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The Consumer Smart blog is where you will find in-depth smart product reviews, buying guides, and ownership advice. Each article examines durability, long-term value, and software support so you can make a confident purchase decision whether you are buying for the first time or replacing a device that has reached the end of its life.

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What Is a Mexican Lawn Mower? The Real Meaning, Cultural Practice & Slang Explained

What Is a Mexican Lawn Mower? The Real Meaning, Cultural Practice & Slang Explained

A 'Mexican lawn mower' is a colloquial slang term most commonly used to describe a goat — or herd of goats — deployed to graze down grass, weeds, and brush in place of a mechanical mower. The phrase references a genuine, low-cost animal-based land-clearing tradition rooted in Mexican and Latin American farming culture, while also circulating as regional humor and occasionally as an informal nickname for manual reel push mowers.

David E. Miller Aug 25, 2026
When Do You Stop Mowing the Lawn? (Seasonal Guide & Key Factors)

When Do You Stop Mowing the Lawn? (Seasonal Guide & Key Factors)

Typically, stop mowing the lawn when grass growth slows or stops, usually in late fall or early winter in temperate climates, but this varies by location, grass type, and weather. The primary indicators are when grass blades grow less than 2-3 inches between mowings and the lawn no longer needs regular trimming to maintain health.

David E. Miller Aug 25, 2026
What Gas to Use in a Lawn Mower? (Octane, Ethanol & Engine Type Guide)

What Gas to Use in a Lawn Mower? (Octane, Ethanol & Engine Type Guide)

Use fresh, unleaded gasoline rated at minimum 87 octane with no more than 10% ethanol (E10). Most 4-stroke walk-behind and riding mowers run straight gasoline; 2-stroke engines require a premixed gas-oil blend. Never use E15, E85, or fuel older than 30 days without a stabilizer.

Sarah A. Jenkins Aug 25, 2026
What Oil Does a Craftsman Lawn Mower Use? (Type, Viscosity & Capacity Guide)

What Oil Does a Craftsman Lawn Mower Use? (Type, Viscosity & Capacity Guide)

Most Craftsman lawn mowers use SAE 30 conventional motor oil in warm weather or SAE 10W-30 for all-season use. This guide covers oil type, viscosity by temperature, capacity by mower type, engine brand specs (Briggs & Stratton and Kohler), synthetic oil rules, and a step-by-step oil change procedure.

Sarah A. Jenkins Aug 25, 2026
How to Test a Lawn Mower Solenoid (Multimeter & Jumper Wire Methods)

How to Test a Lawn Mower Solenoid (Multimeter & Jumper Wire Methods)

Engine won't crank? Learn how to test a lawn mower solenoid using a multimeter continuity test or a simple jumper wire bypass — no mechanic required. This guide covers starter solenoids, safety interlock solenoids, and Briggs & Stratton-specific configurations so you can pinpoint the fault before buying any parts.

Administrator Aug 25, 2026
What Oil Does a Craftsman Lawn Mower Take? (By Engine, Model & Temperature)

What Oil Does a Craftsman Lawn Mower Take? (By Engine, Model & Temperature)

Most Craftsman lawn mowers take SAE 30 motor oil for warm-weather use or 10W-30 for variable temperatures. The correct grade depends on your OEM engine brand (Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, or Honda), your climate, and your mower type. This guide covers every variable so you fill with the right oil the first time.

Daniel K. Foster Aug 25, 2026
What Should You Charge for Lawn Mowing? (Pricing Guide for Pros & Homeowners)

What Should You Charge for Lawn Mowing? (Pricing Guide for Pros & Homeowners)

Most lawn care operators charge $30–$80 per visit for standard residential lawns (5,000–10,000 sq ft), with hourly rates from $25–$60 per person and per-acre rates of $150–$250 for the first acre. Your actual price depends on lot size, regional cost of living, grass type, terrain, and whether the job is one-time or recurring.

Daniel K. Foster Aug 25, 2026