BLACK+DECKER Lawn Mower BEMW213 review

Have we ever wished our lawn looked freshly manicured without spending half the weekend wrestling with a stubborn mower?

Why We Chose the BLACK+DECKER BEMW213

When we started looking for a new mower, we wanted something reliable, easy to use, and powerful enough to handle a typical suburban lawn. The BLACK+DECKER Lawn Mower, Corded, 13 Amp, 20-Inch (BEMW213) quickly caught our attention because it promises gas-like performance without gas, oil, or complicated maintenance.

We also liked that it is designed for convenience: push-button start, simple height adjustments, and a foldable handle for storage. All those small quality-of-life details matter when we are mowing every week.

First Impressions and Unboxing Experience

Our first reaction when unboxing the BEMW213 was that it looks sturdy without being bulky. The orange-and-black color scheme clearly signals that it is part of the BLACK+DECKER family, and the overall build gave us a sense of confidence about durability.

Assembly out of the box is straightforward. We mainly needed to attach the handle and set up the grass collection bag. No special tools are required, which already makes the initial experience feel less intimidating, especially if we are not particularly handy.

Key Specifications at a Glance

To get a quick sense of what this mower offers, it helps to see the core features and specifications laid out clearly. We put together a summary table to make things easier to scan.

Feature	Specification / Detail
Brand / Model	BLACK+DECKER BEMW213
Power Source	Corded electric
Motor	13 Amp electric motor
Cutting Width	20 inches
Cutting Height Range	1.5 inches to 4 inches
Height Adjustment	Single-lever, 6-position, tool-free
Blade Type	Winged blade for improved cutting and collection
Starting Method	Push-button start
Grass Handling	Collection bag and side discharge chute
Handle Features	Easy Grip foam handle, folding handle for storage
Transport Feature	Lift handle for easier carrying
Runtime	Unlimited (as long as it is plugged in)
Ideal Lawn Size	Small to medium-sized yards (depends on extension cord length)

This overview helps us see right away that the BEMW213 is geared toward homeowners who want a capable, low-maintenance mower with enough width and power for typical residential lawns.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the BEMW213 blends practicality with comfort. The 20-inch deck provides a good balance between coverage and maneuverability, making it easier to reach tighter areas while still cutting a wide enough path to keep mowing time reasonable.

The materials feel solid for a corded electric mower in this category. While it is not as heavy as a gas mower, it does not feel flimsy. We get the impression that it is built for regular, seasonal use and can hold up if we treat it reasonably well and store it properly.

Comfort-Oriented Handle and Controls

The handle stands out as one of the more user-friendly parts of the design. The Easy Grip foam handle increases comfort during longer mowing sessions, reducing some of the hand fatigue we might feel with bare metal or thin plastic grips.

The controls are placed where we naturally keep our hands. The push-button start and safety bar are easy to reach without stretching or shifting our grip too much. This contributes to a smoother, more intuitive mowing experience.

Power: 13 Amp Motor Performance

The core of this mower is its 13 Amp electric motor. For a corded electric model, 13 Amps is quite substantial, and in real use that power level is noticeable. We can hear and feel the motor ramp up decisively, giving enough torque to handle thicker or slightly overgrown grass.

Compared with smaller electric mowers, the BEMW213 is better equipped for lawns that have not been cut in a couple of weeks. While it still has some reasonable limits, the motor does a respectable job of powering the blade through denser patches.

Handling Thick Grass and Overgrowth

When we push this mower into thicker areas, the winged blade design and the motor work together to avoid bogging down easily. In moderately tall grass, it keeps moving with steady cutting performance.

In very high or wet grass, we might need to slow our walking pace a bit, but the mower still manages to cut effectively if we use a proper height setting. This is where the 13 Amp specification truly matters compared with lower-powered electric models that can stall or struggle.

Corded Design: Unlimited Runtime and Trade-Offs

Because this mower is corded, it offers unlimited runtime. As long as we have a power outlet and the right extension cord, we can keep mowing without worrying about batteries running out or engines overheating. That alone can remove a lot of stress from yard work.

However, a corded mower does require some planning and awareness. We always need to be mindful of the extension cord position to avoid running over it or getting tangled. For some of us, that might be a small learning curve at first.

Choosing the Right Extension Cord

For best performance and safety, we need a properly rated outdoor extension cord. Typically, we want a cord that can handle 13 Amps at the length we plan to use. A heavy-duty, grounded extension cord designed for lawn and garden equipment is ideal.

Once we get used to routing the cord behind us or to one side, the process becomes more natural. For small to medium-sized yards, the corded setup is manageable and offers a reliable, consistent power supply.

Cutting Width and Coverage: 20-Inch Deck

The 20-inch cutting width is one of the defining features of the BEMW213. It is wider than many compact electric mowers, which often sit in the 14–18 inch range. That extra width means fewer passes across the yard and less overall time spent mowing.

