Bagging grass clippings is the go-to method for homeowners who want a clean, manicured lawn without clumps of cut grass scattered around. The secret to efficient bagging lies not only in your mower’s bagger attachment but also in the type of mower blade you use.
While mulching blades are great for recycling clippings, bagging blades (often called high-lift blades) are specifically designed to create maximum airflow, lifting grass upward and propelling it directly into the bag.
In this guide, we’ll answer whether you need special blades for bagging, highlight the key factors to consider, and review the best lawn mower blades for bagging, complete with pros, cons, and unique features.
Top 5 Best Lawn Mower Blades for Bagging
Do You Need Special Mower Blades for a Bagger?
Yes. While most standard mower cutters can technically bag clippings, they won’t perform as efficiently as dedicated high-lift or bagging blades. Here’s why:
- High-lift design: Bagging blades feature an angled “wing” or “fin” that generates strong airflow, pushing grass into the chute and bag.
- Cleaner cuts: These cutters reduce clumping and clogging compared to standard or mulching blades.
- Optimized for airflow: The bagger system works best when the blade creates enough suction to carry clippings upward.
If you frequently mow damp, tall, or thick grass and prefer a spotless lawn, investing in a set of bagging blades is essential.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying Lawn Mower Blades for Bagging
Choosing the right lawn mower blade for bagging is not as simple as picking the first “high-lift blade” you see. A blade’s size, type, durability, and performance in your specific mowing conditions all play a huge role in how well your bagger system works.
If you’ve ever dealt with a clogged chute, uneven bag filling, or clumps of grass left behind, chances are the blade wasn’t optimized for bagging. Here are the most important factors to evaluate before making your purchase:
Compatibility
The first step is making sure the blade is compatible with your mower model. Using the wrong size or mounting pattern will lead to poor performance—or worse, damage to your mower.
- Blade length and deck size: Measure your mower’s cutting deck and match it precisely. For example, a 42-inch deck typically requires two 21-inch cutters, while a 54-inch deck might use three 18-inch blades. Even being half an inch off can cause uneven cutting or airflow problems.
- Mounting hole type: The center hole is critical for installation. Common shapes include 5-point star, 6-point star, bow-tie, and round holes. If the hole doesn’t match your spindle, the blade won’t secure properly.
- OEM replacement numbers: Most manufacturers provide part numbers for recommended replacement blades. Always cross-check the OEM number with your purchase to guarantee the right fit.
Compatibility is the foundation of good performance. Without it, even the best blade design won’t deliver the results you expect.
Blade Type & Lift
The type of blade you choose directly affects airflow and bagging efficiency.
- High-Lift Blades (Best for Bagging):
These cutters have pronounced upward “wings” on the ends. The design creates maximum suction, pulling grass upright before cutting and propelling clippings into the bagger chute. They’re the top choice for anyone who bags regularly. - Medium-Lift Blades:
A balanced option that offers moderate suction. They can handle bagging, but also work reasonably well for mulching and side discharge. If you switch mowing styles often, medium-lift cutters might suit you. - Mulching Blades:
Also called “3-in-1 cutters,” these are designed to shred clippings into fine pieces and return them to the soil. They don’t create as much lift, so bagging efficiency drops. While you can use them with a bagger, expect more clumping and chute blockages.
For homeowners who want a consistently clean, bagged lawn, high-lift blades are the gold standard.
Durability & Material
A blade’s lifespan depends on its construction quality and material strength.
- Heat-treated or hardened steel: These cutters are tougher and more resistant to bending when they strike rocks, roots, or debris.
- Rust-resistant finishes: Some cutters are coated to prevent rust and corrosion, extending their life—especially important if you mow in damp conditions or store your mower outdoors.
- Thickness: Heavier, thicker cutters not only last longer but also maintain cutting sharpness better.
Investing in a durable blade means fewer replacements, better performance, and lower long-term costs.
Cutting Performance
The way a blade slices through grass determines how clean your lawn looks afterward.
- Sharpness and edge design: A sharper blade cuts grass cleanly, preventing tearing and reducing lawn stress. Torn grass tips often turn brown, which makes your yard look uneven.
- Weight and balance: Heavier cutters with proper balance reduce vibrations and improve cutting consistency.
- Serrated edges: Some bagging blades have serrated tips to shred tougher or taller grass before sending it into the bag. This feature helps prevent clogging and ensures the bag fills evenly.
High-quality cutters don’t just improve bagging—they also leave your lawn looking healthier and more polished.
Grass & Mowing Conditions
The type of grass you mow and the conditions you mow in should influence your blade choice.
- Wet grass: Wet clippings tend to clump and clog the chute. In these conditions, you need strong suction blades with pronounced lift to keep airflow consistent.
