Proper cleaning is essential to keep your reel mower in top shape, ensuring smooth operation and prolonging the life of your equipment. Whether you own a Revolution reel mower from Reel Rollers, Tru Cut, California Trimmer, McLane, or Swardman, maintaining cleanliness prevents rust, keeps blades sharp, and helps avoid wear on moving parts. 

Follow these steps for a thorough cleaning after each use.

Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Before starting, you’ll need the following items:

  • Garden hose or pressure washer
  • Soft brush or broom
  • Scraper (plastic or wooden)
  • Mild detergent or mower cleaning solution
  • Oil for lubrication (e.g., SAE 30 or Honda 10W-30)
  • Rags or towels
  • Safety gloves and goggles
  • A bucket for the cleaning solution
  • A flat surface for cleaning

Step 2. Prepare the Mower

  • Safety first: Ensure the mower is off and the engine is cool, and disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starts.
  • Move to a suitable area: Take the mower to a flat, open area where you can clean it without damaging your lawn or landscaping.

Step 3. Remove Excess Grass Clippings

  • Use a scraper: Gently scrape off any large clumps of grass and debris stuck to the mower deck using a plastic or wooden scraper. Be careful not to damage the blades.
  • Brush off loose debris: Use a soft brush or broom to sweep away loose grass clippings and dirt from the deck and wheels.
  • Use a blower: this is the most common way to remove excess grass).

Step 4. Rinse the Mower

  • Use water: Connect a garden hose or pressure washer and lightly rinse the mower’s underside, focusing on areas where clippings accumulate. Avoid directly spraying the engine and electrical components to prevent damage. If you use a hose, make sure you use a blower to dry as much of the water off the mower as possible.
  • Cleaning solution: If necessary, mix mild detergent or a specialized mower cleaning solution in a bucket with water. Dip the soft brush into the solution and scrub areas that require deeper cleaning, like the mower deck and undercarriage.

Step 5. Clean the Reel and Blades

  • Wipe down the blades: Carefully wipe down the reel blades with a rag to remove any sticky residue. For a thorough clean, you may need to rotate the reel while wiping.
  • Inspect the blades: Check the blades for dullness or damage. If they are dull, consider backlapping or sharpening them as needed.
  • Oil the blades: To avoid rust on the blade surface over the winter, apply vegetable oil with a paper towel or spray a cooking oil like “Pam”.

  Step  6. Dry the Mower

  • Towel dry: Use a clean towel or rag to dry the mower completely, focusing on the underside and reel blades. This prevents rust from forming on metal parts.

Step 7. Lubricate Moving Parts

  • Apply oil: Lubricate the reel bearings and any moving parts, applying it sparingly to avoid excess buildup.
  • Wipe excess oil: After lubricating, wipe away any excess oil to prevent dirt from sticking.

Step 8. Reconnect and Final Checks

  • Reconnect the spark plug: Once the mower is clean and dry, reconnect the spark plug.
  • Inspect other components: While cleaning, check other components, including the wheels or front roller, belts, and air filter, for wear and tear. Replace any worn parts as necessary.

Step 9. Store Properly

  • Store in a Dry Place: After cleaning, store the mower in a dry, sheltered location to protect it from the elements. Use a mower cover if available to keep dust and debris off.

Additional Tips for Cleaning a Reel Mower:

  • Clean after each use: Regular cleaning after each mowing session will prevent dirt buildup and rust, keeping the mower in better condition for longer.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Stick to mild soap and water when cleaning the mower. Harsh chemicals may damage the metal or the paint.
  • Inspect and adjust: Cleaning is a good time to check the reel-to-bedknife adjustment. If the blades aren’t cutting properly, you might need to adjust the gap.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your reel mower stays clean and ready for use, providing a precise and consistent cut every time. Regular cleaning and maintenance are key to extending the life of your mower and ensuring optimal performance.

For more tips on reel mower maintenance and lawn care, visit Reel Rollers and subscribe to the Reel Rollers YouTube channel for the latest how-to videos.