If you’ve ever flinched at the price of a new lawn mower, you’re not alone. But what if there was a way to save hundreds—maybe even thousands—without sacrificing quality? Here’s a little-known secret that big box stores won’t shout from the rooftops: scratch and dent lawn mowers.
What Retailers Don’t Tell You
These machines work just as well as brand-new models, but because they have a small cosmetic flaw—a tiny dent, a minor scratch, or a damaged box—they can’t be sold at full price. And that’s where smart shoppers win.
Why Are These Mowers So Cheap?
Retailers have a dilemma. When a brand-new lawn mower gets scuffed during shipping or dropped in the warehouse, they can’t legally sell it as “new.” So instead of tossing them (or shipping them back), they list them under a category known as “scratch and dent” or “open box” deals.
These units are often tested, fully functional, and still come with a warranty, but they’re marked down heavily to move inventory fast.
Are There Any Risks?
It’s a fair question. When buying anything that isn’t factory-fresh, you want to be careful. But most scratch and dent mowers are just that—scratched or dented. The internal mechanics are perfectly fine. Many even go through an extra round of testing before being listed at a discount.
Some retailers even offer a return policy or limited warranty, giving you added peace of mind. So you’re not flying blind when you make the purchase.
Who Sells Them?
While you might occasionally spot these deals in local stores, the best place to score them is online. Certain websites and factory outlets specialize in listing discounted equipment, and their inventory updates frequently. You may need to act fast—popular models tend to disappear quickly.
Even better, some sellers offer free shipping, or bundle extras like fuel additives, blade sharpeners, or protective covers to sweeten the deal.
What Should You Look For?
Before clicking “buy,” check the product description carefully. Look for phrases like:
“Open box”
“Factory reconditioned”
“Minor cosmetic damage”
“Certified refurbished”
These all signal that you’re getting a deal, but also getting something that’s been inspected and is in working order. Pro tip: Zoom in on the product photos to see where the damage is. Often, it’s something barely noticeable.
The Takeaway: You Could Save Big—If You Know Where to Look
With spring in full swing and lawns growing like crazy, now’s the perfect time to upgrade your mower without paying full price. Scratch and dent lawn mowers are a smart, under-the-radar way to stretch your dollars, especially in today’s economy.