7 Critical Tips For Storing Your Lawn Mower In The Garage

Storing your lawn mower in the garage during the off-season is crucial for its longevity and performance. With proper storage techniques, you can protect your mower from the elements, prevent damage, and extend its lifespan. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive walkthrough of how to store a lawn mower in the garage, ensuring it’s ready for use when the mowing season returns.

Before storing your lawn mower, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Start by cleaning the mower thoroughly, removing any grass clippings, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated during use. This will prevent corrosion and ensure that the mower is operating at its best when you retrieve it. Additionally, drain the fuel tank to prevent stale fuel from gumming up the carburetor and causing starting problems. If possible, run the mower until it’s out of fuel to remove any remaining fuel from the lines.

Choose a suitable location in your garage for storing the lawn mower. Ideally, it should be in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing the mower near chemicals or other hazardous materials that could damage it. Consider placing the mower on a piece of plywood or a rubber mat to prevent it from sinking into the ground or damaging the garage floor. Additionally, cover the mower with a tarp or mower cover to protect it from dust and moisture. By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your lawn mower remains in optimal condition and is ready to tackle your lawn when the season arrives.

Choosing the Right Storage Location

Selecting the ideal storage location for your lawn mower in the garage is crucial to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some key factors to consider:

Temperature and Humidity

Extreme temperatures and high humidity can damage the lawn mower’s engine and components. Avoid storing it in areas that experience significant temperature fluctuations or are prone to moisture buildup. If possible, find a spot with a stable temperature around 50-75 degrees Fahrenheit and a humidity level below 50%. An insulated garage can provide protection from harsh outdoor conditions.

Space and Accessibility

Ensure you have adequate space in the garage to store the lawn mower without obstructing access to other items or the garage door. Choose a location that allows for easy maneuvering of the mower when needed. It’s also important to consider the dimensions of the mower and any additional accessories or attachments that may need to be stored with it.

Flooring

The surface the mower is stored on can also impact its condition. Concrete or epoxy-coated floors are ideal, as they are durable, easy to clean, and provide a stable base. Avoid storing the mower on dirt or gravel floors, as this can lead to dirt and moisture buildup, which can damage the engine and undercarriage.

Safety

Safety should always be a priority when storing your lawn mower in the garage. Keep it away from potential ignition sources such as gas cans or open flames. Ensure the mower is stable and won’t tip over easily. If possible, use a strap or bungee cord to secure it against a wall or in a designated storage rack.

Cleaning the Lawn Mower Thoroughly

To ensure your lawn mower is in good condition for next season, it’s crucial to clean it thoroughly before storing. Follow these steps for a thorough cleaning:

1. Safety First:

Ensure the lawn mower is turned off and cool before starting. Disconnect the spark plug wire for additional safety.

2. Remove Debris and Grass:

Use a stiff brush or compressed air to remove grass clippings, dirt, and other debris from the mower deck, blades, and undercarriage. Pay special attention to the cooling fins around the engine as they can accumulate buildup. Utilize a garden hose with a nozzle to wash away stubborn debris.

3. Clean the Air Filter:

The air filter helps prevent dirt and debris from entering the engine. Remove it and tap it against a hard surface to dislodge any loose dirt. For paper filters, replace them with a new one; for foam filters, wash them with warm soapy water and let them air dry before reinstalling.

4. Check and Clean the Spark Plug:

Inspect the spark plug for any wear or damage. Use a spark plug wrench to remove it and clean the electrode with a wire brush. Check the gap and adjust if necessary using a feeler gauge. Reinstall the spark plug and tighten it securely.

5. Lubricate Moving Parts:

Area to Lubricate	Recommended Lubricant
Blade Spindle	SAE 30 Motor Oil
Wheels	Silicone Spray or Lithium Grease
Throttle and Choke Cables	WD-40 or Graphite Lubricant

Draining Fuel and Oil

Properly draining the fuel and oil from your lawn mower is crucial for both storage and the longevity of the machine. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do it:

1. Safety First

Before you begin, ensure adequate ventilation and wear appropriate protective gear like gloves and safety glasses. Collect all necessary tools, including a fuel can, funnel, and oil drain pan.

