How to Properly Store Your Lawn Mower for Winter: Tips to Keep It Ready Year-Round

When the mowing season ends and winter approaches, many homeowners overlook a crucial aspect of lawn care: properly storing their lawn mower. Whether you own a gas-powered mower, an electric model, a self-propelled unit, or a riding lawn tractor, proper winter storage can significantly extend the life of your machine and ensure it works smoothly come spring.

Why Proper Lawn Mower Storage Matters

Leaving your lawn mower unused and unprepared for the winter months can lead to corrosion, stale fuel issues, battery drainage, and blade damage. These problems can result in costly repairs or even needing to replace your mower prematurely. Taking the time to store your mower correctly is an essential step in overall lawn care maintenance.

Step-by-Step Guide to Storing Gas Lawn Mowers

Empty or Stabilize the Fuel: Gasoline left in the tank over winter can degrade, causing carburetor clogs and engine troubles. The best option is to either run the mower until the tank is empty or add a fuel stabilizer designed for lawn equipment to fresh gas.
Change the Oil: Old oil contains contaminants that can damage your engine during storage. Change the oil after the final mow of the season to prevent corrosion and keep internal parts lubricated.
Remove or Clean the Spark Plug: Take out the spark plug and add a few drops of oil into the cylinder to prevent rust, then replace the plug without reconnecting the wire. This step helps protect the engine's internal surfaces.
Clean the Mower Deck and Blades: Grass clippings, dirt, and moisture left on blades and under the deck accelerate rust formation. Use a brush or scraper to remove debris and wipe dry before storage.
Sharpen or Replace Blades: Sharpening blades before storage ensures they remain in good condition and are ready for the next season, reducing strain on the mower’s motor.
Store in a Dry, Covered Area: Keep your mower off the ground on a wooden pallet or shelf in a shed or garage. Avoid damp basements or outdoors to prevent rust.

Winter Storage Tips for Electric and Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers

Remove and Store the Battery Properly: For battery-powered mowers, remove the battery to prevent over-discharge. Store the battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Check the battery charge every 30-60 days to maintain battery health.
Clean the Mower Thoroughly: Just like gas mowers, electric mowers should be cleaned of grass clippings and dirt from blades and decks to prevent corrosion and maintain performance.
Inspect and Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply lubricant to wheels, height adjusters, and other moving parts to keep them functioning smoothly after storage.
Store Indoors Away from Moisture: Electric components are sensitive to moisture. A climate-controlled garage or shed is optimal for storage.

Preparing Riding Lawn Mowers and Lawn Tractors for Winter

Riding lawn mowers and lawn tractors require similar winter storage care but with a few additional considerations due to their size and complexity.

Fuel and Oil Maintenance: Like push mowers, drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer and change oil before storage.
Disconnect the Battery: Remove and store the battery indoors. Clean terminals and apply a light coat of petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion.
Clean and Inspect: Power wash or thoroughly clean the mower deck and undercarriage. Check belts, blades, tire pressure, and cables for wear or damage.
Elevate the Mower: If possible, store the mower on blocks or use a cover to keep it off damp surfaces and protect it from dust and moisture.
Cover the Mower: Use a breathable cover designed for lawn tractors to avoid moisture buildup and dust accumulation.

Additional Lawn Mower Care Tips for Year-Round Performance

Schedule Regular Maintenance: Keep a calendar for seasonal tune-ups, including blade sharpening, oil changes, spark plug checks, and air filter replacements.
Blade Sharpness and Balance: Sharp blades cut grass cleanly, promoting a healthier lawn. Unbalanced blades cause vibration and stress on the mower.
Use Quality Lawn Mower Blades and Accessories: Invest in blades suited to your grass type and mower model for optimum performance, especially if mowing thick grass like Bermuda or tall fescue.
Keep Your Mowing Area Safe and Clean: Remove rocks, sticks, and debris before mowing to prevent damage to mower blades and engine.

Proper winter storage is a simple but often overlooked step in lawn care that protects your investment in the best lawn mower and keeps your yard looking its best season after season. Whether you prefer a gas, electric, or riding mower, following these guidelines will help you avoid common repair headaches and enjoy a smooth start when spring arrives.