For small and medium lawns, this size feels just right. We can still maneuver around trees, garden beds, or yard features, yet cover enough ground that mowing does not feel like an endless back-and-forth chore.

Maneuverability Around Obstacles

Despite the 20-inch deck, the mower remains nimble. The relatively light weight and manageable dimensions help us steer around obstacles such as flower beds, play structures, or landscaping edges.

Pivoting at the end of a row feels comfortable, and the mower is not so heavy that we struggle to pull it back or change direction. This is particularly welcome for anyone who has struggled with heavier gas models in the past.

Cutting Height Range and Adjustment

Having control over cutting height is essential for lawn health and appearance. The BEMW213 offers a 6-position cutting height adjustment, ranging from 1.5 inches up to 4 inches. This range works well for most common lawn grasses and regional climates.

We can go lower to achieve a closely trimmed look, or stay higher to promote deeper root growth and protect our lawn during hotter, drier periods. The flexibility gives us more control over the outcome.

Single-Lever, Tool-Free Adjustment

Adjusting the cutting height is impressively simple. The mower uses a single lever that controls all four wheels simultaneously. We do not need any tools, and we do not have to adjust each wheel individually.

This ease of use encourages us to change the height more often, such as setting it higher for the first spring cut, and then lowering it slightly during mid-season when growth is more consistent. The more we adjust properly, the healthier and more attractive our lawn can become.

Winged Blade: Cutting and Collection Efficiency

One of the notable design elements is the winged blade, which BLACK+DECKER advertises as optimal for cutting and collecting grass. The winged profile is intended to create strong airflow beneath the deck, helping lift the grass before it is cut and then pushing clippings efficiently toward the collection bag or discharge.

In daily use, the mower does a good job of creating an even cut when we move at a steady pace. The improved airflow also helps with clippings, so the bag tends to fill more uniformly instead of leaving clumps behind.

Quality of the Cut and Lawn Appearance

When we mow regularly with the BEMW213, the cut quality is consistently clean. The blade slices rather than tears, assuming we keep it sharpened at reasonable intervals. The result is a lawn that looks neat, with fewer ragged grass tips that can turn brown.

The evenness of the cut is also helped by the height adjustment and deck design. With a proper setup, we can achieve a level, professional-looking finish on standard residential lawns.

Push-Button Start and Ease of Use

One of the small joys of this mower is the push-button start. There is no cord to pull, no fuel valve to check, and no choke to adjust. We simply plug it in, press the safety bar, hit the button, and the motor comes to life almost instantly.

For those of us who have struggled with stubborn gas engines on older mowers, this kind of reliability is a significant quality-of-life improvement. It also makes the mower more accessible to family members who might be less comfortable with gas equipment.

Learning Curve for New Users

Even if this is our first electric mower, the controls are intuitive. The main learning curve is not about starting or using the mower, but about managing the extension cord and understanding safe practices for corded tools.

Most users adapt quickly by developing a pattern of mowing in a way that keeps the cord behind or to the side. Once that becomes habit, the mower feels easy and predictable.

Grass Collection and Side Discharge

The BEMW213 includes both a collection bag and a side discharge chute. This gives us options depending on how we prefer to manage clippings. Some of us like a very clean yard with minimal loose clippings, while others prioritize speed and do not mind fine clippings returning to the soil.

Having both options included in the box is convenient and avoids the need to purchase extra accessories for basic functionality.

Using the Collection Bag

The included collection bag attaches securely to the rear of the mower. It has enough capacity to handle a typical mowing session for many small to medium yards without requiring constant emptying, though we will need to pause and empty it periodically when cutting a lot of growth.

The bag is particularly useful when we want a cleaner finish or are dealing with longer grass that would otherwise leave noticeable clumps on the lawn. It is also handy when we want to collect clippings for composting or green waste disposal.

Side Discharge Chute Option

When we prefer faster mowing and do not mind clippings on the lawn, we can use the side discharge chute. This directs the clippings out to the side, distributing them more broadly instead of concentrating them in one area.

Side discharge can be a good choice when the grass is a bit taller or slightly damp, as collection bags tend to fill and clog more quickly under those conditions. Over time, mulched or finely chopped clippings can help return nutrients to the soil.

Portability and Lift Handle

Portability matters, especially if we store the mower on a shelf, move it between levels, or bring it out from a shed some distance from the yard. The built-in lift handle on the BEMW213 is designed to help with this.

We can grab the handle and carry or reposition the mower with relative ease. Since the mower is lighter than many gas models, this added handle makes transport more manageable, even for those of us who prefer not to deal with heavy lifting.

Weight and Balance

The overall weight is very reasonable for an electric mower of this size. It feels balanced when we tip it slightly to turn or back up, and it does not feel like it is dragging us around the yard.

