How To Store Lawn Mower: Essential Winter Prep & Best Practices for Longevity

Can you store a lawn mower outdoors? Yes, but it’s not recommended. The best lawn mower storage is a dry, protected space. Storing your lawn mower correctly, especially for the winter, is crucial for extending lawn mower life and ensuring it starts up smoothly next season. This guide will cover everything you need to know about proper lawn mower storage, from winterizing your equipment to finding the best storage solutions.

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Why Proper Lawn Mower Storage Matters

Proper lawn mower storage isn’t just about keeping your equipment out of the elements. It’s about preventative maintenance that saves you time, money, and frustration down the line. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t leave your car parked outside all winter without any preparation, would you? Your lawn mower deserves the same care.

Protecting Your Investment

Your lawn mower is a significant investment. Storing it correctly helps prevent rust, corrosion, and damage from extreme temperatures. This means fewer costly repairs and a longer lifespan for your machine.

Ensuring Easy Starts Next Season

A well-prepared mower will start up easily when spring arrives. Conversely, a mower that’s been neglected over winter might sputter, refuse to start, or require extensive work before it’s usable again.

Preventing Fuel-Related Issues

Modern gasoline can degrade over time, especially when left sitting. This can lead to a clogged fuel system, which is one of the most common reasons for a mower not starting.

Winterizing Your Lawn Mower: A Step-by-Step Guide

Winterizing your lawn mower is the most important part of proper lawn mower storage. This process ensures that fuel systems, engines, and other components are protected from the cold and moisture.

Step 1: Clean the Mower Thoroughly

Dirt, grass clippings, and debris can hold moisture and promote rust. Before storing your mower, give it a good cleaning.

• Wash the Deck: Use a hose and a scrub brush to remove all grass and dirt from the underside of the mower deck. Be careful not to spray water directly into the engine or electrical components. A putty knife can help scrape off stubborn, dried-on grass.
• Clean the Exterior: Wipe down the entire mower with a damp cloth. Pay attention to the handle, wheels, and engine housing.
• Dry Everything: Make sure the mower is completely dry before proceeding to the next steps. You can use a clean towel or let it air dry in the sun for a while.

Step 2: Service the Fuel System

This is a critical step for preventing fuel-related problems.

• Add a Fuel Stabilizer: The easiest and most common method is to add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank. Follow the product instructions carefully for the correct ratio.
• Run the Engine: After adding the stabilizer, start the mower and let it run for 5-10 minutes. This allows the treated fuel to circulate throughout the entire fuel system, including the carburetor.
• Empty the Fuel Tank (Optional but Recommended): For maximum protection, especially if you won’t be using a stabilizer or if your mower will be stored for a very long time, consider emptying the fuel tank completely. Run the engine until it sputters and dies, or use a siphon pump to remove the fuel. This prevents old fuel from gumming up the carburetor.

Tip: If you choose to empty the fuel tank, make sure to do so in a safe, well-ventilated area away from any open flames or sparks. Dispose of the old fuel responsibly.

Step 3: Change the Oil and Filter

Just like with your car, fresh oil is better for your engine, especially during long periods of inactivity.

• Warm the Engine: Start the mower and let it run for a few minutes to warm the oil. Warm oil drains more easily and carries away more impurities.
• Drain the Old Oil: Locate the oil drain plug (usually on the bottom of the engine). Place a drain pan underneath and carefully remove the plug. Let all the old oil drain out.
• Replace the Oil Filter (if applicable): Some mowers have an oil filter. Remove the old filter and replace it with a new one, making sure it’s properly seated and tightened.
• Refill with Fresh Oil: Once the old oil is drained, replace the drain plug. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct type and amount of oil. Slowly fill the engine with fresh oil.
• Check the Oil Level: Use the dipstick to ensure the oil level is correct.

Step 4: Prepare the Battery (for Electric Start Models)

If your mower has an electric start, you need to care for its battery.

• Charge the Battery: Ensure the battery is fully charged before storing.
• Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the battery terminals to prevent a slow drain over the winter.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Batteries are best stored in a cool, dry environment. Extreme cold can damage them, while extreme heat can shorten their lifespan. Some people bring their mower batteries indoors for the winter.
• Periodic Charging: For optimal battery health, it’s a good idea to charge the battery every month or two during the storage period.

Step 5: Inspect and Prepare the Blades

Sharp blades cut grass cleanly, which is healthier for your lawn. Dull blades tear the grass, making it susceptible to disease.

• Remove the Blade: Carefully remove the mower blade. It’s a good idea to wear heavy gloves for protection.
• Sharpen the Blade: You can sharpen the blade yourself using a metal file or a grinding wheel, or take it to a professional for sharpening.
• Balance the Blade: After sharpening, ensure the blade is balanced. You can use a blade balancer tool for this. An unbalanced blade can cause excessive vibration, leading to premature wear on the engine and bearings.
• Check for Damage: Inspect the blade for any cracks, bends, or excessive wear. Replace it if it’s damaged.
• Reinstall or Store Separately: Reinstall the sharpened blade, or if you prefer, store it separately in a protective wrapping to prevent rust.

Step 6: Lubricate Moving Parts

Lubrication helps prevent rust and ensures smooth operation.

• Grease Fittings: If your mower has grease fittings (zerks), clean them and apply a suitable grease.
• Lubricate Cables: Apply a light lubricant to control cables and pivots.
• Spray Moving Parts: A light spray of lubricant on other moving parts, like wheel axles, can help prevent seizing.

Step 7: Protect Against Pests

Mice and other small critters can cause damage to your mower during storage by chewing on wires or nesting in the engine.

