Storing your lawn mower outside doesn’t have to mean sacrificing its lifespan. With the right preparation, you can keep your mower in great condition all year long. This guide walks you through every step—from cleaning and draining fuel to choosing the perfect storage spot.
Key Takeaways
- Clean your mower thoroughly before storing it to prevent rust and debris buildup.
- Drain or treat old fuel to avoid carburetor damage during long-term storage.
- Use a breathable cover that allows moisture to escape while keeping dust out.
- Store on level ground and elevate the mower slightly for better air circulation.
- Check local regulations if storing near homes or public areas.
- Perform seasonal maintenance like oil changes and blade sharpening before storing.
How to Store a Lawn Mower Outside: A Complete Guide
If you’re like most homeowners, space is limited—and sometimes the garage or shed isn’t big enough for your lawn mower. That’s why many people choose to store their lawn mower outside. But doing so requires extra care. Without proper preparation, exposure to rain, snow, rodents, and temperature swings can shorten your mower’s life—or worse, leave you stranded when mowing season rolls around.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about storing your lawn mower outside safely and effectively. You’ll learn how to protect it from the elements, prevent common issues, and ensure it starts reliably when you need it. Whether you own a gas-powered push mower, an electric model, or a riding mower, these steps apply to all types. Let’s get started!
Why Storing Your Lawn Mower Outside Requires Special Care
Unlike tools stored indoors, outdoor mowers face constant challenges: humidity, frost, UV rays, and critters. These factors can lead to:
- Rust formation on metal parts
- Deterioration of plastic components
- Clogged carburetors from stale fuel
- Pests nesting inside the engine or deck
But don’t worry—with the right approach, you can minimize these risks. The key is preparation and consistency.
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Your Lawn Mower for Outdoor Storage
1. Clean the Mower Thoroughly
The first step in storing your lawn mower outside is giving it a deep clean. Leftover grass clippings, dirt, and sap create ideal conditions for mold and corrosion.
- Wash the deck with soap and water. Use a brush to scrub under the cutting blades.
- Remove any visible debris from the wheels and vents.
- Let everything dry completely before moving to the next step.
Tip: If your mower has a mulching kit or bag attachment, detach and clean those separately too.
2. Change the Oil (Gas Models Only)
Old oil can thicken and trap contaminants over time. For gas-powered mowers, changing the oil before storage helps prevent sludge buildup.
- Run the engine for 2–3 minutes to warm the oil (easier to drain).
- Place a pan beneath the oil drain plug and remove it.
- Allow all old oil to drain out completely.
- Replace with fresh oil according to your manufacturer’s specifications.
Note: Electric mowers don’t require oil changes, but check battery levels and charge them fully before storage.
3. Drain or Treat the Fuel Tank
This is one of the most important steps when storing a lawn mower outside. Gasoline breaks down within 30 days, creating gum deposits that clog fuel lines and carburetors.
- For short-term storage (under 3 months): Add a fuel stabilizer to fresh gasoline and run the engine for several minutes to circulate it.
- For long-term storage (over 3 months): Drain the fuel tank completely using a siphon hose or by running the mower until it stalls.
Pro tip: Always label containers if you save treated fuel for later use.
4. Inspect and Sharpen the Blades
Dull blades stress the engine and tear grass instead of cutting cleanly. Before storing, inspect your blades for nicks or bends.
- Loosen the blade bolt with a wrench.
- Remove the blade and check for damage.
- Sharpen dull edges or replace damaged blades.
- Reinstall securely and balance if necessary.
A sharp blade also makes spring startup easier—less strain on the starter motor.
5. Check Tires and Wheels
Flat spots can develop if a mower sits in one position for too long. To avoid this:
- Inflate tires to recommended PSI.
- Rotate the mower slightly every few weeks during storage (if possible).
- Consider lifting the mower off the ground using jack stands or cinder blocks—this prevents flat spots and improves airflow underneath.
6. Lubricate Moving Parts
Cables, pulleys, and axles benefit from light lubrication to prevent seizing in cold weather.
- Apply a few drops of machine oil to pivot points.
