5 Best Mower Mulching Kits (October 2026)
The best mower mulching kits include the CUB CADET 19A30046100 Xtreme Mulching Kit 42" for Cub Cadet 42-inch lithium-ion decks, the CUB CADET 19A70041100 Mulching Kit 42" Stamped for Cub Cadet 42-inch stamped decks, and the Craftsman CMXGZAMA70041 42-Inch Lawn Mower Mulching Kit for listed Craftsman blade numbers.
On this page (5 sections)
The best mower mulching kit for a Cub Cadet 42-inch deck is the CUB CADET 19A30046100 Xtreme Mulching Kit. It comes with two Xtreme blades, a molded plug and mounting hardware, but the exact mower model and blade center-hole pattern decide whether it fits.
A mulching conversion can use different parts from a bagging setup. Check whether your mower needs blades, a plug, a baffle or a combination, then compare part numbers with the manual or the parts label on the machine.
For the installation steps, see How To Convert Lawn Mower To Mulcher?. If you want to collect clippings instead, compare the options in How To Make A Lawn Mower Bag? and How To Make A Lawn Mower Grass Catcher?.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for Cub Cadet 42-inch lithium-ion decksCUB CADET 19A30046100 Xtreme Mulching Kit 42"
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for Cub Cadet 42-inch stamped decksCUB CADET 19A70041100 Mulching Kit 42" Stamped
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for listed Craftsman blade numbersCraftsman CMXGZAMA70041 42-Inch Lawn Mower Mulching Kit
9.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itArnold 19A30041OEM Lawn Mower Mulching Kit
Best for compatible Cub Cadet 50-inch decks - 5
Check itAMTHKNO 19A70041 19A70041100 Mulching Kit for MTD
Best for cross-checking several MTD part numbers
Which mower mulching kits fit different deck setups?
The best fit depends on the mower model and deck, not only the deck width. These picks cover select Cub Cadet 42-inch and 50-inch setups, plus kits whose compatibility is tied to specific blade part numbers.
How we compared mower mulching kits
We compared the stated mower and deck fits, blade center-hole details, and included parts. Our score weighs specs and features against what you need for a compatible mulching conversion.
A kit with blades, a plug and hardware can cover more of the conversion parts list, but it still needs to match your mower. Treat model names and part numbers as a starting point, then confirm fit in your owner’s manual or parts catalog.
| Product | Best for | Deck width | Included | Center hole | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CUB CADET 19A30046100 Xtreme Mulching Kit 42" | Cub Cadet 42-inch lithium-ion decks | 42 in | 2 blades, molded plug, mounting hardware and instructions | S-shaped | 9.7 |
| CUB CADET 19A70041100 Mulching Kit 42" Stamped | Cub Cadet 42-inch stamped decks | 42 in | 2 blades, molded plug, mounting hardware and instructions | 9.5 | |
| Craftsman CMXGZAMA70041 42-Inch Lawn Mower Mulching Kit | listed Craftsman blade numbers | 42 in | 2 blades, molded plug and mounting hardware | 6-point star | 9.3 |
| Arnold 19A30041OEM Lawn Mower Mulching Kit | compatible Cub Cadet 50-inch decks | 50 in | 3 blades, baffle and mounting hardware | 9.0 | |
| AMTHKNO 19A70041 19A70041100 Mulching Kit for MTD | cross-checking several MTD part numbers | 42 in, among listed fits | 2 blades, molded plug and mounting hardware | 8.8 |
Mower mulching kits by compatibility and included parts
Choose a kit only after checking its mower fit and blade pattern. These product notes explain where each option may suit, and where to verify before buying.
CUB CADET 19A30046100 Xtreme Mulching Kit 42": Best for Cub Cadet 42-inch lithium-ion decks
- Two Xtreme mulching blades
- Molded plug and mounting hardware
- S-shaped center blade holes
- 42-inch deck
This kit includes two Xtreme blades, a molded plug and mounting hardware. Its stated fit includes the XT1-LT42E Lithium Ion, with additional models listed in the compatibility details.
Pros
- Includes blades, plug and hardware
- Identifies an S-shaped center hole pattern
- Fits the XT1-LT42E Lithium Ion
Cons
- Compatibility needs checking against the mower manual
- The center hole pattern must match
The CUB CADET 19A30046100 Xtreme kit is the top choice for a compatible 42-inch Cub Cadet deck. It includes two Xtreme mulching blades, a molded plug, mounting hardware and instructions, so the main conversion pieces come together.
