Best Leaf Mulchers Reviews & Ratings
If you are a homeowner, you must be aware that regularly, lots of tree debris and leaves will fill up your yard and hamper the growth of your grass. This is even truer if you leave them on your lawn throughout winter. Getting rid of these leaves is a time-consuming process especially if you are putting them in a trashcan. There’s a whole process that gets boring really fast and in fact, kind of strenuous.
Our Top 3 Picks
[srpshortcode id=”16332″][/srpshortcode][srpshortcode id=”16331″][/srpshortcode][srpshortcode id=”16330″][/srpshortcode]
Now, although utilizing a leaf blower is a much quicker method of cleaning up your yard, you will still be left with a bunch of leaves to get rid of. And due to that, we want you to consider a leaf mulcher. You can utilize it in creating a compost which will be great for fertilizing your garden.
Purchasing a leaf mulcher that suits your needs is a wonderful investment. There are a host of leaf mulchers in the market to select from and in this article, we have aided you in compiling 10 of the best ones certain to meet your requirements. Do read on to learn more.
10 Best Leaf Mulchers
3. Greenworks 40V 185
A brushless motor which provides more power and torque powers the product. The motor also increases your time using the machine while lowering the wear and tear on the vacuum parts. In turn, the lifespan is significantly increased.
Also as a result of the motor, you can use the device at a speed of 185 mph which is perfect for getting rid of dry or wet leaves. There's also an airflow volume of 340 CFM for better work quality.
Another exciting feature of the machine is its multiple functionalities. You can use the machine as a vacuum, blower, or mulcher whenever you need any one of them. Further, you get various attachments for each mode of operation. The attachments include a wide tube for vacuum functions while two narrow tubes are available whenever you use the blowing function.
40V battery powered
Brushless motor
A speed of 185 mph
An excellent choice for dry and wet leaves
Increase in machine life
Variable speed control
Works as a vacuum, blower, and shredder
Changing parts doesn’t require any tool
Turbo button
Machines with push-to-start button
Price
The price of this machine is slightly above average but running on battery power has its own perks. It has a 6-speed dial and a turbo button for more power with a long-lasting quality.
Conclusion
This battery powered leaf mulcher is a great choice for covering large lawn spaces. There is no limitation by cord length since you can use it for as long as the battery charge lasts.
Push-to-start function makes the machine easy to power on
Operation produces minimal noise
Runs on battery and thus has increased mobility
The battery lasts a very short time on maximum speed
2. Toro 51621
The vacuum and mulcher functions are the most important functions to enjoy. Packing leaves from your driveway or lawn manually will often result in a lot of waste bags filled with the leaves but this is not the case when using this leaf vacuum. The addition of an impeller made of metal likewise increases the worth since it thoroughly reduces the size of the leaves.
You'll find a reusable bag in each package, with a zip at the bottom of the bag for easy access. Storing the cord after use is also quite simple since you can just use the cord storage hook available. A concentrator which attaches to the machine allows you to reach all the crevices and tight corners for improved results with this machine.
Vacuum mode of 410 CFM
A variable speed control
Oscillating tube
Reusable bottom-zip bag
Cord storage hook
Metal impeller for improved shredding functions
Changes from vacuum to blower with ease
Price
Not the cheapest you can get, but it comes at quite an affordable rate. Spending a little below average on this product gives you access to great functions and features along with durability which ensures you do not need a replacement any time soon.
Conclusion
The reusable vacuum bag with a bottom zipper is a nice addition to this machine. it reduces the cost of buying disposable bags and also has a large capacity. The leaf vacuum works on both wet and dry leaves so there is no need for an additional leaf vacuum in the home.
Creates small outputs during the vacuum-mulcher use
It is lightweight and requires little storage space
Speed control allows users to adjust from a high-powered airspeed to a lower airspeed
The electric cord can limit the use of the leaf vacuum depending on the location of a socket outlet
1. Best Partner
This gives the opportunity to test out the machine to be sure it is the right choice. In addition, it also comes with a lifetime support guarantee and a 12-month replacement warranty.
Now that it’s sure that you have nothing to lose, there are a few excellent features you can find on this machine. The first is the ease of assembly. There is no need for any assembly tool which makes it much faster. It runs on a 12 amp motor with a 200 mph maximum speed on two-speed selections.
Like a lot of blower/vacuum combinations on the market, this machine also offers a grinding ratio of 16 to 1 which gives more time for operation before you need to empty the vacuum bag.
