Best 21-Inch Mulching Mower Blades: Top 9 Picks (November 2026)
The best 21-inch mulching mower blades include the Grasscool 21 inch Mower Mulching Blade for broad OEM fit, the Maxpower 331981B 21-Inch Universal Gold Metal Mulching for adjustable mounting, and the EGO POWER+ 21" Mulching Blades for Electric for EGO Select Cut mowers.
On this page (6 sections)
The best 21 inch mulching mower blade for most compatible gas walk-behind mowers is the Grasscool 942-0741A replacement. It combines broad listed fitment with 3-in-1 mulching, bagging and side-discharge use, while the EGO and Greenworks options serve specific cordless mower families.
A mulching blade recuts grass under the deck so the pieces can return to the lawn. The correct blade still depends on your mower's model, deck size, OEM number and mounting pattern.
For another size-specific comparison, see 14-inch mower blade options.
If you need a general 21-inch replacement, compare this guide with our best lawn mower blades 21 inch roundup. For installation, follow the steps in How to Change Lawn Mower Blades?.
Our picks at a glance
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1
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2
Best for adjustable mountingMaxpower 331981B 21-Inch Universal Gold Metal Mulching
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for EGO Select Cut mowersEGO POWER+ 21" Mulching Blades for Electric
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itGICOOL 942-0741A 21 inch Mulching Mower Blade
Best for a single OEM-style replacement - 5
Check itFismiuta 21 Inch Lawn Mower Blade
Best for higher lift - 6
Check itGICOOL 942-0741A 21 Inch Mower Mulching Blades
Best for keeping a spare - 7
Check itHipa 942-0741A Mulching Blades for Troy Bilt
Best for a Troy-Bilt spare set - 8
Best for Greenworks cordless mowersCheck it - 9
Check itChway 2Pcs 942-0741a Lawn Mower Blade
Best for a two-blade budget set
The best 21 inch mulching mower blades by mower and task
The best choice depends on fit first, then on whether you need one blade, a spare set or a brand-specific replacement. The products below are arranged by score, with the highest-scoring options first.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. We checked the stated blade dimensions, replacement numbers, mower coverage, pack size and intended use.
| Product | Best for | Deck size | Length | Material | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grasscool 21 inch Mower Mulching Blade | broad OEM fit | 21 in | 20 7/8 in | 40MnB steel | 9.7 |
| Maxpower 331981B 21-Inch Universal Gold Metal Mulching | adjustable mounting | 21 in | 9.6 | ||
| EGO POWER+ 21" Mulching Blades for Electric | EGO Select Cut mowers | 9.6 | |||
| GICOOL 942-0741A 21 inch Mulching Mower Blade | a single OEM-style replacement | 20-30/32 in | 9.4 | ||
| Fismiuta 21 Inch Lawn Mower Blade | higher lift | 21 in | 9.3 | ||
| GICOOL 942-0741A 21 Inch Mower Mulching Blades | keeping a spare | 21 in | 20-30/32 in | 9.2 | |
| Hipa 942-0741A Mulching Blades for Troy Bilt | a Troy-Bilt spare set | Alloy steel | 8.6 | ||
| Greenworks | Greenworks cordless mowers | Alloy steel | 8.4 | ||
| Chway 2Pcs 942-0741a Lawn Mower Blade | a two-blade budget set | 21 in | 8.1 |
1. Grasscool 21 inch Mower Mulching Blade: Best for broad OEM fit
Grasscool 21 inch Mower Mulching Blade: Best for broad OEM fit
- 21-inch deck fit
- 40MnB steel
- 3-in-1 mulching, bagging and side discharge
- Bow Tie center hole
Grasscool covers many Troy-Bilt, MTD, Cub Cadet and Craftsman mower models using the 942-0741A family of replacement numbers. Its 3-in-1 design suits homeowners who switch between mulching, bagging and side discharge.
Pros
- Broad listed model coverage
- 3-in-1 design
- Bow Tie center hole
Cons
- Fit still depends on the exact mower and mounting pattern
- Single blade
Grasscool is the strongest general choice for many 21-inch Troy-Bilt, MTD, Cub Cadet and Craftsman walk-behind, push and self-propelled mowers. It uses the 942-0741A replacement family and a Bow Tie center hole, so compare your old blade before ordering.
