You know the feeling: you finish mowing, look back, and see clumps of grass strewn across the lawn. Or worse, you spend another hour raking and bagging by hand. For anyone with a small to mid-size yard, the right mower with a bagger can turn that chore into a single pass. But not all bagger setups are created equal. Some are built into the mower; others are add-on attachments. And the mower itself — reel, electric, or riding — changes how you approach the job.
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A good bagging system saves time, keeps your lawn tidy, and prevents thatch buildup. For small properties, you don’t need a massive tractor. You need something nimble, easy to store, and efficient at collecting clippings. Some of the best options are push mowers with rear bags or attachments that turn a riding mower into a cleanup machine.
I rounded up five different approaches: two bagger attachments for riding mowers, a corded electric mower with a grass catcher, a modern reel mower with a collection bag, and a classic hand-push reel mower that works surprisingly well on tiny lawns. Each solves a specific problem. Below you’ll find a quick comparison, then deep dives into each product.
Here’s how the key specs stack up against each other.
| Features | American Lawn Reel 14 | MTD Double Bagger | American Electric 19 | American Reel 20 w/ Bag | Kerlista Bagger Container |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Push reel mower | Bagger attachment | Corded electric push | Push reel mower | Bagger container |
| Cutting Width | 14 inch | Fits 42-46 inch decks | 19 inch | 20 inch | Fits 42-48 inch decks |
| Bagger Included | No | Yes (2-bin, 6.5 bushel) | Yes (rear bag) | Yes (grass catcher) | Replacement container |
| Power Source | Manual | Tractor PTO (deck mount) | 13-amp corded | Manual | Tractor-mounted |
| Best For | Tiny lawns under 1/4 acre | Existing 42-46 inch riders | Small flat lawns with outlet | Small lawns, eco-friendly cut | Replacement bag for certain models |
American Lawn Mower 1204-14 Reel
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The American Lawn Mower 1204-14 is a 14-inch, four-blade push reel mower that weighs just 19 pounds. It’s about as simple as lawn care gets: no engine, no cord, no gas. You push, the reel spins, and grass gets snipped like scissors. This is the mower for someone with a very small lawn — think 1,000 to 3,000 square feet — who wants zero emissions and near-silent operation.
What stands out is how clean the cut is. Reel mowers slice the grass instead of tearing it, which leaves a finer, healthier edge. The 8.5-inch polymer wheels roll easily over flat ground. You also get adjustable blade height from half an inch to 1.75 inches, so you can keep a tight manicure. The low weight makes it easy to carry up steps or store in a tight shed corner.
But here’s the genuine trade-off: this mower has no bagger. The product data doesn’t list one. You’ll need to rake or let clippings lie. Also, it struggles on grass taller than 4 inches and works best if you mow frequently — no more than one-third of the blade at a time. Wet grass clogs the reel fast. This mower rewards patience and a small, level lawn.
- Cutting width: 14 inches
- Weight: 19 pounds
- Height adjustment: 0.5 to 1.75 inches
- Blades: 4-blade reel
- No grass catcher included
Best for: Homeowners with a postage-stamp lawn who want the quietest, greenest mow possible and don’t mind an extra raking step.
MTD Double Bagger Attachment
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The MTD (19B30031OEM) Double Bagger is a dedicated grass-catcher system for riding mowers with 42- or 46-inch cutting decks made after 2026. It fits many Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Yard Machines, and Huskee models. If you already own one of those tractors, this attachment turns it into a bagging machine.
The standout feature is the integrated hood that tilts from the top, so you don’t have to flip the seat up to empty the bags. A sight window shows when the 6.5-bushel capacity is full. The flex tubing lets you see grass flowing and helps prevent clogs. Bagging also reduces thatch, which encourages healthier root growth and a greener lawn.
Installation can be fussy. The fit is specific to 2026-and-later models with certain deck shapes, and Craftsman mowers from Sears require model numbers starting with 247. If your tractor is older or a different brand, this won’t work. The tubing and bags add weight to the rear, so tight turns feel a bit heavier. But for the right owner, it’s a solid upgrade.
