Need a lawn mower but don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars? Good news: with a little creativity and persistence, you can often find a free mower that’s perfect for your yard. Here’s a complete guide to real ways people get free lawn mowers—plus what to watch for and how to increase your odds of success.
Quick Picks: Best Places to Look for a Free Lawn Mower
- Online Classifieds: Check Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, and Freecycle in the “Free” or “Curb Alert” sections.
- Curbside Finds: Drive around your neighborhood, especially on bulk trash days. Many people leave working or repairable mowers at the curb.
- Neighborhood Groups: Ask in local Facebook groups, Nextdoor, or Buy Nothing Project groups if anyone has an old mower they don’t need.
- Family, Friends, or Neighbors: Many people have an extra mower collecting dust. Ask around—someone may be happy to give one away.
- Small Engine or Repair Shops: Shops often have unclaimed or abandoned mowers that just need minor repairs.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Know When Looking for a Free Mower
- Most free mowers need minor repairs: Cleaning the carburetor, changing the spark plug, or replacing a broken pull cord are common DIY fixes.
- Electric mowers may need new batteries: Battery packs can be expensive, so check the price before committing.
- Ask about condition: If the ad says, “Doesn’t run,” ask for details—sometimes it’s just old gas or a clogged filter.
- Be ready to pick up quickly: Free mowers go fast—have a vehicle ready, and be polite when arranging pickup.
- Safety first: When meeting strangers, choose public places or bring a friend. Use gloves when inspecting an old mower.
Step-by-Step: How to Find a Free Lawn Mower
1. Search Online Classifieds and Apps
- Go to Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or Freecycle. Filter for “Free” or check the “For Sale” section for cheap mowers.
- Search terms like “free mower,” “curb alert mower,” or “needs work mower.”
- Message politely and quickly if you see something you want—free mowers are claimed fast.
2. Watch for Curbside or Bulk Trash Days
- Check your local bulk trash schedule, and drive around neighborhoods on pickup days.
- Look for mowers at the curb. If you’re unsure, knock on the door or leave a note to ask if it’s free for the taking.
3. Post a “Wanted” Message in Local Groups
- Write a short, friendly post in Buy Nothing, Facebook, or Nextdoor groups: “Looking for a free mower—happy to haul away, even if it needs a little work!”
- Mention your willingness to fix or clean up an old mower.
4. Ask Around Among Family and Friends
- Send a text or email blast: “Anyone have an old mower they’re not using? I’ll pick up!”
- Check with neighbors or relatives, especially if someone is moving, upgrading, or downsizing.
5. Visit Local Repair Shops or Small Engine Dealers
- Ask if they have unclaimed or abandoned mowers you can have for free or a small fee.
- Many shops have a “graveyard” of mowers that need minor repairs—these can be a goldmine for DIYers.
Comparison Table: Where to Get a Free Lawn Mower
| Source | Condition | Success Tips | What to Watch For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Craigslist/Marketplace | Working or needs repair | Act fast, message politely | Missing parts, “first come” stress |
| Curbside/Bulk Trash | Varies | Drive around on pickup days | May need work, no guarantees |
| Neighborhood Groups | Usually decent | Post a wanted ad, be friendly | Battery issues (electric) |
| Friends/Family | Often just old | Ask directly, offer to pick up | May be unused for years |
| Repair Shops | Needs repair | Ask for unclaimed equipment | DIY repairs may be needed |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are free lawn mowers always junk?
Not at all! Many free mowers just need minor cleaning, a new spark plug, or fresh gas. Some even work perfectly—people just want them gone.
What’s the easiest repair for a free mower?
Cleaning the carburetor, replacing a pull cord, or swapping the air filter are all common easy fixes for a free mower.
Can I get a free electric mower?
Yes, but check that the battery and charger are included. Replacing a battery can be costly, so factor that in before picking up.
What should I bring when picking up a free mower?
Work gloves, ratchet straps or rope, and a small toolkit for moving or checking the mower. Bring a friend for heavy riding mowers.
Conclusion
Getting a free lawn mower takes a bit of hustle and patience, but with the right approach, you can save a bundle. Whether you find one curbside, online, or through a friend, most free mowers need just a little TLC. Good luck, and happy mowing!