The balance and wheel placement also help when we are mowing along edges or near obstacles. We have enough control to guide the deck precisely, which reduces the chances of scalping the lawn or bumping into garden features.

Storage and Folding Handle

Storage is one of the areas where the BEMW213 really stands out. The handle can be folded down, allowing the mower to occupy much less vertical space in a shed or garage. This is especially valuable if we are short on storage room or like to keep multiple outdoor tools neatly organized.

Because it is lighter and more compact than a gas mower, we can tuck it into corners or alongside other equipment without a lot of effort.

Storing in Small Spaces

If we live in a home with a small garage, a compact shed, or limited outdoor storage, the folding handle is a huge plus. When folded down, the mower can often be placed against a wall or even on a low shelf if we are comfortable lifting it by the handle.

We also do not have to worry about fuel leaking or fumes building up in enclosed spaces, since it is electric. That makes indoor storage more practical and safer.

Comfort and Ergonomics During Use

Comfort can make the difference between dreading yard work and accepting it as a manageable routine. The Easy Grip foam handle provides cushioning, which is helpful if we are mowing for more than a few minutes at a time.

The general ergonomics feel well thought out. The height of the handle works for many users, and the mower’s light frame reduces strain on our arms and shoulders. Over a full mowing session, these comfort features can noticeably reduce fatigue.

Noise Levels Compared with Gas Mowers

While it is not silent, the BEMW213 is significantly quieter than a typical gas mower. We can usually have a normal conversation nearby without shouting, and neighbors are less likely to be disturbed.

This lower noise level is particularly appreciated in denser neighborhoods or when we prefer to mow at times of day when loud gas engines might be less appropriate.

Maintenance Needs and Long-Term Care

One of the major benefits of going electric is that maintenance is simpler and less messy. There are no oil changes, air filters, spark plugs, or fuel stabilizers to worry about. Instead, we focus on basic upkeep.

We still need to keep the blade sharp, periodically clean the underside of the deck, and ensure that vents remain free of debris. But overall, the maintenance routine is much more straightforward than a gas mower’s.

Blade Sharpening and Cleaning

As with any mower, keeping the blade sharp is essential for good performance. A sharp blade cuts cleanly, encourages healthier grass, and makes the mower work less hard. Depending on how often and how intensively we mow, sharpening once or twice a season is often enough.

Cleaning the deck after use, especially when grass is damp, prevents build-up that can affect airflow and cutting efficiency. A quick brush or plastic scraper can help remove caked-on clippings safely once the mower is unplugged and the blade is stationary.

Environmental and Practical Benefits of Electric Power

By choosing a corded electric mower like the BEMW213, we avoid gasoline fumes, spills, and emissions from small engines. From an environmental standpoint, that is a meaningful advantage, especially if our household runs on relatively clean electricity.

We also sidestep the hassles of storing fuel, mixing additives, or dealing with stale gas at the beginning of the season. For many of us, that combination of environmental and practical benefits makes electric mowing feel like a sensible upgrade.

Cost of Operation Over Time

Operating an electric mower typically costs less per season than a gas model, assuming similar usage patterns. Electricity for a few hours of mowing per week is generally cheaper than gasoline, and the reduction in consumable maintenance items also saves money.

Over several years, these small savings can add up, especially if we were previously paying for professional sharpening, tune-ups, or frequent fuel runs.

Who This Mower Is Best For

The BEMW213 is especially well-suited for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who have access to outdoor electrical outlets. If we want a reliable, low-maintenance mower and are comfortable managing an extension cord, this model fits nicely.

It is a strong choice for families who are moving away from gas equipment, for those who prefer lighter-weight tools, and for anyone who values quieter operation and straightforward storage.

Situations Where It Might Not Be Ideal

For very large properties or yards far from electrical outlets, a corded mower is less practical. We might find that managing extremely long extension cords is inconvenient or not feasible. In those cases, a battery-powered or gas mower might be more suitable.

Also, if our lawn is exceptionally rough, full of obstacles, or frequently overgrown to extreme heights, we might prefer a heavier-duty solution designed for those conditions. The BEMW213 is powerful for its category, but it is still positioned as a residential electric mower, not a commercial-grade machine.

Pros and Cons Summary

To make our evaluation clearer, it helps to summarize the major strengths and trade-offs of the BLACK+DECKER BEMW213 in a simple list.

Main Advantages

We appreciate several key advantages this mower offers:

• Strong 13 Amp motor that handles thick grass and moderate overgrowth better than many lighter electric models
• 20-inch cutting width for efficient coverage of small and medium yards
• Corded design for unlimited runtime without worrying about battery charge
• Push-button start for quick, reliable ignition every time
• Winged blade that promotes efficient cutting and grass collection
• Single-lever, 6-position height adjustment (1.5″ to 4″) for flexible lawn care
• Easy Grip foam handle that improves comfort during use
• Folding handle for compact, simple storage in small spaces
• Included grass collection bag and side discharge chute for versatile clipping management
• Built-in lift handle to help with carrying and repositioning

These strengths make the BEMW213 feel thoughtfully designed for everyday home use.