2. Drain the Fuel

Locate the fuel tank and identify the fuel drain plug, usually a small screw or valve. Open the plug using a wrench or screwdriver and slowly drain the fuel into the fuel can. Note: Use a carburetor cleaner or fuel stabilizer if the lawn mower will be stored for an extended period.

3. Drain the Oil

Tilt the lawn mower on its side, ensuring the oil drain hole is facing down. Place the oil drain pan underneath the hole and carefully remove the drain plug. Allow the oil to drain completely into the pan. Tip: For detailed instructions, refer to the manufacturer’s manual or use the table below:

Lawn Mower Type	Drain Plug Location
Walk-Behind	Bottom of engine, towards the back
Riding	Lower part of engine, near the front

Once all the oil has drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely.

Removing the Spark Plug

Before you start, ensure the lawn mower is turned off, and the spark plug wire is disconnected. Use a spark plug wrench or socket to carefully remove the spark plug from the engine. Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear or damage, such as cracked porcelain or worn electrodes. If the spark plug is damaged, it should be replaced before storing the lawn mower.

Cleaning the Spark Plug

If the spark plug is in good condition, it can be cleaned for optimal performance next season. Use a wire brush to remove any carbon deposits or debris from the electrodes and threads. You can also dip the spark plug into a commercial spark plug cleaner or soak it in rubbing alcohol to further remove any buildup.

Storing the Spark Plug

Once the spark plug is clean and dry, it’s important to store it properly to prevent damage. Wrap the spark plug in a soft cloth or place it in a protective case. If you have multiple spark plugs, wrap them individually and label them for easy identification when you need them again.

Step	Action
1	Turn off the lawn mower and disconnect the spark plug wire.
2	Use a spark plug wrench to remove the spark plug from the engine.
3	Inspect the spark plug for wear or damage. Replace if necessary.
4	Clean the spark plug using a wire brush and spark plug cleaner. Wrap in a soft cloth for storage.

Lubricating Moving Parts

To keep your lawn mower running smoothly and prevent wear and tear, it’s crucial to lubricate its moving parts regularly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it properly:

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

You’ll need a few essential tools for this task, including:

Oil can or grease gun
Penetrating oil (optional)
Cloth or rag

Step 2: Find Lubrication Points

Inspect your lawn mower and locate the lubrication points. These are typically found on moving parts such as:

Component	Lubrication Point(s)
Deck	Axles, pulleys, and wheels
Engine	Air filter, spark plug, throttle linkage, and governor
Blades	Pivot points and spindles
Transmission	Gears and shafts

Step 3: Clean and Apply Lubricant

Use a cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the lubrication points. If necessary, spray some penetrating oil to loosen any stuck parts. Apply a few drops of oil or a small amount of grease to each lubrication point using an oil can or grease gun.

Step 4: Wipe Excess Lubricant

After applying lubricant, use a cloth to wipe away any excess. This will prevent dirt and debris from sticking to the lubricated parts.

Step 5: Check Regularly

Schedule regular inspections to check the lubrication points and ensure they’re properly lubricated. The frequency of lubrication may vary depending on your lawn mower’s usage and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Consult your owner’s manual for specific guidelines.

Sharpening the Blade

A sharp blade ensures clean cuts, reduces wear on the mower, and improves overall performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to sharpening your lawn mower blade:

1. Disconnect the Spark Plug

Disconnect the spark plug at the base of the mower to prevent accidental starting.

2. Remove the Blade

Locate the blade bolt underneath the mower deck and use a wrench to loosen it. Carefully pull out the blade.