Built-in cord lock
Easy assembly
Mulch ratio of 16:1
Two-speed selections
200 mph max speed
12 amp motor
30-days money back guarantee
450 CFM max air flow
3-in-1 combination
Price
This is one of the most inexpensive options available on the market. What’s more? It still features the 3-in-1 design which has become popular with some of the best machines. A 30-days money back guarantee ensures that there is no loss if you feel this is not the right product for you.
Conclusion
Just like the company name, this machine may as well be your best partner for leaf clean-up around your deck, lawn, driveway, or patio. It has a very high maximum airflow and also has a 12-month replacement warranty on the various parts.
The machine comes with a lifetime support and a 30-days money back guarantee
It is a very lightweight blower/vacuum combination
The mulch output is excellent for use on gardens
Easy and quick assembly
It has a low maximum speed
4. BLACK+DECKER BV6000
Now, on to the main function, you can use the machine to properly size down leaves, especially as it's possible to get a 16:1 mulch. That last part means that it can reduce leaves to mulches with a 16 to 1 ratio. The mulch goes directly into a disposable bag which is also a compostable material and attaches to the machine. All you need to do is just dispose of the bag, no need for any clean-up.
Running on a 12 amp motor, the machine operates at a low noise level of just 68 dB, so you're not disturbing anybody (much). It runs on electricity with a shoulder strap that makes it easy to carry the machine around while working.
A mulch ratio of 16:1
Electric powered
Weighs 8.1 pounds
Decibel level of 68 dB
12 amps motor
Speeds selection of 180 or 250 mph
Comes with 2 disposable bags
Detachable shoulder strap
Diffuser
Vacuum tube
Concentrator
Price
Black & Decker are well known to provide great quality at an affordable price for their customers. The same applies to this option which comes with all the necessary features and accessories. All at a price that won't make that much of an impact.
Conclusion
The inclusion of various important accessories is one of the key attractions of this tool. It features a detachable shoulder strap for easy use, a diffuser, and a concentrator for better results (overall). All these along with 2 disposable bags and a low operating noise level.
It comes at a very affordable price
Switching from the blower to the vacuum is very easy on the machine
The metal fan/impeller function effectively
Wet leaves often block suction
5. Worx WG518
The machine gives you a 12-amp motor which provides you two-speed selections for flexible application. Like so, you have the option of 160 mph or 250 mph with an air volume of 400 CFM.
Being lightweight also makes it perfect for long sessions of use since you won't waste as much time and energy. You'll be able to munch leaves at a ratio of 16:1 without much stress. It comes with a mulching bag to hold the mulch quantity up to 1 bushel before it requires disposal.
16:1 leaf mulch ratio
12-amp motor
Lightweight
Convert from blower to vacuum in one-touch
Metal impeller
Tool-free assembly
2-speed operation
Airspeed from 160-250 mph
Price
This is another very cheap option for anyone looking to get their money’s worth out of their purchase. The functions it offers are on the same level as the more expensive ones on the market.
Conclusion
As a combination machine, the WG518 offers an easy means of storage. It is also lightweight which is great when you have to work long durations and a one-touch conversion from blower to vacuum for easy control.
One of the cheapest leaf vacuum on the market
It is compatible with the Worx leaf collection system hose attachment
Price is really attractive
This option is not as powerful as some other on the market
6. Toro 51619
There is a metal impeller with a larger size, that in turn, leads to better mulching. Depending on the type of debris material, the mulch size of the debris can be as small as a ½ inch. To capture the debris, the machine comes with a vacuum bag which has a bottom zipper. You only need to empty out the bag whenever it's full.
Another great function of the vacuum bag is for storage. After each use, you wrap the power cord around the storage hook and you can as well use the built-in lock cord to ensure that the cord remains in place.
Built-in cord lock
Quick-release latch
Cord storage hook
Bottom zippered vacuum bag
Debris reduction up to 88%
Larger metal impeller
Variable speed control
Airspeed up to 250 mph
Power insert and concentrator nozzle included
Price
This is another great product from Toro which provides great functionality at a very low cost. A 2-year warranty on the product assures of the quality of the product and also makes it convenient to purchase the machine without any doubts.
Conclusion
The Toro 51619 is one of the most popular options on the market. It produces mulch of very small sizes with a metal impeller that is very durable. The maximum 250 mph airspeed is a good feature for homeowners who have lots of wet leaves to clear.
It comes with a 2-year full warranty
The zipper on the bottom of the bag makes it very easy to empty
Comes with a larger metal impeller
No lock mode on the speed controls
10. Worx Trivac
Featuring a metal impeller, it has a mulch ratio of 18:1 which is better than the common 16:1.
