Learning how to store a lawn mower in garage properly is a key task for any homeowner. Choosing the right spot in your garage protects the mower from damage and corrosion, ensuring it starts reliably next season. A good storage routine saves you money on repairs and extends the life of your equipment significantly.
This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions. We will cover everything from pre-storage cleaning to choosing the best location.
Follow these methods to keep your mower in top condition.
How To Store A Lawn Mower In Garage
Proper storage is more than just pushing the mower into a corner. It involves a series of steps to prepare the machine for a period of inactivity. Neglecting this process can lead to a clogged carburetor, a dead battery, or rusted blades.
Taking the time to do it right means you avoid frustrating and costly problems down the line. The following sections break down the entire process into manageable tasks.
Pre-Storage Cleaning And Inspection
Never store a dirty mower. Grass clippings, mud, and debris hold moisture, which accelerates rust and can hide problems. A thorough cleaning allows you to inspect the mower for any issues that might need addressing before storage.
Start by removing the spark plug wire to prevent any accidental starts. Then, follow these steps.
Cleaning The Undercarriage And Deck
This is the most critical area to clean. Caked-on grass promotes rust and throws off the cutting balance.
- Tip the mower on its side carefully. For a gas mower, ensure the air filter and carburetor are facing up to prevent oil leaks into these components.
- Use a putty knife or plastic scraper to remove large clumps of grass and dirt.
- Wash the deck with a garden hose or a pressure washer on a low setting. Avoid direct spray on the engine, muffler, or electrical parts.
- Allow the deck to dry completely before moving the mower to its storage spot.
Wiping Down The Engine And Exterior
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the engine casing, handles, and wheels. For stubborn grease spots on a gas mower, a degreaser spray can be helpful. Make sure the engine is cool before you begin this task. A clean exterior makes it easier to spot fluid leaks later.
Fuel System Preparation For Gas Mowers
This is arguably the most important step for gas-powered mowers. Stale fuel left in the system over months will break down, forming gummy deposits that clog the carburetor jets and fuel lines.
You have two reliable options to prevent this.
Option 1: Adding A Fuel Stabilizer
This is the most common method for seasonal storage. A fuel stabilizer treats the gasoline, preventing it from degrading for up to 24 months.
- Add the correct amount of fuel stabilizer (like Sta-Bil) to your gas can, then fill the can with fresh gasoline. This ensures proper mixing.
- Fill your mower’s fuel tank nearly to the top with this treated fuel. A full tank leaves less room for air and moisture to condense.
- Run the engine for 5-10 minutes to circulate the treated fuel throughout the entire fuel system, including the carburetor.
Option 2: Running The Carburetor Dry
An alternative method is to completely empty the fuel system.
- Turn the fuel valve to the “off” position if your mower has one.
- Start the engine and let it run until it uses all the fuel in the carburetor and stalls. This leaves the carburetor bowl empty.
- Once the engine has cooled, you can safely syphon or drain any remaining fuel from the main tank into an approved container for disposal.
Both methods are effective; choose the one recommended by your mower’s manufacturer.
Battery Care For Electric Start Mowers
If your gas mower has an electric start, or if you have a cordless electric mower, battery maintenance is crucial. A battery left connected and unused in a cold garage can sulfate and lose its ability to hold a charge.
- Remove the Battery: Disconnect the negative cable first, then the positive. For a cordless mower, simply take the battery pack out.
- Clean Terminals: Wipe the battery terminals and cable ends with a wire brush to remove any corrosion.
- Charge Fully: Give the battery a complete charge before storage.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep the battery indoors, like in a basement or closet, where temperatures are more stable. Avoid concrete floors, as they can drain charge. Check and recharge it every 2-3 months during storage.
Engine Oil And Air Filter Maintenance
Taking care of the engine’s internals before storage prevents wear and tear.
Changing The Engine Oil
Old oil contains contaminants and acids that can corrode engine parts over the winter. It’s best to change the oil at the end of the mowing season, not the beginning. This way, fresh oil sits in the engine during storage.
- Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, making it easier to drain.
- Place a drain pan under the oil drain plug or use a siphon pump through the dipstick tube.
- Drain the old oil completely and replace the drain plug.