3. Inspect the Blade

Inspect the blade for damage or excessive wear. If it’s excessively damaged or dull, replace it with a new one.

4. Sharpen the Blade

Use a bench grinder or angle grinder with a coarse grinding wheel to sharpen the blade. Hold the blade at a consistent angle and grind along the entire cutting edge.

5. Remove Burrs

After sharpening, remove any burrs from the blade using a fine grinding stone or a whetstone.

6. Balance the Blade

It’s crucial to ensure the blade is balanced before reinstalling it. Place the blade on a blade balancer or a nail suspended from a string. If the blade is unbalanced, grind a small amount of metal from the heavier side to bring it into balance.

Blade Balancing	Consequences of Unbalanced Blade
Ensures smooth operation and reduces vibrations.	Increased vibration, uneven cutting, and premature wear on mower components.

Once the blade is balanced, reinstall it on the mower deck and tighten the blade bolt securely. Reconnect the spark plug and start the mower to ensure proper operation.

Covering the Lawn Mower

To protect your lawn mower from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors, covering it is essential. Here are some detailed steps on how to cover a lawn mower:

Materials Needed:

Item
Lawn mower cover
Rope or bungee cords
Plastic bag or tarp (optional)

Steps:

Clean the lawn mower: Remove any grass clippings, dirt, or debris from the mower using a brush or cloth.
Place a plastic bag over the exhaust: This will prevent moisture from entering the engine and causing corrosion.
Cover the mower with a tarp or plastic bag: If you don’t have a dedicated mower cover, wrap the mower in a heavy-duty tarp or plastic bag to protect it from the elements.
Secure the cover: Use rope or bungee cords to tightly secure the cover or tarp around the mower, ensuring it stays in place even on windy days.
Raise the mower off the ground: If possible, elevate the mower by placing it on blocks or a small platform to prevent moisture from wicking up from the ground.
Store in a dry, well-ventilated area: Choose a storage location that is protected from extreme temperatures and moisture.
Additional tips for extended storage: For longer storage periods, consider the following additional steps:
- Apply a fuel stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank to prevent fuel breakdown and carburetor issues.
- Change the oil and filter: Replace the oil and oil filter to remove any contaminants and protect the engine during storage.
- Lubricate moving parts: Apply a light coat of oil to moving parts, such as the blade and spark plug, to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation upon restart.
- Disconnect the battery: If possible, disconnect the battery to prevent it from draining and extend its lifespan.

Securing the Lawn Mower

To ensure the lawn mower remains stable and secure during storage, follow these additional steps:

1. Engage the Safety Brake:

Activate the safety brake to prevent the lawn mower from rolling or moving unintentionally while in storage.

2. Position the Lawn Mower on a Level Surface:

Place the lawn mower on a flat, stable surface to distribute its weight evenly and prevent it from tipping over.

3. Use Wheel Chocks:

To further stabilize the lawn mower, place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent it from rolling.

4. Secure with Straps or Bungee Cords:

For added stability, use straps or bungee cords to secure the lawn mower to a fixed object, such as a wall or a pegboard, to prevent it from shifting.

5. Remove Keys and Disconnect Battery:

Remove the keys from the ignition and disconnect the battery to prevent accidental starting or battery drain.

6. Clean the Mower:

Thoroughly clean the lawn mower before storing it to remove dirt, debris, and moisture that could cause corrosion.

7. Cover the Mower:

Protect the lawn mower from dust and moisture by covering it with a waterproof and breathable cover.

8. Additional Stability Measures:

– Place bricks or cinder blocks under the front and rear axles to elevate the lawn mower slightly, preventing flat spots on the tires.
– Consider using a lawn mower stand to keep the mower off the ground and protect its tires.
– Drain the fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel spoilage and carburetor issues.
– Lubricate moving parts, such as belts and chains, to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.

