Yes, reel lawn mowers are still around. Human-powered ones are the best choice for small lawns, enclosed lawns, and for people who don't mind the exercise. Besides being more ecologically friendly than gas mowers, they are relatively inexpensive to buy and to maintain. Tuneups are not required and maintenance is relatively easy. Here's how to fix and keep your reel lawn mower cutting.

Fix-It Tip

Preventive maintenance includes washing down the reel mower after every use then spraying metal surfaces that may rust with a lightweight oil or penetrating oil for protection.

How Does It Work?

Components of a typical reel lawn mower.

A reel lawn mower is a machine for cutting grass. It's either human-powered or small-engine powered. Cutting blades attached to the reel spin and cut grass as the mower is rolled across the lawn. It's that simple.

What Can Go Wrong?

The mower may cut unevenly or tear grass rather than cut it. A blade can be bent. An engine-driven reel mower may have the same problems that any gas-driven machinery may have.