- Refill with the type and amount of oil specified in your owner’s manual.
Replacing Or Cleaning The Air Filter
A clean air filter is vital for engine performance. A dirty filter can allow dirt into the engine during its last run or first start.
- For paper filters, replace it with a new one.
- For foam filters, wash it in warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and let it dry completely. Apply a few drops of fresh engine oil to the filter and squeeze it to distribute the oil evenly before reinstalling.
Blade Sharpening And Protection
A sharp blade makes for a healthier lawn. The end of the season is an ideal time to sharpen the blade, so it’s ready for spring.
- Remove the blade using a block of wood to wedge it and the correct size wrench. Remember: the blade nut is often reverse-threaded.
- Secure the blade in a vise and file it with a metal file at the existing angle, or take it to a local shop for sharpening.
- Check the blade balance by hanging it on a nail through the center hole. If one side dips, file a little metal off the end of the heavier side until it balances.
- Before reinstalling the clean, sharp blade, apply a thin coat of multi-purpose oil or WD-40 to the blade surface to prevent rust during storage.
Choosing The Optimal Garage Storage Location
Where you place the mower in your garage matters. The goal is to protect it from environmental hazards and physical damage.
- Dry and Level Floor: Avoid damp corners where condensation forms. Store on a level concrete floor or a wooden pallet to keep it off direct concrete, which can sometimes transfer moisture.
- Away from Doorways: Position the mower away from the main garage door and side doors to prevent it from being bumped or from blocking access.
- Clear of Hazards: Keep it away from water heaters, furnaces, or other ignition sources, especially if you’ve just refueled it.
- Consider a Cover: Use a breathable mower cover or an old sheet to protect from dust and accidental dings. Avoid plastic tarps, as they trap moisture against the metal.
Long-Term Storage For Riding Lawn Mowers
Storing a riding mower follows the same principles but with a few added considerations due to its size and additional systems.
- Lift the Blades: If possible, raise the mower deck to its highest setting to relieve pressure on the deck springs.
- Check Tire Pressure: Inflate tires to the recommended PSI to prevent flat spots from developing over months of sitting.
- Park on a Mat: Place a piece of cardboard or a rubber mat under the engine area to catch any potential fluid drips.
- Disconnect the Battery: This is essential for riding mowers. Remove the battery and store it indoors as described earlier.
- Secure the Space: Ensure the parking brake is engaged and the mower is in park or gear to prevent it from rolling.
Seasonal Check-Up Before Spring Use
When you’re ready to mow again, don’t assume your mower is ready. Perform a quick spring check-up.
- Reinstall the battery (if removed) and connect the cables, positive first.
- Check the oil level and top up if needed.
- If you used a fuel stabilizer, your fuel should be fine. If you drained the tank, fill it with fresh gasoline.
- Reconnect the spark plug wire.
- Check the tire pressure on riding mowers or wheeled push mowers.
- Start the mower in a well-ventilated area and let it run for a few minutes to ensure everything is working smoothly before you begin cutting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you store a lawn mower with or without gas?
For gas mowers, you should store it with a full tank of fuel treated with a stabilizer, or with the fuel system completely empty. Never store it with untreated gasoline in the tank, as it will go bad and cause starting issues.
What is the best way to store a lawn mower for the winter?
The best way involves a full pre-storage routine: clean the mower thoroughly, prepare the fuel system, change the oil, remove/charge the battery, sharpen the blade, and store it in a dry, protected spot in your garage under a breathable cover.
Can I store my lawn mower outside under a tarp?
It is not recommended. Even under a tarp, outdoor storage exposes the mower to extreme temperature swings and humidity, which leads to rapid rust, corrosion, and damage to electrical components. Garage or shed storage is always superior.
How do I store my electric lawn mower battery?
Remove the battery pack from the mower, give it a full charge, and store it in a cool, dry place indoors, like a shelf in your basement. Avoid locations where temperatures fall below freezing or get very hot.
Is it okay to store a lawn mower on its side?
Generally, no. Storing a mower on its side can cause fluids like oil and gas to leak into areas they shouldn’t be, like the air filter or cylinder. Always store your mower upright on its wheels. The only exception is for very short periods during cleaning or maintenance.