Maintaining Battery Life

For electric lawn mowers, maintaining battery life is crucial. Here are some tips to prolong your battery’s life:

1. Charge Regularly

Charge the battery after each use, even if it’s not completely depleted. Partial discharges can reduce battery life over time.

2. Use the Correct Charger

Always use the charger specifically designed for your mower’s battery. Using an incompatible charger can damage the battery.

3. Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Store the battery in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures can shorten battery life.

4. Avoid Extreme Discharges

Avoid letting the battery completely discharge before recharging. Deep discharges can permanently damage the battery.

5. Store at 40-60% Charge

When storing the battery for extended periods (e.g., over winter), store it at a charge level between 40-60%. This helps prevent battery degradation.

6. Check Battery Connections

Ensure the battery connections are clean and free of corrosion. Corroded connections can disrupt charging and reduce battery life.

7. Charge Before First Use

If the battery has been stored for several months, charge it fully before using it the first time.

8. Rebalance Cells (Lithium-Ion Batteries Only)

Lithium-ion batteries can occasionally develop imbalances in their cells. To rebalance them, fully charge the battery and then let it slowly self-discharge for several hours before recharging.

9. Follow Battery Manufacturer’s Instructions

Refer to the battery manufacturer’s instructions for specific storage and maintenance guidelines to maximize battery life and safety.

Battery Type	Storage Charge Level
Lead-Acid	100%
Lithium-Ion	40-60%

Drain the Fuel

If you won’t be using your lawn mower for an extended period, it’s crucial to drain the fuel. Stale fuel can cause carburetor problems and other issues when you try to start the mower again. To drain the fuel, locate the fuel shut-off valve and turn it off. Then, remove the fuel line from the carburetor and drain the fuel into a suitable container.

Change the Oil

Changing the oil in your lawn mower before storing it is essential. Old oil can become acidic and damage the engine over time. To change the oil, locate the oil drain plug and remove it. Allow the oil to drain into a suitable container, then replace the drain plug and add new oil to the recommended level.

Clean the Air Filter

A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to run poorly or even overheat. Before storing your lawn mower, clean or replace the air filter. To clean the air filter, remove it from the mower and tap it against a hard surface to remove any loose dirt. You can also use compressed air to blow out any remaining dirt.

Sharpen the Blade

A sharp blade will make your lawn mower cut more efficiently and cleanly. Before storing your lawn mower, sharpen the blade. To sharpen the blade, remove it from the mower and use a file or grinder to sharpen the cutting edge.

Lubricate the Moving Parts

To prevent rust and corrosion, lubricate all of the moving parts on your lawn mower before storing it. This includes the wheels, axles, and any other metal parts that move. Apply a thin coat of lubricant to all of these parts.

Disconnect the Spark Plug

Disconnecting the spark plug will prevent the engine from starting accidentally when you are storing the lawn mower. To disconnect the spark plug, remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug.

Store in a Dry Place

Store your lawn mower in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion. If you don’t have a garage, you can store the lawn mower in a shed or under a tarp.

Cover the Lawn Mower

Covering your lawn mower will protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture. You can use a tarp or a lawn mower cover to cover the mower.

Additional Storage Tips

Here are some additional storage tips to help keep your lawn mower in good condition:

Store the lawn mower on a level surface to prevent it from rolling or falling over.
If you are storing the lawn mower for an extended period, consider removing the battery to prevent it from draining.
Check the lawn mower regularly while it is in storage to ensure that it is in good condition.

How to Store a Lawn Mower in the Garage

Storing your lawn mower in the garage during the off-season is essential for protecting it from the elements and keeping it in good condition. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Clean the lawn mower thoroughly to remove dirt and grass clippings.
2. Drain the fuel and oil.
3. Disconnect the spark plug wire.
4. Cover the engine with a plastic bag to protect it from dust and moisture.
5. Lubricate all moving parts.
6. Inflate the tires to the proper pressure.
7. Store the lawn mower in a dry place off the ground, such as on a shelf or platform.