Potential Drawbacks

We should also be realistic about the trade-offs:

• Corded operation requires careful cord management and a suitable extension cord
• Not ideal for very large yards where outlets are distant or limited
• No built-in mulching mode described; clipping handling is via bag or side discharge
• As with most non-metal decks, care is needed to avoid damage from large stones or debris
• Performance can be reduced if the blade is not kept sharp or if the deck is allowed to clog with wet clippings

None of these are dealbreakers for typical residential use, but we should understand them when deciding whether this mower fits our situation.

Real-World Mowing Experience

When we picture using this mower week after week, several aspects stand out: the ease of starting, the relatively low noise, and the manageable weight. We roll it out, plug it in, and we are ready to cut without extra steps or prep.

Over repeated uses, the mower maintains consistent performance as long as we remember basic upkeep like cleaning and blade care. When used within its intended lawn size and conditions, it provides a neat, professional-looking cut without fuss.

Learning to Mow Efficiently with a Cord

With a corded design, we quickly learn a pattern that works for our yard. Many people mow away from the outlet, keeping the cord out behind them, and gradually work back toward the outlet side. The main goal is to avoid crossing our own path with the cord in front.

After a few sessions, this pattern becomes second nature. At that point, we are mostly focused on the lawn itself and not on the cord, other than keeping occasional visual check for safety.

Safety Considerations

Like any power tool, the BEMW213 requires some basic safety precautions. We should always ensure it is unplugged when we are inspecting the blade, cleaning the deck, or performing any kind of maintenance.

We also want to clear the lawn of rocks, large sticks, or other debris before mowing, both to protect the blade and deck and to avoid projectiles. Wearing appropriate footwear and eye protection is a smart habit with any mower.

Electrical and Cord Safety

Because this is an electric tool, we should use a properly grounded outdoor extension cord and keep connections away from standing water. Avoiding mowing in heavy rain is wise, not just for safety but also to prevent clumping of wet grass.

Regularly inspecting the cord for damage and replacing it when needed is another important step. A good, undamaged cord is essential for safe operation.

Comparing to Other Types of Mowers

When we evaluate the BEMW213, we naturally compare it to both gas and battery-powered mowers. Each category has strengths, but the BLACK+DECKER’s combination of features gives it a strong position.

Compared with gas mowers, this model is quieter, lighter, and easier to start. Compared with battery mowers, it offers unlimited runtime without concerns about charging cycles or battery replacement costs. The trade-off is the need to manage a cord.

Where It Stands in the Electric Mower Landscape

Within the world of corded electric mowers, the BEMW213 is on the higher powered side, thanks to the 13 Amp motor and the 20-inch deck. Many smaller models are designed more for tiny lawns or very light-duty use.

If we are looking for an electric mower that can keep up with typical weekly mowing on a standard suburban lot, this model is a solid contender, especially when convenience and storage are important to us.

Practical Tips for Getting the Best Results

To make the most of the BEMW213, there are a few habits and strategies that really help.

First, we want to choose the appropriate cutting height. Starting a bit higher for the first mow of the season or for longer grass protects the mower and lawn. We can lower the height over time if we prefer a shorter appearance.

Second, we should mow when the grass is reasonably dry. While the mower can handle damp grass, dry conditions always improve cut quality, reduce clogging, and make collection more effective.

Routine Habits That Extend Its Life

After each mowing session, taking a minute to unplug the mower, brush off clippings, and store it in a dry space goes a long way. Checking the cord for wear and occasionally wiping down the handle and deck keeps everything in better shape.

Sharpening or replacing the blade when cutting begins to feel less crisp is also a good practice. A fresh blade can make the mower feel almost like new again.

Our Overall Verdict on the BLACK+DECKER BEMW213

When we take everything into account—power, convenience, storage, and operating costs—the BLACK+DECKER Lawn Mower, Corded, 13 Amp, 20-Inch (BEMW213) stands out as a well-balanced choice for many homeowners.

It offers enough power to manage thick grass and moderate overgrowth, a 20-inch cutting width for efficient coverage, and user-friendly touches like push-button start, a single-lever height adjustment, and a folding handle. The included collection bag and side discharge chute provide flexibility in how we handle clippings.

If our lawn falls into the small-to-medium range and we have access to an outlet, this mower gives us a reliable, low-maintenance way to keep our grass looking sharp without the complications of gas engines or the limitations of battery runtime. For many of us, that combination is exactly what we want from a modern, corded electric lawn mower.

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