- Thick or tall grass: Commercial-grade high-lift blades or serrated cutters are best for handling dense turf. They provide the extra cutting power and airflow needed to keep bagging efficient.
- Dry, thin grass: Standard high-lift cutters may work just fine since clogging is less of an issue.
Match your blade to your mowing conditions, and you’ll save time by reducing clogs, re-cuts, and repeated passes.
Husqvarna 561713X High-Lift Blade
The Husqvarna 561713X is a commercial-grade high-lift gator blade designed for superior bagging performance on a wide range of riding mowers, including Husqvarna, Craftsman, and Poulan Pro.
Measuring 21 inches in length, this blade is built from durable steel and designed to create strong airflow, ensuring clippings are lifted and discharged cleanly into the bag.
Unlike standard mulching cutters, the 561713X prioritizes bagging efficiency, making it an excellent choice for homeowners who want a pristine finish after mowing. Its star-shaped mounting hole ensures a secure fit, while its sharp cutting edge delivers clean cuts with minimal effort.
Key Features
- Length: 21″ (fits 42″ decks using two cutters).
- 5-point star center hole.
- High-lift design for maximum airflow.
- Durable hardened steel.
Pros
- Excellent bagging efficiency.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Compatible with popular mower brands.
Cons
- Not ideal for mulching.
- May wear faster in sandy soil conditions.
Budrash Replacement Blade Set
The Budrash Replacement Blade Set is engineered for MTD, Cub Cadet, and Troy-Bilt mowers, offering reliable performance at a budget-friendly price. These high-lift cutters are specifically crafted to maximize suction, making them an excellent choice for homeowners who want to bag clippings effectively.
With a precise 21-inch length and a 6-point star mounting hole, they fit securely and operate smoothly. Constructed from high-quality steel, these cutters maintain sharpness for longer mowing sessions and deliver clean cuts.
Key Features
- Fits 42″ deck mowers (two-blade setup).
- Length: 21″.
- 6-point star mounting hole.
- OEM replacement numbers included.
Pros
- Affordable compared to OEM parts.
- Good airflow for bagging.
- Easy installation.
Cons
- May dull quicker than premium cutters.
- Not as heavy-duty as commercial-grade options.
Replacement Blade Set for John Deere
For John Deere owners, this GX22151 replacement set is a trusted solution for achieving a polished lawn. Designed to fit a variety of John Deere 42” deck models, these cutters deliver strong suction, ideal for bagging clippings without clogging the chute.
Crafted from heat-treated steel, they offer durability and resistance to bending. Their design allows for a smooth cut, reducing clumping and ensuring that grass is funneled efficiently into the bagger. Whether you mow weekly or less frequently, these cutters provide consistent performance.
Key Features
- Compatible with John Deere 100, D100, and L100 series.
- Length: 21.5″.
- High-lift design for clean bagging.
- Made from hardened steel.
Pros
- Perfect fit for John Deere models.
- Excellent bagging suction.
- Strong and durable build.
Cons
- Limited to John Deere compatibility.
- Slightly pricier than generic replacements.
MaxPower 561713B High-Lift Replacement
The MaxPower 561713B better lawn mower blades are a popular choice for riders and push mowers using 42-inch decks. Known for their balance of affordability and quality, these cutters deliver efficient bagging performance thanks to their angled lift design.
Made from heat-treated steel, they cut cleanly and resist bending even under heavy use. The cutters fit a wide range of mower brands, making them a versatile option for homeowners seeking dependable replacements without overspending.
Key Features
- Fits many 42″ deck models.
- 5-point star mounting hole.
- High-lift wing design.
- Length: 21″.
Pros
- Excellent airflow for bagging.
- Budget-friendly price point.
- Easy to install.
Cons
- The edge may dull with frequent use.
- Not optimized for mulching tasks.
Rotary 12963 High-Lift Blade Set
This best blade for lawn mower is designed as a versatile replacement option that fits multiple mower brands, including Craftsman, Poulan, and Husqvarna. These cutters are engineered with a high-lift wing tip to maximize airflow, making them perfect for bagging and side-discharge mowing.
Constructed from premium-grade steel, the Rotary 12963 offers excellent durability and sharp cutting edges that leave lawns looking professional. Their universal design makes them an attractive choice for users who want a reliable, all-purpose set of bagging blades.
Key Features:
- Fits various 42” mower decks.
- High-lift design for strong suction.
- Premium steel construction.
- Universal compatibility with many OEM numbers.
Pros
- Reliable all-around performance.
- Great bagging results.
- Compatible with multiple brands.
Cons
- Universal fit may not be as precise as OEM cutters.
