Properly storing your lawn mower during winter prevents rust, fuel problems, battery failure, and costly spring repairs.
The best way to store a lawn mower is indoors in a dry space, after cleaning it thoroughly, stabilizing or draining the fuel, changing the oil, disconnecting the battery (if applicable), and covering it with a breathable mower cover.
Simply throwing a tarp over it is not enough.
Do You Really Need a Lawn Mower Cover?
If your mower is stored inside a garage or shed, a cover is still recommended. It protects against:
- Dust buildup
- Moisture condensation
- Rodents nesting inside
- Accidental scratches
However, a cover alone will not prevent mechanical issues. Proper preparation is more important than the cover itself.
Step-by-Step: How to Store Your Lawn Mower for Winter
1. Clean It Thoroughly
Grass clippings trap moisture and accelerate rust.
- Remove grass buildup from under the deck.
- Wash the exterior and allow it to dry completely.
- Scrape hardened debris using a plastic scraper.
Never store a mower with wet grass packed underneath.
2. Handle the Fuel Properly
Old gasoline degrades and can clog carburetors.
You have two options:
- Drain the fuel tank completely and run the engine until empty.
- Add fuel stabilizer to fresh fuel and run the engine for several minutes.
Never leave untreated gasoline in the tank over winter.
3. Change the Oil
Used oil contains contaminants that can corrode engine parts during long storage periods.
Changing the oil before storage protects internal components and saves time during spring startup.
4. Disconnect (and Remove) the Battery
For riding mowers:
- Disconnect the battery.
- Store it in a cool, dry location.
- Consider using a trickle charger to maintain charge.
This prevents slow discharge over winter months.
5. Inspect and Lubricate
- Check blades for damage or bending.
- Lubricate exposed metal parts lightly.
- Inspect belts and cables for wear.
Address small issues now to avoid bigger problems in spring.
6. Store in a Dry Location
Indoor storage is always best. If you must store it outside:
- Elevate it off bare ground.
- Use a breathable, weather-resistant cover.
- Avoid fully sealing it in plastic (which traps condensation).
Common Lawn Mower Storage Mistakes
- Leaving untreated fuel in the tank
- Skipping oil changes
- Storing it wet or dirty
- Leaving the battery connected
- Using non-breathable plastic covers
These small mistakes are what usually cause spring startup problems.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Moisture, temperature swings, and old fuel are the main causes of winter damage.
Proper storage protects:
- Engine components
- Electrical systems
- Blades and deck
- Fuel lines and carburetor
A little preparation in fall prevents costly repairs in spring.
Final Thoughts
Covering your lawn mower helps—but cleaning, fuel stabilization, oil change, and proper indoor storage are far more important.
If you follow these steps before winter, your mower should start smoothly when mowing season returns.