- Spray lubricant on cables (but avoid getting it on belts or rubber parts).
- Wipe away excess to prevent attracting dust.
7. Disconnect the Battery (If Applicable)
Electric start models have batteries that can drain even when idle. Remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place—ideally in a plastic case.
- Disconnect the negative terminal first to prevent sparks.
- Check voltage monthly; recharge if below 12 volts.
Choosing the Right Outdoor Storage Spot
Where you place your mower matters almost as much as how you prepare it. Here are some best practices:
- Elevated Platform: Use pallets, cinder blocks, or a tarp-covered wooden frame to lift the mower above wet ground. This reduces moisture contact and deters pests.
- Shaded Area: Direct sunlight degrades rubber and plastic over time. Park under a porch, awning, or lean-to if possible.
- Wind Protection: While full shelter isn’t always practical, partial windbreaks (like fences or hedges) reduce drying winds that accelerate wear.
- Level Ground: Uneven surfaces cause uneven tire pressure and potential tipping. Use shims if needed.
Protecting Your Mower with the Right Cover
A good cover is essential for outdoor storage. But not all covers are created equal.
- Breatheable Fabric: Choose a cover made of polypropylene or polyester with ventilation flaps. Non-breathable vinyl covers trap condensation, leading to rust.
- Secure Fastening: Look for elastic hems, straps, or buckles to keep the cover snug during windy conditions.
- Mold/Mildew Resistance: Some premium covers include anti-microbial treatments—worth the investment for long-term storage.
Avoid covering a damp mower—always ensure it’s completely dry first. Moisture locked under a cover will cause more harm than good.
Troubleshooting Common Outdoor Storage Problems
Problem: Engine Won’t Start After Storage
This usually stems from stale fuel or moisture in the carburetor.
- Solution: Drain old fuel and refill with fresh gas stabilized with fuel additive. Try starting the mower—it may take multiple pulls to clear residual moisture.
- Alternative: Remove the spark plug, pour a teaspoon of fresh oil into the cylinder, pull the recoil starter once or twice, then reinstall the plug.
Problem: Rust Spots Appear
Even with a cover, small amounts of moisture can settle on metal surfaces.
- Prevention: Apply thin layer of automotive grease to unpainted metal areas (e.g., bolts, axles) before covering.
- Treatment: Scrub gently with steel wool and apply touch-up paint or rust converter if spots appear early.
Problem: Rodents Nest Inside
Small animals seek warmth and chew wiring or plastic.
- Prevention: Store in an enclosed shed if feasible. Otherwise, place mower in a wire cage or use commercial rodent repellents.
- Inspection: Before each use, check air vents, mufflers, and under the deck for nests or droppings.
Seasonal Tips: Winter vs. Summer Storage
Your storage strategy should adapt to the season:
- Winter Storage: Focus on fuel stabilization, oil change, and deep cleaning. In snowy regions, consider relocating mower to a heated garage temporarily.
- Summer Storage: Prioritize UV protection and pest control. Frequent checks (every 2–3 weeks) help catch issues early.
Remember: how to store a lawn mower for winter involves slightly different steps than summer outdoor storage—but the core principles remain the same.
Final Checks Before Covering and Storing
Before sealing up your mower, do a final walkthrough:
- Is everything clean and dry?
- Are blades secure?
- Was fuel stabilized or drained?
- Are tires inflated and elevated?
- Is the cover breathable and fastened tightly?
Take a photo of your mower before covering—it’s helpful for reference if problems arise later.
Conclusion: Keep Your Lawn Mower Ready Year-Round
Storing your lawn mower outside doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these steps—cleaning, preparing the engine, protecting against the elements, and choosing the right location—you’ll extend its life and maintain reliable performance. The effort pays off when spring arrives and your mower starts on the first pull.
Outdoor storage works best with consistency. Make it part of your annual maintenance routine, and you’ll avoid surprises. And if you ever need help troubleshooting a stubborn carburetor or dead battery after long-term storage, we’ve got detailed guides like how to start a lawn mower after sitting all winter to help you get back to work quickly.
With the right prep, your mower will stay ready—rain or shine.