How To Store Lawn Mower : For Winter Months Storage

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Learning how to store lawn mower equipment correctly is a task every homeowner should master. Proper off-season storage prepares your mower for easy starting when spring arrives. It prevents fuel problems, rust, and costly repairs. A little effort now saves you a lot of frustration later.

This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process. We will cover everything from cleaning to fuel stabilization. Follow these steps to ensure your mower is protected during the winter months.

How To Store Lawn Mower

A systematic approach is key to proper storage. Do not just park it in the corner of your shed. Each step addresses a specific threat to your mower’s longevity. The entire process can be completed in an afternoon.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, collect all necessary materials. Having everything on hand makes the job smoother and faster. You will likely already have many of these items in your garage.

  • Fuel stabilizer
  • Fresh oil and an oil drain pan
  • New air filter and spark plug
  • Socket wrench set and screwdrivers
  • Stiff brush and garden hose
  • Rags or shop towels
  • Wire brush or putty knife
  • Inflator to check tire pressure
  • Battery maintainer (for electric start models)

Safety First: Preparation Steps

Always prioritize safety before starting any maintenance. A mower can be dangerous even when not in use. Taking a few precautions prevents accidents.

Disconnect the Spark Plug

This is the most critical safety step. It ensures the engine cannot accidentally start while you are working. Simply pull the spark plug wire off the plug. For extra safety, you can remove the spark plug entirely, which we will do later anyway.

Allow the Engine to Cool

Never work on a hot engine. If you’ve just finished mowing, let the mower sit for at least an hour. This prevents burns from hot metal and avoids contact with hot oil.

Work in a Well-Ventilated Area

Gasoline fumes are flammable and hazardous to breathe. Perform your work in an open garage or outdoors. Keep any ignition sources, like pilot lights, far away.

Step-By-Step Storage Procedure

Now, let’s walk through the core storage process. Follow these steps in order for the best results.

Step 1: Clean the Mower Thoroughly

Grass clippings, mud, and debris hold moisture and cause corrosion. A clean mower is a protected mower. Use a putty knife or wire brush to scrape off large clumps from the mower deck.

  1. Tip the mower on its side, with the air filter and carburetor facing UP to prevent oil leaks.
  2. Hose down the deck, but avoid directly spraying the engine, muffler, or air intake.
  3. Use a brush and soapy water for stubborn grime, then rinse.
  4. Wipe the entire mower dry with rags to prevent surface rust.

Step 2: Address the Fuel System

Old gasoline is the number one cause of spring starting problems. Gasoline degrades in as little as 30 days, forming gums and varnish that clog the carburetor.

You have two options: stabilize the fuel or drain the system completely. For most people, using a stabilizer is the easier method.

Option A: Using a Fuel Stabilizer

  1. Add the correct amount of fuel stabilizer to your gas can, then fill the can with fresh gasoline. This mixes it properly.
  2. Fill your mower’s tank nearly to the top with this treated fuel. A full tank leaves less room for air and moisture to condense.
  3. Run the engine for 5-10 minutes to circulate the stabilized fuel through the entire carburetor and fuel lines.

Option B: Draining the Fuel System

  1. Run the engine until it stalls from fuel exhaustion. This empties the carburetor bowl.
  2. Use a siphon pump to remove any remaining gasoline from the tank. Dispose of old gasoline properly at a recycling center.
  3. Start the engine again to burn off the last traces of fuel in the carburetor.

Step 3: Change the Oil and Oil Filter

Used oil contains contaminants and acids that can damage engine internals over the winter. Always change the oil at the end of the season, not the beginning. This way, fresh oil sits in the engine.

  1. Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, making it drain more completely.
  2. Place your drain pan under the oil drain plug. Remove the plug and let the oil drain fully.
  3. Replace the drain plug and refill with the type and amount of oil specified in your owner’s manual.
  4. If your mower has an oil filter, replace it during this process as well.

Step 4: Replace the Air Filter and Spark Plug

These are inexpensive parts that make a big difference in performance. Installing new ones in the fall means your mower is ready to go in spring.

  • Air Filter: Remove the cover and take out the old filter. If it’s a paper filter, replace it. If it’s a foam filter, wash it in soapy water, let it dry, and apply a few drops of fresh engine oil before reinstalling.
  • Spark Plug: Remove the old plug with a socket wrench. Check the gap on the new plug against your manual’s specification, then install it hand-tight before giving it a final gentle snug with the wrench. Do not overtighten.

Step 5: Sharpen and Balance the Blade

A sharp blade cuts grass cleanly; a dull one tears it, leading to disease. A balanced blade prevents vibration that can damage the mower’s spindle.

