How To Store A Lawn Mower Outside Safely

Can you store a lawn mower outside? Yes, you can store a lawn mower outside, but only if you take the right steps to protect it from the elements. Storing a lawn mower outside without proper protection can lead to rust, damage to essential parts, and a shorter lifespan for your equipment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best practices for safe and effective outdoor mower storage.

Safeguarding Your Mower: A Smart Approach to Outdoor Storage

Storing your lawn mower outside might seem like a convenient option, especially if you lack ample garage or shed space. However, “out of sight, out of mind” can quickly turn into “out of order, out of luck” if you don’t prepare your mower properly. This guide focuses on outdoor mower storage and how to ensure your equipment remains in top condition, ready for the next mowing season. We’ll cover everything from basic cleaning to advanced protection methods, ensuring your investment is well-protected.

Preparing Your Mower for Outdoor Life

Before you even think about where to put your mower, a thorough preparation is key. Neglecting this step is like leaving a car out in the rain without washing it first – it just invites trouble. Proper preparation not only protects your mower but also makes it easier to start up when you need it again.

Cleaning is Crucial: Getting Rid of Debris

This is the first and most important step in storing mower outdoors. Grass clippings, dirt, and moisture are a recipe for rust and corrosion.

Remove all grass and debris: Use a stiff brush or a hose to get rid of any caked-on grass from the deck, wheels, and engine. Pay close attention to the underside of the mower deck.
Wash the exterior: A mild soap and water solution can help clean the mower’s body. Make sure to rinse thoroughly and dry it completely to prevent water spots and potential rust.
Clean the air filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow, making the engine work harder. Remove and clean or replace it according to your mower’s manual.
Wipe down the engine: Ensure the engine is free of dirt and grime.

Fuel System Maintenance: Preventing Stale Gas

Stale gasoline is one of the biggest enemies of small engines. Over time, gasoline can degrade, leaving behind gummy deposits that can clog the fuel system.

Add a fuel stabilizer: If you plan to store your mower for more than a month, it’s highly recommended to add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank. Follow the product’s instructions for the correct ratio.
Run the engine: After adding the stabilizer, run the engine for a few minutes. This ensures the treated fuel circulates through the entire fuel system, including the carburetor.
Empty the fuel tank (optional but recommended): For very long-term storage, especially over winter, some owners prefer to drain the fuel tank completely. This eliminates the risk of stale fuel entirely. Be sure to run the engine until it sputters and stops to clear the carburetor.

Oil and Lubrication: Keeping Moving Parts Happy

Fresh oil and proper lubrication are essential for engine health, even when the mower is not in use.

Change the oil: It’s a good practice to change the oil before storing the mower, especially if you’ve used it extensively during the season. Old oil can contain contaminants that can damage the engine over time.
Lubricate moving parts: Apply a light coat of oil or grease to any pivot points, cables, and linkages to prevent them from seizing up and rusting. This includes the wheels, steering mechanisms, and any control cables.

Battery Care (for Electric Mowers)

If you have a battery-powered mower, proper battery storage is critical.

Charge the battery fully: Before storing, ensure the battery is fully charged.
Store in a cool, dry place: Extreme temperatures can damage the battery. Store it separately from the mower in a location that is not too hot or too cold.
Check the manual: Always refer to your mower’s manual for specific battery storage recommendations. Some manufacturers recommend periodic recharging during storage.

Creating a Safe Haven: Choosing the Right Shelter

Simply leaving your mower exposed to the elements is a gamble you don’t want to take. Protecting lawn mower from elements requires a suitable shelter. This could range from a simple tarp to a purpose-built structure.

The Humble Tarp: A Basic Barrier

A good quality lawn mower tarping can offer a basic level of protection. However, it’s not a perfect solution and has its limitations.

Material matters: Opt for a heavy-duty, waterproof, and UV-resistant tarp. Thin, cheap tarps will degrade quickly in sunlight and may not offer adequate protection against rain.
Proper fit: Ensure the tarp is large enough to completely cover the mower, including the wheels and any attachments. A snug fit prevents wind from getting underneath and blowing it off.
Ventilation is key: Avoid tightly wrapping the mower, as this can trap moisture and promote mold and mildew growth. Leave a small gap for air circulation or consider a tarp with built-in vents.
Secure it well: Use bungee cords, ropes, or weights to keep the tarp securely in place, especially in windy conditions.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Tarping

Advantage	Disadvantage
Affordable and readily available	Less durable than solid shelters
Easy to deploy and remove	Can trap moisture if not ventilated properly
Provides a barrier against sun and rain	Susceptible to wind damage if not secured properly
Can be used for other storing equipment outside	Offers less protection against physical damage or pests

The Power of a Dedicated Lawn Mower Shelter

For superior protection, a lawn mower shelter is a worthwhile investment. These can range from simple pop-up canopies to more permanent structures.

Portable Canopy Shelters: These are a good compromise between a tarp and a permanent structure. They offer more robust protection than a tarp, are relatively easy to assemble and disassemble, and can be moved if needed. Look for models designed for outdoor equipment storage.
Purpose-Built Mower Sheds: These are the ideal solution for long-term outdoor mower storage. They provide complete protection from weather, dust, and pests. You can buy pre-fabricated sheds or even build your own.
Lawn Mower Shed Ideas:
- Lean-to Shed: Attaches to an existing structure, saving space and material costs.
- Small Freestanding Shed: Ideal for housing just a mower and some accessories.
- Multi-Purpose Storage Shed: Large enough to store your mower along with other garden tools and equipment.
- DIY Sheds: Building your own shed allows for customization to fit your specific needs and available space. Common materials include wood or metal. Ensure it has a solid floor and a sloped roof for water runoff.

Strategic Placement of Your Shelter

Where you place your lawn mower shelter also matters.

