Rather than investing in a leaf blower, most lawn care persons are switching to mulching. With a good lawn mower and the best mulching blades for the leaves.
Mulching has its benefits; it nourishes your lawn and saves you the time you would have taken to dispose of the bagged grass and leaves.
As we noted earlier a good mulching task can only work with the best mulching blade. Yet only a few blades in the market carry those qualities.
Let’s highlight a few of those that we managed to test.
The 6 Best Mulching Blades for Leaves
Maxpower 331981B Universal Mulching Blade
The blade has a 1″ center hole and comes pre sharpened from the manufacturer.
Key Features
- Measures 21 in. L x 2-1/4 in. W
- Includes a cover washer and 6 reducing washers in the following sizes: 3/8 in., 7/16 in., 9/16 in., 1/2 in., 5/8 in., and 3/16 in
- Fits MOST 21″ cut mowers
- Weighs 2 lbs.
What we like
- Compatible with a variety of models
- Doesn’t require frequent sharpening
What we dislike
- Lighter in weight than most models
- Not recommended for electric mowers
Maxpower 561713XB Mulching Blade Set
The blade is capable of replacing various OEM versions in the Poulan, Husqvarna, Craftsman lawn mower.
Key Features
- Meant for a 42″ mower
- Replaces Poulan, Husqvarna, Craftsman 134149, 138971, 138498, 127843, PP24003, AYP7143A79, AYP7158A49, AYP9149A69, DPR20H42STA.
- Measures 21″ long by 2-1/2″ wide
- 5 Point Star Center Hole
- Weighs 5.2 lbs.
What we like
- The design prevents clogging
- One of the best prices in the market
Oregon Gator G3 Mulching Mower Blades 3 Pack 
This is a blade made in the USA and adheres to the highest quality and control standards. The blades also carry a superior design to match some of the big names in the market. These particular ones are meant to replace a 54″ lawn mower and come in a set of 3.
Some of the models are; Ariens 21546235; AYP 112053; Craftsman 187255; Dixon 532187756; Husqvarna 112053, 24541, 33954; Murray 187256; Poulan 187254, 187255; Rotary 12121, Stens 302-430 and other makes/models
Key Features
- Blade length: 18-4/9 inches
- 5 point star center hole
- Weighs 7 lbs.
USA Mower Blades AYP340BP Mulching Blade
It’s a less popular name in the mower blade world, but that’s its main advantage. These lawn mower blades come at a budget maybe because they have a lot to prove. Yes, these blades are quite underpriced if you consider the quality they offer.
The blades are meant to replace a number of OEM blades measuring 42″.
Key Features
- Dimensions 21in. 2 1/4in (L x W) thickness 0.134″
- Fit almost all 42″ lawn mowers
- 2 Blades Required for a 42″ Deck
- 5 point star enter hole + 2 side holes
- Weighs 3.39 lbs.
What we like
- Value price
- Superior quality
- compatible with most mower models
MaxPower 561545XB 3-Blade Commercial Mulching Set
Key Features
- Replaces OEM No’s; 742-04053, 742-04053A, 942-04053-X, 942-04053A, 942-04053B, 942-04053C
- Blade measures 17.9 in. L and 2-1/2 in. W
- Has a 6-point star center hole
- Weighs 5.1 lbs.
What we like
- Compatible with most 50″ mowers
- You get value for 3 blades
- Good weighted
Husqvarna 954636867 Lawn Mower Mulching 2 Blade Kit
The blade is meant to replace blades of the Husqvarna brand. We managed to experience a glimpse of its performance when we used one of the Husqvarna mowers.
The quality of the shred clippings is fine, and it also manages to distribute most of it evenly on the lawn.
Key Features
- Fits: Lt18542, Lth18542, Lth2042 And Yth1542Xp Models
- Replaces the 42″ deck
- Alloy steel material
- Dimensions 23.5 x 3.75 inches (L x W)
- Weighs 3.1 lbs.
What we like
- Optimized for specific models
- Doesn’t turn dull easily
- Perfectly balances weight and performance.
Best Mulching Blades for Leaves -Buying Guide
let’s see what you have to look at when replacing your mulching blade.
1) Model number
Some mulching blades have a specific replacement part number. That should match the exact one on the replacement.
Always ensure that what you are getting is recommended by the manufacturer. For that particular lawn mower.
2) Weight
A heavier blade often means better quality. Because it’s been made using a stronger thicker metal. This blade will likely last longer than a lighter one.
However, not without a downside. A heavier blade demands more effort from the motor to spin.
This results in a slightly higher fuel consumption. And even a feeling that the engine wants to stall when engaging the deck.
When looking for the best weight for a blade. You should try to establish a perfect balance between the blade’s weight and performance. This is to ensure that you don’t experience many of the downsides.
3) Number of blades
Some mowers come with more than one blade. If your mower has two or three blades. It’s good practice that when replacing the blades. You should replace all at the same time, and with similar blades.
Replacing one or two and leaving the rest, or replacing with blades of different specs. Will interfere with the airflow, desired for proper mulching.
4) Hole design
All blades have a hole that is used to bolt them to the shaft. Different mowers have different attachment configurations. Which should exactly match the holes on the blade.
There are some blades that are designed for a universal fit. And they have numerous holes meant to fit all configurations. Most of these blades aren’t optimized for any particular mower.
5) Length
Mowers decks have dimensions to fit only specific length blades. Fitting a smaller blade will provide less than the optimum mulching result. You will also require many passes when working on a large lawn.
On the other hand, installing a longer blade will damage the side of the deck.
Final Thoughts
Just like a high lift and low lift blade, a mulching blade comes with its unique specific design. A good mulching blade should be designed to give you the appropriate lift for an even cut.
It’s always good to consider the type of mower. That you decide to install the mulching blades, for shredding leaves.
Some mowers come with a rather small motor. And wouldn’t fair well with a heavy mulching blade.
Also, ensure that your blades are sharp when mulching. And replace them once they become too dull to be sharpened further.