The blade measures 20 7/8 in long, 2 1/4 in wide and 9/64 in thick. Its 40MnB steel construction and 1 1/8 in lift suit homeowners who need a blade for regular lawns as well as tougher mowing conditions.
Its 3-in-1 design supports mulching, bagging and side discharge. That gives you more mowing choices when grass is damp, weeds are tall or you want to return fine clippings to the lawn.
Grasscool lists fitment for many models, including Troy-Bilt TB110, TB130, TB210, TB230 and TB240, plus numerous Cub Cadet and Craftsman models. The exact OEM number and center-hole pattern matter more than the brand name alone.
2. Maxpower 331981B: Best for adjustable mounting
Maxpower 331981B 21-Inch Universal Gold Metal Mulching: Best for adjustable mounting
- 21-inch cutting width
- 1-inch center hole
- Cover washer
- 6 reducing washers
Maxpower is the flexible choice when a 21-inch mower needs a universal blade with multiple reducing washers. The included washer sizes help match several mounting configurations.
Pros
- Multiple reducing washers
- 1-inch center hole
- Alloy steel
Cons
- Universal fit requires careful measurement
- Single blade
Maxpower suits a 21-inch mower owner who needs a universal replacement with more mounting flexibility. The blade measures 21 in long and 2 1/2 in wide, with a 1 in center hole.
The package includes 1 cover washer and 6 reducing washers in 3/8, 7/16, 9/16, 1/2, 5/8 and 13/16 in sizes. Those parts can help match the blade to a compatible mounting setup, but you still need to compare the mower's hardware before installation.
Maxpower describes this as an alloy steel universal mulching blade. Its wider 2 1/2 in measurement differs from several 942-0741A-style blades, so don't treat every 21-inch blade as dimensionally identical.
Choose it when the washer system solves a real fit question. If your mower already specifies a 942-0741A Bow Tie blade, a direct replacement may be simpler.
Care depends on using the right washer and keeping the blade clean after mowing. A wrong washer choice can leave the blade loose or off center, so test the fit on the spindle before you tighten the fastener.
3. EGO POWER+ 21-inch Mulching Blades: Best for EGO Select Cut mowers
EGO POWER+ 21" Mulching Blades for Electric: Best for EGO Select Cut mowers
- 2-pack
- All-steel blades
- Heavy-duty mulching and bagging
- Interchangeable lower blade
This EGO POWER+ set is made for listed 21-inch Select Cut electric mower models. It gives compatible owners a two-blade replacement set for the multi-blade system.
Pros
- Designed for specific EGO models
- 2-pack
- All-steel construction
Cons
- Not a general universal blade
- Nuts and bolts not included
EGO POWER+ is the right pick for listed EGO POWER+ 56-Volt Select Cut mowers, including LM2130, LM2133, LM2135SP, LM2150SP and LM2156SP models. It is not a general universal blade for unrelated 21-inch mowers.
This set contains 2 all-steel blades for the EGO Select Cut multi-blade system. The lower blade is interchangeable within that system, while the stated use includes heavy-duty mulching and bagging.
The AB2101D model is useful when you want a brand-specific replacement set rather than a blade selected only by length. EGO's mower model number is the key fit check here.
Nuts and bolts are not included. Confirm that your mower uses the stated multi-blade system and keep the existing hardware available before beginning the replacement.
For more brand-specific choices, compare this pick with our best greenworks lawn mower blades 21 inch guide.
4. GICOOL 942-0741A: Best for a single OEM-style replacement
GICOOL 942-0741A 21 inch Mulching Mower Blade: Best for a single OEM-style replacement
- 40MnB steel
- Bow Tie center hole
- 21-inch deck fit
- 3.5 mm thickness
GICOOL gives owners of compatible Troy-Bilt, MTD, Cub Cadet and Craftsman mowers a single 942-0741A replacement. Its dimensions and listed OEM numbers make it useful when you need one matching blade.
