Keeping a small lawn in great shape should be simple, but with so many models available, finding the right one can be tricky. Thankfully, we’ve been helping customers choose the right lawn care tools for decades, and in this guide, we’ll explore what to look for in a small lawn mower and highlight one top-rated option to consider.
A Specific Approach to Mowing Small Lawns
Small gardens often come with tight corners, narrow paths, and fragile borders. Plus, they often lack adequate storage space, so bulky equipment isn’t an option. A compact, lightweight design makes manoeuvring around beds and edges easier, while cordless models remove the hassle of cables or fuel.
For most, a small lawn equipment setup that’s easy to store and quick to use is the perfect solution. Less effort, less clutter, and a neater finish every time.
What to Look for in a Mower for a Small Lawn
These features make today’s lightweight lawnmowers more practical and user-friendly than ever for small gardens:
- Cutting Width and Manoeuvrability: For small spaces, a narrower cutting width (around 30cm) makes it easier to navigate borders, paths, and awkward corners. It also reduces the risk of scalping uneven ground.
- Weight and Ease of Use: A lightweight cordless lawnmower is easier to carry, turn, and store – especially helpful for sloped gardens or users who want to avoid heavy lifting.
- Adjustable Cutting Heights: Look for multiple cutting heights to match the season and grass length. A range of settings helps maintain lawn health throughout the year.
- Cordless Power: Cordless models are increasingly the best battery push mower choice for small lawns. They offer clean, quiet performance with no cables or fuel to manage.
- Low Noise and Emissions: Battery mowers are far quieter than petrol alternatives and emit zero fumes. Ideal for suburban settings or gardens with close neighbours.
- Storage and Folding Design: If space is tight, look for foldable handles and a compact footprint. Some models are designed specifically for shed or garage storage.
- Battery Life: Match the mower’s run time to your lawn size. For example, a 20-minute run time comfortably suits lawns up to 150m².
Our Recommendation for Small Lawns
The Mountfield Electress 30 Li
For small lawns, the Mountfield Electress 30 Li is an excellent example of what a compact cordless mower should be. Part of the Mountfield Freedom 100 range, it’s designed to make lawn care simple.
- With a 30cm cutting width, the Electress 30 Li is ideal for tight spaces and neat finishes.
- It’s powered by a 20V lithium-ion battery that delivers up to 20 minutes of run time, easily covering lawns up to 150m².
- At just 8.9kg, it’s light enough for effortless manoeuvring, while the foldable handles make it easy to store even in smaller sheds or garages.
- There are three cutting height positions (30–70mm), giving you flexibility to adapt to changing conditions.
- Clippings are collected into a 30-litre grass bag, which is simple to remove and empty.
- The mower also includes a battery and charger, so you’re ready to go straight out of the box.
This model is part of a full ecosystem – the Freedom100 range includes compatible tools such as trimmers, blowers, and hedge cutters. One battery powers them all, making it a smart long-term choice for small garden owners looking to build a cordless tool kit.
While the Electress 30 Li is a standout choice, it’s just one of many compact models we offer. If you’re looking for more options, explore our full range of lightweight cordless lawn mowers.
Other Great Options for Compact Lawn Care
STIHL – Compact Power, Petrol or Cordless
Whether you prefer the freedom of petrol or the quiet convenience of battery, STIHL offers several high-performance options for smaller gardens:
- RM 253 T: A petrol mower with a generous 51cm cutting width, single-speed drive, and four mowing modes including mulching and side discharge. Ideal for lawns up to 1800m².
- RM 248 T: Slightly smaller at 46cm, this self-propelled petrol mower is easier to manoeuvre and still offers the same versatile cutting modes and foldable handlebar for easy storage.
- RMA 443 V: A cordless alternative with a 41cm deck, ergonomic design, and space for two batteries, letting you switch mid-mow. Great for lawns up to 230m² and part of the STIHL AK battery system.
Each STIHL model features a height-adjustable handlebar, fill-level indicators on the grass box, and easy-access controls, making them extremely user-friendly.
Toro – Smart Design & Proven Durability
Toro mowers are thoughtfully engineered and ideal for home users who want something durable and intuitive:
- eSuper Recycler™ eC48A: A 60V battery mower with self-propelled drive, automatic speed adjustment, and a wide 48cm deck. Easily handles lawns up to 500m² with quick-switch mulching or bagging.
- Recycler® S53VST: A petrol-powered option with a 53cm cut, SmartStow® vertical storage, and variable-speed rear-wheel drive. Built for those who want petrol reliability.
Both Toro models come with high-capacity grass collectors, single-point height adjustment, and advanced mulching technology for a cleaner finish.
Robotic Mowers – Compact & Automatic
For true compactness, robotic mowers are hard to beat. Quiet, space-saving and highly efficient, they handle lawn care while you get on with your day.
- Segway i105E: Ideal for small gardens up to 500m², this model uses AI-assisted mapping, requires no perimeter wire, and identifies over 20 types of obstacles.
- Husqvarna Automower 320 Nera: A more advanced option that tackles lawns up to 2200m², handles slopes up to 55%, and adjusts its schedule based on weather and grass growth. All controllable from your smartphone.
Both models offer precise, low-noise mowing and are ideal for anyone looking to keep a smaller lawn in shape.
Bonus Tip – Protect Your Mower Long-Term
Once you’ve chosen the right mower, it makes sense to protect it. The Briggs & Stratton 992424 Universal Lawnmower Cover is a simple way to keep your mower dry, dust-free, and protected year-round.
Designed with a universal fit, it works with most walk-behind models, small to large. Ideal for sheds, garages, or outdoor storage.
The Right Lawnmower Makes All the Difference
Small lawns deserve the right tools to stay tidy and healthy. The Mountfield Electress 30 Li is a brilliant example of what a well-designed cordless mower can offer, but it’s just one option from the Sims wide range.
Explore our full selection of cordless mowers or sign up for our newsletter to receive more tips, product recommendations, and special offers for your garden.