The stated fit includes the XT1-LT42E Lithium Ion. Other compatibility details name additional RZT, XT1, XT2 and ZT1 models, but the product name alone is not enough to confirm that your exact mower is covered.
The blades use S-shaped center holes. Check the shape of your current blades and the mower's parts information before ordering, since a different center pattern can prevent a blade from mounting correctly.
Choose this kit when the mower model and center-hole pattern match. If either detail is unclear, use the mower’s manual or parts label to verify the part number.
CUB CADET 19A70041100 Mulching Kit 42" Stamped: Best for Cub Cadet 42-inch stamped decks
- Two mulching blades
- Molded plug and mounting hardware
- 42-inch deck
- Fits select XT1, XT2 and RZT models
This Cub Cadet kit pairs two mulching blades with a molded plug and hardware. Its fit details name select XT1, XT2 and RZT models with 42-inch decks.
Pros
- Includes the plug and hardware
- Names several compatible Cub Cadet model families
- Made for a 42-inch stamped deck
Cons
- Exact model fit still needs confirmation
- The stated compatibility is limited to select models
The CUB CADET 19A70041100 kit suits select Cub Cadet 42-inch stamped decks. It includes two mulching blades, a molded plug, mounting hardware and instructions.
Its compatibility details name select XT1, XT2 and RZT models, including the XT1-LT42 and XT2-LX42. The model family and deck width still need to match your mower’s exact configuration.
This is a separate part number from the Xtreme kit above. Before choosing between them, compare the mower model, deck type and original equipment part number in your manual or parts catalog.
Choose this option when your machine is among the named models and its parts information points to 19A70041100. It offers a clearly specified 42-inch stamped-deck application, with the basic conversion parts included.
Craftsman CMXGZAMA70041 42-Inch Lawn Mower Mulching Kit: Best for listed Craftsman blade numbers
- Two mulching blades
- Molded plug and mounting hardware
- 6-point star center hole
- Fits specified blade part numbers
The Craftsman kit includes two blades, a molded plug and mounting hardware. Its compatibility is tied to a set of blade part numbers, so check your mower's installed blade number before choosing it.
Pros
- Names compatible blade part numbers
- Includes a molded plug
- Identifies a 6-point star center hole
Cons
- Blade numbers must match your mower
- Its fit details focus on specified blade numbers
The Craftsman CMXGZAMA70041 kit is a practical match when your mower uses one of its specified blade part numbers. It includes two mulching blades, a molded plug and mounting hardware for a 42-inch setup.
Its fit details name blade numbers such as 942-0616 and 742-0616, along with 942-04308, 742-04308, 942-04312 and 742-04312. Check the number stamped on the existing blade or find it in the mower manual before choosing this kit.
The blades have a 6-point star center hole. Compare that pattern with the blade spindle and your original blades, because a similar deck width does not guarantee the hole shape will match.
Choose this kit when both the mower application and blade number line up. If you need help adapting the mower for a different setup, our guide to How To Put A Lift Kit On A Lawn Mower? covers a separate mower project.
Arnold 19A30041OEM Lawn Mower Mulching Kit: Best for compatible Cub Cadet 50-inch decks
- Three Xtreme mulching blades
- Baffle and mounting hardware
- For specified Cub Cadet 50-inch decks
- Star center hole blades
This kit is for specified Cub Cadet lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers with 50-inch decks. It includes three Xtreme blades, a baffle and mounting hardware.
Pros
- Includes three blades and a baffle
- Names compatible original equipment blade numbers
- Designed for specified 50-inch decks
Cons
- Does not fit the 42-inch decks covered by the other picks
- Model and blade numbers need verification
The Arnold 19A30041OEM kit is the 50-inch deck option in this roundup. It is described for select Cub Cadet lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers from 2015–2020 and includes three Xtreme blades, a baffle and mounting hardware.
Its blades have star center holes, and the specified original equipment blade numbers are 942-05052-X and 742-05052-X. Check the parts label under the rider hood or, on a zero-turn, under the seat mounting bracket to identify the correct equipment part number.
This kit’s listed deck size sets it apart from the 42-inch options. It may suit a compatible 50-inch machine, but the model year and original blade number must also match.
Choose it when your mower’s parts information points to the stated part numbers and the deck is 50 inches. For a different way to change the lawn’s appearance, see How To Make A Lawn Mower Striping Kit?.
AMTHKNO 19A70041 19A70041100 Mulching Kit for MTD: Best for cross-checking several MTD part numbers
- Two replacement blades
- Molded plug and mounting hardware
- Names multiple compatible part numbers
- Includes select 42-inch deck models
This kit names several MTD and mower blade part numbers and includes two blades, a molded plug and hardware. Its compatibility details say it fits most, but not all, listed Craftsman and Troy-Bilt mowers.