Pros
- Detailed replacement numbers
- 40MnB steel
- Single replacement
Cons
- Bow Tie mounting pattern required
- Model coverage must be checked
GICOOL's single blade is a practical match for owners who need one replacement for a compatible Troy-Bilt, MTD, Cub Cadet or Craftsman mower. It uses the 942-0741A replacement family and a Bow Tie center hole.
The blade measures 20-30/32 in long, 2-3/16 in wide and 9/64 in thick. It also lists a 5/16 in side hole, a 2 1/2 in outside-hole spacing and a 26/32 in air lift.
GICOOL describes the blade as a 3-in-1 option for mulching, bagging and side discharge. Its 40MnB steel construction is aimed at consistent cutting, while the coated cutting edge is intended to protect against rust during installation.
This is the better GICOOL choice when you want one blade rather than a spare pair. Check your mower's full model and OEM number because the same brand can use different blade mounts across model families.
In daily use, the air lift and curved profile help move clippings under the deck for finer mulching. Keep the edge sharpened for a clean cut, since a dull edge tears grass and leaves a rough finish.
5. Fismiuta 21 Inch Lawn Mower Blade: Best for higher lift
Fismiuta 21 Inch Lawn Mower Blade: Best for higher lift
- 32 mm air lift
- 3-in-1 design
- High-carbon steel
- Bow Tie center hole
Fismiuta suits compatible 21-inch walk-behind mowers when stronger stated lift matters for mulching, bagging and side discharge. It fits only Bow Tie spindles, so confirm the mounting pattern first.
Pros
- 32 mm air lift
- 3-in-1 use
- High-carbon steel
Cons
- Bow Tie spindle only
- Fewer model details than some alternatives
Fismiuta stands out for its stated 32 mm air lift, which is higher than the 28 mm lift listed for several other blades in this group. That makes it worth considering when bagging airflow is part of your mowing routine.
The blade measures 21 in long, 2 1/4 in wide and 9/64 in thick. It uses a Bow Tie center hole and is listed for select Cub Cadet, MTD, Craftsman and Troy-Bilt 21-inch walk-behind push mowers.
Its 3-in-1 design supports mulching, bagging and side discharge. The blade is made from high-carbon steel, and the coated edges are intended to protect your hands during installation before the coating wears through normal mowing.
The main trade-off is fit precision. Fismiuta only fits Bow Tie spindles, so compare the center hole and the mower's replacement number before choosing it.
Higher lift can help lift grass for a cleaner cut and move clippings more quickly when bagging. Stronger airflow can also mean the mower works harder in thick grass, so slow your pace in heavy growth.
6. GICOOL 942-0741A 2-Pack: Best for keeping a spare
GICOOL 942-0741A 21 Inch Mower Mulching Blades: Best for keeping a spare
- 2-pack
- 40MnB steel
- Mulching, bagging and side discharge
- Bow Tie center hole
The GICOOL 2-pack fits the same broad 942-0741A replacement family as the single-blade option. It makes sense when you want one blade installed and another available for the next maintenance cycle.
Pros
- Two blades
- Broad listed mower coverage
- 40MnB steel
Cons
- Both blades require the same compatible mounting pattern
- No fit advantage over the single pack
The GICOOL 2-pack is for mower owners who want one blade installed and another ready for the next maintenance cycle. Both blades use the 942-0741A fit family and require the same compatible 21-inch deck and Bow Tie mounting pattern.
Each blade measures 20-30/32 in long, 2-3/16 in wide and 9/64 in thick. The 40MnB steel construction and 26/32 in air lift match the dimensions listed for GICOOL's single-blade version.
The 3-in-1 design supports mulching, bagging and side discharge. GICOOL lists many Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman and MTD models, including several TB, CC, SC and M mower families.
Choose the 2-pack when reducing future downtime matters. Choose the single GICOOL blade instead if you only need one replacement and don't want to store a second blade.
Keeping a spare means a nicked or dull blade does not stop your lawn care at a busy time. Store the second blade flat and dry, and inspect it before use so it is ready when the installed blade needs sharpening or replacement.