Elevated ground: Choose a spot that is slightly elevated to prevent water from pooling around the shelter and potentially seeping in.
Away from trees: Avoid placing the shelter directly under trees. Falling branches or sap can damage the mower or the shelter itself.
Consider drainage: Ensure the area around the shelter has good drainage to prevent water accumulation.

Extended Protection: Additional Measures for Longevity

Beyond a basic shelter, there are other steps you can take to further protect your mower when storing equipment outside.

Protecting Outdoor Equipment from Pests

Insects and rodents can wreak havoc on stored equipment, chewing through wires or nesting in cavities.

Cleanliness is paramount: Remove any tempting food sources like spilled fuel or oil.
Seal potential entry points: If possible, ensure your shelter is relatively sealed. You can use mesh to cover any ventilation openings to keep pests out while allowing air to circulate.
Bait or traps: Consider placing rodent bait or traps in the vicinity of your mower, but ensure they are safely positioned away from the mower itself and any potential children or pets.
Mothballs: Some people use mothballs placed in breathable bags around the mower to deter rodents, though the effectiveness can vary, and the smell can be strong.

Protecting Against Extreme Weather

Even with a shelter, extreme weather can pose a threat.

Wind: Ensure your shelter and any covering are securely fastened to prevent them from being blown away or damaged by high winds. Anchor portable shelters properly.
Snow and Ice: If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, make sure your shelter can support the weight of snow. For open-sided shelters, consider that heavy snow accumulation can still reach your mower.
Extreme Heat: While less common for outdoor equipment, prolonged exposure to intense heat can degrade rubber parts and plastics. A shaded location for your shelter is always beneficial.

Winter Lawn Mower Storage: Special Considerations

Winter lawn mower storage requires a bit more attention to detail to ensure your mower starts up smoothly in the spring.

Thorough cleaning: As mentioned earlier, this is crucial. Get all the salt, sand, and grime off that might have accumulated during the last mowing sessions.
Fuel System Preparation: Stabilizing or draining the fuel is non-negotiable for winter storage.
Spark Plug: Consider removing the spark plug and pouring a small amount of engine oil into the cylinder. Then, slowly pull the starter cord a few times to distribute the oil. Replace the spark plug. This lubricates the cylinder walls and prevents rust during the off-season.
Battery Removal: For electric mowers, remove the battery and store it indoors in a cool, dry place, as discussed previously.

The Role of the Mower Cover Use

A high-quality mower cover use is an essential component of any outdoor mower storage strategy, even when the mower is inside a shelter.

Adds an extra layer of protection: A cover provides a barrier against dust, dirt, and minor abrasions.
Keeps the mower clean: It helps maintain the mower’s appearance and prevents dust buildup on engine components.
Moisture barrier: While many covers are water-resistant, their primary role here is to prevent dust and debris from settling.
Choosing the right cover: Look for covers made of durable, breathable, and waterproof materials. Ensure it fits snugly to prevent wind from catching it.

Long-Term Storage vs. Seasonal Storage

The duration of storage dictates the level of preparation.

Seasonal Storage (e.g., winter): Focus on fuel stabilization, thorough cleaning, oil change, and battery care.
Long-Term Storage (e.g., moving for an extended period): All seasonal preparations apply, plus consider draining the fuel tank entirely to eliminate any risk of fuel degradation. Protecting moving parts with a light lubricant is also more critical for longer periods.

Summary of Best Practices for Outdoor Mower Storage

Preparation Step	Importance
Thorough Cleaning	Prevents rust, corrosion, and debris buildup.
Fuel System Stabilization	Prevents stale fuel from clogging the carburetor.
Oil Change	Ensures engine health and removes contaminants.
Lubrication of Moving Parts	Prevents seizing and rust on linkages and pivot points.
Battery Care (Electric)	Preserves battery life and prevents damage.
Proper Shelter	Protects from weather, UV rays, and physical damage.
Secure Covering	Prevents theft, vandalism, and keeps it clean.
Pest Control	Protects against damage from rodents and insects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I leave my lawn mower outside uncovered if it’s just for a few weeks?

While it’s less risky for short periods, it’s still not recommended. Even a few weeks of exposure to sun, dew, and potential bird droppings can start to degrade certain parts or cause minor cosmetic damage. It’s always best to use at least a basic tarp for any extended period.

Q2: How often should I check on my mower during winter storage?

If your mower is properly prepared and in a secure shelter, you shouldn’t need to check on it frequently. A quick visual inspection once a month to ensure the cover is secure and there are no obvious issues is generally sufficient. For electric mowers, check the battery’s charge level as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Q3: Will rain damage my lawn mower if it’s stored under a tarp?

A good quality, properly secured tarp should keep most rain out. However, if the tarp is damaged, ill-fitting, or not properly secured, rain can still get in. Moisture trapped underneath the tarp due to poor ventilation can also cause problems.

Q4: What are the risks of storing a mower with a full tank of gas without stabilizer?

Gasoline can degrade over time, especially when exposed to air and heat. This degraded fuel can form gummy deposits that clog the carburetor and fuel lines, making it difficult or impossible for the mower to start. It can also lead to internal tank corrosion.

Q5: Is it okay to store my mower on grass?

It’s generally not ideal. Storing directly on grass can lead to moisture buildup under the mower, potentially causing the deck to rust. If you must store it on grass, placing a tarp or wooden planks underneath can help elevate it and provide a barrier against moisture. Ideally, store it on a paved surface or a concrete pad.

By following these detailed steps and recommendations, you can ensure your lawn mower remains in excellent condition, ready to tackle your lawn for seasons to come, even when relying on outdoor mower storage. Remember, proper preparation is the key to protecting outdoor equipment and maximizing its lifespan.