• Clean Thoroughly: Removing any food residue is the first step.
• Seal Entry Points: You can try plugging muffler openings and air intakes with steel wool or rags to deter pests. Ensure you remember to remove them before starting the mower next season!
• Consider Mothballs or Repellents: Some people place mothballs or commercial pest repellents around the mower, but be cautious with strong odors that might linger.

Lawn Mower Storage Solutions: Where to Keep Your Machine

Once your mower is winterized, finding the right place for lawn mower storage is key.

Garage Lawn Mower Storage

A garage is often the ideal spot for lawn mower storage. It provides protection from rain, snow, sun, and wind.

• Advantages: Excellent protection, easily accessible, keeps the mower clean.
• Considerations: Ensure the garage is dry and well-ventilated. If you store gasoline in cans, keep them in a separate, approved container outside the garage for safety.

Outdoor Lawn Mower Storage

Storing a mower outdoors is generally not recommended, especially in climates with harsh winters. However, if a garage or shed isn’t an option, there are ways to mitigate the risks.

• Use a High-Quality Mower Cover: Invest in a durable, waterproof, and breathable mower cover that fits snugly. This will offer some protection from the elements.
• Elevate the Mower: If storing outdoors, try to elevate the mower off the ground to prevent moisture from seeping into the deck and tires. Wooden blocks or pallets can work.
• Choose a Sheltered Location: If possible, store it under an overhang, a carport, or a sturdy tarp supported by a frame. Avoid low-lying areas that might collect water.
• Risks: Exposure to UV rays, extreme temperature fluctuations, moisture, and potential theft are significant risks.

Lawn Mower Shed Storage

A dedicated lawn mower shed is another excellent option for storing your equipment.

• Advantages: Keeps the mower protected and organized, can be more spacious than a garage, dedicated space for mower maintenance.
• Considerations: Ensure the shed is well-ventilated and free from moisture. Consider adding shelves for storing fuel stabilizers, oil, and tools.

Storing a Riding Mower

Storing a riding mower involves similar principles to storing a push mower, but on a larger scale.

• Fuel System: As with push mowers, treat the fuel with a stabilizer and run the engine to circulate it. Emptying the tank is also a good option for riding mowers.
• Battery Care: Riding mowers typically have larger batteries. Ensure they are fully charged, disconnected, and stored in a cool, dry place, and consider periodic charging. Some people use trickle chargers designed for lawn tractor batteries.
• Tire Pressure: Slightly over-inflate the tires to reduce flat spots from the weight of the mower sitting for months.
• Cleanliness: Thoroughly clean the mower, including the deck, engine area, and body.
• Lubrication: Lubricate all grease fittings and moving parts.
• Storage Location: A garage, shed, or a covered carport is ideal.

Storing a Push Mower

Storing a push mower is generally more straightforward.

• Fuel System: Follow the same fuel treatment steps as above.
• Cleanliness: Clean the deck and exterior thoroughly.
• Blade Care: Sharpen and balance the blade.
• Storage Location: Garage, shed, or a protected outdoor area with a good cover.

Extending Lawn Mower Life: Beyond Winter Storage

While winterizing is crucial, good practices throughout the mowing season also contribute to extending lawn mower life.

Regular Maintenance

• Clean After Each Use: Remove grass clippings from the deck and engine after every mowing session.
• Check Oil Levels Regularly: Don’t wait for the engine to complain; check the oil before each use.
• Keep Air Filters Clean: A clogged air filter restricts airflow, reducing engine performance and efficiency. Clean or replace it as recommended in your owner’s manual.
• Sharpen Blades Frequently: Aim to sharpen your mower blades at least once or twice during the mowing season, depending on your lawn size and mowing frequency.

Proper Mowing Techniques

• Avoid Mowing Wet Grass: Wet grass clumps, clogs the deck, and is harder on the engine.
• Don’t Over-Tach: Let the engine reach its proper operating speed before engaging the blade.
• Be Mindful of Obstacles: Avoid hitting rocks, roots, or debris, which can damage the blade, spindle, and engine.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lawn Mower Storage

Q1: Do I need to drain the fuel from my lawn mower before storing it?

While not always strictly necessary if you use a good fuel stabilizer, draining the fuel tank is the most effective way to prevent gumming in the carburetor and other fuel system issues. If you opt not to drain it, always use a quality fuel stabilizer and run the engine to circulate it.

Q2: Can I store my lawn mower on its side?

For most modern four-stroke lawn mowers, storing them on their side can be problematic. If you tilt it the wrong way (typically with the carburetor side down), oil can leak into the carburetor or air intake, causing starting problems and potential damage. Some older two-stroke mowers were designed to be stored on their sides, but always consult your owner’s manual. If you absolutely must tilt it, make sure the carburetor is facing upwards.

Q3: How often should I check on my mower during storage?

It’s a good idea to check on your mower periodically, perhaps once a month, especially if it’s stored in a place prone to temperature fluctuations or potential pest issues. Check the battery charge if you have an electric start model.

Q4: What kind of fuel stabilizer should I use?

Look for a reputable brand of fuel stabilizer specifically designed for small engines. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct dosage.

Q5: Is it okay to leave gas in the mower if I store it in a shed?

Storing gasoline indoors, especially in enclosed spaces like sheds or garages, can be a fire hazard. It’s best to store fuel in approved containers outside the storage structure, and only keep enough in the mower’s tank for the winterizing process.

By following these detailed steps for winterizing and best practices for lawn mower storage, you can significantly contribute to the longevity of your equipment and ensure a smooth start to your next mowing season. Proper care today means a reliable mower tomorrow.