Now, despite the increased efficiency, reducing debris to such a small size has a
disadvantage.
The increase in mulch ratio means that each disposable bag will likely be heavier and may slow you down when working. To correct this, the vacuum comes with an 8-ft hose to connect directly to a trash can. Lastly, the leaf vacuum is electric -powered and features variable speed controls. An adjustable strap is available to make use comfortable for you also.
Higher mulch ratio of 18:1
Switch lever for the blower to vacuum conversion
Metal impeller
8-ft hose
Variable speed controls
Adjustable straps
Price
The WO7024 has a lot of easy to use features all coming at an affordable price.
Conclusion
The improvement in the mulch ratio is the most significant feature of the WO7024. To provide the necessary support for the use of this feature, there is an 8-ft hose which connects directly to a trash can so there is no interference when there is a need to empty the vacuum bag.
An improved mulch ratio
Adjustable straps make it easy to move around with the leaf vacuum
It comes with an 8-ft hose which connects to a trash can to gather more mulch
The electric cord can sometimes interfere with the use of it
8. Tanaka Commercial Grade
Both versions are powered with gas, there's a two-stroke engine that roars with 1.3 h.p. The noise level during operation is 68 dB and it has a 25cc cylinder displacement. With the former, the noise can be ignored while the cylinder displacement simply gives more power.
As a handheld leaf vacuum device, it has a weight of 10.9 pounds though that's after the accessories have been attached for use. Still, it might be somewhat inconvenient if your sessions get too long. So, that's why there is a cruise control feature that allows you to run the machine at a chosen speed. This will (at the least) give your hands some rest.
Gas-powered
Weighs 10.9 pounds
Handheld operation
1.3 HP output
Cruise control function
68 dB noise level
PureFire low emission two-stroke engine technology
2-year commercial use warranty and 3-year consumer use warranty
Price
Since it also works excellently as a commercial option, it is no surprise that it comes at a high price. This vacuum capable version is more expensive than the non-vacuum capable but offers a lot of additional features.
Conclusion
With a low smoke emission technology, you don’t need to worry about excess fumes. It also operates at a low noise level which is an important feature for a gas-powered blower/machine. Available in two versions, the vacuum option offers a lot of improvements to the regular version of the machine.
Runs at a low noise level
It creates low emission with the PureFire engine technology
Starts with ease
The vibrations can be quite intense
9. BLACK+DECKER BV6600
An impeller is the part which performs the mulching function. The material option (impeller) can be a plastic or metal. The plastic impellers are of good quality but we noticed they quickly develop cracks due to the vacuum sucking in small rocks. So, it's a pretty much good idea to choose metal impellers due to their toughness and this tool has it.
Comes with a strap
12 Amp motor
EZ-reusable bag collection
Metal impeller
Variable speed control
Durable and weighs 8.1 pounds
Low noise
Price
Lots of options come at very affordable prices and the BV6600 is a close competitor in affordability. You get a lot of accessories with the purchase of the BV6600 and a limited 2-year warranty.
Conclusion
Lightweight, low noise, and durability are some of the great features which are packed into this option. It is electric powered with a 12 amp motor and a metal impeller for better performance.
It is lightweight and comes with a strap which makes it more comfortable during use
Multiple functions make it a great option
It's affordable
The cord often makes it inconvenient
7. Husqvarna 125BVx
Maneuvering the 125BVx is also very easy since you only need to handle a mere 9.6 pounds. You can hold to a soft-grip handle that is adjustable to provide maximum comfort during use.
In regards to the speed, a cruise control feature can help you maintain a particular speed during operation. You finally get a lot of mulching power if you opt for this.
2-year limited warranty
16.91 fluid ounces fuel capacity
1.1 HP power output
575 g/kWh fuel consumption rate
9.6 pounds weight
Mulch ratio of 16:1
Includes a flat and round nozzle
Adjustable soft-grip handle
Price
As a gas-powered option, there are lots of benefits to the purchase of this machine. This is mostly the reason why the price is higher than average. Though, the durability and power it offers shouldn't be missed.
Conclusion
Running on gas, this vacuum uses a two-stroke engine in its operation while still offering users a lightweight. It is a CARB compliant machine and the cruise control feature makes it great for relieving the fingers of fatigue during use.
The air filter is washable and reusable
A cruise control function for machine speed
It is CARB compliant
There is a flare nozzle which helps to increase the airspeed produced by the machine
Can be very difficult to get the machine to start
Types of Leaf Vacuum Mulchers
Electric Leaf Mulcher
This mulcher is environmentally friendly because it makes less noise and has reduced air pollution. They are portable which makes them less difficult to move about. But since it’s electric, you require an electric outlet. With a long extension cord, carrying the mulcher around your yard would be easy without having any issues or worrying about battery run down.
