did not cut the blue grass, dandelions other weeds”.
Tall grass caused repeated stalling, with users explaining “Grass wound around and I couldn’t make it move” and “Doesn’t work on tall grass. It kept getting stuck”. For buyers who cannot mow frequently, this appears to be a major dealbreaker.
Blade Sharpness and Cutting Complaints
Several low-rated reviews questioned blade sharpness right out of the box. One particularly blunt comment reads, “The blades are not sharp enough to actually cut the grass”. Another said, “It doesn’t matter how many times we go over a spot, the grass just pops back up”.
Some users felt the mower jammed because “the blades were not as sharp as they could have been”, leading to frustration rather than gradual learning. This suggests quality consistency may vary between units.
Jamming, Stalling and Wheels Locking Up
A number of one-star reviews describe mechanical issues where the mower stopped rolling altogether.
One user explained that “the big wheels that spin the blade would seize up and stop spinning and just start sliding across the grass tearing up the lawn”. Others described constant interruptions, saying it “jams every 40 seconds” or “kept getting stuck instantly and would not move forward”.
These experiences often occurred regardless of height settings, which understandably led to returns and refunds.
Grass Catcher Problems and Poor Attachment Design
The grass catcher is another major pain point in negative reviews. Many users described it as unreliable or poorly designed.
Complaints include “The grass catcher doesn’t stay on”, “Bag comes off over and over and over again”, and “The basket hook came defective on one side”. Several users also said the basket barely collected clippings, forcing them to rake afterward anyway.
For buyers expecting cleaner results, this became a source of serious irritation.
Uneven Lawns and Terrain Issues
Uneven ground is repeatedly mentioned as a reason the mower failed to perform. Users with bumpy yards reported extreme effort or complete inability to move the mower.
One reviewer compared pushing it to “trying to move a dead 1,700 pound elephant off of the street by yourself”, while another warned it is “a poor mower for any yard that has bumpy dirt or holes in it”. Inclines were also a problem, with one stating it “does not work at all if there is any incline in the lawn”. This reinforces the idea that this mower is highly sensitive to terrain.
Noise Complaints and Squeaking Issues
While many reviews praise the mower for being quieter than gas models, at least one severe complaint focused on noise.
A one-star reviewer described “the worst squealing, squeaking sound”, calling it “a nuisance to the neighbors” and claiming that oiling did not help. While this appears less common, it is worth noting for buyers expecting near-silent operation.
Quality Control, Damage and Missing Parts
Several negative reviews point to problems straight out of the box. These include “box with no instructions and parts missing”, “mower was bent and damaged upon unboxing”, and “left rear wheel was bent”.
Others felt the product looked used or poorly packed, saying it “looks like it was used”. These issues understandably led to frustration, especially when combined with slow or inconvenient return processes.
Advertising and Specification Disputes
A handful of buyers felt misled by product descriptions or videos. One reviewer stated, “False Advertising! In a video it clearly shows this item has an aluminum striper connected to it”, which their unit did not include.
Another pointed out, “Says lowest cut is .75 inch, this will not go lower than 1.1 inches”. These discrepancies contributed to distrust and dissatisfaction, even if the mower itself might have met other expectations.
Short Lifespan and Long-Term Reliability Concerns
A smaller number of reviews raised concerns about durability over time. One simply noted, “Mower stopped running eleven months later”. While this is not widespread, it does suggest that long-term reliability may vary depending on usage and maintenance.
Overall Negative Sentiment
The negative reviews suggest that the LawnMaster LMRM1801 can be a poor match for buyers with thick grass, uneven terrain, or expectations of minimal effort. I think many of these frustrations stem from the mower being pushed far beyond its comfort zone. For some users, even within expected conditions, quality issues or missing parts turned an otherwise simple tool into a disappointing experience.
If your lawn does not fit the narrow conditions this mower prefers, these reviews are a strong warning sign rather than isolated complaints.
Pros for the LawnMaster 18 Inch Reel Mower
1, Eco-Friendly, No Fuel or Batteries: The mower is fully manual, so there are no gas fumes, no need for charging, and minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning and lubrication. Many users appreciated this as a low-cost, environmentally friendly alternative.
2, Lightweight and Easy to Assemble: Multiple reviews mention that setup takes just a few minutes with no tools required, making it accessible even for first-time users. It’s also lightweight enough for most adults to manoeuvre and store easily.
3, Clean, Scissor-Like Cut: The 5-blade reel is praised for producing a neat, precise cut, particularly on regular, well-maintained grass. Several users noted that the lawn looks healthier and more uniform after mowing.