7. Hipa 942-0741A: Best for a Troy-Bilt spare set
Hipa 942-0741A Mulching Blades for Troy Bilt: Best for a Troy-Bilt spare set
- 2-pack
- Alloy steel
- Bow Tie mounting hole
- 942-0741A replacement family
Hipa focuses on a two-blade replacement set for compatible Troy-Bilt 21-inch walk-behind mowers. Check the exact model, MPN and Bow Tie mounting configuration before ordering.
Pros
- 2-pack
- Alloy steel
- Clear fitment warning
Cons
- Compatibility varies by model year
- Less broad coverage than the highest-ranked options
Hipa focuses on a 2-pack of 942-0741A mulching blades for listed Troy-Bilt 21-inch walk-behind push mower models. It also identifies replacement numbers such as 942-0741, 742-0741A, 942-04276S and 742-04100.
The blades use alloy steel and a Bow Tie mounting hole. Hipa lists compatibility with models including TB110, TB130, TB210, TB230, TB240, TB280ES, TB320 and other Troy-Bilt mower families.
Mulching blades chop clippings inside the deck and return the smaller pieces to the lawn. Hipa also advises checking for cracks, damage and tightness and using thick gloves when installing or removing blades.
If the edge is dull but the blade is sound, compare mower blade sharpeners for bench grinders.
The key caution is model-year variation. Confirm the mower's model, MPN and mounting configuration instead of relying only on the 21-inch deck size.
For a wider Craftsman-focused comparison, see our best craftsman lawn mower blades 21 inch guide.
8. Greenworks 2905203: Best for Greenworks cordless mowers
Greenworks: Best for Greenworks cordless mowers
- 21-inch replacement blade
- Alloy steel
- Greenworks 80V, 60V, 40V and 2 x 24V fitment
- Model 2905203
Greenworks 2905203 is the focused choice for listed Greenworks cordless mower models across several voltage families. Compare your mower's mounting pattern and model number before installation.
Pros
- Broad Greenworks voltage coverage
- Genuine replacement part
- Alloy steel
Cons
- Not a universal mower blade
- Single blade
Greenworks 2905203 is the focused choice for listed Greenworks cordless mowers. The fitment covers selected 80V, 60V, 40V and 2 x 24V models, including model families with numbers such as 2550702, 2531702, 2515502 and 2533202.
This is a genuine 21-inch replacement blade made from alloy steel. It is supplied as 1 blade, with a listed cutting width of 21 in.
Greenworks emphasizes comparing the mounting pattern on your mower with the blade pattern before installation. That check matters because cordless mower families can use different mounting layouts even when their cutting decks share the same width.
Choose this option when your mower model appears in the stated Greenworks fitment groups. If you use a Troy-Bilt or Craftsman mower, compare the 942-0741A options instead.
For cordless use, check the blade before fitting it and remove the battery before you work under the deck. A clean, sharp edge helps the mower cut evenly without putting extra strain on the motor in damp or thick grass.
9. Chway 2Pcs 942-0741A: Best for a two-blade set
Chway 2Pcs 942-0741a Lawn Mower Blade: Best for a two-blade budget set
- 2-pack
- 21-inch deck fit
- Bow Tie center hole
- Mulching design
Chway provides two 942-0741A-style blades for compatible Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman and MTD 21-inch deck mowers. Its curved design is aimed at repeated cutting and reduced clogging.
Pros
- 2-pack
- Broad listed replacement numbers
- Bow Tie center hole
Cons
- Fit depends on exact spindle pattern
- Lower score for less detailed fit coverage
Chway provides 2 mulching blades for compatible 21-inch deck mowers using the 942-0741A replacement family. The listed fit includes selected Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman and MTD models.
Each blade measures 21 in long, 2 1/4 in wide and 9/64 in thick. It uses a Bow Tie center hole and a 1 1/8 in lift, so compare those measurements with your existing blade and spindle.
The curved blade design is intended to keep clippings moving through a repeated cutting cycle. Chway also describes the blades for mulching, bagging and side discharge use.
