Storing Your Lawn Mower in the Garage: A Complete Guide

Table of Contents

Prepping Your Mower for Storage

Storing your lawn mower correctly isn’t just about freeing up garage space; it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring it’s ready to roar back to life when spring arrives. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, regardless of whether you have a push mower, a self-propelled workhorse, a riding lawn tractor, or a futuristic robotic mower.

Cleaning: A Mower Spa Day

Think of this as a spa day for your mower. Caked-on grass, dirt, and grime aren’t just unsightly; they trap moisture, inviting rust and corrosion.

The Deep Clean: Don gloves, grab a scraper and stiff brush, and remove those stubborn grass clumps. A pressure washer can help blast away remaining debris, but use caution around electrical components and bearings. Lower pressure settings and keeping the nozzle a safe distance are generally recommended. A garden hose with a spray nozzle is a gentler alternative.
Fuel System Flush (Gas Mowers): Stale gas can cause starting problems next season. Running your mower dry is the ideal solution. If that’s not feasible, siphon out the remaining fuel. While some suggest using a fuel stabilizer, research is ongoing regarding its long-term effectiveness, and draining the tank completely is likely the safer option.
Battery Care (Electric Mowers): Disconnect the battery (negative terminal first—a crucial safety tip to prevent sparks), clean the terminals with a wire brush, and store it indoors in a cool, dry location, away from concrete floors, which can discharge the battery. While some studies suggest that minor temperature fluctuations may not be as harmful as once thought, indoor storage remains the safest bet.
Oil Change & Filter Replacement (Gas Mowers): Old oil contains contaminants that can damage the engine over time. Treat your mower to fresh oil and a new filter before storing it away. This is like a detox for your mower’s heart.
Lubrication is Key: Grease all grease points and lubricate other moving parts as outlined in your owner’s manual. This helps prevent rust and seizing during storage.

Choosing the Right Storage Spot

Location, location, location! Even in your garage, where you store your mower matters.

Space-Saving Strategies

Corners: These often-underutilized spaces are perfect for stashing a mower.
Folding Handles: Folding down your mower’s handles can save valuable inches.
Vertical Storage (Electric Mowers Only): Wall mounts or specialized rail systems are great for electric mowers, freeing up floor space. Never attempt to hang a gas mower due to fuel safety concerns.
Elevated Storage: Shelves and platforms keep mowers off the damp garage floor and create additional storage space underneath. Ensure shelves are sturdy enough to support the mower’s weight.
Ramps (Riding Mowers): Use a heavy-duty ramp to drive your riding mower onto a platform or trailer. Ensure the ramp is secure and has good traction.

Adding Protection

Breathable Covers: These protect your mower from dust, pests, and bumps while allowing air circulation. Avoid plastic sheeting, which can trap moisture.
Climate Control: A climate-controlled garage is ideal. If that’s not possible, a dehumidifier can help combat moisture.
Pest Control: Use repellents or traps to deter pests from nesting in or around your mower.

Essential Safety Precautions

Flammable Materials: Store gasoline, oil, and other flammables away from your mower in approved safety containers, far from heat sources.
Ventilation: Ensure proper garage ventilation to prevent the buildup of fumes.
Secure Mounts: Double-check that wall mounts are firmly anchored to wall studs.

Type-Specific Storage Tips

Push Mowers

Their compact size makes push mowers easy to store. Vertical storage using wall-mounted hooks (ensure they are securely fastened) or leaning against a wall are excellent options. Storage under a workbench or on a shelf also works well.

Self-Propelled Mowers

Heavier than push mowers, these likely require floor space or a sturdy platform. Choose a location that allows easy access for maintenance.

Riding Mowers

These garage kings need dedicated space, preferably a corner, with sufficient room for maneuvering. A high-quality cover is highly recommended.

Robotic Mowers

These typically reside on their charging stations, which should be placed in a sheltered location. Consult your owner’s manual for winter storage recommendations, as some models may need to be brought indoors.

Winterizing Your Mower: A Universal Checklist

This applies to all mower types:

Empty the Fuel Tank (Gas Mowers): Or add a fuel stabilizer, although draining is probably a better long-term solution.
Disconnect the Spark Plug (Gas Mowers): This is a crucial safety step.
Clean the Mower Deck: Remove all debris.

By following these guidelines, you’ll not only maximize your garage space but also significantly extend your mower’s life. Remember, your owner’s manual is the ultimate resource for model-specific information. It’s also worth noting that ongoing research may lead to evolving best practices. Staying informed about the latest recommendations will help keep your mower in peak condition.

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Mark Soldy

Aficionado of interior design with a keen eye for style and innovation. As a guy deeply passionate about crafting captivating spaces, he blends creativity with functionality to breathe life into every room