10 Best Leaf Mulcher Reviews In 2023 [Buying Guide Included]

Gardening is one of our favorite pastime activities. However, we will not deny the importance of convenience. You may already have experienced a significant problem with fallen leaves messing up the lawn or garden during the fall season. A leaf blower is there to save the day, but how do you get rid of the leave without stress? 

This is where the leaf mulcher becomes necessary as it helps you dispose off the leaves neatly and effortlessly. Hence, we have compiled a review of the best leaf mulcher with buying guide to help you make the right choice.

For those who wants to skip straight to the final verdict, here are our top picks.

Why Do You Need A Leaf Mulcher?

A leaf mulcher helps to shred leaves into smaller, finer particles that you can use as compost or dispose properly. After raking your garden, you may come up with a lot of leaves that you need to dispose properly and quickly before the winds set in again. 

When you use a mulcher, the leaves become more compact for you to discard; hence, reducing the time you will spend while trying to pack it up. Additionally, when the leaves are mulched, you can use it in the landscape, as it is biodegradable and has air spaces that allow it to breathe and retain water properly. 

Also, leaf mulch can be used to make compost; they are a natural source of manure that is beneficial to the soil and your crops as well. Leaf mulch is rich in nutrients that are required by your plants and mulching the leaves will hasten its degrading process.

Table of Comparison

We have designed a comparison table below for your easy reference.

However, it is important to note that the positions are in no particular order of importance. Some models may be preferred by others, therefore, please do read in details, which one may suit you the best. 

Product Reviews of Leaf Mulchers

1. WORX WG430 Electric Mulcher (Editor's Choice)

This electric leaf mulcher has a fantastic mulching ratio of 11:1, which means that leaves are shredded to 1/11th of their original size. It operates a bladeless system. Therefore, it doesn’t pose any safety threat to you. 

Additionally, its system works like a garden trimmer as it has a trimming line that cuts the leaves effectively. Also, the motor of this mulcher has a capacity of 13 Amps. Therefore, it can shred up to 53 gallons of leaves per minute. You can also quickly assemble and disassemble this unit as it is user-friendly and requires little to set it up.

2. Toro 51621 UltraPlus Leaf Blower Vacuum

If you are looking for a more affordable yet capable choice, then the Toro 51621 is for you. It is lightweight and has an intensive blowing and mulching mechanism that has been tested and proven. 

Additionally, it comes with a shred-all shred ring that works hand in hand with a metal impeller. This mechanism allows it to reduce about 97% of the leaves to less than half an inch in a short time. Also, Toro has an oscillating nozzle kit that lets you operate a wide arc range without moving your wrists. You can also use this vacuum for dry and wet leaves as it comes with components for that.

3. Sun Joe CJ603E Leaf Shredder 

Many leaf mulchers are incapable of shredding branches, wood, and twigs. However, the Sun Joe leaf shredder turns leaves, brush, twigs, and branches into mulch. It is safe to use as it has a lock knob that stops the motor from running when it is opened. Another great feature of this mulcher is its size; it is small and compact. 

Additionally, it has wheels that allow for easy lugging. Also, you do not need to worry about maintenance as it can stay for a while without maintenance needs while you can assemble it quickly, too. Sun Joe also offers users a two-year warranty package.

4. SuperHandy Wood/Leaf Chipper – Best For Heavy Duty Usage

A heavy-duty mulcher is usually useful when you own a large garden, or you are covering a large area of land. Hence, we recommend this SuperHandy for intensive activity. Additionally, this leaf shredder has a multipurpose function, top hopper for shredding and volume chipping, a chute for shredding limbs and branches, and accessibility to the vacuum inlet. 

All these functions allow you to load the shredder without stress. You can shred leaves and twigs to mulch with a reduction ratio of 15:1. The shredding capacity of half an inch for twigs and brushes is also excellent. Also, this shredder has a gas-powered engine with a safety feature that allows you to transport it without fuel spills.

5. BLACK+DECKER Electric Leaf Blower & Mulcher BV6000

Leaf blowers that you can use as a vacuum and mulcher are the best option for disposing of garden leaves. This mulcher is very convenient to use as it sucks up the leaves and shreds them immediately. Additionally, you can add a collection bag at the back to dispose off mulch properly. 

Although B&D cannot shred branches, it shreds leaves and twigs conveniently with a mulch ratio of 16:1. The mulcher also comes with a detachable shoulder strap that allows you to lug it around easily while using it. Also, you can switch up the speed of this mulcher easily to suit your needs at any point in time.

6. Sun Joe CJ601E Electric Wood Chipper/Shredder  

Sun Joe CJ601E is an electric wood and leaf shredder that quickly makes compost with a mulch ratio of 16:1 while limbs and sticks are shredded up to 1.5 inches thick.

This shredder is designed for small scale work as it has a powerful motor that allows it to shred leaves as well as wheels that will enable you to move it about. Also, Sun Joe has a safety feature that turns the mulcher off when it gets jammed when you are using it for the first time. Assembling the CJ601E is not much of a task as it is user-friendly.

7. Patriot Products CSV-2515 Leaf Shredder - Premium Leaf Mulcher

With CSV-2515 from Patriot Product, it is capable of turning a wide range of leaf sizes and wood into mulch with the help of its blade. Hence, if you own a garden with some trees in them, then this mulcher is the top pick for you. 