- Requires proper matching with the deck model to avoid vibration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Lawn Mower Blades
When it comes to the best mower blades for bagging performance, it is one of the most discussed topics. Below are the most common questions homeowners ask—along with detailed answers that will help you make the right decision for your yard.
What is the difference between mulching blades and bagging blades?
The main difference lies in their design and purpose.
- Mulching Blades (also called 3-in-1 cutters):
These blades have a curved surface and extra cutting edges designed to chop grass clippings into very fine pieces. Instead of discharging clippings into a bag, mulching cutters redistribute the finely cut particles back into the lawn. This acts as a natural fertilizer, returning nitrogen and other nutrients to the soil. They are great for eco-friendly lawn care and reduce the need for bagging or disposal. - Bagging Blades (also called High-Lift Blades or 2-in-1 blades):
These cutters are engineered with an angled “wing” on the ends that creates strong suction under the deck. This airflow lifts the grass upright before cutting and pushes the clippings through the chute into a collection bag. Their design minimizes clumps, making them ideal for homeowners who want a clean, manicured finish.
In short, mulching cutters recycle nutrients into the yard, while bagging cutters prioritize clipping removal and a spotless lawn.
Do high-lift blades make a difference?
Yes, high-lift cutters can make a dramatic difference in mowing quality—especially if you rely on a bagger system.
Here’s why they matter:
- Stronger Airflow: The raised fin or “lift” at the end of the blade produces a powerful suction effect. This airflow helps funnel clippings efficiently into the chute, which reduces clogging and keeps the bagger from overflowing unevenly.
- Cleaner Lawn Appearance: Because grass is lifted upright before cutting, high-lift cutters leave behind a sharper, more uniform cut. This is particularly useful if you want your lawn to have a professional, striped look.
- Better for Thick or Wet Grass: Bagging thick or damp grass can be challenging, but high-lift cutters maintain enough airflow to prevent clumping in most conditions.
However, they do have a few trade-offs: high-lift cutters consume slightly more engine power and may cause faster deck wear because of the increased airflow. Still, for anyone who wants top-notch bagging performance, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
Can I use mulching blades with a bagger?
Technically, yes—you can attach mulching blades and still use a bagger system. But in practice, the results are often less efficient than with high-lift cutters.
Here’s why:
- Reduced Airflow: Mulching cutters don’t generate the same suction as bagging blades, so clippings may not travel cleanly through the chute.
- Increased Clogging: Without strong airflow, grass can get stuck in the discharge chute, especially when mowing damp or tall grass.
- Uneven Bag Filling: Mulching cutters tend to leave clumps behind and may cause uneven filling of the bag.
Mulching blades are best when your goal is natural fertilization and reducing yard waste, not bagging. If you value a debris-free lawn and don’t want to constantly unclog your chute, stick to high-lift bagging cutters.
How often should I replace lawn mower blades?
On average, mower blades should be replaced once per mowing season. However, this timeline can vary depending on how often you mow, the type of grass you cut, and the conditions of your lawn.
Replace your blades sooner if you notice:
- The blade is bent, cracked, or chipped.
- The cutting edge is dull even after sharpening.
- Your mower leaves behind uncut patches or tears the grass instead of slicing it cleanly.
- Excessive vibration during mowing (a sign of blade imbalance).
Pro tip: Sharpening your cutters every 20–25 hours of use can extend their lifespan. But once the blade becomes too thin or damaged, replacement is the safest option. Using dull or damaged cutters not only hurts your lawn’s appearance but can also strain your mower’s engine.
What size blades do I need for my mower?
Answer:
The correct size blade depends entirely on your mower’s deck size and manufacturer specifications.
- A 42-inch deck usually requires two 21-inch blades.
- A 46-inch deck typically uses two 23-inch cutters.
- A 54-inch deck often needs three 18-inch blades.
Since blade length and hole pattern vary widely across brands, it’s best to check:
- Your mower’s owner manual for the OEM part number.
- The mounting hole shape (5-point star, 6-point star, bow-tie, or round).
- Your mower brand’s recommended replacement blade list.
Installing the wrong size blade can cause poor cutting performance, vibration, or even damage to your mower deck.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a spotless lawn and efficient grass collection, investing in the best lawn mower blades for bagging is key. High-lift cutters like the Husqvarna 561713X or John Deere GX22151 replacements provide excellent suction for bagging clippings cleanly, while budget-friendly options like Budrash or MaxPower cutters offer reliable performance at a lower cost.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your mower brand, deck size, and mowing conditions. By prioritizing compatibility, durability, and lift design, you’ll ensure your lawn mower performs at its best and your yard stays neat and well-kept after every mow.