4, Compact Size: With an 18-inch cutting width and relatively small footprint, it is convenient for storage in small garages or sheds. It also allows for mowing in tighter spaces compared to larger powered mowers.
5, Quiet Operation: Unlike gas-powered mowers, it produces little noise, which many reviewers found calming or “oddly relaxing.”
6, Grass Catcher Option: While not perfect, the included bag is useful for light clippings or composting and can help reduce mess if used correctly.
7, Durable Materials: Many users reported that the steel blades and overall construction feel sturdy and able to handle repeated use under proper conditions.
8, Workout Bonus: While some may view it as physically demanding, others consider it a mild exercise, which can be an added benefit for fitness-conscious users.
Cons for the LawnMaster 18 Inch Reel Mower
1, Limited Performance in Tall, Thick, or Wet Grass: Users frequently reported that the mower struggles with overgrown lawns, dense weeds, or long wet grass, often requiring multiple passes or pre-cutting with a trimmer.
2, Grass Catcher Reliability: The bag can be difficult to attach securely, fills quickly, and sometimes comes off during mowing. Several users had to make adjustments or accept leaving clippings behind.
3, Challenging on Uneven Terrain: Hills, holes, and bumpy lawns can cause jamming or stalling. The mower is best suited to flat, even surfaces.
4, Manual Effort Required: While some enjoy the workout, others found it physically demanding, especially on larger lawns or when mowing at lower cutting heights.
5, Limited Weed and Obstacle Handling: Sticks, mulch, and certain weeds often halt the blades. This mower is not ideal for gardens with mixed vegetation.
6, Noise and Squeaking Issues: A small number of users reported persistent squeaking or squealing sounds that were hard to fix.
7, Quality Control Variability: Reports of bent wheels, missing parts, and packaging issues suggest some inconsistency in manufacturing.
8, Limited Cutting Range: The lowest cutting height starts around 1.1 inches, which may not satisfy users looking for very short trims.
Who it is For
- Homeowners with small to medium, flat lawns who mow regularly.
- People seeking a quiet, eco-friendly alternative to gas or electric mowers.
- Users who don’t mind manual effort and may even enjoy light exercise while mowing.
- Those who value compact storage and simple, tool-free assembly.
- Families or individuals looking for a safe, low-maintenance option for children or beginner lawn care.
- Anyone prioritising budget-friendly, low-maintenance mowing without recurring fuel or battery costs.
Who it is Not For
- Owners with tall, thick, or fast-growing grass who cannot mow frequently.
- Lawns with uneven terrain, hills, or obstacles such as sticks, rocks, or dense weeds.
- People who want a fully effortless or high-speed mowing experience.
- Users expecting the grass catcher to fully contain clippings without monitoring.
- Those who require a very low cut below 1 inch or consistent weed removal.
- Buyers who are sensitive to noise, squeaking, or inconsistent build quality, particularly on larger purchases.
Conclusion
The LawnMaster 18 Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower (LMRM1801) is a product that divides opinion, and I think the key to understanding its value lies in matching it to the right lawn and user expectations. Based on the overall feedback, I would cautiously give this mower 4 out of 5 stars, primarily for users with small, flat lawns who can mow regularly and don’t mind a bit of manual effort.
Ideal Conditions Reward Performance
In the right environment, this mower shines. Its 5-blade reel produces a precise, scissor-like cut, which many users have noted improves the look and health of grass over time. Assembly is quick and intuitive, and the lightweight, compact design makes storage easy. It’s quiet, eco-friendly, and requires no fuel or batteries, which is a big advantage if you want a low-maintenance, budget-friendly option. For small lawns with regular mowing schedules, it can feel almost effortless, even a bit fun, and some reviewers described it as a “nice workout.”
Limitations Are Realistic
That said, this mower does have clear limitations. It is not designed for tall, thick, or overgrown grass, and uneven terrain or obstacles like sticks and stones can cause frustration. The grass catcher is inconsistent, and while the mower is generally durable, there are occasional reports of bent wheels, squeaking, or missing parts. If your lawn is large, hilly, or has heavy weeds, this mower may feel more like a struggle than a convenience.
Bottom Line
I would recommend the LawnMaster LMRM1801 primarily for those who understand its niche: small, even lawns, a hands-on approach, and frequent mowing. For these conditions, it is a simple, reliable, and environmentally friendly tool that delivers a satisfying, clean cut. For anyone expecting it to handle dense weeds, tall grass, or rough terrain with minimal effort, it may not meet expectations.
Final Word
Overall, I reckon this mower is a solid 4-star choice for the right user, offering good value and functionality while requiring realistic expectations about effort, terrain, and grass type. If your lawn fits its sweet spot, it can be a dependable, low-maintenance addition to your yard care routine.
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