The engine of the Patriot Products is built for speed and efficiency. Hence, its useful when the job is much. Additionally, this shredder has a set of wheels for moving it around and a discharge tube that allows you to use it while still stationary.

Also, this leaf mulcher is not as noisy as other mulchers. Hence, you can use it without disturbing your neighbors. Although you cannot disassemble it, it is compact and small, thus, secure storage.

8. Flowtron LE-900 Leaf Shredder 

If you require a tool that can shred leaves directly to compost form, then the Flowtron leaf shredder is the best pick for you. It is very portable and user-friendly as you can operate it efficiently. You also do not need to bother about dust production as it comes with an air filter that minimizes dust production. 

Besides, it has a high capacity and can compress about eleven bags of leaves to one bag only. Also, the cutting line of Flowtron has a patented double cutting design, which gives you an efficient mulching result. The mulching level is also switchable and can be increased or reduced to suit the kind of material being mulched.

9. Earthwise GS70015 Mulcher – Portable Shredder/Chipper

Earthwise GS70015 is the best choice if you need a machine that will mulch any garden waste while being lugged around. This leaf shredder is capable of mulching branches, twigs, any garden waste as well as leaves effectively. Besides, it comes with a tamper tool and a leaf chute to ensure the safety of your hands. 

Another great feature is the 1.2-bushel collecting bin that allows for easy disposal of mulch. Also, you can move this shredder easily as it comes with a set of durable back wheels. Earthwise is also eco-friendly as it doesn't make use of oil or gas; thus, no smoke or fume production.

10. Sun Joe SDJ616 – Air Filtered Leaf Mulcher 

Sun Joe SDJ616 is recommended for small and medium-sized gardens or yards as it is stationary. Although it doesn't come with a disposal bag, it is compatible with any leaf or waste bag to dispose of the mulch effectively. Also, it is lightweight and can be stored easily without hassle because of its small size. 

This leaf shredder makes use of a trimmer line that can shred about 55 gallons of leaves per minute. Additionally, SDJ616 is dust-free as it possesses a dust-reducing feature that is controlled by a cooling motor system. You also do not need to struggle to operate it as it is user-friendly with easily readable dials.

Buying Guides of Leaf Mulcher

There are lots of leaf mulchers available on the market that it becomes a bit difficult to pick the right one for you. You can find the mulchers that can shred almost any material in the yard, while some are only particular to leaves and small twigs.

Asides considering your budget, the type of waste you want to mulch is another important defining factor when buying one. Additionally, some mulchers also offer functionalities of leaf blowers, vacuum, and mulchers all-together.

Admittedly, there are different grades and types of leaf shredders to consider; however, here are some things you should consider before buying one.

Adjustment of Speed

Mulchers come with different speed capacities; some are faster than most. However, it is vital to look out for the shredders that allow you to adjust the speed to your desired level.

Consequently, twigs or leaves may get clogged in the shredder blade. This is why you should get a mulcher that will allow you to regulate the speed of the blade.

Motor Power and Capacity

Another critical factor to note is the capacity and power of your mulcher, usually depicted in horsepower or amperage. This is advised because it determines how productive the mulcher is.

Many mulchers are within the range of 12 to 14 amperes. This is the threshold of small scale shredders and heavy-duty as well.

Mulching Ratio

The mulching ratio refers to the ratio of the bags of uncut leaves to the bags of mulched leaves. One effective ratio to look out for is 13:1, which means that the expected reduction rate is from 13 bags to 1 bag. Hence, the leaves are thirteen times smaller than the original size. It is advised that you take note of this ratio as it also indicates how capable the shredder will be.

Mulching Capacity

This is more concerned with how many leaves the shredder can contain at once, particularly noticed in the size of the bowl/feeder. A small feeder will most likely be valid for a small lawn or garden. However, if you own a large yard, it is best to go for a suitable size.

Admittedly, if you have lots of trees, you will experience excessive leaf dropping. Hence, a bigger machine is required. If you are making compost, it is also crucial to note the size, especially if you are going for a large amount.

Safety Features

Leaf shredders are made with blades or cutters that are likely to get clogged, especially when shredding a large number of leaves. When this happens, it can lead to electrical problems as well as accidents when you are attempting to unblock it.

Hence, many manufacturers build their shredders with an automatic switch-off feature when blockage occurs. These models guarantee safe use and fewer accidents.

Storage Space

The storage space for the mulcher should also be considered as it will determine the size you will get. Some shredders are foldable and compact. Hence, if you have a small space, you should consider buying these models.

Portability

A large lawn will require you moving about with your shredder. So, it is crucial to choose one that is suitable for the size of your garden. Stationary mulchers are best used in smaller gardens and spaces while the portable ones are best with bigger lawns.

Types of Leaf Mulchers

There are different models available in the market, all built in various forms to suit individual needs.

These forms can further be classified to:

1. Simple Mulchers

These kinds of shredders are more suitable for small scale jobs and lightweight work. Mostly used for leaves and twigs shredding, they can either be stationary or portable and are easy to operate. Additionally, their operation is to shred leaves effectively to smaller bits, and they include the shredders and the mulching lawnmowers.

2. Vacuum Leaf Shredders

These are the more advanced shredders that possess a special blade that doubles as a shredder and a vacuum as well. A collection bag is usually added to the back, and it starts operating as a leaves blower. However, instead of blowing the leaves, it sucks it up and shreds it immediately. Although it is a bit convenient when it comes to collecting the leaves, it is not as effective as normal mulchers as regards mulching.

Final Verdict