  1. Secure the blade with a block of wood and remove the mounting bolt.
  2. Sharpen the blade with a file or grinder, maintaining the original cutting angle. Remove an equal amount of metal from each end.
  3. Check balance by hanging the blade on a nail through its center hole. If one side dips, file a little more metal from the heavy end until it hangs level.
  4. Reinstall the blade tightly, making sure the cutting edge faces the direction of rotation.

Step 6: Perform Final Checks and Storage

With the main tasks complete, a few final touches ensure your mower is truly ready for storage.

  • Check Tire Pressure: Inflate tires to the recommended PSI to prevent flat spots from forming over the winter.
  • Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a light oil or silicone spray to the throttle and control linkages, and the height adjustment levers.
  • Battery Care (for electric start): For lead-acid batteries, disconnect the cables, clean the terminals, and charge it fully. Store it in a cool, dry place off concrete floor, and use a battery maintainer if possible. For lithium-ion batteries, consult your manual; often you store them at a partial charge indoors.
  • Choose a Storage Location: Store your mower in a clean, dry place like a shed or garage. Avoid damp basements. If you must store it outdoors, use a waterproof, breathable cover—not a plastic tarp, which traps moisture.

Special Considerations For Different Mower Types

While the core principles are the same, some mowers need extra attention.

Storing a Riding Lawn Mower

Riding mowers require the same fuel, oil, and blade care. Their larger size and additional systems demand a few more steps.

  • Check and charge the battery as described above; it’s essential for these models.
  • Consider adding a fuel stabilizer treatment that also cleans injectors if your rider has fuel injection.
  • Lubricate the steering linkage and clutch pivots according to your manual.
  • If storing on a concrete floor, place cardboard or wood under the tires to protect them from moisture.

Storing an Electric Lawn Mower

Electric mowers, both corded and cordless, are simpler to store but still need care.

  • Cordless/Battery Mowers: Remove the battery. Store it separately in a climate-controlled area (around 50-80°F). Most manufacturers recommend storing lithium-ion batteries at a 40-60% charge level.
  • Corded Mowers: Coil the power cord loosely without kinks. Check it for any nicks or damage.
  • For both types, clean the mower thoroughly as grass clippings can still corrode metal parts. A light coating of silicone spray on metal surfaces can help.

Common Storage Mistakes To Avoid

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the correct steps. Avoid these common errors.

  • Leaving Old Gas in the Tank: This is the top mistake. It leads to costly carburetor repairs.
  • Storing a Dirty Mower: Moisture trapped in grass clippings promotes rust on the deck and undercarriage.
  • Forgetting the Battery: A dead, sulfated battery is a common spring surprise. Proper maintenance prevents this.
  • Using a Plastic Tarp Outdoors: Plastic traps condensation, creating a humid environment that causes rust and mold. Use a breathable cover.
  • Ignoring the Blade: A dull, unbalanced blade strains the engine and gives a poor cut next season.

Spring Startup Checklist

When you’re ready to mow again, a quick pre-season check will get you going. Proper storage makes this process fast and easy.

  1. Reconnect the spark plug wire or install the battery.
  2. Check the oil level and top up if needed.
  3. If you stabilized the fuel, you should be ready to go. If you drained the tank, fill it with fresh gasoline.
  4. Check tire pressure and inflate as necessary.
  5. Do a quick visual inspection for any pests or nests that may have moved in over winter.
  6. Start the mower in a well-ventilated area and let it run for a few minutes before the first cut.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about lawn mower storage.

How long can I store gasoline in my lawn mower?

Untreated gasoline begins to degrade in about 30 days. With a quality fuel stabilizer, it can remain usable for 12-24 months. For best results, always use fresh, stabilized fuel for storage.

Should I store my lawn mower with a full or empty tank?

For gasoline mowers, a full tank with stabilizer is generally recommended. It minimizes air space, reducing condensation and oxidation inside the tank. The exception is if you are using the draining method, which leaves the tank empty.

Is it okay to store a lawn mower outside over winter?

It is not ideal. If you must, ensure it is on a level, raised surface like a pallet, and use a breathable, waterproof cover designed for outdoor equipment storage. Never use a non-breathable plastic tarp.

Do I need to change the oil before storing my mower?

Yes, changing the oil before storage is the best practice. It removes acidic contaminants that could damage engine components while the mower sits idle for months. Starting the season with fresh oil is a good habit.

How do I store my lawn mower battery?

For traditional lead-acid batteries, disconnect it, clean the terminals, give it a full charge, and store it in a cool, dry place off concrete. A battery maintainer is excellent for long-term health. For lithium-ion batteries, store them indoors at room temperature at a partial charge.

Following this comprehensive guide on how to store your lawn mower will extend its life and ensure reliable performance. The process is straightforward and repays your effort many times over. A well-maintained mower is a joy to use, season after season. Taking the time now means you can look forward to a quick, hassle-free start when the grass begins to grow again.