For most gas-powered lawn mowers, you should use fresh, regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher, and no more than 10% ethanol (E10), unless your manual says otherwise.

Quick Scoop

  • Use regular unleaded 87 octane (or higher) gasoline.
  • Make sure ethanol content is E10 or lower (10% ethanol max); avoid E15, E85, or other high-ethanol blends because they can damage small engines.
  • Premium gas (91–93 octane) usually isn’t needed and offers no real benefit for typical residential mowers unless the manufacturer specifically requires it.
  • Ethanol‑free gas is an excellent choice if your mower sits for long periods or for end‑of‑season storage, as it stores better and reduces corrosion risk.
  • Always check your mower’s manual first—if it specifies a particular fuel type or octane, follow that over general advice.

Simple rule of thumb

  • Weekly mowing, typical homeowner:
    • 87 octane, up to E10, used within about a month of purchase.
  • Infrequent use or winter storage:
    • Ethanol‑free gas, or 87 octane E10 with a fuel stabilizer mixed as directed.

If you’re ever unsure, take a quick look at the sticker near the gas cap or the engine manual; they almost always state the recommended fuel clearly.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.