Gas Leaf Vacuum Mulcher
This is the prototype tool for leaf mulching. It is not light to carry around due to the fact that it’s powered by gas. Mulchers which are powered by gas are excellent for up keeping large areas. This type of mulcher exudes a lot of noise and so it needs to be maintained frequently.
Battery-powered Leaf Vacuum Mulcher
This mulcher is better off than the electric and gas leaf vacuum mulcher. Reason being that it doesn’t need an electric outlet as it’s power source. It is also very light unlike the gas-powered mulcher because it doesn’t require gas as it’s power source. Also, unlike gas-powered options, it makes no noise at all. It is costlier though and the most exclusive leaf mulchers in the market are powered by a battery.
They are also known to be movable and very universal, although it has time boundaries because it’s powered by a battery. Depending on your yard’s size, it should be able to carry you for a reasonable time.
The Leaf Mulcher Advantages
The leaf vacuum saves your time. The time you actually use to clean up leaves could be saved and used for other important purposes. Also, not only does this cleaner help in cleaning up leaves, it also saves you from back pain through bending all the time.
Gardening can cause serious strain which gives you back aches in the process of bending down while trying to clean up your lawn. Hence, purchasing a mulcher doesn’t only save your time, it also helps to reduce stress on your part.
Criteria for Selection
The following are a few factors to consider when choosing a leaf mulcher. They include:
Specifications of the Motor
The amps of the motor is what decides the sum of power present in the leaf mulcher. The best option will have above 12 power amps. So if you’ll be choosing one, the least you can go for is the one with ten amps.
Capacity
Ensure that the mulcher of your choice can handle your lawn’s size. One with a larger capacity would be advisable if a large number of leaves fall on your lawn. In better terms, the more leaves, the higher the capacity of your mulcher.
Speed
There are options of speed you can choose from. So when choosing a mulcher, choose a speed that you’re comfortable with. Though, make sure you have options too.
Quality of Blade
Ensure you get an option whose blade is of a high quality (metal is good while plastic is subpar). This will help to rip the leaves well in order for it to be vacuumed easily and relief you of future stress. Going for blades with low quality will cause frequents replacement before the ending of a season. In the long run, it costs you a lot of money.
Reduction Ratio
When your mulcher has a high reduction ratio, there won’t be a need for leaf bagging that would have been created by raking. Ensure that the to9ol you use has at least a ratio of 16:1.
Vibration and Noise
A mulcher powered by a quiet battery is preferable to a gas powered one that exudes a lot of noisel. You can as well go for an electric leaf mulcher that makes less noise. The same thing is applied to choosing a mulcher based on its vibration.
Normally, mulchers powered by batteries make lower vibration count as compared to those powered by electricity. Though, in all cases, manufacturers usually design options with built-in dampeners to help reduce vibrations.
Weight
It is good if you get a lightweight option because they’re handheld and can be easily carried around. Nevertheless, there are few industrial riding vacuums which are impracticable for usage in a normal home garden. With that said, the electric option has the lightest weight while the battery ones and the gas ones are a bit weightier. It would be difficult to carry the latter around a big yard.
Charge-time
This factor applies to mulchers powered by batteries. From research, it is concluded that contemporary batteries can be charged to its highest capacity in 60 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is leaf mulcher?
A leaf mulcher’s function is simple. Instead of you getting rid of all the leaves in your lawn, a leaf mulcher instead breaks those leaves (rotting or otherwise) down into rich fertilizer that’s perfect for your garden. So, it’s a good way to maximize the use of leaves that would otherwise be useless to you.
Which is the best one on the market?
There’s simply no best option since it essentially depends on your needs. All you can do is consider a few of them based on certain factors (Criteria for Selection above), and choose one that you feel will best work for you.
What does mulching mean?
We can define mulch itself as a layer of leaves, bark, or compost that spread on top of a soil layer to improve plant growth. Mulch also improves the aesthetic appeal of your garden or flowerbed and it aids in the control of weed as well.
Still, not all mulch is natural as some people use synthetic plastic to create a layer of protection for plants against the elements. Now, the definition of mulching is to cut the leaves to smaller and thus, manageable sizes that can be applied on a layer of soil for the above advantages.
Where to buy one?
You can follow the Amazon links to the products above. Alternatively, you can search for any of the leaf mulchers above if you’re interested in buying any.