This set suits buyers who want two compatible replacements at once. Its fit is not universal, so verify the mower model and Bow Tie pattern before ordering.
The spare blade is useful when the first blade becomes dull from weeds or uneven ground. Sharpen or replace the blade before the cut turns ragged, and clean the deck so clippings can circulate instead of packing down.
What is a mulching blade?
A What Is a Mulching Blade? guide explains the basic difference: a mulching blade is shaped to keep clippings moving under the deck so the grass is cut into smaller pieces. Those pieces can then fall back onto the lawn instead of going straight into a bag.
Mulching works best when the blade matches the mower deck and the grass is not too tall for one pass. Mowing more slowly through heavy growth can help the deck process clippings without forcing the mower through a large load at once.
A mulching blade may also support bagging or side discharge, but that depends on the blade design and mower setup. Grasscool, GICOOL, Fismiuta, Hipa and Chway describe 3-in-1 use, while EGO describes heavy-duty mulching and bagging.
The shape matters because it controls how long clippings stay under the deck. Curves and lift help recut the grass, while airflow helps move it toward a bag or discharge chute when you choose those modes.
Mulching can suit homeowners who want fewer clippings to collect after each mow. It suits regular cutting more than a one-time cleanup of very tall grass, so plan for lighter passes when growth is heavy.
Blade condition also changes the result. A sharp edge cuts cleanly and makes smaller pieces, while a dull edge can tear grass and leave clippings that sit on the surface.
Deck clearance matters too, since packed grass under the deck can limit airflow. Cleaning the underside and keeping the deck dry helps the blade work as intended.
What is a mulching mower?
A What Is a Mulching Mower? explanation covers the mower setup, not just the blade. A mulching mower uses a deck and blade arrangement that keeps clippings under the deck long enough for repeated cuts.
You can often identify the intended use by checking the mower manual, blade shape and discharge configuration. A side-discharge mower may need a compatible mulching blade and a closed or approved discharge setup for mulching mode.
Mulching doesn't remove the need for maintenance. Keep the underside of the deck clear, inspect the blade for damage and use the mower's recommended cutting height and operating method.
The mower and blade work as a system. The deck shape holds clippings in the cutting area, while the blade shape and lift move them through repeated cuts before they drop onto the lawn.
That system suits homeowners who mow on a routine schedule. When grass is kept at a manageable height, the mower can process clippings without leaving a thick layer on the surface.
Heavy or wet grass can overwhelm the same setup. Taking a lighter cut, slowing down and avoiding very damp conditions can help the deck clear clippings instead of clumping them.
Mulching also changes how you manage the lawn after mowing. Fine clippings return to the soil, so you may not need to bag as often, but the deck still needs cleaning.
Check the manual before changing modes. Some mowers need a plug, bagger or discharge cover fitted in a specific way for safe mulching use.
Blade fit is part of the setup as well. A blade that matches the deck and spindle helps the mower cut evenly and keeps vibration low.
How do you choose a 21 inch mower mulching blade?
Choose the blade by mower model and mounting pattern first, then compare length, width, thickness, lift and pack size. The words “21 inch” usually describe the deck or cutting width, not every dimension that controls fit.
A Bow Tie center hole appears on several 942-0741A-style blades in this guide. Maxpower instead uses a 1-inch center hole with reducing washers, while EGO and Greenworks require specific mower families.
Use these checks before ordering:
- Match the mower's model number and the blade's replacement number.
- Compare the center-hole shape and any side holes.
- Check blade length, width and thickness against the old blade.
- Choose a 1-pack if you need one replacement or a 2-pack if you want a spare.
- Confirm whether the blade supports mulching only or mulching, bagging and side discharge.
- Check that the mower is fully stopped and disconnected from power before inspection or removal.
If your mower uses an EGO Select Cut system, choose the EGO-specific option. If it is a listed Greenworks cordless model, compare the Greenworks 2905203 before considering a universal gas-mower blade.
How do you install and care for a mulching mower blade?
Install the blade with the mower secured, the power source disconnected and thick gloves protecting your hands. Use the mower manual for the correct blade direction, fastener and tightening procedure.