Pros
- Lists several mower and blade part numbers
- Includes a molded plug and hardware
- Names select 42-inch Cub Cadet models
Cons
- Compatibility is not universal
- Exact mower and blade fit needs careful checking
The AMTHKNO kit is a cross-reference option for buyers checking several MTD-related part numbers. It includes two replacement blades, a molded plug and mounting hardware, with compatibility details naming 19A70041100 and several blade numbers.
The fit information includes select Cub Cadet 42-inch models, along with some Craftsman and Troy-Bilt mower applications. It also says the kit fits most, but not all, of the named Craftsman and Troy-Bilt mowers, so use the exact model and blade number to narrow the match.
This broad compatibility list can help when you are comparing an older mower’s part number with a replacement. It does not make the kit universal, and the correct center-hole pattern still matters.
Choose it when the part number and mower model both match the compatibility details. If you cannot confirm them, check the manual or ask a mower parts supplier to match your original equipment number.
What should you check before buying a mulcher for a lawn mower?
Before buying, confirm the model number, deck type, blade length and center-hole pattern. Then check which conversion parts the mower requires and whether they come in the kit.
How do you match a mower mulching kit to the blade?
Use the original blade part number as a key check. The Craftsman kit names several compatible blade numbers and a 6-point star center hole, while the Cub Cadet Xtreme kit identifies S-shaped center holes.
Do not assume that blades fit because the deck is 42 inches. Deck width is only one part of compatibility; the mower model and spindle pattern also matter.
Is a plug or baffle part of every mulching mower kit?
No. The kits here differ in what they include: several have a molded plug, while the Arnold 50-inch kit includes a baffle.
Your mower’s manual can tell you which parts its conversion calls for.
Check the package contents against that parts list before ordering. If you already own a compatible plug or baffle, confirm that the replacement kit does not require a different design.
Can you keep the mower’s standard blades for mulching?
Some conversions call for replacement mulching blades, and all five kits in this roundup include replacement blades. Use the mower’s manual to confirm whether its setup needs a blade change and which part number fits.
Sharp, correctly matched blades help cut grass cleanly. Inspect blades regularly and follow the mower maker’s maintenance instructions when sharpening or replacing them.
How should you choose between these mower mulching kits?
Choose the Cub Cadet Xtreme kit for a matching 42-inch mower with the S-shaped blade pattern, or the 19A70041100 kit for a compatible Cub Cadet stamped deck. Pick the Craftsman option by blade number, the Arnold kit for a compatible 50-inch setup, and the AMTHKNO kit only after checking its broader part-number list against your mower.
A mulching kit should match the machine before it matches your preferred feature list. Verify the model, deck and blade details first, then confirm that the kit includes the plug or baffle your conversion needs.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for Cub Cadet 42-inch lithium-ion decks
CUB CADET 19A30046100 Xtreme Mulching Kit 42"
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for Cub Cadet 42-inch stamped decks
CUB CADET 19A70041100 Mulching Kit 42" Stamped
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for listed Craftsman blade numbers
Craftsman CMXGZAMA70041 42-Inch Lawn Mower Mulching Kit
9.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose a mower mulching kit?
Match the kit to your mower's exact model, deck type and blade center-hole pattern. Then confirm whether the conversion needs replacement blades, a plug, a baffle and mounting hardware.
A 42-inch deck width alone does not guarantee that a kit fits.
Do mower mulching kits include blades?
Many kits include replacement blades, but the number and included parts vary. The picks here include two or three blades, and some also include a molded plug or baffle.
Compare the kit contents with your mower's manual before you order.
Can any mulching blade work with my mower?
No. Blade length, center-hole pattern and mower compatibility all matter.
For example, the Craftsman kit here specifies a 6-point star center hole, while the Cub Cadet Xtreme kit specifies S-shaped center holes.
Use your mower manual or original blade part number to confirm a match.
Does a mulching kit need a plug?
A plug closes the discharge opening on many mower conversions so clippings stay under the deck to be cut again. Several kits here include a molded plug, but check your mower's manual to see which parts its setup requires.
A plug alone cannot make an incompatible blade fit.
Can I mulch with a 50-inch mower deck?
Yes, if you choose a kit made for your mower and deck. The Arnold kit here is described for select Cub Cadet lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers with 50-inch decks.
Confirm the model year and blade part numbers before buying.