- Compatibility: 42-46 inch decks, 2026+ Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman (247 series), and others
- Capacity: 6.5 bushels (two bins)
- Features: Flex tubing, sight window, top-hinged hood
- What’s included: Bagger frame, two bags, tubing, hardware
- No mower deck included
Best for: Owners of compatible riding mowers who want an affordable, factory-style bagging system without buying a whole new tractor.
American Lawn Mower Electric 19
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The American Lawn Mower Company 51319 is a 19-inch corded electric push mower with a 13-amp motor. It comes with both a rear grass bag and a mulch plug, so you can switch between collecting clippings or recycling them. This is the pick for someone with a small to medium lawn (up to about a half acre) that has an outdoor outlet within extension-cord reach.
It’s refreshingly straightforward: plug in, push, and the bag fills up. The 19-inch deck is wide enough to cover ground reasonably fast without being unwieldy. Cutting height adjusts from 1 to 3 inches, giving you flexibility for different grass types and seasons. No gas, no oil changes, no pull-start hassle. It’s also quiet enough that you can mow early Saturday without waking the neighbors.
The limitation is the cord. You’ll need a heavy-duty 14-gauge extension cord, and you’ll be constantly mindful of where it’s trailing. Some people find that annoying. The 13-amp motor handles normal grass fine, but thick, wet patches can bog it down. The bag is a decent size for a corded mower, but you’ll empty it frequently on dense lawns. It’s not designed for slopes or very uneven terrain.
- Motor: 13-amp corded electric
- Cutting width: 19 inches
- Height adjustment: 1 to 3 inches
- Bagging: Rear grass catcher included, mulch plug included
- Weight: Light enough to push easily (no exact weight in data, but under 50 lbs typical)
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners with a flat, small lawn who want the convenience of bagging without buying gas or a battery system.
American Lawn Mower 20 Reel with Bag
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This is the 20-inch, five-blade walk-behind reel mower from American Lawn Mower Company, and it comes with a grass catcher and a storage cover. The 20-inch cutting path is generous for a reel mower — it covers about 40% more ground per pass than the 14-inch model. If you like the idea of a reel mower but need more speed and a bag, this is a strong contender.
The five-blade reel delivers a very fine cut. Grass is clipped cleanly and directed into the included catcher, so you walk away with no clippings on the lawn. The cutting height adjusts from 2 to 3 inches, which encourages deeper roots and healthier turf. The ergonomic handle reduces wrist fatigue. And the storage bag protects the mower from dust and weather when it’s not in use.
The honest downsides: reel mowers still require frequent mowing — if grass hits 4+ inches, this machine will struggle. The bag fills up quickly on lush lawns, and emptying it means bending down to unhook it. Also, no power means no help on slopes or thick weeds. It’s best suited for a flat, well-maintained lawn under a quarter acre.
- Cutting width: 20 inches
- Blades: 5-blade reel
- Height adjustment: 2 to 3 inches
- Included: Grass catcher, storage cover
- Drive: Manual push
Best for: Eco-minded homeowners who want a bagged, clean cut without gas or electricity, and who have a small, level lawn they can mow twice a week.
Kerlista Lawn Tractor Bagger Container
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The Kerlista Lawn Tractor Bagger Attachment Container is a replacement grass bag designed to fit a range of Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan, AYP, and Dixon riding mowers with 42- to 48-inch stamped decks. It’s specifically a bag container — not the full frame or tubing. That makes it a budget-friendly way to replace a worn-out or missing bag on an existing bagger system.
Compatibility is broad. It lists part numbers like 532400226, 400226, and several others, and explicitly fits Husqvarna YTH22V46, YTH24V48, TS 146X/XK/XD, and Dixon models with 2- or 3-bin systems. If your tractor uses those part numbers, this bag slips right in. The material is sturdy enough to hold clippings without tearing, and the shape matches factory specs.
The catch: this is not a complete bagger kit. You need the frame, arms, and chute already on your tractor. It’s a replacement part, not an upgrade. Also, compatibility is tricky — the product description mentions many models, but double-check your exact tractor model and existing bagger type before buying. If you have a different brand or a non-stamped deck, it won’t fit.