After sharpening, check that the blade remains balanced. A blade that sits unevenly on a balancing tool can create vibration and should be corrected before use.
Inspect the blade for cracks, bent sections, deep nicks and worn cutting edges. Paint or coating on some blades can wear away during mowing, but visible damage or an edge that cannot be restored is a reason to replace the blade.
Clear wrapped grass, twine and wire before each inspection. Never reach under the deck while the mower could start, and don't rely on the blade brake alone to make maintenance safe.
Start by tipping the mower safely or raising it as the manual allows. Keep fuel or a battery away from the work area, and hold the blade steady with a block of wood when you loosen the bolt.
Fit the blade in the direction shown in the manual, with the cutting edge facing the correct way. Reuse only the hardware the manual allows, and tighten the bolt to the specified torque.
Sharpening should keep both cutting edges even. Removing too much metal from one side can unbalance the blade, so check the balance after each sharpening session.
Clean the deck underside with a scraper while the blade is off. Dried grass buildup can reduce airflow, so clear it before you mount the blade again.
Store spare blades where they will not rust or get bent. A flat, dry place helps keep the edge ready for the next replacement.
During the season, look at the blade after mowing tough patches. Weeds, twigs and uneven ground can dull or nick the edge faster than normal grass.
Which 21 inch mulching mower blade should you buy?
Choose the Grasscool 21 inch Mower Mulching Blade if you need broad listed fitment across compatible Troy-Bilt, MTD, Cub Cadet or Craftsman mowers. Pick Maxpower when the reducing-washer system matches your mounting setup.
Choose EGO for listed Select Cut electric mowers and Greenworks for listed cordless models. For a spare, select one of the 2-packs, then verify the model number and center-hole pattern before installation.
Start with your mower's model number and OEM blade number, since those details decide fit more than deck size alone. A Bow Tie spindle needs a matching blade, while a universal option needs the right washer for the spindle.
Think about how you mow most often. Frequent mulching needs a blade and deck that recut clippings well, while regular bagging puts more value on lift and airflow.
A 2-pack suits owners who want to avoid downtime when a blade becomes dull or damaged. A single blade suits a simple replacement when you already have a spare or prefer less storage.
Either way, inspect the old blade and compare its length, width, thickness and center hole before you order. That check takes a few minutes and can prevent a poor fit.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
-
2
Best for adjustable mounting
Maxpower 331981B 21-Inch Universal Gold Metal Mulching
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for EGO Select Cut mowers
EGO POWER+ 21" Mulching Blades for Electric
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best 21 inch mulching mower blade?
The Grasscool 21 inch Mower Mulching Blade is the strongest general pick here because it covers many listed Troy-Bilt, MTD, Cub Cadet and Craftsman 21-inch mowers and supports mulching, bagging and side discharge.
Confirm the OEM number and center-hole shape before ordering.
How do I choose a 21 inch mower mulching blade?
Match the blade to your mower's model, deck size, OEM replacement number and center-hole pattern. A 21-inch deck alone doesn't guarantee fit.
Also decide whether you want one replacement, a 2-pack, a universal washer system or a brand-specific blade for an EGO or Greenworks mower.
Are all 21 inch mulching mower blades interchangeable?
No. Blades can share a 21-inch cutting width while using different center-hole shapes, side holes, mounting distances or mower-specific systems.
The EGO POWER+ blade is for listed Select Cut models, while several 942-0741A options require a Bow Tie spindle.
Can a mulching blade bag grass clippings?
Some mulching blades support both mulching and bagging. Grasscool, Fismiuta, GICOOL and Chway describe 3-in-1 use, while the exact result depends on the mower deck, bagger and correct installation.
Use the mower's recommended mode and keep the deck clear of packed grass.
How often should I replace a 21 inch mulching mower blade?
Replace a blade when it has major nicks, cracks, heavy wear or cannot hold a usable edge after sharpening. Inspect it before installation and after mowing conditions involving weeds, twigs or uneven ground.
A spare 2-pack can reduce downtime during routine mower maintenance.
