When the grass stops growing and winter approaches, your lawn mower needs care before storage. Leaving it as-is can lead to rust, stale fuel, and mechanical problems. Proper winter storage keeps your mower in good condition and ready for spring.
This guide walks you through the steps to store a lawn mower safely and effectively.
Clean Your Lawn Mower Thoroughly
Start by cleaning off grass, dirt, and debris:
- Use a brush or hose to remove stuck-on grass and mud.
- Wipe down the exterior to prevent moisture buildup.
- Remove clippings from the underside of the deck.
A clean mower prevents rust and keeps it in top working condition during storage.
Drain or Stabilize the Fuel
Old gasoline can gum up the engine or fuel lines:
- Either drain the fuel tank completely.
- Or add a fuel stabilizer and run the mower for a few minutes to circulate it.
Using a stabilizer prevents the fuel from breaking down over winter months, which can save expensive repairs in spring.
Change the Oil
For gas-powered mowers, change the engine oil before storing:
- Run the engine briefly to warm the oil.
- Drain the old oil and refill with fresh oil.
Clean oil prevents corrosion inside the engine while it sits idle for months.
Remove or Charge the Battery
For electric or battery-powered mowers:
- Remove the battery before storage.
- Charge it fully and store it in a cool, dry place.
- Check periodically to maintain charge.
This prevents battery degradation and extends its lifespan.
Protect the Blades
Mower blades can rust if left exposed:
- Clean and dry blades after use.
- Consider applying a thin coat of oil to prevent rust.
- Store the mower on a flat surface to keep the blade from bending.
Sharp, rust-free blades ensure the mower is ready to use next season.
Store in a Dry, Sheltered Location
Where you store your mower is just as important as how you prepare it:
- A garage, shed, or storage unit is ideal.
- Keep it off the ground if possible to avoid moisture.
- Cover with a breathable tarp or mower cover to prevent dust.
Avoid storing it outside, exposed to snow, ice, or rain.
Final Checks
Before leaving it for the season:
- Make sure the mower is dry.
- Check the tires for proper inflation.
- Confirm the spark plug is secure (for gas mowers).
These small steps prevent problems and make spring startup easier.
Final Thoughts
Properly storing a lawn mower for winter prevents rust, engine issues, and damaged blades. Cleaning, draining or stabilizing fuel, changing oil, handling the battery, and storing in a dry location are key steps.
Taking the time to winterize your mower protects your investment, saves money on repairs, and ensures your mower is ready to go when the first grass starts growing again.
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