- Type: Replacement grass bag (container only)
- Compatible with: Craftsman 42-46 inch, Husqvarna (YTH22V46, TS146X, etc.), Dixon 2-3 bin systems
- Replaces part numbers: 532400226, 400226, 960730028, and more
- Not a full bagger kit — requires existing frame
- Sold as 1 pack
Best for: Owners of compatible tractors who need a durable, low-cost replacement bag for their existing bagger setup.
How We Chose These Products
I started with the premise that not everyone needs the same lawn care tool. Some people want a simple, quiet push mower. Others already own a riding tractor and just need a better bagging attachment. I looked for products that cover different power sources and price ranges while all offering some form of bagging (or being bagger-ready).
Each product was evaluated on real-world practicality: how easy is it to use daily, how well does it collect clippings, and what’s the actual footprint for storage and maintenance. I prioritized products that solve a common pain point — like tangled cords, raking after mowing, or broken bags — rather than just listing specs. The goal was to give you a clear choice based on your lawn size and mowing habits, not to declare one universal winner.
Buying Guide: What Really Matters
First ask yourself how big your lawn is. For under 3,000 square feet, a reel mower like the American Lawn 14 or 20 can work beautifully if you stay on top of growth. For 3,000 to 10,000 square feet, a corded electric mower with bagging — like the American 19 — is a practical middle ground. For larger lawns (over half an acre), you almost certainly want a riding mower, and that’s where attachments like the MTD Double Bagger come in.
Next consider bagging. A built-in grass catcher is more convenient than a separate bagger kit, but separate kits often hold more and don’t add weight to a push mower. If you hate raking, get something with a bag included from the start. Replacement bags like the Kerlista are fine for fixing a broken setup, but they don’t convert a non-bagger mower.
Finally, think about maintenance. Reel mowers need occasional blade sharpening and bearing lubrication. Electric mowers need cords managed and motors kept clean. Riding tractor baggers require belt and chute checks. Pick the level of upkeep you’re comfortable with. A machine you neglect won’t serve you well.
Our Top Recommendation
If I had to pick one product that will change your lawn care game most reliably, it’s the American Lawn Mower Company 51319 corded electric mower. It combines a wide 19-inch cut with a functional rear bagger, easy height adjustment, and zero fuel costs. For most small-lawn owners, it’s the sweet spot between power, convenience, and price. Check the current price on Amazon — it’s often surprisingly affordable.
If you already have a compatible riding mower and want to add bagging, the MTD Double Bagger is a strong runner-up. For the ultra-eco crowd with a tiny lawn, the American Lawn Mower 20-inch reel with bag offers a satisfyingly clean cut and no emissions. And if you just need a replacement bag for your existing tractor, the Kerlista container gets the job done without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a bagger to a reel mower that didn’t come with one?
It’s not standard. Most reel mowers, including the American Lawn 14-inch, lack mounting points for a bag. You’d have to rig something yourself, which usually doesn’t work well. If bagging is essential, choose a model that includes a catcher in the box, like the 20-inch reel with bag or the corded electric.
How often should I empty the bag on a riding mower attachment?
Depends on grass length and moisture. With a 6.5-bushel double bagger like the MTD, you’ll empty every 10 to 20 minutes on a damp, thick lawn. Dry grass fills slower. Watch the sight window — when it’s full, the bag loses suction and clippings start to clump under the deck.
Will a 13-amp corded mower handle thick St. Augustine or Bermuda grass?
It can, but you’ll need to keep the blade sharp and mow at a higher setting (2.5 to 3 inches). Thick grass can bog the motor if you take too much at once. Mow more frequently and don’t let the grass exceed 4 inches. Wet St. Augustine especially tends to clog the bag chute.
Do I really need bag clippings, or is mulching better?
Bagging prevents thatch and keeps the lawn looking manicured. Mulching returns nutrients to the soil. For a small lawn you walk on daily, bagging usually looks cleaner. If you want the best of both, get a mower that offers both options, like the American electric push mower, and switch based on the season.